Firestone Hot Springs At Last

A good night's rest and a hearty breakfast gave Swordfish the energy he needed for today's travels. He covered quite a lot of ground in just a few hours, bypassing a steep, mountainous ridge and then following a winding river onto some sprawling plains. He paused now and again to take a drink or lick his paws, which were getting a little chapped from the cold, rugged terrain and constant running.

Through a stroke of luck, the traveling Beta found himself wandering into some hot springs. Swordfish sniffed the air, taking in the strange scent, and paused at the edge of a small, steaming pool. He dipped one forepaw into the water and sighed. Quickly, he waded into the shallows, happily soaking his sore feet. He just stood there, eyelids drooping and tail waving as he enjoyed the pleasant, soothing warmth.

A while later, he stepped out of the water and began to explore the immediate area. He caught the scent of a wolf and, of course, seized the opportunity to introduce himself and possibly further his mission. He had yet to locate the wolf for whom he searched, though he was far from throwing in the towel yet. Swordfish would keep looking and asking around until he found some sort of lead.

For now, he followed his nose, which was made slightly more difficult by the sulfurous air. Swordfish came upon a white she-wolf bobbing in yet another of the pools of water. He did not walk up to her immediately, instead lingering in plain sight and waiting for her to notice and acknowledge him before making an approach, particularly because she seemed rather alert to any disturbances.