Orphan to Orphan

Curled into a tight ball, eyes squeezes shut, nose buried under his tail, the blue pup tries to imagine finding Chade. Silently, Ricin promises not to get lost again, begging whatever or whoever was listening to bring back the gray wolf. When he hears the gray wolf’s voice above him, Ricin’s crimson eyes snap up and he quickly lifts his head to make sure he isn’t dreaming. His tail thumps the snow lightly as he looks at his protector, nodding his response unable to trust his voice not to crack. When he asks if he is ready to find his brother, Ricin quickly stands and nods vigorously. He feels a strange bond with this wolf, a sort of hurt and understanding that not many can comprehend.

Moving out from behind the rock, the light blue pup glues himself to the gray wolf’s side, not wanting to lose him again. Looking up at the bigger wolf, Ricin says, “Thanks for not leaving me. My… my name’s Ricin.” Tears prick the back of his eyes as the light blue pup offers a small smile. He will follow the gray wolf wherever he goes. Ricin does not want to be left alone again. Hopefully they will find Chade soon and Ricin can hug his brother. He will gladly listen to one of Chade’s lectures if it means being with him again.


"Speech"