moonbeam

A silver moonbeam curled in the shadows of protruding fingers of mountain. A pool of light, glimmering slightly in the morning sun, but guarded by trees and birdsong. Stirring occurred slowly when the sun drew itself higher into the air, above her head, she blinked her eyes open. Stretching her dainty paws forward, Kuutamo watched the reflection of the sky in the lake on front of her. She had scented no unknown wolves on her travels here, had washed off the brine of the sea and then – slept the sleep of the innocent. She never dreamed of those she’d sentenced to death; never saw their blood staining the rocks of judgement. Fortunately, even their eyes couldn’t broker anything in her. She didn’t lack compassion – now, but a season ago, her life was different. Crossing her slender muzzle over one slender leg, she heaved a soft sigh, not even caring about the fact that her silvered shape would be clear to see.

She had mountains at her back, reminding her of home, and that helped to acclimatise her to this new place. Her swim to this small, secluded island had been invigorating – a cold breeze had chilled the waters and the breeze enough that she’d shivered and hidden from the cold the best she could, tucking her nose below one paw, curving her tail in close to protect her face. Now though, daylight had warmed the air, and she growled in enjoyment as she shook herself off, her forest-green gaze seeking out the trees that surrounded the lack. Dancing steps, devoid of the limp she’d had the night previously, helped her to move with practised elegance through the tickling grasses, her tail held on an even keel with her spine.

Even her head was held up, fur-covered ears neatly pricked, and nose tilted up, flaring occasionally as she dragged scents from the massive island she’d, honestly, fled from instantly. She was shy in a way that her mask of confidence would always hide. She wouldn’t show any wolf fear. She had faced her brawler sister down, come away with pain and blood and occasional lameness. She had survived her mentor, which hadn’t been easy. She had succeeded in escaping her world, finding a new place, hopefully a new home. As she stood, paws lightly dimpling the lake at the edge, she stared down at herself, blinking those bright green eyes and admiring herself. Only the scar under her left eye marred her face, but she would still smile, flashing bright white teeth briefly before shaking her silvered pelt off from dirt. Just in case someone showed up, she wanted to make sure she presented the best of herself she could.