The noise and bustle of Northfall pulled at Kirain, both alluring and terrifying. So many unknown faces, untraveled paths, and unspoken expectations. She lingered at the outskirts, the weight of hesitation settling deep in her chest. It all felt too big, too unfamiliar. Instead of venturing in, she wandered the surrounding area, letting the crisp air fill her lungs, trying to ground herself in the scent of this new world.

How different was it from the last?

The question gnawed at her, the uncertainty of her purpose pressing in like an unseen force. She exhaled, watching her breath bloom into the frigid air before vanishing like a fleeting thought. But as the mist cleared, a sight stole her focus, a white wolf, curled into itself, barely a shape against the snow. Alone.

A pang of sorrow tightened in her chest. Carefully, she stepped closer, keeping her posture open, nonthreatening. She didn’t want to startle them.

"Are you okay?"

Her voice was warm, laced with quiet concern, her silver eyes searching for any sign of response.