Noctisardor Bypass The world was made of water and I was a ship

The whisper of grass and dirt trodden beneath the wolf's feet alerted Goldfinch to his presence. She stilled at once, ears tall. Already her fur bristled a little even as she turned to see just who was following her — or so she thought.

Brother.

Goldfinch knew him immediately, though in the next moment his growl chased away any joy she might have felt. Ears going flat, she dropped the otter. She saw his gaunt cheeks, prominent ribs beneath dull dark furs; if he wanted the meat, he could have it. Hurt, she retreated several steps with a low whine, her familiar following briefly only to flit past her and back to the bypass.