Lost Creek Hollow my skin has turned to porcelain, to ivory, to steel

you would think! can't teach an old dog new tricks. (:

 

"Root," she repeated, her tail wagging as she studied the females face, memorizing the two together. "It's nice to meet you, Root," she woofed, ears perked as she too kept a steady watch over where they were. In truth, it was early, and perhaps Ilya hadn't expected anyone to come by the hollow so early, but she could tell that the larger female was a bit on guard. The wolfs slight caution reminded Ilya of the cougar, and she made sure she would have one eye open through their conversation.

"Is there anything you meant to do this morning?" Ilya asked, her head cocking to one side. "I don't mind accompanying you, if you'll have me."