Bearclaw Valley the sleeper

She missed it too, but only after he missed it twice, so Ashlar had no judgements to make on her chase.  He looked up to catch her eyes in a glance, then lowered them immediately, still ashamed.  She didn't seem keen on sticking around to eat after that and he did not blame her.  He gave just a little nod to her as she left.  Thanks anyway.  It had been fun and he had learned a new trick.  It wasn't her fault he hadn't lived up to it.

His stomach growled lightly and Ashlar gave the leaves one last scuff with his paw.  There were still a few hours of daylight left and he obviously needed some practice.  He huffed, then set off at a trot towards the trees opposite of where the girl had disappeared.  He wouldn't give up so easily.  If he could find one more trail, then he could have another try to catch a meal of his own, and this day wouldn't be entirely disappointing!  As Ashlar went he began to lightly hum in an attempt to calm himself, almost subconsciously, slipping through the trees and searching for any trace of small prey.

WC: 197