Phoenix Maplewood peach

the demon left the rising sun behind and headed into the coldlands.

hunting ptarmigan and lemmings, he fed himself often, though from time to time he hungered for fattier meat.

snow blew sideways. 

the man lifted his voice and called out to any interested women, promising them a delightful romp.

For the first time since claiming Wealda, Redd strayed. She sought something to bring the pack together; a hunt, preferably.  But when a call went up she was drawn to investigate.

She should desire what he offered.  Yet she did not.  To claim her would be a feat only those derserving could seek, and any who wished it would face a test of loyalty.  This man called for any;  he had already failed.

Still, she appeared, watching intently as he progressed.

a flash of claret in the white snow took his black eyes at once toward the glimpse.

she was striking with a fine-made build and eyes which watched him with the burnished-gold intent of one confident in herself, at least to his admiring gaze.

apollyon waved his tail and crooned a note toward her, upright ears telegraphing his great interest in her appearance.

He called for her.  She ignored it, still more curious than interested.  No borders, so he laid no claim.  Attractive enough, but Redd would give nothing for free.  She did not think this man would follow her back to the rise, especially out of season.

The rise.  Loneliness had chilled her there, even more than before, now that her sister was gone.  Willing company, even for the afternoon… was she so desperate?

Redd didn’t know.  But she did lower her posture, indicating herself to be no threat.  She would not chase him immediately away if he approached.

it was not quite a welcome, but it was not rejection. apollyon approached with a confident if cautious step, respectful of the other's space.

she was pale earth and bright red in the snow. his stiff legs were eager. 

the demon reached for the stories writ into her nape, offering his own with a low purr of welcome.