Duck Lake A whole new world

It wasn't long before Dharma spotted another one of the creatures whose scent brought her to the area. Her first encounter of these beasts started out not so well for her-- it had tried to eat her! So, when this one caught her eye, Dharma froze atop her rock, hoping maybe it might simply move on. But, when it called out, she knew it had heard her. Still, she remained silent, the only movement coming from her eyes as she tracked the beast.

This was the exact opposite of the other female. This was white and fluffy. The other had been black and sleek. And it seemed their initial meeting would be night and day, as well. This female, as she danced in place, seemed more excited and less hungry. This gave Dharma hope that it meant her no harm.

Her ears remained perked as she was called a "water mouse", but she didn't take offense. I'm a ground squirrel, not a mouse, she said, her voice showing a hint of humor, though her cautiousness remained evident. My name is Dharma, she added, lowering her upper body so that four legs now supported her weight. It put her at just about head-height of the creature in front of her. If it decided that a meal was on the horizon, Dharma could probably dart over the rocks and maybe burrow quick enough under one to get away. If she needed to. Her tail twitched in indecision, though she remained in place. What's your name? she asked. As long as the other was friendly, Dharma would be, too. She was a rather social creature, and not being around her own kind got lonely sometimes. It was probably the only thing stopping her from running away at the sight of a supposed predator.