Lucas is almost to Wolf's Landing, Selene reports, my ever-dutiful link to the pack since I can't hear them myself. He sounds exhausted.
"I'm sure he is."
I trudge through the snow, each step a battle against the elements. The white expanse stretches before me, sometimes reaching my waist.
"Damn it," I mutter, yanking my foot free from a particularly deep drift. "We really need to invest in some snowshoes."
Ahead of me, my bodyguards forge a path in their wolf forms. Their massive paws act as natural snowshoes, distributing their weight and making it easier for them to navigate the treacherous terrain. I envy their effortless grace as I stumble along behind them.
Without them breaking the trail, it would be even worse.
We're approaching the first ward, Selene encourages me. We've made better time than I expected.
The next two days I'll be taking a tiny "vacation" as I take some family time and prepare the house for winter holidays. Thanks for your understanding!