Swiftcurrent Creek survivor

She saw his face change when she asked about his daughter. Bones's ears slipped backward apprehensively, wondering if she'd unknowingly touched on a tender subject. Before she could think of what to say, he mentioned her father and the yearling understood the implication: Dovev and his progeny were estranged.

"I'm on good terms with me dad," Bones said, "though I haven't seen him in a while. As soon as I'm feeling better, I intend to go visit him." She wasn't sure if talking about her good relationship with her own father might bother Dovev, so she left it at that.

Bones suddenly remembered that she'd left the recently-accepted Ira all alone. He would probably be waking up soon and if she wasn't there, he might worry. She didn't want to have to explain why she'd left without a word, though the yearling knew she would have to let Ira know about her trigger zones so they could both be careful. Her throat felt tight at the thought.

Realizing she'd lapsed into silence, Bones said, "It was nice to meet ye, Dovev, but I need to get back to me companion before he wakes up. I'm sure I'll see ye around." She proffered a winning smile and waved her tail. The Pi then pivoted and began to lope away along the creek, back toward where she'd left Ira soundly sleeping.