As it turned out, adventuring wasn’t all that easy, at least not this time of year. The snow was harsher than salt on her paws and frost had left her fur frayed and thin. She was still in good spirits though, if a little tired, and hungry of course. But ever the optimist, as well as feeling the responsibility of encouraging her sister, Annie maintained a positive attitude.

Despite the hardship, there was plenty to be excited about! As they’d travelled south, trees of all kinds had enveloped them, many unlike anything she’d ever seen along the coast, though most of them were barren for the cold season. Meanwhile, the mountain loomed in the distance, its towering slopes like a shining challenge to the bold youngster. But it would have to wait until milder weather; And a few good meals… At least!

Signs of other wolves had also become more frequent, until finally, they came upon actual pack markers. With an encouraging smile, Annie nodded at her sister, tail giving a confident wag. Even if this wasn’t the Backwater, she was eager to meet more new wolves and learn about their life in this, mostly dry, land.

Thoughts ”Speech”

Before Kat had time to announce their arrival all proper, a large figure had already appeared amongst the naked trees, making his way between the fallen trunks with the ease that came with familiarity. His looming figure was imposing, though softened by a friendly smile.

While her sister made introductions, Annie openly studied the older wolf, her own eyes twinkling as she observed his confident posture and well-tended frame – he’d clearly been eating much better than the travelers this winter. As much as she longed to continue exploring, Annie couldn’t deny the appeal of a proper hunting party and more bodies to share their heat at night.

As Ozark mentioned her name, the paler sister smoothly continued: “Ye happen t’ know where th’ Dead Backwater is?” She spoke with a bubbly confidence of her own, not the least embarrassed at forgetting the full name of the pack they were looking for; Who bothers with the names of trees anyway? Her tail swayed happily, smile wide and open as she looked at the pack wolf with polite attention, hoping he knew the family they were seeking.

Thoughts ”Speech”

Just like that, his smile grew wider, maybe even more genuine, a sudden familiarity in his eyes and voice. Annie returned his cheer easily, wagging her own tail as she snickered slightly, glancing sideways at her sister; Ozzie? She arched one brow over twinkling eyes, first at the darker girl at her side, before then turning it back on the apparently-not-stranger.

Strawberry-blond ears twitched at the introduction, understanding dawning on the yearling, much as it had Eros moments before. “C’sin Eros!” She barked, echoing her sister. Of course she could not remember his visit, barely alive as she had been then, but mother had spoken if him, fondly. She let Kat finish her explanation before cheerfully adding her own two cents: “We wanted t’ see what this place was all about. Seemed fittin’ fer an’ adventure!” She cast her eyes around, indicating the wider lands as well as the Backwater.

Unabashed, she then went on to ask: “Which one’s yer dad again?” The names were all so similar, it was impossible to keep straight.

Thoughts ”Speech”