Whitebark Stream into the fray

his eyes, too, followed the bird in its departure upward—and then locked onto the boy, who had noticed him and was coming closer. hello, surya responded, heartened and slightly amused by his courage. he was around the same age as the timid, emotional chhotu, right? perhaps even a little younger?

my name is surya, he introduced himself, tail beating softly behind him in greeting. what's yours?

maybe he would have to resort to a nickname which would be eventually butchered. . .he snorted softly as he thought of 'chubu.' but his eyes were sincere as he stared at the pup, a gentle smile upon his face.