Turtleback Lake there might be something outside your window

The woman's ears cupped forward to receive words of wisdom of all things from the yearling. She was certainly intelligent. Raela had to agree with the words; nodding her head silently as the girl offered another warm smile. She hadn't been made fun of or mocked, or even brushed off as foolish. “It is,” she concurred, pausing to stare with reverence at the latest flash of blinding light. She liked it here. There seemed to be so many friendly wolves around the area; they were much more common than in the lands to the east. This young lady was perfectly welcoming; she didn't have to share this shelter, she didn't even have to speak to her. But speak she did, answering the woman's inquiry with more detail than expected. She hadn't been gone as long as Rae had, but she was in fine shape for four months of solitude.  The story was intriguing, captivating all of the crest wolf's attention. She knew some yearlings simply chose to leave, as it was clear Valeria had. After all, they couldn't have the same ubiety their whole life now could they? The fact that her parents simply allowed it to happen with seemingly no ceremony spoke of a poorer relationship than she'd want for any child. But perhaps she was over thinking things. It would be better not to press the girl. Raela simply allowed the information to pass between them, both glancing away at the raging storm outside. “Well I'm glad you left of your own accord.” It really was the more fortunate of their situations. The night would pass with more casual conversation and companionship until the storm passed. It was quite fortunate to have run across this “Valeria” on her trip. Perhaps she would again cross paths with the amiable, pale yearling some day.  Image © Chris Smith Photography Manipulation © Jenandra