Hilde hesitated for a moment. She was habitually hostile towards strangers, with little mercy to be shown to even the most pathetic. Yet, things had changed. This was not Kaldvegr. She had no right to banish a wolf from borders that were not closed. Perhaps it was something Dawnbreak took pride in: being deeply hospitable, welcoming towards everyone.

A soft huff left her lips in contemplation. It was hard to tell what to do. She wasn't accustomed to showing such mannerisms—not to strangers, at least. Her ear twitched. I have no right to welcome you to these lands, she began, speaking carefully. Yet, I have no right to banish you from them, either. A pause. Sharp golden eyes once again shifted over the stranger, one last look-over. Just for good measure.

I can tell easily that you will not be a threat among our ranks, she resumed. I can bring you to someone of higher authority—so long as you do not to give me a reason to throw you back out. She turned, ready to make the trek back up the ridges that surrounded their home.