Arrow Lake Down by the lake

Eyes.

Vale paused mid lap. Droplets of water trailing off her chin and ears airplaning to the sides as she lifted her head. The feeling of a gaze upon her spine pervaded the tranquil moment. Her relieved muscles tensing as a prickling sensation danced across her body.

Surely it was just paranoia... right? Weary from travel and having met other travelers in recent times, surely it was just her imagination. One look should make her fell better. Wouldn't she feel silly when it was nothing!

Glancing first to her left, then to her right, she soon turned her back to the water. Eyes scouring the lakeside for a culprit. Holding her breath, her ears cupped forward. 

Light bounced across the lake's surface. The falls roared nearby. Insects darted through the air, buzzing on their way. Their eyes don't count. A rustle in the forestry. A fish splashing through the water. The sandy banks, clear of other competitors — wait.

Was something on the mountainside? 

She lifted a paw as though to take a step towards the mountain. The lower slopes had a lushness that could conceal an unwanted guest. Her widened eyes fixated on the greenery. Vigilant for any twitch — any moving shadow. It was quiet until her voice broke though. 

Someone there?