out there in the silence

The sound of an approaching wolf was unexpected to say the least, and drew her from her reverie of contemplation to study the wolf coolly. "Nor I," she responded simply to the stranger's greeting before cocking her black-masked head to the side and elaborating. "I came to scout this area for my pack. It is unusual but would make for an interesting territory to hold, perhaps. What could it be that draws you here?" Surely the young thing couldn't have lived here - her coloring was similar to Katja's, and even with her thin coat the sun was harsh and the dark coloring of her pelt seemed to absorb far too much of the sun's heat. The culture of her people bade her show hospitality to guests, so even though she laid no claim to these lands she could not in good conscience treat this friendly stranger as otherwise. She made a gesture of welcome toward the oasis. "Come, let us find shade and a respite from this heat. Would you care for a drink?"