The mountain wolves had given her a fairly, evident trail to follow. She took her sweet time not to push her luck. She remembered her mother's stories. Why the mountain was pure stone the snow made it hard to decipher if she'd found something solid. There were a few times she sunk up to her chest, and had to wiggle a foreleg out. Or she'd be good for a few strides, and her whole body would sink. She was beginning to see why it was called the Serpent's Pass. So many twisting turns but she guessed it made it safer that way. Besides if something did happen to her, she felt confident at least someone would come looking for her this time. Still, she rather not be in a predicament. She hated feeling like she owed anyone anything and she knew a bit more about how important it was to minimize risk.
Despite the cloudy day, and long hike she was in good spirits. Seeing how far she'd come felt like a nice accomplishment. Something her mother might have been proud of. Though she didn't look behind her too much. The sensation wasn't her favorite, and she knew she needed to look where she wanted to go. It was not backwards.
Eventually the mountain became more horizontal, and she rested for a moment. This time surveying the Spectral Woods, letting her eyes rest on the Bend. It was surreal being this high, and seeing it as if it were just a tiny spot. Right now she could almost believe it was unchanged..... Having a lake to find, she moved on at a swift trot. It would take quite a few days to get to the Bend any way, and she was thankful for that. She could have a little more time to decide if she wanted to visit or if like @Chan she'd keep dropping into the west. With her nose to guide her, she followed the scent of wolves, both excited and anxious. She knew there were two wolves she hadn't met yet, and was curious if they might be expecting her as well. But she was starting to see why they called it Lost Lake. She'd yet to see it. Now was as good as time to stop, and catch her breath. She lifted her head up, and gave a long howl. Then she waited, watching diligently for another wolf.