to the third power

It was only a matter of time before thoughts of Shaye overwhelmed them both. How could they revel in this victory without reflecting on their losses? Theo couldn't help but wonder how it might feel to stand shoulder to shoulder with her "mother" and strategize how to move forward. They had the victory, she'd publicly severed their alliance with Winterfell, but now what? She was at a loss. Shaye would know what to do. A relieved sigh escaped her as Poem reassured her that the injuries she'd sustained were minor. Healing was still on her mind, but so much had come up lately that she'd pushed any personal training that wasn't combat related on the back burner. Now they had time to spare and were left alone with their grief. Like a thorn buried deep somewhere between her paw pads, Theo had been able to ignore it so long as she didn't take a wrong step.

As Poem collapsed into her chest, her own resolve wavered. Theo gulped, training her eyes on the sky and willing the tears not to fall. It was her turn to be strong. It was her turn to lead. "It's not your fault, Poem. You did everything you could have. You did everything right," she reassured her. What else was there to say? In her heart, Theory knew words couldn't help. There weren't enough words - or the right words - for this kind of hurt. "I miss her too, but like you said, she'd be so proud. You and Mo are incredible." Not many wolves could come back from what they had endured and continue on.