I shift as I hit the ground, welcoming my wereshape, the strength it gives me, the supportive embrace of my wolf. I can't cry or sob or crumble when I'm in this body. I'm strong when I'm a werewolf. The weakness of my human skin I leave behind as I race through the California hills after Sage.

He's easy to track, I know him so well, even if his scent wasn't so strong. His energy trails behind him like a flaring beacon. I cut off as much as I can ...