Redhawk Caldera the felled giant

Although Eljay had been growing more adventurous with each passing day, it was still clear that he was, at heart, a timid and cautious boy. Perhaps as he grew, the opposing traits would level out. But for now, Elwood wasn't surprised when Eljay ducked behind his leg as though waiting for the log to poke him.

"It won't hurt you," he said, patting the trunk again as the pup decided to give it a try himself. Elwood took a single step back so that he could better observe, watching as Eljay reached out and tapped the tree. Nature apparently wanted to surprise the young Blackthorn, and even the bigger wolf was surprised when a couple of beetles buzzed out of the bark. They flew harmlessly past Eljay's cheeks, but he still went tumbling backwards and disappeared back into his hiding spot beneath his dad.

"Whoops!" Elwood said, maneuvering so that Eljay was out from under him once more. He lowered himself so that he could look his son in the face. "It's okay, pal. Those were just some bugs. I guess they live in the tree, but they won't hurt you," he explained.