cold paws and a furry coat [open]

@nidoqueen
Masque shivered from the cold as he padded through the plaza. It had been a while since the collie had entered this far into the city. He pinned his floppy ears flat against his skull as he gazed up at the murky sky. His black fur was speckled with snowflakes, soon melting into his sodden pelt. Masque had lost track of his sister, and was now travelling alone. He was more relaxed without Myrrh, and he walked without having to constantly look over his shoulder. Despite this, Masque still mostly kept himself to himself. He was worried Myrrh would suddenly jump back into his life and demand the attention he so readily gave her. Sighing, the collie squinted into the mist. He had just eaten and was in no hurry to get anywhere. He had become used to the cold and was now just aimlessly wandering through the shops, gazing at the long forgotten items humans had once built and left behind.

A scent made Masque freeze, and he scanned his surroundings. A figure made him pause, however it was hard to see with the snowstorm blocking his vision. Walking forward, Masque waded through the thick snow. As he approached, Masque realised there was another canine here. He had almost missed her due to her white coat, however her dark spots soon made her body clearer. Masque was hesitant. He wasn't the shyest dog around, however he had his moments. Without his sister here, Masque felt he lacked protection. It had been a long time since he'd spoken to another dog. Gulping, he stepped forward and cleared his throat, hopefully being loud enough to draw the canine's attention. The dalmatian was slender and also covered in snow. He wondered whether she was cold, with such a thin coat to protect her.

"Afternoon," He called out through the whistling wind, "I'm Masque." He sent her a small smile, hoping she wouldn't suddenly attack him. Masque knew there were dogs who didn't want to be disturbed and would snarl at anyone who approached them. He was just a little lonely and wouldn't mind some decent conversation. He hadn't realised how difficult it was without his sister here - despite the fact that Myrrh had never really spoken and it was often Masque who would chat aimlessly to her. He wagged his tail in a sign of friendliness and breathed in her scent. He was almost sure she wasn't part of the Tempest Pack - they were dogs he didn't want to mess with.