Noctisardor Bypass lost in the labyrinth

She reached the water’s edge, resting a black paw on the thin ice to break it up before she dipped down to drink. Over the sound of her tongue lapping water, she detected soft footsteps behind her. Druid raised her head, jowls dripping as she turned to regard her sister.

I’m okay, she said, smiling as Heda fussed over her. Don’t worry about me. Her smile fell a little at the mention of Mahler, although she rallied and agreed, We should use it again, gather whatever medical supplies we can. But not for me—for Ava and anyone else who’ll really need it.

Druid eased onto her haunches and brought up a foreleg to wipe at some cold water clinging to her chin. Despite herself, she wondered if they could even find rosehips this time of year. It wasn’t the ideal season to collect herbs, though there were at least a few things they might find and store.

How’s everyone settling in? I caught you some breakfast. I left it in a stock near the lagoon, if we want to make our way there.