---

❁

The group of them set off by early morning, trudging through the swamps and trees of westmoor for clearer ground. Soon enough, the shores that marked the end of the lands would reveal itself through an exit of thick foliage and tree trunks. Izumi breathed in the smell of seasalt as gentle waves crashed and receded from the white sands. Turning her muzzle over her shoulder, she’d becon them to follow her toward the low tide path leading to the Island.

The first thing to hit her was the strong smell of wisteria, a sweet yet gentle perfume against her twitching nose – yes, she was home again. A smile crossed her lips as she closed her eyes, taking in the fresh seabreeze that hit her while approaching the shores.

Turning over her shoulder, the empress checked with Osamu and Gekirin.

”We should start by scouting over the lands, first. We haven’t occupied the island in a while now – there's no way it’s been barren for long…”

---

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The trio had taken off for the Dynasty's old home, hopeful that it could be reclaimed once more. Gekirin followed Izumi faithfully but wasn't so sure about the man that was now alongside her. Osamu was his name, heard in passing of course. But if she trusted him that much, then so would he. Such was the way in this pack, loyalty above everything else. Surely enough, the group had come to the sandy beaches were a path in low tide was waiting for them. Each wolf took to the water, coming across the somewhat open sea until paws rested on soft ground again. Finally they were home.

Izumi looked over her shoulder to the two men, eyes alert and voice filled with purpose. Gekirin nodded in deep understanding. I do wonder if there is anyone left on this large island. I guess we shall see what there is to discover soon enough. The forgotten prince waited for Izumi to lead the patrol, wondering if separating would be better to cover more ground. But for now he would keep silent, unsure if what he was thinking would be the right thing to do.