Moonspear The line is where the night lies

Alaric pulled himself upward. Following winding trail of the goat herd. Green eyes focused on the horns of the Ram in front. He knew he'd have to have caches. Their numbers were small and he had bodies to feed.

The rocks tumbled beneath his feet and he had to regularly adjust his grip and stance. Despite the danger he was enjoying himself. Adrenaline. Ah it was intoxicating.

The bird was here. In the light of day, Treepie could make out more of its features. She studied it as it roosted in the lower branches of a Sitka spruce, noting how its plumage resembled an owl’s. But its head was so… odd. Its eyes were enormous and black, staring right back at her.

She felt just as silly addressing it now as before as she asked, Are you following me?

The bird trilled in response, causing Pie’s eyes to widen.

Wait. You understood that?

Again, the bird trilled. It spread its wings and flapped them too, revealing a quick glimpse of white splotches disrupting the barring. Tiuttuk blinked and stared, wondering if this was some sort of phenomenon or if lesser animals had always been able to communicate with wolves. The thought was as strange as it was sobering.

Can you speak…?

It was unmistakable: the bird shook its head. Pie took a moment to marvel at the ongoing communique before really registering the answer. The raptor—she was fairly certain of that, after the episode with the mouse—knew what she was saying but couldn’t talk back.

Why did you drop a mouse on me? Pie mumbled under her breath.

The bird didn’t react this time, going back to staring. Treepie gazed back for a few beats, then tore her gaze away. Her brows knit as she stared thoughtfully at the patch of rocky ground between her forepaws.

The sound of scree bouncing down the mountain snared her attention. Pie’s head whipped up to watch Alaric moving along a game trail some distance overhead. Glancing at the bird unmoving on its perch, she broke into a trot, quickly climbing up toward the Sovereign. As she came closer, she picked up the scent of mountain goats.

Are you hunting? Alone? she hisspered as she crept up behind him.

Alaric was oblivious to the quiet conversation of pie and a bird. His intent was the furry curly haired creatures jumping like they had a death wish up the mountain.

Ears slid to his skull as he heard a noise behind. Did that freaking ram sneak up on him? But he caught the unmistakable voice of Tiuttuk. And turned his head to offer a sideways smile.

Not anymore.

Touché, she said quietly as she sidled up to flank him.

Her yellow eyes raised to ascertain the herd further along the game trail. Treepie did a quick headcount, her gaze lingering on the imposing ram heading up the flock. One headbutt from him would send a wolf careening down the mountainside. Bruised ribs would be the least of their worries.

I don’t like this angle of attack, Pie admitted to Alaric in a whisper. I also think we should have another hunter on deck before we try anything.

She wasn’t an expert, though, which was the rub: Tiuttuk didn’t think she had the confidence or skills for this pursuit. She wondered if Alaric would defer to her doubts or insist they could proceed. She shifted her weight, a canine pressing delicately into her bottom lip as her eyes flicked skyward to see the bird’s shadow gliding overhead.

Hey, do you know what kind of bird that is? she blurted, nudging the Sovereign and gesturing upward.

Said bird is a common nighthawk, in case he’d know that!

Alaric was a foolish, reckless man with his own flesh and bone. But when it came to other's he was more cautious. And now that he was no longer alone. The thought of goat hunting had perhaps fled his thoughts. Quickly made true by the hesitancy of Pie's words. 

he tilted his head forward. Well then we can simply watch today. I don't want you hesitant in your first goat hunt. That can cause injuries. We will keep an eye on the herd. And perhaps we can have a larger hunt later in the week.


Her next words and he lifted to study the bird. I'm not expert, but he's some kind of hawk. What kind I am afraid I can't tell you. I was never very good at ornithology.

Orni-what? she replied, her eyes following the bird as it winged out of view behind the peak. They dropped to Alaric’s face as she said, I got a better look at it earlier. It has a really strange face.

It was like no hawk she’d ever seen, but Treepie was no ornithologist either. It did move like a bird of prey, not to mention the fact that it had dropped a mouse on her the night before. Was it possible it was just… disfigured?

That sounds like a good plan, by the way, she said, motioning at the grazing goats. While we watch, I’d actually love to talk to you about a couple of things.

Pie thought of their last conversation, as well as her visit to the caldera and her conversation with Pala last night. Her stomach clenched with a myriad of contradictory emotions. She shifted her weight and took a couple breaths, giving the Sovereign a chance to indicate whether he was up for a conversation.

Ornithology, the study of birds. I met a strange wolf before. I'm not really sure if he was all wolf to be fair. He told me about it.  You meet all kinds as  you travel.

Alaric looked her over. She did look troubled. He had missed it initially.  A sharp pang of guilt hit his chest. Had he raised Treepie to leadership to early? It had been something she had wanted yes, but had she been ready. Perhaps he was to blame for her current sadness and complexities. 

He nodded and then looked around finding a wider spot further up. WHere they could watch, be safe and unseen. Alright let's get to that spot up there. It's safe away from them they won't bother, it's not near the cliffs and we can sit comfortably and we can chat.

She nodded wordlessly and trailed behind Alaric as he relocated. Soon enough, they were seated beside each other with a decent view of the ungulates. Tiuttuk observed them for a moment, though soon her thoughts preoccupied her. Her yellow eyes glazed as she pondered where to begin.

Pala’s leaving and taking the boys with her. She said you offended her that day at the borders, though instead of trying to resolve it, she’s just going to dip. I didn’t try to talk her out of it, especially because she said she refused to clear the air with you, Pie said, catching his eye. I’m not in the business of trying to strongarm people. If she doesn’t want to be here, if she doesn’t want to communicate with us, then she’s better off going.

Her head dipped. She hated to lose touch with Pala’s sons, though Treepie had dropped the ball on that anyway. She took responsiblity for that, even though it was probably for the best that she’d detached and drifted away. Part of her knew that must be a factor in Pala’s derparture too, though, and she heaved a sigh.

Carrying the thread to its conclusion, Pie said, That means it’s just you, me, Tiki… and Elk. This village hasn’t been strong in a while, Alaric, and I know we talked about merging with Moonglow. I thought about it like you asked but decided I would never leave Moonspear. And then I went to visit taataa at the caldera…

Alaric didn't say anything. Merely sat and waited. He knew Tiuttuk would make her own way with her words in time. he had noticed the younger girl always preferred to think before she spoke. And there was nothing wrong with that. It was a strength. At least he felt it was. 

Alaric raised a wolfish brow. She also offended and brought trouble to our doorstep. But to each his own I suppose. I could have handled her better perhaps. But I was going on assumptions and half assed stories. I don't consider it a loss. But I can be a vengeful man.

He listened closely. How is your father? Hows my sister?

His question sidelined her train of thought, though Treepie didn’t mind. She smiled and sat up a little straighter, rolling her shoulders as she recalled her recent trip to the caldera. It had been long overdue. And it had served to reinforce the tenets of the Ostrega yearling’s character.

I forgot she was your sister! Pie admitted. They’re great. Amalia is going to deliver a litter… well, I guess it’ll be any day now. They seem happy and settled into their life there. It was honestly tempting to make myself part of it.

She paused, ruminating, though not for long. She didn’t want to leave Alaric in suspense, even though they both knew she wasn’t exactly the type to run off into the sunset.

You know, some of the stuff we said about merging has lived rent-free in my head since we had that conversation. I was the one who said something about leaving behind all the painful memories. Maybe it would be nice to get a fresh start somewhere else, to have new scenery. But the memories live inside me, not some piece of land. And let’s be real: it would only be a matter of time before bad ones start racking up at the new place…

She gazed at the goats, the ram catching her eye again. Treepie found herself wondering if they lived here all the time or if they moved from place to place. They had different needs and priorities than wolves, she supposed.

I don’t want to pull a Pala and leave because it’s the easiest option. And staying here, with such a small village, definitely isn’t easy. Especially knowing what we were before, when anaang was here. But… the grass is greenest where you water it, right? I just wanted to make sure you know—and I’ll remind Tiki too—that I’m not going anywhere.

Alaric smiled. He missed Amalia, but was glad she was settled and happy. Yea we are pretty different.

Alaric chuckled. I should probably go visit them. Amalia is probably scared to death. Pie you know no one would hold it against you if you did.

Alaric nodded. I know you aren't. I will stay. But Pie the truth is we may not have much left. Sure we can stay here. But winters will be hard. We can make a go of it. Just be prepared it won't be easy.

I know. I know it won’t be easy, Pie repeated. Truthfully, it hadn’t been easy for quite a while. But I’m not giving up on any of it. I won’t leave this mountain unless it’s a matter of life or death, she said firmly, though her suddenly hard expression softened as she added, Of course, if you or Tiki ever wanted to go, we could discuss it. But even if it’s just the three—the four, I mean—of us, we’re all healthy and capable.

She shifted her weight, her gaze flitting out to the quarry again. The four of them could probably even handle one of the goats. But if Elk disappeared, as so many did, or Tikaani decided to travel, then they would have to rely on smaller game. Tiuttuk made a note to finesse her hunting skills ahead of next winter.

There’s one more thing I wanted to talk to you about… Treepie said after a few beats of silence, her heart suddenly beating a little harder in her chest.

Alaric shook his head a little. Bless her for wanting to stay. But it may become unsustainable and he would hate to watch her lose her light or life because of stubbornness. But that was for a different day.

He didn't say but anyone could become unhealthy and regardless of it all he wasn't old by any means, but he was the oldest here by quite a few lengths. 

He tilted his ear. And waited quietly. Sure what's on your mind 

I know I’m young, she said as soon as Alaric prompted her, before she could lose her nerve, and that you helped raise me. But I was hoping you’d maybe… Pie paused, her pulse thready. She choked out the rest, It would mean a lot if you’d consider me, in the future.

She realized she might need to specify what she meant. But Treepie quietly hoped Alaric might understand what she was trying to say, so she wouldn’t have to spell out the rest. It was hard to raise her yellow gaze to his, though she forced her eyes upward, willing him to not only read between the lines but hopefully not reject what he found there.

Free falling is the only way Alaric would be able to describe that moment. Like the entire world removed itself from beneath him and his body was just weightless. A buzzing in his ears.

But he kept his face kind and open, while his mind raced. Give me a minute. That's a little bit of a heavy topic. One sec here.


What could he tell her? He doubted he would ever see her more than the girl he helped raise. But Alaric was a trader. If he denied her it would go against his very nature and care.  But stranger things had also happened. 

Also treepie reminded him of one who wanted forever, Alaric was not that guy. Hadn't been in a longtime.

 Not to mention Elentari was still fresh in his heart of hearts. She hadn't fully softened him, but she had almost made a corner warm.

He took a breath. Tiuttuk. There is something you need to know about me. Well a couple things. It may make things a little more clear. Just listen for now. Okay.

He cleared his throat. Pressed a trembling paw into the ground, hard. When I was about your age, maybe even a little bit younger. I met a wolf. He was handsome and funny and smart and I thought he loved me, but he simply loved the thought of me and what I did for him. He abused me in horrific, awful ways. Ways that don't need repeated to sensitive ears. Until I grew brave enough to leave. It was hard and he almost killed me. But I made it out alive. Because of this. It's hard for me to consider romantic love. Not that it can't be done. I just keep myself very guarded. So I can promise nothing. But.

He shook his head. I am a trader. And I have traded many things for a place to rest to eat including my own body. I have even traded it for women who couldn't have pups because they were together with another female. I can do that again perhaps. But I can't promise more than that right now. I'm sorry Tiuttuk.

Something twisted in her the pit of her stomach when Alaric asked for a moment due to the weight of the topic. Was it really such a heavy thought? Treepie swallowed against the sudden lump in her throat and sat there, her heart sinking slowly in her chest with every passing second. She remained absolutely still and silent, though she flinched a little when he broke the silence with her formal name.

He asked her to just listen, so she did. By the time Alaric finished, her heart felt like it had plummeted to the depths of the underworld. She couldn’t have known about any of this, of course, but Tiuttuk wished she could take her own words and stuff them back in her mouth. She was horrified for him, more than anything, but also horrified by what he implied about them.

She didn’t know what to say. She should probably tell him there was no need to apologize. If anyone owed an apology, it was her. But Pie could barely gather her thoughts, much less articulate them. Her brow furrowed as the tension built between them, an invisible piano wire that was about to snap and cut them both deeply if she didn’t stop it.

I don’t—I don’t know what to say, Pie admitted, then continued haltingly, I mean… I don’t want you—or anyone—just for their body. She shuddered at the thought, not to mention what had been done to him. You… I… we both deserve true love. That’s what I—

She shook her head, unable to finish her sentence. She drew in a few steadying breaths, surprised to feel the thudding beat of her heart against her rib cage rather than somewhere in the vicinity of the bowels of hell.

I—I’m sorry, Alaric, she said with a note of finality. Sorry I asked. Sorry about what happened to you. Sorry for everything. I didn’t know, she whispered too quietly to be heard.

Alaric knew it was unfair to ask for a minute. Treepie was probably worrying herself to death. But he couldn't draw a breath for a few minutes. Too much had been bringing this up lately, and though he largely felt healed. There was no denying he was still affected to a point.


Alaric blinked. You don't need to say anything Pie. Hmm. I understand. And I.

He scrunched his muzzle thinking. I am not saying that more could not happen. No one knows what the future can hold. I only meant that is only what I can offer at the moment. And that is in essence my failing no one else's. I guard the ole ticker to tightly. 

im scared. the words were there but he never voiced them.

Alaric ghosted forward and stopped short of pulling her into a hug like he would have moments ago. Though he still would but she maybe repulsed by what he just told her 

Pie, you have nothing to apologize for. You didn't hurt me. Or offend me. Or anything. You did nothing wrong. Nothing! You love big. And you are absolutely right you deserve true love. 100%

Alaric held out hope, though Treepie couldn’t even entertain it in this moment. She didn’t—couldn’t—hold it against him, not when she could sympathize to a point when it came to guarding his heart. All the same, this conversation had made something very, very clear: nothing romantic would spring up between them anytime soon, for myriad reasons.

He shifted toward her and Pie tensed against her will, feeling terrible about it. Time would surely smooth things over, though right now, the space between them felt awkward and vulnerable in the worst ways. Tiuttuk supposed they ought to go their separate ways and process for a bit and reconvene later (or never).

At his final words, her yellow eyes flicked to his face and held his gaze steadily as she told him, So do you.

Treepie let that hang for several beats before finally looking away. She drew in a breath, blew it out and then forced herself to move closer to Alaric. She pressed her body to his chest in a very brief but hopefully reassuring touch that wasn’t quite a proper embrace. She then stepped back, attention straying to the herd she had forgotten about entirely.

Look, she started. I think we could both use some time to be alone with our thoughts, the Regent thought aloud, speaking slowly, but I don’t want to just strand you here. If you don’t mind observing them in silence, she continued, gesturing toward the goats with her snout, then I’m down to keep doing that.

It might be a little strange, though Tiuttuk realized she didn’t want to just run away from him after that. And it would still allow them the opportunity to independently process a little bit, even if their future hunt might suffer for their present distraction.

She shifted and Alaric closed his eyes and backed up gave her, her space. He had not meant to hurt her, disgust her and he had. And the healer didn't know how to mend this break.

He didn't move when she hugged him. Just took a small breath. And touched his muzzle briefly to her shoulder. 

He smiled, but it didn't meet his eyes. Naw it's alright. Go be with your thoughts. 

He shrugged. I'll be around.

He let her off the hook and some part of her was relieved, though she stood still and looked at Alaric for a moment. He’d just revealed something very personal about himself, let himself be vulnerable in front of her, and Tiuttuk wasn’t sure she’d handled it well. She was reluctant to leave him, even if it would be easier in some ways.

Deciding he perhaps needed the space more than she did, the Regent dipped her head to her Sovereign and said, Me too. Pie began turning, then paused to tell him, Sorry I made things weird, but I hope you know this doesn’t change the fact that you’re my closest guy friend—and the only man I trust.

She said nothing more, just shot him a quick, sad-eyed smile before fucking her head and trundling down the mountain slope.