Nikogda bol'she 《Never Again》

Needing a break from all the drama and upheaval in the wake of Peregrine's departure, Koda had decided to take a day to explore the other side of the mountains. He'd departed before the sun rose that morning, telling only Kesuk about his plans. Now as the sun started to dip below the horizon, Koda realized he'd wandered farther from home than he'd meant to. Even if he kept up a brisk pace, it would take another day for him to make the return journey. He hoped Kesuk wouldn't start to worry about him.

He'd started to look for a cozy place to spend the night when a howl rose up from somewhere nearby. Strangely, it seemed to be summoning him. Koda turned and headed in the direction of the sound. Maybe this wolf was calling for help. As he crested a hill, he spotted a wolf standing alone at the bottom. As he descended the slope, he realized he'd met this particular wolf before.

"Hey, Vector," Koda called out to the russet wolf in greeting. He thought it was strange, meeting Vector alone out here. At the same time, he was grateful he now had the chance to properly thank Vector for saving Kesuk's life that day. He noticed something big and white at the wolf's paws. "No way," he said in surprise. "Is that what I think it is?"

Indeed it was. That proud set of antlers was still fresh in Koda's memory. This was the skull of the monster buck they'd hunted together. Picked clean and in pristine condition. "Wow, you sure cleaned it up nice." He told Vector, clearly impressed.