Phoenix Maplewood bad moon rising

She left the party back at Bracken Sanctuary, wandering down the taiga with no great purpose in mind. The blood moon disturbed her in ways she couldn't quite explain, and her paws itched; if she didn't run now, she'd forever be frozen in place. The crimson light set smouldering fire to her dark pelt, and lent even more brightness to her eyes, two vibrant orbs in the darkness.

Even the river that had nearly taken her life gave her less fear than the omen in the sky, and she found a shallow place to ford it, padding into the maplewood. The trees were lush and vibrant, and gave her some cover--scant as it was--from the disturbing moonlight. Lily weaved through the brush, gaze flickering nervously back and forth. There was not much to see, save for trees, trees, and more--

Wait. She was not alone.

A dark figure stood, gazing ahead. At first, she thought it was Freddie, and lurched forward in excitement, heart caught in her throat. Then the light caught his pale sides, and she stopped abruptly, disappointment squishing her like a bug underfoot. Tentatively, she gave a chuff, half-hidden in the shadows, with nothing but her eyes and the greeting she offered to give her away.