Hexx had taken to walking the borders more than sleeping. It was routine, but not mindless. Every circuit of Dawnbreak's edges was another chance to ensure nothing slipped through unnoticed. There were too many vulnerable lives tucked safely behind these scent marks now. Tiberii's children, among others. Thise who deserved to grow without fear creeping into their den mouths.

And somewhere beyond those same borders... Monty. The thought lingered heavier than he'd admit aloud. Tiberii had told him his son had been here, close enough to smell home, and close enough to leave tracks. Then gone again, so each patrol carried the quiet hope of finding fresh signs, some indication that the boy was still alive.

Instead, another scent reached him one that was unfamiliar and brought the soldier to slow his pace. Broad paws would fall nearly silent against the earth as steel eyes settled upon the woman lingering just beyond Dawnbreak's borders. She stayed outside the markings, cautious and unsure letting forward a timid greeting.

For a moment he simply watched, studying her posture before stepping from between the pines. His towering frame emerged without flourish dark against the mountain backdrop. He remained on his side of the border, giving her the same respect she had unknowingly offered him. There is, he rumbled, voice level and cold as the stone beneath his paws.

You're standing at Dawnbreak's borders,

—