Blackfeather Woods told you i'd let them go

for caregiver trade :)

Imaq loped through the Woods, tropical gaze of jade seaglass marred by tidal waves sweeping the snags and knots of the wild trees in search of any flashes of greenery or any sign that spring might soon be on its way. She wasn't having much luck yet and felt her hopes dimming as she looked for any sign of herbs or medicines. She'd hoped to at least get started on storing some basic medical supplies now that the pack was official but it seemed she might have to wait a bit longer for the weather to warm before starting a pharmacopeia. 

Then, her Neptune gaze was drawn by a strand of alder trees nearby. They weren't herbs but the chewable inner bark made for a soothing gum that eased the pains of toothaches and dental ailments. The shepherd pattered closer, circling the tree in search of any signs of rot or disease while simultaneously looking for a break in the harder layer of outer bark where it might be easier to peel it away. Satisfied the tree was healthy, she reared back and placed her front paws to either side of a small opening in the bark -- a wound caused by some other woodland creature or the elements themselves perhaps.

Leaning in, Imaq carefully worked away the bark to expose the wet, white inner layer of cambium.  This she pried and shaved at with her teeth -- ivory curls of damp, sweetly-scented alder bark raining down as she worked.