Haunted Wood When will they learn this lonliness

the man was alone.

he maneuvered through the oak-heavy forest as if he knew it well, and zharille watched him from where she had bedded for the night. when he came close to the river which she had fished up her dinner, she chuffed an appraising sound - not meaning to draw his attention, but curious of him, and unabashed in her staring.

the gloss of his coat spoke of good health. he did not limp, and moved with finesse over roots or through the grass. when he appeared interested in a scent among the green, zharille rose and moved closer, watchful and wary; he was large like herself, and all women knew the inherent danger of men.