Swiftcurrent Creek Daddy always thought that he married beneath him

Eshe was gone and the Mayfair kept himself busy. Dusk caressed the creek in painted hues of gold and pink, soon to darken even more to purple and then the darkness of night.

Despite heartache or pain, the world continued on as if nothing had happened. This was the way it was, the way it always had been.

On his way to the borders once more, his muzzle swung in the direction of the whisper of paws upon the frozen ground--pale eyes falling over Cygnet.

He remained silent for a moment, studying the girl. Then, a crooning bark, he beckoned her to join him as he continued toward the borders.

She was not a baby any longer, and now was the time to begin to realize the power and purpose of a pack hierarchy.