A female wolf labored through the trees, her breath harsh in her lungs. A bundle of fur and wings hung limply in her jaws, whimpering softly. The female gave a soothing rumble in her chest, and the pup quieted. She was tired, her once beautiful coat falling out in clumps, and an old wound festered along her shoulder, causing her to drag the foot. She could scent a pack up ahead through the trees, and she pushed herself to make it to the boundary, desperation giving her one last burst of energy.


The female found a tall, enclosed tree just inside the boundary, and she set her son gently next to its roots, safe from the elements. His pelt glowed softly, showing his Phantum bloodline, and making him a little easier to see amongst the shadows of the tree. "Grow strong, my son. And live. I will always love you," the female whispered softly, touching his forehead with her dry nose as tears ran down her muzzle. She watched him for a moment, knowing that he looked like the sunset he was named after. She choked on a sob as she threw her head back and gave a mournful, shattering howl that split the air, calling for someone to take care of her only son. Then, she forced herself to turn and limp away, vanishing from sight.

Hesperus curled in a tight ball in the roots of the tree, the sunlight hurting his sensitive eyes. He whimpered softly as his velvety wings wrapping around his glowing fur, missing his mother's warmth.