Bearclaw Valley rotting oranges

"They are rare... but occur in captivity. Even within the same litter, the children can greatly vary in shape and soul. Some are tame and subdued, others wild, filled with longing."

The chow remained stoic as the witch circled her. "I hope so. I am a scholar, a student. My purpose is to learn, change."

She seated herself. From the depths of her eye sockets, she appraised the wolf. Coywolf. She could see the signs now.

"If I am here when my time comes, yes. It's in my nature." Her great head canted slightly to one side. "Are there men within Ursus looking for the same?"