something new awaits

Audra hummed quietly for a moment before responding. Was there so much to think about? The hesitation only intrigued Avantika more as she waited for the answer. Now they were both sitting, which Avantika was glad for. It showed that the small, scared girl was becoming more comfortable. She was closer to getting that genuine smile. Audra answered soon enough, saying that she wasn't a true part of the pack called Valhalla, but they were hosting her and taking care of her. But she also frowned as she spoke. Was she ashamed? She didn't need to be. Different wolves had different strengths, and that's why it was best that they live in packs so they could all pool their strengths together and cover each others' weaknesses. But it looked like she wanted reassurance, so Avantika thought out a response and then said carefully, "I don't think it's bad to have people take care of you, you know? Like, my pack, the Hallows, they cared for me when I was younger, and now that I'm older and more skilled, I help protect them."

Did that sound right?

Audra returned her question. "Yeah, the Hallows is near here." She gestured with one paw. "Not far thataway." It was adorable how Audra stumbled over almost all of her words. Was she just generally nervous or--or did she like her back?

No, that was just wishful thinking.

"Speech"