Wheeling Gull Isle The tree branches scraping the roof like people whispering

A small shape pressed against the last buds, a face lifting free to look at her. It was a small wolf—a girl. Hua had spoken of her children briefly and Nukilik presumed this was one of them.

The flash of movement was all she noticed at first. It wasn't directed at her—not at first—not until Nukilik was closer; then they were peering at her shyly, both finally noticing one another.

When they spoke it was a very soft sound that Nukilik did not know, but she assumed it was a greeting. Hello young one, she murmured in return, planting herself where she had been standing and drawing in a cold breath.