Despite her anxiety, she found herself rather comfortable. As she relaxed against the stone, her thoughts began to quiet, and she might have drifted off to sleep, until a voice called out. It was only a soft, single word, but it caught the little dame’s attention all the same.

Her eyes snapped open, head lifting as silver irises searched for the source, only to land on an unfamiliar face.

Hello! Welcome! she greeted brightly, her once-still tail now wagging with great energy. The sudden swell of wolves arriving at the Rise was deeply welcomed and exciting. Are you alright? Do you need assistance? What’s your name? I’m Kirain!

She tried to temper her usual torrent of questions, remembering how overwhelming it could be, especially after her meeting with Liss. Her energy was well-meant, but even she knew it could be exhausting.

Kirain took a closer look at the stranger as she waited for a reply. Lovely cyan eyes, a striking pelt of browns and creams—and tall! Their height amused her, as her small stature always seemed so startling in comparison. But she loved the variety in others: so many different body types, so many beautiful coats and colors.

She let out a soft sigh to herself.