As the interaction continued, Heitan's playful behavior escalated. He opened his mouth wide and tried to bite Xiao Yu's entire head. While this might seem intimidating from a human perspective, such behavior was entirely common among animals.
In the animal kingdom, sharp teeth and claws served as both weapons in battle and tools for various forms of interaction. When playing with close companions, these weapons were used harmlessly. It was a skill that animals, including wolves, acquired during their youth as they socialized and engaged in playful activities.
Heitan playfully bit into Xiao Yu's forehead, licked her nose, rubbed her cheek, and even bit the back of her neck, creating an all-encompassing, yet gentle, interaction. The wolves' behaviors conveyed a form of communication that, when translated, expressed affection, similar to:
- "Honey, I like you!"
- "What a beautiful day, I'll give you a noon kiss!"
- "My scent carries the essence of our connection."
- "I love you, do you love me?"
- "Shall we have fun together?"
Black Charcoal's presence added an extra layer to the situation. Despite the playful nature of his actions, Fang Ye couldn't help but feel a twinge of sourness in his heart. The question of whether these wolves could exhibit such dog-like behavior openly crossed his mind.
Undeterred, Fang Ye entered the enclosure, and the two wolves turned their heads to greet him. Heitan, in particular, showed enthusiasm and welcomed Fang Ye, who stood before him.
Heitan, with a hopeful look in his eyes, seemed to be inquiring if Fang Ye had brought breakfast for them. Meanwhile, Xiao Yu observed silently from the side.
Fang Ye decided to show his appreciation and brought out a toy for the wolves. This act aimed to reciprocate the affection the wolves had shown him.
Fang Ye knelt on one knee, using an instinctual understanding of how to approach wolves. Animals assessed potential threats primarily by examining body size and posture, and lowering himself on one knee made him appear less intimidating.
The friendly gesture gained their trust, and Heitan allowed Fang Ye to stroke his fur gently. Fang Ye then activated his affinity skills, which had a profound effect on Heitan. The wolf's tail wagged wildly, and his excitement was palpable.
Unexpectedly, Heitan's eyes widened, his tail flicked energetically, and he enthusiastically interacted with Fang Ye, offering affectionate licks and nudging Fang Ye's face. His enthusiasm suggested a profound connection.
Fang Ye allowed Heitan to express his affections, as this was a necessary step in building trust and friendship with the wolves. The behavior, although wild in appearance, was an integral part of wolves' communication.
The wolves' licking behavior conveyed affection, and it also allowed them to gather information, such as what Fang Ye had eaten and his overall well-being. This ritual was inherited from their domesticated counterparts, dogs, who often licked their owners' faces.
Fang Ye couldn't help but feel a bit uncomfortable due to Heitan's fervent affection but maintained his patience. Rejecting the wolf's advances would only make Heitan feel rejected and disheartened, so Fang Ye allowed the interaction to continue.
In response to Heitan's exuberance, Xiaoyu trotted over with a grin on her face, revealing sharp teeth. Her narrowed eyes emitted an icy glare as she issued a low, warning growl.
Xiaoyu was clear about the rules and hierarchy within the wolf pack. She had higher authority and status compared to Heitan, so it was her prerogative to greet Fang Ye first. Heitan accepted his role obediently and ceased his enthusiastic behavior, settling beside Fang Ye.
Fang Ye respected the order within the wolf hierarchy and demonstrated his appreciation for Xiao Yu by adjusting his interactions accordingly. He stroked the wolves' fur affectionately, and they, in turn, nestled beside him, demonstrating their relaxation and trust in him.
Fang Ye relished the warm and harmonious atmosphere and even took a moment to appreciate the toys he had brought for the wolves.