~ GAR ~
They reached the valley ahead of schedule, but Gar's hair was already standing on end. As per tradition when a rite was held, or there was need for negotiation, the Alpha followed drummers who pounded a steady beat—to announce the arrival of the King, or in this case Queen—and to acknowledge the importance of the day. When they reached the valley the drums didn't stop. Instead, the drummers spread out in the trees of the wood, their deep, rolling bass setting a rhythm in the air that prickled his skin and raised his hackles.
It sucked at him, drew at him—which was probably good. Without something to snap fingers in front of his face he was only halfway present. Everything in him yearned to be back at the fishing cave, holding his mate and grieving with her.
He'd woken her early—before dawn, because he needed to leave. And after holding her and whispering his promises, he'd told her.
