When You've Gone Away

Theo gave him a long look, that same small smile on her face. 'Of course," she said softly. She had never gotten used to this part - where pack members came and asked permission to leave. The hurt never lessened, even if she wished them all well. What was once a home - warm and safe - might now signify something else for him. Pain. Tainted memories. Abaven was the stage for many of her own life's tragedies, and so she understood the impulse to leave this place. But her heart was buried here next to Shaye on the cliffside. This land was tied to her, body and soul. "It is a brave thing, to know what your heart needs and choose that, even if it hurts," she added. "I hope you find what you are looking for and know that Abaven will always welcome you home."