Finding a niche

The sun had been almost at its summit when Irelyn had come upon the gaping cavern nestled close to the beach. It seemed to be uninhabited except for shadows and a few beetles that glittered like jewels as they scuttled across the worn stone. Her tongue lolling thanks to the warmth and the distance travelled, the syrup-brown wolf had given the cave a good once-over before stepping gratefully into the cool shade.

It wasn't until Ire had rested there a few minutes, gazing out towards the ocean, that the sun finally reached its highest point – and the cavern seemed to come alive. Irelyn watched with widening green eyes as fingers of light reached in to caress the uneven walls, brightening the stones around her and revealing their true colours. Ire felt as if she was sitting in a treasure trove and was hesitant to move in case the sudden splash of colour and beauty retreated from her paws.

Retreat the sight did not, even as the long-legged female rose and padded down the gentle slope to investigate the cave's recesses. Fish bones were dotted around, indicating that this was a favoured snacking spot – and also that the place might fill with water once the tide crept up the beach. Even with that suspicion in her mind, Ire felt safe in this semi-enclosed space; secure, for the first time in a long while. Her limbs moved loosely as she slowly trailed around the lower portion of the cavern, her eyes bright and alert, but soft in her fascination.