Otatso Wetlands bad blood

Unfortunately, Niklaus’ strategy had not worked out for him – in fact, it did the complete opposite of what he had hoped for. He could hear the larger male splashing toward him, closing the distance that separated them. The little shadow could feel his heart beating frantically against his ribs, as if it was searching for a way out. He attempted to quicken his pace, but the murky water only slowed his movements. Attempting to gross the wetlands had been a stupid idea, and Niklaus was now paying for it. The older male called out to him once more, words staining the silence that the youth preferred. “Come here you runt.” He nearly stopped at the last word, anger bubbling within his stomach at the comment. The word caused a painful memory to attempt to resurface, but Klaus would not allow it – not now. Giving his head a quick shake, he continued moving, trying to ignore the agouti loner as he continued speaking. Go away! he wanted to shout, but his lips remained tightly pursed as his ears pressed to the back of his skull. Was it not obvious that the shadow prince did not want to ‘talk’? What was there to talk about? Lovely weather we’re going to have today… wow, the ground is sure wet… He nearly cracked a smile at his own thoughts, but the frown that engulfed his maw would not allow it. Instead, the boy continued ignoring the stranger as his paws ached with each step he took. He needed rest – and soon – but he needed to get away from whoever this wolf was first!