The deer had gone through Winter without any problems. They were fortunate to live in the Endless Forest, as the Twin Gods provided plenty of food for them despite the weather. The snow came and went every few days, so it never was too terribly cold either.
Quad and Creek had a conversation every day. He was very curious about his father's life, and loved to hear all about his mother. Creek rarely smiled, but his head was held high and he answered Quad's questions as sincerely and honestly as possible. He wanted to hear about Quad's adventure, but chose not to ask until he felt the time was appropriate. They only spoke for a few minutes at a time, though, and then Creek would walk off to do his own things. Quad never followed him, and always wondered where he would walk off to.
The months went by quickly. On a day in the middle of February, Creek met Quad near the pond, and finally he asked, "What did you think about your mother?" Quad lowered his head, "She was beautiful...and very kind...", he began to say, "The little time I spent with her was the best moment of my life." "And what did you think about the hunter that shot her?", Creek changed the subject. Quad raised his head, "Please, I don't want to talk about the humans right now."
Creek shook his head, "They're repulsive.", he stated. "I don't think they all are.", Quad answered. Creek tilted his head, "How can you take their side? They kill our kind, and in some cases they cage us and look down upon us!", he said, becoming slightly enraged. "The one that killed Mom...", Quad started, "...was misguided. He did not know what kind of balance he was upsetting." "Bah!", Creek responded, walking off in anger.
