The young boy was finally starting to put on some weight. He was officially healthy now that summer was well underway. His pink flesh held its rosy hue and his fur shone in the brightness of the sun. His horns were beginning to really come in, and he’d gained at least a quarter of an inch since joining Kesali’s ranks. His alabaster paws carried him through the willows, the shade a welcome reprieve from the harshness of the sun. He panted softly, bright pink tongue lolling out of his mouth as he plopped down under the tree.

It wasn’t long after noon and the heat was oppressive, he really should have been hiding away in his den but he loved the light of the sun. Being under the willow’s branches wasn’t a terrible alternative. The wing swept through beneath, an oddly cool breeze through the long branches. Erys leaned back against the trunk and started to relax, his lithe form sprawled out over the short grass. Soon he’d need to start deciding on his path in life. His first birthday was quickly approaching and with it the huge decision.

She dragged herself back to Kesali feeling emotionally beat. She had learned so much today, and didn’t know what to think of it all. She was still processing, and despite some of the conclusions she had reached, it still hurt. She moved over the border as through in a dream, and almost tripped over the pup that lay against the base of a tree, as she moved around it.

She managed to stop herself from running the little one over, and looked down at the little horned mite. He was growing well, and had put on weight with the help of some of the herbal remedies she had been giving him. The horns where cute little studs against his head, a strange anomaly, but one that seemed to suit him.

She blinked a few times, trying to bring her focus back to the moment, and realised she had a few unshod tears blurring her vision. She blinked them away and smiled down at the pup. “hello there little Ery”

The young pup was used to seeing Riva just about every day. He’d become rather fond of the little healer wolf as she was always there to offer him little treats and candies. (Well disguised medicines that had done well in helping him gain the boasted extra weight.) Erystotle was just about asleep when her sudden stop brought his silvery eyes open. Be blinked up at her, feeling a bit uncertain as at first she didn’t wear her normal smile. Concern filled him as she blinked back tears to greet him.

The boy was quick to his feet, with his galactic tail wagging behind him he pushed himself between Riva’s forelegs. Despite the heat he still very much felt a need to snuggle into her. He wouldn’t be able to fir there for much longer, but for now he’d remain comfortable. He rubbed his horns against her chest affectionately and whined softly. ”Hello, Miss Riva.” Erys answered politely, pressing his cheek against her leg in a half hug. ”Are you alright?”