Hushed Willows And we would both lose our jobs

May be? Nieve asked, arching a brow. Her curiosity was genuine and lacked any form of judgment or sarcasm. There were more wolves here than just Melkor, a fact he confirmed by referring to them as a collective, but he didn't know yet if they lived here or not. They must've been in the process of moving, she realized, recalling how Rusalka had once made a pilgrimage from their damaged sound up to the plateau. It made Nieve wonder what had driven them from wherever they'd come before.

Thank you very much, she replied, beaming. You're really gracious to do so. Nieve wouldn't have thought twice about passing through the woods once Melkor gave his blessing, but she was glad for an escort all the same. Not because she feared she would come to harm, but it felt more proper to be accompanied, if this was a possible home for him and his wolves. My name's Nieve. Nice to meetcha, she said, waving her tail low at her hocks.

I'm on a scouting trip, she explained. I live with my moms and my sister on the other side of the mountain. I came down through here. That's why I wanted to come back this way. I don't really know another route. Certainly she could've found one, but this was just easier, and luckily, Melkor was kind enough to allow it. Do you mind if I ask where you came from?