“Rule number one of crime scene work: If it's wet and sticky and it ain't yours, don't touch it.-Terry Cooper, crime scene specialist, Georgia Bureau of Investigation”

“Problem solving, and I don't mean algebra, seems to be my life's work. Maybe it's everyone's life's work.”

“In real life, you only get one shot at the homicide crime scene.”

“Are you sure about this? The lion wondered. We could have six females to serve us. Less work. Tru stifled a laugh. That’s what you think.”

“Tru only matched his grin and walked on. Pen caught up with him, tugging on his arm. “What is it?” “I took a walk yesterday when you were working.” “A walk.” “Yup.” “Had you shifted?” “Yes, I had.” Pen caught his humor, although she couldn’t understand its origins. “And?” “I may have used their freshwater reserves as a latrine. And then encouraged the other skinwalkers to do the same.” She giggled like a little girl being told a dirty joke. “That’s remarkably crude.” “I like to think of it as clever and resourceful.” “That, too.”

“Nightly you retrace your steps again to return to the scene of the crime. It's uncanny how you hover in the air of the wreckage that you left behind.”

“Its not about time, its about choices. How are you spending your choices?”