He held very still, allowing the boy the time needed to process his offer. Dealing with pups was still entirely new to Leo, and figuring out exactly how much they did or didn’t understand was rather difficult. But eventually the little one nodded, seeming to have realized that the yearling was simply trying to help.

Wagging his tail lightly, Leo clamped down more tightly on the rock-cicle, taking a few moments to get a proper grip; No wonder he had trouble…! The stone was surprisingly slippery, very much like a real icicle. He didn’t want to stop and study it too closely though, afraid the pup might suspect his interest for jealousy – once they’d returned to Aquene to show off the treasure, he might get a chance.

For now, though, he nodded at the boy, mumbling through his mouthful of rock: “Om’ards then. ‘ome, tho mom.” He’d let the boy lead the way, following close after with the treasure held high.

Thoughts ”Speech”