The Heartwood so she walked away, devastation in her world

It was no vile monster or man that lurked in the shadows - but a smile on thinning lips as the hero trotted onward in the famine. Painted banister flying behind him in a friendly display, wandering around outside of Kaistleoki borders in hopes of bringing back anything for the pack to eat. A clean stream to fish perhaps, but there was no luck. 

Most would feel utter despair, the bleak and cold hands of depression strangling and choking out any ounce of hope they felt - and yet here he was, a stupid grin nevertheless. 

Times were hard enough as it was, there was no need to add to the desperation by bringing his own melancholy to the table. The least he could do was try to be that light in the dark to distract as many as possible from the torment of hunger that pained them all.

Just as he pondered returning to Kaistleoki empty-handed, which he dreaded most of all but it was better than getting lost in unknown lands for long, his head perked atop his shoulders as he spotted an unfamiliar figure in the distance. One with odd markings such as he, a diluted piebald which beckoned him to investigate and greet the figure. Perhaps see if they knew of any food that may be laying around. 

With a chuff he attempted to gain her attention first before speaking, lithe paws bounding forward excitedly despite how tired his body must feel. Salutations comrade in painted pelts, how do you fair today? Start off slow, there was no need to be greedy.