That wasn’t what she’d hoped to hear. Was it really that bad? How far had the poisoned water spread?

There’s more tainted water? How far? Where did you come from? Why are you here? The questions tumbled out in a breathless rush, anxiety tightening her chest as her ears pinned back against her skull.

At least the she-wolf seemed friendly. That alone gave Kirain the courage to step forward, slowly and cautiously, giving the stranger a wide berth so as not to crowd her.

I live in Druid’s Rise, she said, her voice softening with the weight of sorrow. We don’t understand what’s happened to the water. It used to be a place of peace. Now… everything feels wrong.

The thought of her home twisted something inside her. Kirain’s shoulders sagged slightly. Her eyes drifted to the lake’s clear surface, and she dipped her head to take a few refreshing laps. The coolness helped, if only for a moment.

Lifting her gaze to the stranger again, she studied the thin frame and couldn’t hide the concern in her voice.
Do you need help?