Oh boy. He was so new to this pack. How would that affect her presence? Would they reject her for her oddities? Would they take kindly to him bringing in strange loners? Would they see her as a threat—worse yet, treat her like one? Devika froze, her spirit dimming as the questions swirled through her mind. The lack of answers gnawed at her, stoking the silent beast’s anxiety.

But… he would be there. That had to count for something, didn’t it? Even if they didn’t accept her, she could linger nearby, offering help however she could. It didn’t need to be so black and white. Still, the thought of being separated from him set her on edge, stirring up more uncertainty, more questions.

With a soft sigh and a shake of her painted head, she pushed the thoughts aside. She was doing this. She was going with him. Turning back to the water, she bent to quench her thirst before lifting her head toward the path he had gestured to. Her icy gaze flicked to him, hesitant, but resolute. She would follow where he led.