The Lion & The Mouse

For now, at least, Mikko stuck close to home, not wanting to stir more distrust among Shiba and her fellow Kleins while he already likely walked on thin ice. But that was the nice thing about the hot spring. It lay just beyond the farthest reaches of the Nook, nestled within a thicket and out of view of prying eyes--a perfect escape for the gnarled beast when "normal" life got to be a little too much. He came here today for no real reason, though, beyond his restless limbs needing a walk. Ever since Shiba had pieced him back together, though it was seasons ago, Mikko found himself unable to sit still for very long. He'd spent far too long doing that, and all it did at this point was remind him of the pain that had caused it. Walking reminded him of better times--and newer times, though he feared he'd already squandered the latter.

He paused upon entering the clearing, allowing steam to surround him and its warmth to seep into the outermost layers of his chilled winter pelt. A sigh followed by an almost purr-like growl of relief as he closed his eyes; he could already feel his muscles relaxing, his marred skin loosening where it was tightest. Would he be joined today? He had no idea. Did he really care? Not particularly--at least, not right now.

""