Storm Musings

In the chill of winter, the still air belied silence throughout the wood. There was no birdsong, no wind rustling through the barren branches. The only sound was the rush of rapid streams cascading down the mountainsides, heavy with rain from a storm a few days past.

The forest path hugged the hillsides, weaving along ridges and valleys. A thin layer of ice and snow lingered higher up in the mountains, crunching sharply underfoot.

Two young travelers navigated the precarious trails, following each other closely. Taking the lead was a Zorua. With dark fur and a faded cloak, the fox could have easily passed for a stone in the winter woods. Lagging behind was a Riolu, doing her level best to keep pace with her companion. 

“Do you think we’re almost there yet?” Small clouds marked each breath as she spoke. 

Her partner paused, waiting for her to catch up. “We should be close.” 

“Ok.” She nodded. “Want to check the map again?” 

The Zorua scanned the area— the path forked ahead. If they kept moving forward, they’d need to ford a rushing stream. The other fork branching off to their left would lead them higher into the mountains, up towards the ridge above them, but was icy and steep. Neither would be easy. “Yeah.“ 

The two travelers moved to the side of the path, finding a stump to rest at. The Riolu pulled a worn travel map from her bag and rolled it open, and her partner studied over her shoulder. 

[Commission - @guardianoftheisle]

Bonded Birds part 1