Haunted Wood never make a change

The Wilds were larger than she had been expecting. As much as she wanted to see it all before she decided to settle somewhere, the approaching winter was a cause of anxiety. She'd need to find somewhere to live— and soon— or else it would be unlikely that she saw next spring. It was too late to return to the Blackthorns in time, and as optimistic as she was, she didn't think she could survive alone in the coldest months. Still... she thought she could spend a few more days exploring, getting a feel for the wolves that lived here, and then she'd focus on finding the necessary shelter.

Her exploration took her from the Sunspire to the southern territories, and eventually into a forest with sweeping willows, peeling birches, and gnarled oaks. Bright oranges and reds erupted over the trees canopy, and as the early morning fog dissipated and gave way to a light rain, Tail ducked beneath the shelter of the trunks. She imagined this place would be unnerving at night, but with dawn's light filtering through the dying leaves, a warm light seemed to fill the territory.

She wove through the trees, enjoying a peaceful stroll, until she began to hear the gnawing sound of teeth on bone. Not uncommon amongst wolves, the yearling assumed it was one of her brethren. Rather than go the opposite direction, she zeroed in on it until she came upon a dark form cleaning out an old bone. He seemed to be made of oil, and she could not glean much from his scent except that he was wolf and male.

Though it was likely he had already heard her approach, she gave a disarming woof in greeting.