It had been much easier then she had thought, getting used to her new home. It had been some time now since she had joined the wolves of Yuelin, and her place within the pack had yet to be decided. She still wanted to see the rest of this world once she had the chance. But knew that it would be better to do so once winter had come and gone. There was no reason to risk her health and well being over some hidden wanderlust. So Kai would settle for exploring more of the islands, her paws taking her across the stone paths to the second island, and arriving at some hot springs much to her pleasure.

The panda colored woman moved her body right into one of the hot springs, completely soaking herself as she set down her favorite seashell next to her outside of the pool. The heat of the water felt good against her skin as it gave her sanctuary from the cold waiting for her to come out. The sun's rays began to shine through the tree tops as well, enveloping her even more in its warmth, creating a truly relaxing set up. Blue eyes closed in relaxation, a soft sigh escaping her lips. This was the way to live.

The morning was cool, almost chilly- a reminder that winter would be here soon. Huā decided to visit the springs. Her den was on the southern island, where the hot springs were, too, so it didn't take her long after waking that day before she was on her way over. As she was nearing she caught Kai's scent in the air, and prepared herself for company. Huā liked relaxing alone sometimes, but she didn't mind companionship either, and even better that it was Yuèlín's newest recruit. Maybe the empress would have a chance to get to know her better.

She made her way down through the series of rocky steps, the pools coming into view up ahead. She caught sight of Kai in one of them, her eyes closed- looking awfully relaxed, and Huā smiled lightly. She let out a soft chuff to announce her presence so she wouldn't spook the panda-colored lady, before slipping into the same spring, though keeping a respectful distance between them. Huā's muscles immediately lost their built-up tension as the heat covered her, and she decided that she ought to make time for this more often.

Kai, how have you been adjusting to the island so far? I am sorry we have not had the chance to chat much yet, maybe we can fix that. Huā spoke up with a little smile on her face, though her voice remained light, not wishing to disturb the calm atmosphere too much.

Kai had continued to enjoy herself in the springs when she heard a light chuff. Huā, the empress of this pack, had made herself known to the smaller female as she moved into the pool. She was beautiful to look at, her fluid motions pleasing to the eyes and her voice as calm as the ocean breeze. Hello Huā. It's nice to see you again. She smiled warmly at the empress. Her eyes held a warm softness to them that was becoming of an ocean wolf. No worries here. We are together now. Your island home is simply beautiful. I wish to stay here and be one of your own pack. If that is alright. It was her home now. It would always be her home.

Kai greeted Huā easily and returned the smile. The empress enjoyed having wolves like this join their group- easygoing, kind, the type that could likely fit right in with her family without too much trouble. Kai affirmed that the island was beautiful, and that she wished to stay. Huā nodded. I am glad to hear that. And of course, it is alright! You are welcome to stay so long as the island suits you! Honest, the more of us there are for the winter, the better. We can all rely on eachother's help. Huā shared thoughtfully. Have you found a good spot to make a den? If you have not, I could reccommend a few places. There was much to see in their territory- the coast, the cliffs, the forests and waterfalls, the hill... it had taken Huā a long while to settle where she'd made her den near the field of flowers, and even now she often considered changing to somewhere new.

Huā was just as pleasant and easy going as she remembered her to be. Kai continued to smile her way, listening intently to her every word. Of course. We all will need to stick together come winter. Please let me know what ever I can do to help. I'm a decent fisher and can find critters hiding in the sand with no problem. She was not normally one to boast of her skills, but wanted her new leader to know that she was more then capable. Her head tilted a bit in curiosity, the talk of a den being brought to her attention. Oh no, I haven't yet chose a more permanent place. I've been staying on the other island so far, making my way around to see everything in time. Do you have suggestions? Kai was curious to know of any places she had missed, wondering if there was one that would suit her fancy. This island seemed to hide so many wonders. What else lied in store for her? She could hardly wait to find out.

Kai seemed eager to help in the upcoming cold season, and Huā was pleased by her words, which made her seem responsible and hard-working in the empress’ perspective. Fishing is already a great help. I encourage you to keep caches filled with any extra food you find, and borders marked- these simple work keep our pack alive and well. I too try to mark our borders and hunt daily as much as I am able. Huā shared sincerely.

Luckily, Yuèlín did not have enemies at present, so there was little need for warriors. Their main goal ought to be maintaining the health of their existing members during the winter, although Huā did still wish that they had a knowledgeable doctor among them.

The darker lady shared that she hadn’t chosen a spot to make her den, instead exploring the island slowly over time. Huā thought for a moment before answering. Well, my first suggestion will be the caves on this island. They are near the big hill by the east side. There is a small entrance, but it opens up into more caves, which seem to glow from little… worms, on the inside of the caves. It is beautiful, this is where my sister Meixing makes her den, but it is a large space that can certainly be home for more than one wolf. Huā began.

On the north island, there are many small caves along the beaches. There is also lots of forest area, which I am sure you know- but in this forest, I am sure you could find a good tree root to make a space beneath. I myself sleep on the island, in a small den I dug myself near the flower fields. It is nothing special, but it suits me and I like being so near the flowers and their beautiful smells. There was nothing like waking up to the scent of lavender and hibiscus each morning, and so far she had stayed in that same den since her family had settled here.

But, I am glad you are taking time to see everything at your own pace. This island is… special, I believe, and there is so much to explore here. It was her favorite place in this new world, even if it would never be quite like home.

Huā watched her with a gentle yet focused gaze, her ears listening intently to her every word. I will absolutely do my best. Rest assured we will remain well fed during the colder months. Kai was now beaming, a happy smile on her face as she thought of being of use to her new pack. Then came the talk of the islands, and finding a new home. Each new place she spoke of sounded so beautiful, temping her further to explore as much of the territories as she could. I love being by the water very much. I like to spend some time during the night to admire the stars and moon before bed. Perhaps I shall find a nice spot near the shoreline's beauty. Thank you though for all of the suggestions. I will be sure to check them all out. An ear flicked at the coming of a sudden thought. Oh, how many others are in this pack? Will I be running into the others fairly soon? Kai was interested in knowing the others that she would share this island home with, hoping that they would receive her well once the meetings happened.