Lost Creek Hollow Tiptoe Closer

Her nosy idea to get closer to the pack's border and learn what she could from observation had been a good one at the time, but now faced with one of those pack wolves--at least she presumed this to be one of the pack's wolves--Mitanni's nervousness returned in full. Each wolf she'd encountered so far had only been in the formation process of establishing their packs, which likely now she realized explained their niceness. This wolf, and any others who would possibly show up, had a well-established pack and a clearly marked territory. It was foolish for her to think she'd receive the same sort of hospitality from those who had so much to protect.

Fidgeting on her feet, she tried to stifle as much of the intimidation that she felt from the wolf's authoritative posture and larger size, reminded all too keenly of her tiny stature and slight build. She was quick, sure, she'd be the first to acknowledge it, but that only helped if she managed to get a head start. And as she held her ground, averting her gaze, Mitanni felt those chances slip with every step the wolf drew closer.

The warning in his tone made her ears dip worriedly, immediately interpreting the threat behind his words, but he clarified that he only spoke of a cougar terrorizing their kind somewhere nearby. She chanced raising her eyes to search his face but found it to be honest and sincere if not concerned and possibly curious. His question regarding her intent beside the border didn't surprise her, though she wished she'd given thought to how she might answer beforehand. "Curiosity," Mitanni admitted, suddenly afraid that her simple statement wouldn't be good enough. She went on to hastily add, "I've recently taken an interest in learning about the packs here. Yours just happened to be closest." It was still no excuse for loitering on the border, but she hoped it would suffice for now.