Whitebark Stream The final destination of our long journey.

Carefully between his fangs, a sprig of fresh juniper.

It smelled clean, its fine leaves emitting a pleasant aroma that Artyom was sure would bring his mate some comfort when her need to rest in their hollow arose. The little sample was not nearly as pretty as the snowdrops he'd delivered to her the week prior, but the branch was delightfully evergreen. Pale blue berries, ripe for picking, were clustered at its edges; it seemed an appropriate offering for the cold season when wildflowers failed to bloom.

He poked his nose into the den, reluctant to startle @Dawn with his bold entrance. When he was sure she'd be content to receive him, the pale ranger ducked his head to move in closer. For her came the soft sweep of his tail and he sought her features with warm eyes that glistened with affection as he tilted his muzzle toward her - a silent presentation of his latest gift.