Northstar Vale You were in the parking lot earlier; that's how I know you!

She was shocked as the tone of the other's voice changed abruptly—like a warm day broken by icy rain. The words may not mean much at all, but Lilitu could certainly pick up intent. Her ears folded back, her previously-confident mien fading into uncertainty. She watched as the woman switched back as she spoke to the other pup, and her confusion only grew.

Lilitu padded forward, heading not for the bigger wolf but for the child. On her way, she plucked a fallen piece of debris from a tree, a shard of bark. Pleased with her toy, she sauntered over, offering it to the other girl with a hesitant but friendly squeak.

Maybe tug o' war would break the ice. She sure wanted to make another friend. Mama and Arielle were good enough company, but she knew them all too well.