Bearclaw Valley In this world, it's just us

set after this thread @Rala

The sun dipped low behind the jagged horizon as Cole trudged back into Bearclaw Valley. His steps were uneven, one paw lifting gingerly with each stride. The scent of blood clung faintly to his fur, though the worst of it had dried during his long trek home. A shallow gash marred his shoulder, and his flank bore a bite mark from one of the scrappy coyotes. Nothing serious—he’d had worse—but the ache slowed him nonetheless.

His breath puffed visibly in the crisp evening air, and his amber eyes flicked over the familiar landscape. Relief bloomed faintly beneath the weariness; he was home, and the worst was behind him. Still, his ears twitched with tension, scanning the valley for movement. He hadn’t lingered on the edges, unsure who might meet him first or what questions might follow.

For now, his focus remained on reaching shelter. Injured or not, he’d done his part—those coyotes wouldn’t be a problem anymore.