A new beginning

It had not been a particularly challenging decision, but Epiphron had made up her mind completely -- she would spend the night with Maverick. Not as husband and wife quite yet, but as two betrothed lovers, whose had their entire lives ahead of them. And truthfully, Epiphron anticipated unfathomable greatness.

"A princess who knows how to get down and dirty.. Seracia won't know what hit them!" Epiphron laughed, nothing short of a picturesque princess. "If only you knew," she teased, rather flirtatiously, leaning over to nip at him once again, despite the feigned look of disapproval. But a moment later he was urging her on, apparently towards a source of water. Without hesitation she followed, ready and willing to go wherever he led her.

The stroll to the lake was far from short, but she did not complain. No, she was perfectly content to wander so long as it was by Maverick's side. Soon the view of water impinged on her sight, and the wagging of her tail slowed significantly. The water was sure to be cold, but it wasn't until she waded into the shallows behind him that she realized just how cold it was. Certainly more frigid than she had expected! Epiphron found herself shivering ever so slightly as she waded about, sure to move her legs, hoping to rid herself of the dirt that her pelt had accumulated.

Luckily, the bath was short-lived, and before long she zoomed out after him, she shook fiercely to get the water free from her coat. She swore she felt her fur freezing as the air hit water, and she hurried to rush to Maverick's side, aching for his warmth. "Way too cold for me," she noted, shivering noticeably, her teeth chattering slightly as she leaned into his side.

He began the journey towards the den, and willingly she followed. She would likely follow him to the ends of the earth if he so asked. Before long, they had returned to their new home, and readily Epiphron climbed inside. It was not quite as large as she had hoped, but it would do, and she would not complain -- it was large enough for them both to sleep in comfortably.