Dragoncrest Cliffs Alligatorfish

the world was dark.

quennell had listened to many murmuring voices on rotating shifts, but at this hour it seemed that all of them rested. except him.

gripped by that hot, horrible shame.

it came strongest in the dark hours, when no one could humor his pain or mask the scent of the herbs slathered upon them. when he stared upon the slumbering form of swordfish so long that his mind played tricks on him.

he thought of them bleeding in the snow.

nearly bit his own tongue off when the other pop startled awake, asking after him.

shhh, he encouraged a calmness softly. right 'ere.

he allowed his head to roll and rest upon the haunch of his friend.

brother, perhaps.