Word Count → 414
Terra was playfully licking his face, something that embarrassed him, though he would never tell her so directly. As she drew away, he offered her a small lick on the cheek, a quick and guilty apology for letting her down. He picked himself up from the grass, neatly arranging his light and dark paws into a seated position in front of her, listening intently to her speak.
"Interesting" was the only information he was offered about the journey, which was both a disappointment and a bit of a relief. Hati had still never crossed the borders of his birthplace -- the thought of the unknown made him uncomfortable and anxious, preferring to stay close to home. In part, this was because he grew up during the Aniwaya conflict. He had been warned many times as a puppy that it was dangerous out there, that bad wolves might try to hurt him if he strayed away. His uncle Zafier had been killed during that time, though he did not remember much about his mother's brother. And yet, it could not be the only thing holding him back, because Skoll and Lottie did not have the same inhibitions he did. Skoll in particular relished the adventurous side of life, and Hati had not been oblivious to the cajoling and begging he had done to convince their mother to embark on this trip with Terra. Hati could have easily asked to go along, or tried to arrange another chaperoned trip, but the desire did not exist within him. It always took him a little longer than most to get there. He was curious about the customs and cultures of other packs, but not enough to seek them out by himself.
"I'm doing well, story-teller," he replied with a gentle smile, referring to her co-rank as well as her reputation for being a bit of a trickster. Despite her young age, Terra was a much higher ranking pack member than Hati. Manners and appearances were very important to him, so his naturally submissive nature made him want to defer to her authority. He found it difficult to see her as a buddy the way Skoll did, even knowing she was a good friend of his family. "I trust you aren't too hungry from your travel? Mother is always happy to feed you, she enjoys cooking for others." His pale unblinking gaze held her sharp green stare, always searching for cues to make sure he was responding correctly.
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