Staying put was a waste of perfectly good legs and then den had quickly become boring, the same walls, smells and the same two brothers who while were occasionally amusing had become predictable. Even her mother whom she adored, could only answer so many questions before Talaria found another seventeen to ask. And Father? Well, he was gone. But his frequent absence would become familiar and mother was always there to soothe and explain why he had traveling feet. And she knew when he returned he would have the best stories to tell — and Talaria intended to have a few stories of her own to share.

But she couldn't very well have adventures while sitting in a den, could she? With a dramatic sigh the little girl flopped onto her back, paws suspended in the air. For approximately three heartbeats, she contemplated her miserable existence. Then, quite suddenly, an idea struck. Nobody had told her she couldn't go exploring today.

Rolling onto her stomach Talaria scrambled upright and cast a glance around the den. Her brothers were of little concern, though one might prove useful as an accomplice. Mother, on the other hand presented a more formidable obstacle.

Best not to announce anything, then.

With all the subtlety she could muster she crept toward the entrance, placing each paw with exaggerated care. Her tail betrayed her enthusiasm, wagging furiously despite her otherwise impressive attempt at stealth.

The daylight beyond beckoned.....just a little farther. And with a triumphant little grin, she slipped outside.

Oh, this was going to be excellent.

---

notes

Aneurin was on to his sister slowly but surely. He had caught her eye balling the den entrance, a mischievous expression on her face. There was also a massive hint of boredom written in her eyes. Per usual, her brother was keen on joining her on the usual expeditions. Once Talaria took off from the den into the wide open world, he made a bolt for her too.

Ears twitched backwards for only a moment, wondering if Mother had heard them leaving. Or if perhaps the third sibling would join them once they figured out where they had gone. A small squeak of play escaped his lips in the excitement of it all, tail wagging like a little helicopter propeller. Small puppy feet carried him as fast as they could towards his beloved sister. Now if only he could catch up to her!