they can haunt me all they want

As the girl caught her breath and caught wind of another watching, Asla could see the embarrassment on her face. The smaller woman shifted her gaze away reflexively, not wanting the kid to feel worse. When did she care about the feelings of her younger siblings? Who knew? Yet here she was, trying not to stare for the sake of whatever pride Ophie might have had.

The girl apologized and Asla wrinkled her nose, her gaze swinging back. Why was she apologizing? Again Ophie spoke, but she trailed off. Had the girl always been so unsure of herself? Aslatiel couldn't really remember. The grimey wolf pulled herself shakily to her paws as though she was going to move off and Asla was ready to just let her go... but then she spoke again.

Well shit...

Ophie's words were kind and surprising. There was no reason that it should be good to see Asla. She had threatened and thought about drowning all of them more times than could be counted. Things were different now. Asla had grown into something different. Something less selfish. No longer did she wish harm on her siblings, but she still hadn't felt much for them. Seeing Ophie so vulnerable and damaged... Well, Asla needed to do something.

"Come on," the woman spoke softly. Moving past Ophie, Asla's tail tapped the girl's shoulder. She continued along the path and pushed down a game trail until the greenery opened up on a small, clear stream. Asla stepped into the water with her front paws and took a drink. She cast a glance over her shoulder to see if her sister had followed.

"Aslatiel Fatalis"