Wheeling Gull Isle xxiii. thirsty eyes and hungry hearts

His own sleep had been troubled lately, stress taking its toll in the form of nightmares. The dreams were often of his past. Usually, it was more like he revisited all the terrible moments of his life, as if his mind found that an effective way to remind him just what all was at stake here. 

The howl pierced through his fretful dreams as only she could, and he woke with the immense relief that it had all just been a nightmare. But he sat up suddenly when he realized Rhælla was not in her usual place at his side. He thought of the howl again and tried to remember its message. 

Getting to his feet, he sprinted from their little cave and followed her scent across the island. He slowed as he approached the group, nodding his greeting to anyone who looked his way. He saw the deer just as he brushed against his mate and settled at her side. A hunt seemed to be the reason for her call, and he waited for the others to join, gaze scanning the herd for any opportunity.