Sun Mote Copse birdsong

She had heard the Storyleader’s cries. There had been nothing Merel could do to assist her, and she could not have watched either. It was not her place—and even now, Merel could not face the inside of a whelping den. Instead she took to pacing around the perimeter of the territory, putting her restless paws to work.

The Summerwalkers would leave this copse soon, or so she understood. For now, though, she patrolled through the open woodland, dappled sunlight shifting across her dark brown back. She renewed some of the markers, for lack of anything better to do, and kept her snout close to the ground. She’d caught the scent of a hare, though she did not know yet if she wished to pursue it.

Foxglove could hardly stand the waiting. There was so much more of the world to see, and nothing truly tethering her to the copse. Even now she warred with herself: was it foolish to wait around while someone else's life was happening, or selfish to pack up her own pining dreams and take off? She didn't want to put her life on hold for some random woman and her babies, that was for sure. But...

Well, someone was coming her way anyway. No time to think about it now. She would just have to decide tomorrow. Fox picked herself up and took a few steps toward the sound of an approaching packmate. The dark wolf was closer than she'd thought. She sucked in a breath.

Hi! It slipped out far louder than she'd intended, nearly a shout. Oops. Fox softened her voice and took another step closer. Nice to meet you. I'm Rusty Foxglove Medeiros. Or - um, Fox. Usually everyone calls me Fox.

Merel could not help but quirk a smile at the younger wolf. Though Merel did not fully match her initial enthusiasm, her hazel eyes glittered brightly. Genuine warmth--a rare thing for her, at times.

I'm Merel the Blackbird, she replied with a hint of amusement. But you can just call me Merel.

She swished her tail slowly, watching the golden-furred yearling. Foxglove reminded her a little of one of her sisters. (Even now, she sought them out in strangers' faces.)

It's good to meet you properly. I suppose we'll be doing a lot of Summerwalking together, now. ...Not that I'm much of an expert, Merel continued. Her smile crinkled at the corners of her eyes.