It was no surprise that Sand and Andre arrived first in the valley. Teleporting is almost instantaneous, whereas flying takes time, even as swiftly as vampires move.
The moon was past the quarter and waning, but it still gave enough light for their sensitive eyes to see the pond and the high cliffs surrounding the valley. The air was cool but with no breeze, bearable. They stood silently, Sand’s arm still around Andre, taking it the scene.
Then Sand said, under his breath, “It’s just as I remember it. Peaceful, beautiful…” He sighed. “For the moment, at least.”
Andre, being pragmatic, asked, “Is there any sign that the pack has been here since you saw it last?”
Sand came out of his reverie to turn slowly, looking, sniffing, and then shook his head. “There are no scents that say one or
