He had wanted to do this weeks ago, once the pack decided to settle in the shroud – for now at least – but his body had other plans. Despite their slow pace, the journey had clearly been too much of a strain on his leg and he’d been forced to remain within the Meander for a while to rest it.
At least it gave him some time to familiarize himself with the territory, walking what might be their official border one day, and learning the best places to fish in the river. But after a full moon cycle like that, he was raring to go and explore beyond the woods – maybe leaving the mountain behind had finally eliminated his agoraphobia.
His leg was still a little stiff, but the swelling was gone, and he had been careful to ramp up slowly, taking slightly longer and longer walks until he finally felt ready for this. Despite the slightly awkward gait, there was excitement in his eyes and a smile on his face as he turned to his companion, softly waving one ear; “Thank you for coming along!”
You can't help when your stomach sinks