Summer dew -closed-

Rooster was enjoying the quite of the morning as he passed through the woods, his steps quiet and his gait unhurried. It was a new day full of dew and warmth, the sun trying to break through the canopy that reigned above. Shadows fell over the red and white dog as he passed by the wizened trunks of untouched oaks, left to grow unspoiled since the demise of the human population. It was an enjoyable journey for Rooster, who was beginning to feel more at home in Graycott with each passing day.

He was also becoming more interested in those who shared this place with him, the secretive population of canines who had yet to run across each other. Rooster knew it was because of natural caution and the need to survive driving the avoidance. But, the cattledog dreamed of a life where canines did not have to avoid each other. He wanted to seek out others, to get in touch with them and perhaps start a community. The budding friendships he had already struck up with Dharma and Korvette were encouraging Rooster to be bolder, more affirmative in what he wanted to accomplish. He desired the kinship of his own kind, to be with others who thought like he did. He was not outwardly social, but like all creatures of this world, companionship was always on the hierarchy of one's needs. He was growing more confident, more outgoing, and more amiable. If he created a beacon of respect and projected ideas with others in mind, he thought he might perhaps draw a crowd of like minded individuals to him.

The spotted cattledog was thinking these thoughts of a brighter new order of canines who worked together when he picked up the wolf's scent. He had not noticed the slight indentations of the wolf's pawprints in the dirt, but when he caught the faintest trace he halted his steps and considered the area of forest around him. He was alert now, naturally cautious. He was being what he hoped to eliminate, but his life as a rancher's dog made him wary. Wolves stole cattle and they stole lambs from flocks. They had once threatened his master's livelihood and thus, threatened Rooster. The scent, so feral and different from dog, instinctively made his hackles go up. 

He was not ignorant to think that wolves wouldn't come across his path, but the rangy cattledog was unsure of how to proceed. He needed to get in touch with all the secret residents of Graycott, but would he be so bold as to try and recruit a wolf? A more important question: would a wolf even consider being recruited by a dog? Wolves were not so kind to their cousins, because humans drove a natural wedge between them by placing their ideals on the shoulders of dogs like Rooster. He felt indecisive standing in the middle of a worn game trail, trying to decide if he wanted to approach a wolf...a creature that was sinister, dangerous, and conniving to the face of man.

The red and white canine took a moment to think before deciding. He paused, considering the happy flicker of birds and listening to their songs. It was an auspicious day and Rooster felt bold, encouraged by the morning's beauty. He nodded to himself before scenting, his black nose twitching until it picked up the wolf's trail. He followed carefully and slowly, exhibiting caution at a much more manageable degree. It was natural caution, not the prejudice caution he had used so many times before when guarding animals for his master.

The trail wound its way to a grassy field where the scent of deer was amazingly strong and fresh. Rooster paused, crouching in the high grass. He did not want to interrupt a wolf hunt. It was not only terribly rude, but his presence might be mistaken as a threat instead of harmless. The stocky dog crawled forward slowly, stance low. He was smelling the scent of the wolf much more strongly here and cursed himself when he brushed a tangle of dead vines. The result was a rustling noise that alerted his position to anyone who might be around. 

Rooster held his breath, his golden brown eyes scanning the length of the field. Deer were milling around in the distance, grazing and lo'ing to each other as they remained content with the morning themselves. He was almost convinced this was a grave mistake, but his eyes caught a twitch of movement and drew his gaze. Crouched in the grass and disguised by brush, a white wolf was staring over his shoulder, his eyes meeting Rooster's.

It made his blood run cold, but Rooster held his gaze with the wolf. The white phantom was silent and impressive to see, lingering on the edge of the field and waiting with a practiced patience until a move could be made on the deer that would result in a rewarding meal. He could feel his heart picking up pace, but he refused to show fear or aggression. He only hoped this stark-white creature felt the same. 

Rooster flicked an ear towards him and nodded, his face stoic and patience. He was waiting, content to be quite until a response was given.

It was an ancient signal that both would understand, a universal sign language that said May I join you? 

era