Greatwater Lake It's bloody and raw, but I swear it is sweet

There was no hesitation to accept the shoulder bump and run her muzzle along Chai's cheek and neck in a warm welcome to an old friend. Though her mother would have told her that royalty should not be as physical as Reiko has been lately, this was her title now and not one she adopted from her ancestors. Friends and packmates were family and lovers and would be treated with as much warmth as she could muster - even in dark times such as today.

You too? So much has happened in recent months, not even a year gone and the list the Empress could draw would go on until nightfall should she explain everything to Chai. I hope all of it is good? Of course, as they brushed up against each other, Reiko did pick up the mild scent of Whitebark upon Chai's pelt. She was so close this whole time, living with a new friend Artyom! But it was faint, fading... what could have happened?