The stingray lay on his back, enjoying his time in the middle of nowhere, enjoying the sight of the stars without trees obstructing his view. A breeze blew across the field, and while it was faint it was still quite cold. A patchy pelt of snow covered the earth. It felt good against his aching muscles. He was so close now! He could feel it. He was on the right path. His mother wouldn’t be able to hide for much longer. He closed his eyes, a smile creeping onto his face as he imagined meeting her. What if she doesn’t want to see you? The thought only crossed his mind very briefly, and yet it nagged him. She left you one, who’s to say she won’t do it again? His worry melted away at the sound of a bird’s call. A crow.. He sat up, looking around. It couldn’t be. Could it? He was so far from home.. It repeated, louder this time. White wings slashed through the dark lake of the sky. It was! The thing was circling him now, each lap coming closer to the earth until it landed a whisker-length in front of him. He couldn’t believe it. Happiness slithered into his stomach, so intense it hurt. It was a sign! She did want to see him. She was waiting for him. The bird flitted off, whisking over his head so low he could feel the tips of its feathers. For several moments, he sat stunned. Excited was an understatement. He rose fully to his paws. He wasn’t sure why but he felt drawn to the open field ahead. He started padding forth, speeding up to a trot, canter, until he was flying across the moor. Whiptailpaw swerved in all different directions, disturbing the pristine white snow that hugged the earth. He skidded to a stop at the highest point, panting but exhilarated. He’d never felt more /alive/! Right now, he was free! He was free, and it was wonderful!
