Alpine Lake Bring back what once was mine

For @Sunchaser. For mostly my reference lmao "Alpine Lake: The true breadth of the lake can only be properly enjoyed from a bird's eye view, as it is contained within the soaring heights of a mountain. Unfathomably deep, the cool, clear water feeds into several narrow, tumbling waterfalls that waters the wild back country below." Other tag for reference! ^^

Solenya had taken yet her third detour before returning back to the Sentinels, back to @Kirain and their new settlement. It was all coming together, this dream of hers. She couldn't help the pep in her step and the tongue-lolling smile plastered to her face. Normally, her demeanor was softer, less bouncy, and more serious, but this just couldn't be helped. There was too much joy to contain.

Humming, she approached the largest lake she had ever seen, one so large the other side was not even visible. Though not visible, she could hear the distant rumble of a waterfall, or more--she wasn't sure. Regardless, the area was a gorgeous place to check out. The lupine woman thought it would be a nice place to take her young in the future.

She sat at the water’s edge, paws stretched out before her, lifting her head to the sky as the breeze stirred her fur in gentle strokes. The cool air was refreshing, revitalizing.

For how large the lake was, it must have been a strange twist of fate that another wolf was only a few feet from where he lapped at the water.

Giving her his usual nervous side-glance, he wondered where she could have come from. Other than the Summerwalkers, it seemed to Sunchaser that this side of the Hinterlands was relatively empty. But wolves wandered, that was how he had gotten here anyways.

He had to wonder how she had stumbled across his path at all.

No sooner as she closed her eyes did she hear gentle lapping of waters nearby. Her head whipped to where the sound had come from, green eyes landing on another. She took in their scent, a deep breathe in signaled a male was before her now. He was not posturing in anyway that screamed danger, so she did not baulk at his presence.

Her head cocked, a friendly glint in her eye as she regarded him.

Well, hello, there. I hope I'm not intruding She stood to full height, shaking her fur of debris while waiting for his response.

She was bigger than him, and not at all bad looking. It was not helping his nerves settle in the least.

..No, not all! He was quick to say, straightening up before avoiding her eyes entirely. Am I?

His words were coming too quick, Sunchaser beginning to feel flustered. I live in the neighbouring copse - with the Summerwalkers. I didn't know anyone else was around. He was unsure if the pack name would ring a bell, but Waawaashkeshi seemed to have travelled a fair bit before her pregnancy.

She chuckled, a soft sound in her throat colored in amusement at how flustered he seemed. 

Shaking her head, she responded, No, no. I am just visiting.

His words were quick, as if he couldn't get them out fast enough, but she caught each one with a smile. Ah, yet another pack in rather close vicinity. Another to befriend, in her opinion. The more allies in her metaphorical back pocket, the better.

Summerwalkers, huh? Tell me a little about them? She came closer now, it was easier to speak a little closer. 

I am forming a pack a little ways northwest from here; there's a coastal forest with very tall trees that guard the area. We are called the Viridian Sanctum. Not far at all from here--if there's any interest, and once we are slightly more established, we'd love to offer possible trade. Solenya sat on her haunches, feeling the warmth hit her face as she rolled her shoulders. This place was very relaxing.

At speak of anything but himself, he suddenly felt more relaxed.

Well we're a trading pack, so I think that would be perfect. He responded, offering a smile. Our leader, Waawaashkeshi, would like to meet you I'm sure. She's meant to be giving birth in a few weeks though, so you may need to come to her. He knew that the Storyleader was a travelling woman, but it had to be hard with all that extra weight.

Sitting himself down, he wracked his brain for what else to say. He owed it to the pack to make a good impression!

I think we're sort of a pack of rangers.. Waawaashkeshi says that in the summer we follow birds to a new territory.

She jumped to her feet excitedly at what he offered about his pack. There was a lot of promise said, and she grabbed onto it tightly.

Oh, that all sounds wonderful! I would be happy to visit this Waa...um, Waashwaksi--no, that's not it. Forgive me! I meant to say that I would be happy to visit her once I have made a more solid claim and can leave my home for a longer period of time. There was still so much to be done, more work needed to strengthen their claim in the forest. Her thoughts drifted to Kirain briefly, wondering if the lily was doing alright.

Her tailed waved behind her, a friendly flag billowing in the wind. Please let her know of us and our intentions. We are not roamers, like yourselves, as we believe that our home is sacred and have become its caretakers; however, show us your faith in return and the Sanctum will provide. We strive for balance in all things--inside and outside our sacred home.

An ally! He had found his pack an ally. Sunchaser could not help but grin. Yes! -- yes. I will let her know we can expect you to visit. He looked her over briefly, flustered once more from his rather sudden burst of excitement.

Good luck with your pack. He offered, soon realizing neither of them had offered their names. I'm Sunchaser, by the way. I'll see you soon?

Nodding to her, her turned southward and began to make his way back home.

His excitement brought forth a giggle, her voice as warm as honey in response, Wonderful!

She nodded to him, pocketing his name should she see him again before offering hers in return. I'm Solenya. It was nice meeting you, Sunchaser. I will see you again. She watched his retreating form for a moment before turning herself back towards home.

It will be good to see Kirain, again, she thought. Her pawsteps moved a hint faster than usual, ready to touch the earth of the sentinels once more.