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This is the first meal Pebble has had in ages. 

There are tears in his eyes, as he savours the flesh of the small creature. When he offers Avalanche a bite, she refuses. “You clearly need it more than I do.” She smiles at her newfound friend. It is quiet for a while.

“Is it… true… or did you make that up as an excuse?”

Pebble is well aware of what she is talking about.

Silence is the answer he gives her. She understands. 

“I am sorry, I have to escort you back to your home…I wish that I could help you… my mother would never allow me to invite you into our pack… not during this winter, at least, ugh! This is stupid!” 

“It`s ok.” It is not, he thinks. But Pebble still smiles at her. He did not expect such kindness from a Glacier. They walk together, chatting the entire journey. Giggling and joking, forgetting about their worries as if they never existed. For just a while, he was okay. 

When it is time to separate, they hug each other.

“You better survive this winter, Pebble of the Meadows!”

Pebble smiles at Avalanche. “You too, Avalanche of the Glaciers.” He stares, as her silhouette slowly vanishes.

He has made a friend today.

His joy is short-lived, as he finds himself back in the territory of the Meadows. He knows his brothers are out there, salivating at the thought of eating him alive.

He is home.