Bearclaw Valley Tomorrow

Near-strangers though they were, Galena and Ico agreed that the innocence and promise of children must be defended — and the laws of Ursus would likely become more stringent as a result. Even little Ico could see the tactical advantages of there being only one easy entrance to the valley. They were living in a veritable fortress.

As Galena sat down, the boy followed suit, the tip of his tail flicking gently at his haunches with a slightly nervous energy.

I've been living here from the beginning of Spring, he replied to the question of logevity. It was strange to think this had originally been such a temporary arrangement — but he'd already been here almost a full season. The pack was still in its infancy when I joined. I do have one or two stories of Merrick... he promised, though he would be careful not to gossip or embellish. For a start, I know Merrick has a very strong connection to Bearclaw Valley. He was born here. But he's been through so much since then, despite his young age — he lost a mother, a home, an eye... I don't know what he was like before, but it's enough to change anyone. It didn't change his love for this place, though, Ico glanced up at the high valley walls beyond the trees. He returned to claim his birthplace, this time with an understanding not just of the valley itself, but of the bears that live here. Hence, Ursus. Latin for bear