Lost Creek Hollow excessum

There were many things Kel didn't know about his packmates and their various histories; he'd never been one to pry, always a steady and unquestioning presence in the lives of others. He'd never learned how to make that connection without the barrier of a professional role lurking between. Kel the Counselor, never Kel the Friend. So he just didn't ask.

And in a way he lamented that abrupt loss of ignorance. Crowfeather with eyes aflame; Silvertongue distraught; Germanicus confessing atrocities. Did he even know the other woman?

Kel listened in horror and dread and a growing feeling of helpless disconnect. He'd come here in search of respite. He saw now that there was none to be had. None for Silvertongue, nor for Crowfeather, who had built this pack, and no place at all in this for Kel, who suddenly felt drowning in secondhand misery. He was silent; waiting, and avoiding the eyes of his leaders.