When I left the diner, my steps were... lighter. The full stomach helps.
As did sitting down for more than a couple minutes.
But the biggest change to my improved mood? That was certainly due to not being the one under thumb
- or heel.
Being seen as, if not normal, at least relatable enough to talk to really placed the bounce in my step as I walked to my destination. I passed storefronts displaying everything from electronics to furniture.
Plenty of less identifiable businesses, as well. Humans going about their daily lives pass just like before I ate - talking on phones, laughing with friends, rushing to appointments.
I'm starting to see for myself how little is truly different from my own world... at its core.
Eventually I passed near a small green space nestled between tall buildings. A modest square where the concrete briefly gave way to actual nature.
Well, and metal benches. Nothing is perfect.
But what caught my attention wasn't particularly the location. It was the tables set up near the center. Surrounded by humans waiting in somewhat orderly lines.
A banner was strung between two poles that read [Vossden Winter Relief - Food & Warmth].
Individuals in matching blue striped vests handed out steaming cups and what looked like simple meals in 'styrofoam' containers. Stacked high on another table next to them were piles of what seemed to be jackets and coats.
> I see. This is a charity event. A statement of Rimecoat oversight, if I had to guess. The humans would freak out. I suppose that's one of the things I miss about my kingdom. I suppose that their Alpha would end up telling them all about what I look like sooner or later anyway. Impossible to hide in their city without running into them. How noble for wolves to extend their paws so far. Should I be less disappointed that he did not come after me? It's certainly less of a headache this way. <
A huff from my mental companion was all that met my question.