And something that might once have been Shadow said, "Whiskey Jack?"

Whiskey Jack raised his chin and looked proud.

Whiskey Jack turned and walked slowly away from Shadow.

Whiskey Jack reached out a hand the color of red clay and touched Shadow's face, gently.

"There are a lot of good places," said Whiskey Jack.

There was a Whiskey Jack on his porch, you know.

"You have no idea what the alternatives are," said Whiskey Jack.

That was the only time he ever saw Whiskey Jack laugh.

Whiskey Jack crushed the beer can between his hands, pressing it until it was flat.

"When you find your tribe, come back and see me," said Whiskey Jack.