Chapter 87. The Third Mark
Even Jor, ever pragmatic, recognized that Axis provided the domestic stability and healing power that neither he nor Tigris possessed.
As the end of winter approached, the heavy snow began to thaw, exposing the muddy earth beneath.
The time had come for the spring retrieval expedition.
"We need to go back up before the rogue packs realize the ice is melting," Tigris explained one evening, rolling out a rough map drawn on cured hide across our table.
"Dozens of Catastrophe Beast carcasses are thawing up there. Those high tier cores belong to our tribe."
"I will accompany the tiger," Jor announced calmly, adjusting his cloak.
"My element is earth, and I can move the mud and fallen rock far faster than a dozen warriors digging with their bare hands. We will secure the perimeter and return before the heavy rain hits."
I looked between my two primary mates, my heart heavy with the thought of them leaving, yet understanding the necessity.
