The nights were warmer and the sun set later, proving that spring had finally arrived in Relic Lore. And about time too, Askan wasn't allergic to the cold like Reyes, but even he had been looking forward to seeing the rye field in its golden glory. And what a sight it was. In the space of only a few weeks the little shoots had sprouted and grown into tall branches of rye that danced and swayed in the cool evening breeze. In the distance the sun was beginning to set, casting the sky aflame with various shades of oranges and pinks.
It was pretty, even Askan had to admit that. But better yet, it was safe here. It was home.
In this part of the field the grass just about reached his elbows, making it feel as though he was wading through a golden sea and best of all he wasn't getting wet. He imagined that when the pups were old enough they would have a grand time playing in the grass, sneaking about like they were invisible before pouncing on one another. It was a nice image, but as much as he loved Percy, Askan hoped that Drestig didn't plan on dropping these pups at his paws as well. Befriending her had been one thing, but raising his litter was another. He wasn't a damn pup sitter, he'd have to make that plain and clear. But knowing the Old Man, he wouldn't care too much. Drestig could get away with anything. All he needed to do was smile and have that look
Huffing at the thought, Askan came to a stop and looked up at the sky once more, his expression wistful, pensive. It was odd knowing that this sky was the very same one he used to look up at when he lived back home, when he was a pup all those years ago. Back then he'd stared up with such wonder and awe, but what about now? How did he feel about the unknown?
Perhaps this walk wasn't such a good idea. He knew how his mind tended to wander when he was alone, how the dark thoughts crept in with malicious grins on their faces. And yet, what good would come from hiding from them? He'd been like this for almost a whole month now, he'd changed, that was for certain but he couldn't help but wonder if it was for the better. Whether that was even a possibility.