The Heartwood Ashen Remains

At the sound of a voice Vale shot upright. Hackles bristled and eyes wide, she nearly choked on her own breath. It didn't take many turns of her head to find the source. A large, golden woman towered over the shrubbery. The saplings waved around her, some barely brushing her withers. 

Just... how long was that woman watching her? A warmth bloomed within her cheeks and her ears flattened against her skull. She allowed someone to sneak up on her. Forcing her heart back down her throat, she blinked slowly. Willing the raised hair along her spine to settle, she properly looked at the new face. A masked woman. Dressed in gold with a large, strong body. With a friendly look to her. What did she ask again?

The swirling thoughts of her mind slowed. Wagging her own tail low besides her legs, Vale stammered out, No! No I— I didn't lose anything! I was just.... looking. Vale took a few sheepish steps forwards. Clearing her throat, she assumed a better posture, setting her ears forward. Thank you for asking.... Miss?