Bearclaw Valley ishkabibble

There was a noise outside the den, like the sound of an anxious animal seeking shelter. The crow drew his crown upward and cupped his ears, knowing that the voice was familiar. He had spent a great deal of time in the family den to prepare for colder weather. Something in him feared that the valley would turn far more frigid than the rest of the wilds, but his duties were to Indra – always – and Merrick. Still, the moonlighter fretted daily about whether or not he was truly meant to be there with them. Laurel's words had managed to creep into his mind on a regular basis, reminding him that he was not trusted. It did little to dampen his affections for the fire-furred Redleaf sister.

Stretching his spindly limbs outward, Tadec rose to meet the young woman who waited outside. His lips curled upward in a shriveled smile as he stepped into the sunlight. The air was frigid; winter was fast approaching on the tail of looming clouds in the distance. The crow peered at Piper with a concerned expression. “Is Piper okay?” he asked softly, unsure if she had wished to speak with him or with Indra.