12 Awake in Craluk's VillageGhile awoke and tried to sit up. At first, his body didn't respond. His eyes watered and he blinked to clear them. A light blanket covered him, tucked in at the sides. The restrictive blanket and lack of movement made it difficult, but with effort, he freed a hand and reached up to clear the grit that crusted his lids. Cuz licked his face. Both Valehounds were resting on either side of him. They nudged his hand as he made to wipe away the drool, each fighting over who would receive the first scratch. “Hello, you two.” Without realizing it, his thoughts touched theirs. Their feelings of concern washed over him. He could sense they were relaxed and not on guard. Cuz was a little hungry. Wherever he was, he was safe for the moment. Even though it was dark, his

