Bearclaw Valley soot & violets

val did as he was bid, but even then his gaze was etched in thin white terror. how could a wolf so gnarled be so fearless? had merrick not witnessed firsthand the cruel bite of life, and all its bitter tonics? and yet, remained unafraid?

he tore his gaze away. he believed whatever answer he gave would be unsatisfactory. "i would likely die." val felt his stomach seize in icy terror. "is that how you became afraid of nothing? you threw yourself at your worst fears?"