It was strange.
He had traveled so long and so far, always searching for something. Along his journey, he had never felt sadness. Simply a longing that couldn't quite be quenched. No matter the number of wolves and wildlife he met. Or the water he drank. Food he shared. There was always that feeling, deep in his soul.
The white wolf looked up towards the sky, a dark blanket dotted with many twinkling lights. A reminder that there was always something watching over him.
Storm on the Horizon inhaled deeply, letting the scents of the grove settle in around him once more. This place was so full of beauty! He still wasn't exactly sure how he had happened upon the Coven. It almost seemed like a dream. One in which his paws moved of their own accord, leading him down a path where only silent whispers drew him ever closer.
A rustle in the leaves drew his gaze. A shadow loomed above. Ah, the shadow.
"It's you again, my friend." He called up with a gentle wag of his tail. "Won't you come down and join me this night?"
More rustling and the groan of a branch. But, his shadow companion remained in the tree.
"As I promise, every night, my friend. I will not eat you. That is considered an exceptionally rude way to treat guests, let alone acquaintances!" Every night since he'd stumbled upon this majestic place, the shadow had observed him. And followed him. But never revealed itself. Even when he'd promised to be the gentleman he was!
"The sky is lovely tonight. Much as you are." He added innocently enough.
The branch groaned and there was a clear sound of either a snort of a sigh.
"Well, since you will not grant me the pleasure of meeting you face to face... I must assume you are as beautiful as the sky above and let my imagination do the rest." Storm chuckled a little, hearing the movement above him. He was not sure about what sort of creature had been his shadow as of late, but he knew it must be a bird. He'd discovered feathers at the base of trees the shadow had occupied. In fact, he'd even switched out some of his old feathers and wore the new ones to show his thanks.
"Did you find the meal I left for you this morning?" He inquired.
There was silence. Storm canted his head to the side, glancing up towards the tree. But nothing moved. "Ah, but I will continue to leave breakfast for you. It is only right and proper for a friend to do." He spoke, as if to himself, closing his eyes. And, for all the wolf knew, he was by himself once more.
Always alone.
At least until a strange sound caught his ears and the feel of something light brushing against his back. Before there was a "presence" beside him.
"Did I not get breakfast right this morning?" He asked gently, not moving lest he scare away his shadow.
Silence for a moment. Then, a tug at his ear against the feathered earring he wore.
"I know it was rude of me to take a discarded feather without permission, but I wanted a way to share my gratitude for having such comforting company these many nights. It is so nice not to feel alone." Opening his eyes, the white wolf turned his head ever so slowly.... and saw the most amazing creature beside him.
"My heavens, you truly are as lovely as the night sky." The reason for his shadows silence was quite evident by the scars across her neck. There were other marks, clear signs that his poor shadow had nearly lost her life.
"My lady. It is my honor to be graced with your companionship. Might I continue to spend such quiet evenings with you? You are a most excellent listener and a great pleasure to sit with."
The avian regarded the white wolf. She had been watching him for many nights. Seeing the lonely creature sit by himself and stare up at the stars. He had never been bothered by her presence. Curious. Accepting. She dipped her head in agreement, settling in beside a companion she could rely on. Who accepted her as she was. And in return, he would never be alone again.
(WC: 726)
