Redhawk Caldera Listen as the wind blows from across the great divide [m]

Elwood's heart was heavy. Although the Alpha pair hadn't announced their tragic loss to the entire pack yet, he was privy to the news through Finley, who had been summoned to watch the remaining three firebirds while the bereaved parents buried little Derp. The news had struck a chord; although they were all still so young, it was a painful reminder that life could be incredibly fragile.

He assumed that Peregrine and Fox weren't up for visitors so soon after the death of their eldest child, but he was following a well-worn path not far from their den. Glancing in that direction, he spotted Peregrine's dark silhouette, sitting just outside the threshold. Even from a distance, Elwood could detect that the atmosphere was solemn, and he hesitated before stepping towards his friend.

The only sound he emitted was a low whine as he approached with head and tail lowered. His ears splayed questioningly as he watched Peregrine, judging the Alpha's reaction to see if he would be receptive to company or if he should keep moving.