The soft patter of paw steps fills your ears, and the sharp scent of decaying leaves overwhelms your scent glands as you open your maw in an attempt to gain your bearings. In the distance, you observe a young grey female. Her piercing olive eyes meet your gaze as she lifts her slim head and lets out a short bark. From behind you comes one and then two, and then more short howls that meld into and match each other beautifully. Panic runs through your chest momentarily as she lazily approaches you, tail down and ears alert. “A newcomer,” the female chuckles, “no matter what has brought you upon my land, you are welcome here.” The branches behind you rustle as more adults gather around. These ones are older, grey creeps across their aged and scarred muzzles. They are much more apprehensive to your company, but make no move to disagree with their Alpha. “I ask only that you do not hunt here. Prey is scarce and I have pups to feed. If you are hungry, participate in a hunt and you will be fed. If you are injured or ill, you will be tended to until you are well enough to move on. I would invite to stay, but we cannot add any more to our ranks,” the female trails off to gaze at her fellow wolves. “I’m sure you understand. My name is Mira and you’ve stumbled upon the pack of Diana. Welcome.” As quickly as they surrounded you, her subordinates slink back. Presumably, leading the way back to their home. The pretty female follows you before turning around to meet your gaze once again, “Are you staying or going?”
