Valeska had entered her seventh year not so long ago, and by Houtu, was she feeling it. Where she normally relished the cold, this bitter blizzard was so fearsome even she faltered against its might. Stiff joints and aching bones were gradually turning into long-term companions, and it's not like the sun ever came out to provide some relief.

A call sounded at the edge of the Respite. Unusual they should have a visitor during these dangerous times - perhaps a stranger seeking shelter?

Rising to her paws, Valeska made her way out to go investigate.

A silhouette stood out against the snow-covered fields, tall and grey and covered in stripes. If she squinted, she could just begin to make out the wolfdog's features; they looked almost familiar... a gust of wind buffeted her fur, bringing their scent - ah! Her scent downwind.

Oh, hello! the High Priestess called as she approached. She was terrible with names, but she never forgot a face. Welcome to the Respite, even if it does not look like much of one right now. Ah, I know we have met, but remind me - what was your name again?

Her gaze traveled naturally down toward the woman's gently swelling sides, then over at the stranger standing next to her.

Are congratulations in order, hmm? Oh, how exciting for you! she said, Tell Valeska all of the news. It has been so long!

Valeska tipped her head back to look up. And up. She hadn't quite realized how tall the woman was earlier, and in closer proximity the difference was impressive.

Of course, it made sense that Northfall would acquire such athletic specimens. They were a warrior-pack, known for their hot-blooded Viking nature and particularly strong ranks of wolves itching for a chance to throw their weight around - Raisa, polite as she was, seemed the perfect candidate.

That is wonderful! she exclaimed. Ah, we love our friends in Northfall. Even better that we shall have more!

Something sparked in the back of her mind when Raisa offhandedly mentioned how pleasant it was in her new position - not that of leadership, but forsaking it for the simplicity of being one among the many. Valeska thought it might be nice. To take trips and not worry every waking moment that something could happen back home, to have confidence knowing that if she or Amaranth should suffer injury (or worse) that those in Elysium would be taken care of...

An idea began to form. She would revisit it later.

Oh, parenthood is delightful and I know you shall love it, she said, waving a paw. Do not worry. Children are sturdy, and they learn quickly; the hardest part, I shall say, is watching them follow their own path... especially when it takes them elsewhere.

She felt her heart squeeze. Even if she knew where they were - most of them, she thought sorrowfully - their absence hurt no less. Nearly all of their first litter had dispersed; Dimitri to Avon, Alder and Sreda to Northfall, Narcissa... wherever she ended up, and Violet was, well, Violet. In her case, dispersal would be a net benefit.

Amaranth? Let me call for her!

Valeska threw her head back and released a summoning cry for her mate. Surely she must be close!

Also, it is nice to meet you, Bogart. You have chosen a fine woman!