Blackfoot Forest while you eggheads is on the wall preparing answers

val had hoped the conversation would steer away from him - but sharply, the subject turned back. why had he left?

he disguised the flinch well, but guilt still trickled down him like an unpleasant running of water. a bear chased me from them. a truth and a half - he had returned months later, but had been whisked away again.

what is living in a militaristic pack like?

val's ears turned to mulberry as she answered. for a while, he enjoyed her company and was almost sorry to leave, but duty called him elsewhere. with a bow, val turned and made back for ursus.