Trees gave way to open hills, which gave way to another copse of forest. Dappled shadows were cast before them through the colorful leaves, some of which fluttered to the ground as the siblings passed them by. It was not until Cosette's loud song drew to a close that their audience member made her presence known -- a pale-furred female of coyote descent, greeting them with a polite smile and nod.
Cosette's dark eyes swept calculatingly over the female that addressed them, before she sharply elbowed Clopin in the ribs, making sure he too had noticed their visitor in the shadows. It was a lone female, similar in height to Cosette herself and perhaps just a season older, which immediately set her at ease - surely she was no danger, outnumbered two to one. The white of her fur was of a purer quality and sheen than the collie siblings, devoid of color save for several small flaws, imperfections of a sallow cream hue. The cloak concealed most of her body, possibly a weapon or a need for disguise? The timbre of her voice was calm, someone confident enough to reveal herself when she had been perfectly hidden -- she must not see the dogs as a threat, despite Clopin's size. Better play to her ego, then.
Cosette pranced lightly forward, sweeping into a curtsey as her bells jingled. "Why, thank you kindly, merci beaucoup! My brother and I are but penniless vagabonds, but perhaps we can ply milady with a song, or read her fortune? My voice is free, a gift to lighten your burdens on this fine day." She winked, smiling brightly. Behind her, the plumed tail flicked in a calculated gesture, signalling Clopin to move. Silently, the masked male bent to unclip the holster on his belt, pulling the deck of Tarot cards and calmly shuffling them. His good eye carefully watched the stranger, wary of what the cloak could conceal since he wore one as well.
"If you would like a glimpse of what your future has to hold, the cards require a small payment - a meal, or an object of value. You would not have us starve, milady!" Cosette frowned in mock dejection, loose ears flopping forward as she clasped her hands dramatically. She did not expect actual pity for her playful act, but rather to lull the stranger into assuming she was in control of their encounter. She was quite curious to see how the coyote would react.
[/html]