Hushed Willows Amid a Crashing World

Yeah, a real big girl with real big teeth, Fox shot back with a toothy smirk. Her tone hadn't entirely lost its edge, but her dark eyes glinted playfully. She flicked an ear when he gestured in the direction of the valley. Her gaze followed his gesture and lingered there, as if she could see beyond the thicket of willow trees to the vast expanse beyond.

Used to be more people, she said slowly, a hint of melancholy tinging the words. More packs. Kvarsheim. Swiftcurrent Creek. It's real quiet round there now, but some folks are still kickin' up dust that way. Party's moved on, though. I think it's more lively out west these days.