Hexx had spent enough years around frightened creatures to recognize the difference between caution and deception. Those who intended harm rarely made themselves smaller, they stood taller, tested boundaries and searched for weaknesses. But this woman did the opposite. Every instinct she possessed begged her to retreat. His expression remained unchanged, though the hard edge in his gaze softened by a measure so slight most would never notice as he blinked.

You haven't intruded, he would rumble plainly. You stopped where the borders begin

When she offered to leave, his gaze drifted briefly toward the valley behind him. Snow rested peacefully across Dawnbreak's slopes, blanketing the dens where pups slept beneath the watchful eyes of their parents, protecting them would always come first. Yet Dawnbreak had never been a fortress that shut its doors to every stranger. He would have never had the flickering chance at his own family if he hadn't welcomed Golde home that day. Golde. He shut her face out of his memories, turning back to the present.

Dawnbreak had been built as a refuge. And those willing to live by its laws, to contribute rather than take, had always been given the chance to earn a place among them. There was room enough for those seeking something better, provided they came honestly. His silver eyes settled back upon the woman, Asny is what she had called herself.

You can call me Hexx, I cannot bring an unknown into the heart of the territory until I understand why you're here,

He studied her for another quiet moment before continuing. The Vale is home to Dawnbreak, where everyone has a voice — we are a family

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