Annabelle had never seen so many caribou gathered in one place. Their great bodies moved peacefully through the clearing, heads lowered as they grazed beneath the moonlight. They seemed entirely unaware of her presence among them. She watched with quiet wonder, her pale eyes following the occasional flick of an ear or swish of a tail. They were so lovely! And so very much bigger than she was. They reminded her of her spirit friends, only well…not spirit.

Still, she made no attempt to approach them. Instead, she remained close to Yanggadi, patiently waiting for his signal. The bundle of roses and mint rested carefully in her mouth, their sweet fragrance filling her nose. She didn't want to spoil the flowers before she had the chance to give them away!

When he finally nudged her and flicked his head in Fa'liya's direction, Annabelle's ears perked. Oh! It was time!

She stepped forward, approaching the dark-coated wolf with small, measured steps. Her tail began to sway behind her, betraying the excitement she could hardly contain. Once she stood before Fa'liya, she lowered her head and gently placed the bundle upon the earth between them.

There! Her gift!

She took a small step back, careful not to disturb the roses, and looked up at the ghost talker with an expectant expression. The blooms were a little uneven, and perhaps some of the mint had become ruffled along the journey, but Annabelle thought they were beautiful all the same. She hoped Fa'liya did, too.

A soft, pleased hum slipped from her throat. She dipped her head in a little bow, then glanced briefly toward Yanggadi, as if sharing in the satisfaction of having brought their gifts safely to their destination. Her gaze returned to Fa'liya. She couldn't explain why she had brought the flowers, or tell her that the mint might help if her tummy ever felt poorly.

She could only offer the gift and hope its meaning was understood.

Fa'liya Yanggadi Saghani