It had taken longer to reach the Kingsfall forest than he’d anticipated; Rounding the springs and following the eastern slopes of the fjord until they reached Turtleback Lake, which he chose to circle southward, to avoid crossing the rivers in both ends. It was a longer trek, and his stiffening legs started to protest a bit, but he didn’t regret the decision; Crossing the water would have left him and his companion just as tired, and soaking wet to boot. Now, at last, they arrived at Hearthwood’s southern borders, dry and in good spirits, despite worn paws. Oblivious to the bad news that awaited them, Drestig Avalon smiled at the agouti woman by his side, once again happy to have her company on this trip; As well as her patience with his aging legs that didn’t move as swiftly as they used to.
Coming to a halt before the border, he took only a short break to breathe before raising his head, calling for XIX and Kisla in a bright, friendly voice. His tail wagged casually, head tilting slightly as he looked over at Adelayde, with that same easy smile. He was expecting a pleasant conversation and hopefully a chance to rest their paws for another day or two before moving on. Unlike the Notch, or Whitestone Monadnock where they were headed next, Hearthwood River was practically family, and Drestig felt perfectly at ease here among wolves he trusted almost as much as his own pack. Not quite as good as being home, but among friends all the same.
Word count: 259
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