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            Slowly he peeked from behind the tree to make sure the trouble passed. The powdered snow indicated it had, the footprints showing that the wolf had gone in search of easier prey in an effort to feed it’s young. As Junter creeped from behind the Juniper, he sniffed the air to see if there was any more trouble or threats. Once he was comfortable with the fact that there were no other dangers, he hopped away happy knowing that he could make it back to the hole without incident.

            On the way there, he stopped to observe the reindeer  munching on the brush in the thicket. In a way, he wished he was the same size. “But then,” he thought to himself, “you’d be way more noticeable.” Being comfortable with this fact and reasoning, he continued on, making the way to his familys’ hole.

            When he got there, he knocked before entering as was the custom in those days. Though what the need was, he’d never know because it seemed absolutely unnecessary seeing as he lived there as well. His parents continued to remind him of how it was respectful regardless.

            “Home” he called out.

            “Welcome home,” called out Mother. “How was your outing?”

            “A little eventful,” replied Junter. “That crazy wolf was out again today. Must be getting harder for it to find some food.”

            “That’s too sad,” commented Mother. “At least you were able to avoid it. I really hope it is able to find food for it’s family.”

            Junter moved to the table and sat down glancing over at the fireplace, missing the days of his youth when he would just lay curled up in front of it enjoying the warmth. Mother brought out the cabbage and carrot stew she’d been preparing and gave a couple ladle fulls into his bowl in front of him.

            “Where is everybody?” Junter asked as he started slurping his stew.

            “First, stop slurping. Second, your father reminded you this morning that he was taking your brothers and sisters root hunting and berries left over from what the birds haven’t gotten.”

            “Oh, yeah.” Junter replied as he continued to methodically consume his stew.

            That evening after Father and the rest of the family returned, Junter laid in his bed thinking about the days’ events. Through just the enjoyment of the outside fresh air and the comfort of inside, he started wondering what was beyond the wood of the dwelling.

            An adventure he’d have to prepare for of course, but planning can begin in the morning. He’d have to go visit Mole and Owl to see what all he’d need for his journey into the beyond. Junter was hoping it wasn’t a lot since he could only carry so much.