Whitebark Stream winter's dance

In recent days Dione had been a hunter, but today she would be a wanderer once more. She was long overdue for a walk further than neighbours of the bypass.

Curiosity brought her north-east, looking to investigate the scents of a pack in the valley. She didn't intend on getting too close, not while she was alone, instead staying close to the Whitebark Stream.

Much of her missed the Taiga already, and as close as the bypass was the idea of leaving what was familiar behind stung.

But, nothing was set in stone. She just wouldn't let Uktark know that.

She might not find a mate, might not get the pups she wanted, and in that case she would move on. She wasn't made to be a quiet follower who let her womb rot, a woman who catered to the legacies of others. She had never been soft enough for that.

Leaning down to lap at icy water, she stared ahead at open lands. It reminded her of an early home.

Though they had only met briefly in passing, Veteran immediately recognized Dione's distinct silhouette against the dark waters of the stream. Had she been moving through the snowy plains, where her coat blended seamlessly, perhaps he would have missed her entirely. What a shame that would have been. The mysterious woman had crossed his mind often, especially when he caught sight of the Glacier peeking out from behind the Dragon. 

He moved toward her. He was eager to speak with her again, but he didn't hurry-- he didn't want to give her the wrong idea and frighten her off. ..Not that she was the sort who could be easily intimidated. He recalled that much from their brief encounter at the Glacier.  

"Dione," he spoke once he was in range, raising his voice to carry over the noise of the stream. He stepped into the shallows, and the icy waters bit at his toes and ankles. When she looked his way, he would offer his most winning smile, hoping she would be up for company.