Totoka River odobenus

had he measured time in the human way, he might have marveled that this girl was nearly a decade his junior.

but perhaps the wolf's way put it in even starker contrast. twenty or more seasons between them—and he wondered, whether he approached, if she saw him as some decrepit ghoul or as something more akin to how he felt.

because he didn't feel so old. but he knew he was, from the glimpses of his reflection and the aching of his bones, particularly on cold days.

aditya approached with a chuff, realizing only after he'd vocalized that she seemed to be in some exhaustion (or distress?).

are you all right, ladki? he queried, voice tinged with concern.