Nightshade stepped through the brush, growling. There's so many leaves here. It keeps getting stuck in my fur. He made it to the lake, that looked like it was made out of the cosmos. This was where Moon agreed to meet. So where was she? Nightshade threw back his head and gave a howl to the full moon. "Moon! Moon!" His cries echoed out through the mountains. His throat was so dry. Panting, he waded into the water. It seemed as if his exaugsten was like a coat of glue. But like a miracle, the water seemed to peel it right off of him. Nightshade dipped his head into the water and took a long drink. It seemed to fill him with energy. Suddenly, he heard a howl. Moon! He watched in horror as she half ran half stumbled into the clearing, he stomach cut open. A huge bear followed, rearing on it's hind legs. It was a grizzly bear, a very old one from the looks of it. He roared, his silver fur shining in the moonlight. Nightshade jumped forward and raked his claws across his stomach. Roaring in agony, the bear swept out a huge paw, knocking both Nightshade and his mate back. Moon's eyes shone with fear. Nightshade leapt in front of her. "The pups!" He called. "Are they okay." Moon gave a bark full of pain. Nightshade knew the answer, his head clouded with grief, quickly turning to fury. He gave a howl to the moon and his Galaxy wings erupted from his back. He jumped forward and scratched at his throat and hind legs, anything his deadly claws touched. Until finally, the bear ran. Without a second thought, he turned and ran towards Moon. Full of sorrow, he lifted one dead pup after another out of her stomach. He was just picking up the last one when it gave a small whimper of pain. Nightshade gasped. He gently set it down it lightly touched his chest with one paw. He was still breathing! His whines grew louder as he panted. He was thirsty. He helped Moon to her feet and took them into the lake. As if by magic, Moon's wound began to close up until there was nothing but a scar. The pup began to lap up water, whining in appreciation. While his mate and pup splashed lightly in the water, Nightshade gently buried his pup's littermate's. His other pups. The bear had tried to kill everyone he loved. But he hadn't sucseeded. His mate was alive. His pup was alive. Moon approached him with the pup, sitting down next to him. "What shall we name him?" Nightshade looked at his pup, full of pride. "Welcome Blackout. Welcome to your new home. Our new home."
Winter Month: 1 
Day 
