Bearclaw Valley Rubadubdub

Keiko, convinced she was in the presence of a deity, stayed frozen like a glacier as it drew nearer and nearer. Yet, despite her resistance, she could not stop her skin from quaking as primitive fear and adrenaline challenged her piety.

She could feel its massive shadow eclipse the sun as its broad paws sunk into the earth because of its terrific weight. The Kami’s warm breath made her fur sway as it rooted like a bear to take her scent. She dared not look at them. Instead, she listened and heard the noises of it gathering her things. Then, silence…

Keiko waited… and waited… for death, for a word, for any sign that the forest god had continued on its way. It felt like an eternity had passed before, finally, the young she-wolf summoned the courage to take a peek.

Her dark brown eyes cracked, squinting. Then, they shot open as she forgot her training and gawked at the spirit before her. He (for their features were significantly masculine) was unlike any creature Keiko had laid eyes on before. He was like a wolf, but not. A broad skull, muscular body, and husky legs were adorned by an unblemished white coat. His golden, hawkish gaze looked directly at her, and in his mouth was all of her belongings.

“O-o Yurushi Kudasai!” she exclaimed as she adverted her gaze, blushing from embarrassment. Then, it dawned upon her. Did the earthwalking god want something? Keiko, full of hesitation, regarded him again and tried to understand.

=“D-do you wish for an offering?”= the young and inexperienced Miko asked. If only Tenryu was here… he would know what to do.