Duck Lake the long fall

He is not much of a talker, which irks her slightly. Her mouth opens, but he is already off and soon she is trotting easily at his pace through the snow. Perhaps she could learn a thing or two from this dark stranger.

Fúyáo is a lighter reflection of his shadow, mirroring his posture as they descend upon the patridge's domain. He mutters a word she cannot discern - and it is then the princess realises that, for the first time, she is alone with a man who is not her brother's, who is not her father nor uncles.

And something beyond hunger stirs within her belly.

With restraint, Fúyáo gestures curtly with her tail. You be a distraction, she mouths, before stalking panther-like behind their quarry. She would not be so rash this time.