Noctisardor Bypass mountain rumble

uktark feels the shift before she stumbles, weight already braced to catch her. when she steadies, he does not move away at once. only then does he turn his head, studying the tension in her shoulder, the way she favors one side.
rest, he says, low and firm, not an order so much as a decision already made.
his muzzle tips toward a sheltered rise, stone breaking the wind, snow packed smooth. safe enough.
stay, he adds. i bring food.
there is no doubt in it. no question. he steps away only after he’s sure she’s settled, already angling downwind, disappearing into the valley with the quiet purpose of a hunter who intends to return.