Emberflame Ridge before i pine away

Lace, Lily murmured in response. Pleasure to meet you. She took off at a gentle, ambling pace, letting the other walk beside her if she chose, though behind was fine, too. The blackbird was never one for overt signs of dominance or control, especially with a wolf as vulnerable as this. Care was what she needed.

She glanced over at her new companion. Where are you from, darling? she asked. Do you live nearby or are you a traveler? Nothing about the woman seemed familiar, but they were questions worth asking, if only to keep Lace alert on the journey through the willows. Wouldn't do anyone good for the girl to pass out on her paws, now, would it?