Alpine Lake before we proceed any further, hear me speak

His stride was set -- determined to reach the river -- and had a bid for his attention not sounded, the wolf likely would have missed the slim flash of white before him until he was practically on top of her. Vortigern paused, raising his head and pressing his ears forward until his gaze settled on the wolf that had called out to him.

From afar, he appraised her with open suspicion, though it took but a second to determine that she meant him no harm. And despite his smoothly severe countenance, he meant her no harm either.

Not yet.

He moved forward once more, slower than before, leaving his posture curious without appearing overly confident. Though he may have had her in size, he was wise enough to know that her teeth could be just as strong as his. I greet you, he said in a low voice, as solemnly as a vow. His tail wagged with a steady strum, inviting her closer.