Lost Creek Hollow sweet mornin's

The morning air was crisp and carried the faint, earthy scent of dew on the ground. Cole padded steadily along the perimeter of Bearclaw Valley, his steps quiet but purposeful. The golden hues of the rising sun filtered through the treetops, casting long shadows that danced across the forest floor. His amber eyes scanned the terrain with practiced care, every detail registering as he moved—an overturned stone, a new scent lingering on the wind.

Scouting was a routine he enjoyed. It gave him time to think, to feel the pulse of the land under his paws. It was a far cry from the bustling heart of the pack, but the solitude didn’t bother him. It felt right to be out here, ensuring their borders remained secure and noting any changes in the landscape.

Pausing by a stream, he bent down to lap at the cool water, his ears swiveling to catch the faintest rustle in the underbrush. He raised his head, droplets clinging to his chin as his gaze flicked toward the sound. A bird? Or something else? His tail gave a single sway as he prepared to investigate, muscles coiled and ready to move.

Next spot on her list to stop was the place of her birth. Surely her brother was near or at least there might be clues to where they had went. Sadness crept in the girls heart though as she remembered her mother.

She smelt something or someone nearby but it wasn’t registering so the young wolf kept her distance as her ears swiveled to pick up any sounds nearby. Looking for anything that might bring her closer to finding her family.

The faint rustle of movement drew Cole’s attention, his ears twitching forward as he approached the source of the sound with deliberate care. The wind carried a faint, unfamiliar scent—young, female, and alone. His amber gaze softened slightly as he caught sight of her through the brush: a small, lone pup with a demeanor that spoke of weariness and longing.

He cleared his throat softly to announce his presence, not wanting to startle her. Mornin’, miss, he drawled, his voice warm but measured. You lookin’ for someone?

He stepped closer, keeping his movements slow and nonthreatening. His tail swayed once, low and neutral, as his gaze remained steady but kind. This ain’t the safest place to be wanderin’ alone. Where’s your folks?

She knew something was ther but for some reason she didn’t expect another wolf but here he was and her ears perked at his words. The girl was wary; she’d been from her family for some time. She didn’t know who she could trust so she remained relaxed but ready to run at any point in time. “Hello..” she spoke softly.

His posture didn’t seem threatening but the girl didn’t want to take chances by letting herself get relaxed quite yet. “This used to be my home I was hoping to find my brother. My mom is since passed; my father… I don’t know where he is.” The girl glanced down at her paws.

 She felt fear creep into her through creating a weight in her as her mind raced; mentally praying to whatever gods above he wasn’t gone too.

Cole's gaze softened at her words, his posture remaining relaxed but steady, a quiet reassurance in his presence. He could see the wariness in her eyes, the weight of uncertainty pressing on her small frame. His voice, low and tinged with his southern drawl, broke the silence.

Lost, huh? he mused, tipping his head slightly as he regarded her. Well, maybe I can help. What’s your brother look like? Might’ve seen him ‘round, or leastways, I could keep my eyes peeled.

His tone was gentle, as if to coax her nerves into settling. Ain’t no harm in hopin’, he added, offering the faintest of smiles. This place can feel mighty big when you’re lookin’ for someone. Best we don’t do it alone, yeah?