"I don't need a bath," she tells him with a snort, turning with a smile as Chief approaches.
"Wraith, will you lead a hunt? Your mother isn't feeling well and a storm is brewing. Can feel it-"
"In your bones," Wraith and Keeley finish for him in unison, sharing matching grins.
"Funny," their father comments, though the pair know the annoyance in his voice is completely forced. "You willing or do I need to get one of your brothers?" The raised brow is enough to get Wraith to his paws.
"Of course, Dad. Who do you want me to take?"
"As many as are willing. It's been a rough few days. I don't want to push anyone right now."
"Me!" Keeley shouts, leaping to her paws with excitement.
"You better listen..."
"I will!"
In an instant, the dream changed and his ears were filled with the familiar sound of his sister's howl of terror. Wraith woke with a start, the sound echoing in his head. Around him were the still unfamiliar bodies of sleeping packmates, though Craw's silver hide was easy enough to spot out among them.
Carefully, the black male stood and slipped from the warmth of the den and out into the snowy landscape. Overhead, through the wispy willow branches, the sky danced with brilliant colors of light. The green hues were reflected on the snow's icy crust. Everything about the quiet scene spoke of a calm comfort meant to ease the soul. And yet, the wolf had trouble seeing the beauty for what it was when such ugliness swirled in his head.
He had hoped that finding a pack could keep his ghosts at bay, yet now they seemed angrier than ever. Annoyed with himself, Wraith headed out across the landscape with no true destination in mind save for the pack's borders. If he was awake, he might as well make himself somewhat useful and patrol the area.