Noctisardor Bypass bleirona

The rough bark of the holly branch felt good against her gums. Druid wore a patch in the outer bark and wrinkled her nose at the acrid taste of the softer heart underneath. She pushed the stick away, only to pause and peer wonderingly at the color revealed: pale green, a few shades lighter than grass and leaves.

Commotion outside the den drew her attention. She toddled curiously toward its mouth and saw the familiar Mahler. And, for the second time, the small white puppy accompanied him.

Druid loitered in the doorway. She glanced behind her, where Witch napped beside their mother. Sequoia caught her eye and silently motioned for her to go ahead.

The puppy huffed quietly and faced forward again. She wished Witch was awake so she would come with her. Druid slowly stepped out into the open and moved toward the pair, expression shy.