The more time he spent alone the more the alabaster healer realized he was slipping into old habits. It seemed that Maksim and Karpos were the only two he could depend on anymore—the rest had abandoned him, leaving the once ‘upbeat’ creature bitter and annoyed. All the females that he had once taken great interest in had left him—why, he did know and he no longer cared. Obviously he had not meant that much to them if they were able to leave him so easily.
Just as he had done after Anastasia’s first disappearance, XIX buried himself in his work. He was constantly out collecting herbs, along with searching for new ones, while attempting to keep Karina engaged in their lessons. It seemed as though she was far more engaged in whatever she had arranged with Kjors, which only fueled his frustration. The healer would always remain dedicated to the river wolves and their king, but he kept a tight grip on his loner tendencies. Lachesis would always be at Maksim’s side when he was needed, and would do anything to protect the green-eyed leader and his kin, but he still preferred to spend most of his down time alone. He no longer had any desire to grow close to others—especially a female—but would remain forever loyal to his packmates (as long as they did not abandon him or the pack).
The lake was one of his favourite haunts—it was abundant with fresh herbs and its tranquility soothed the troubled healer’s thoughts. The sound of the water lapping softly at the shore allowed him to forget all the bitter memories that plagued him. XIX had spent many sleepless nights hovering at the water’s edge when his large, empty den became too much for him. He missed both Bastet and Anastasia terribly, but he doubted either would return to him. They had left for a reason and Lachesis was positive he was that reason.
With the water’s edge in the distance, the ghost dug his nose around where the sand met the forest, searching for something to capture his attention. He was aware of the pack nearby, but was not sure on where Maksim stood with them. This whole area was new to XIX—both the territories and the wolves. He was not sure who were allies and who were foe.
stick with those who stick with you