Breathe. Just breathe. In and out. In and out. I kept repeating the words as my paws carried me closer to the mountain. Its peaks loomed over me, already white with the early snows, as it cast its shadow over the crags. I had stopped here momentarily to rest after a long days travel. I could have passed through Iromar to save some time, but after hearing all the rumors of that awful place, I chose to steer clear of it for the time being. Another wave of anxiety filled me as I remembered what Eden had sent me to do.

I had been foolish to think he would go easy on me. He wasn't the type. No, I had asked for this and I was determined to prove to both my new alpha and myself that I could do this! I just had to fight the growing sense of dread with every step. Breathe, Tikal, breathe. Okay, time to go! Lifting myself up, I began the final leg of the journey, my own little personal storm cloud following close behind.

I had never been to Spirane before and gazing at the beautiful colors that littered the mountainside, I regretted that choice. I couldn't help but smile as I trudged along, panting heavily as I went. I was used to the flat lands of Glorall and Asteraia. My paws were not used to the sharp incline that never seemed to end. Finally, as the sun began to make its decent, I had reached my destination. The scent of wolves was heavy here and I couldn't deduce which ones belonged to the alpha. Eden was right. Something strange did seem to be happening to the leadership and I was here to determine what that was.

I took a few moments to easy my breathing and groom myself. An ambassador should always look her best, right? My heart still thundered in my chest even though my lungs weren't rushed at all anymore. I can do this. There's no need to be so nervous, Tikal! You're just here to ask some questions. Easy peasy! Then, you can run back home and bury yourself in your den. Okay… Taking a deep breath, I lifted my muzzle and sang my greeting. The howl echoed all around me and I was certain they would hear me all the way back in Glorall. Cutting it awkwardly short, I lowered my muzzle again and waited. Oh gods… I can't do this!