Nova Peak even in a hurricane of frowns

she ought to have claimed this place, she thinks as she climbs the mountain, long, tapered limbs carrying her sure and steady to the summit. the elevation would give her sight of the entire taiga, or at least most of it. trees, rocks, perhaps prey. . .

but no, the Rise had called to her, and the Rise they will settle. perhaps in time, and with strength in numbers, they can increase their claim northward to the peak.

for now, it's all they can do to secure a foothold at all.

Avicus almost mistakes the crumpled mass of tawny fur for injured game—a bobcat, perhaps? she's never hunted one, but she's up for the challenge, especially if it isn't long for this world. 

but she's downwind, and the smell of wolf reaches her; intrigue is replaced with wariness as she barks toward the stranger.

you hhlive here? she demands. it truly isn't her territory, but that had never stopped Avicus from lording over a perceived inferior, and it damned well isn't going to stop her now.