Since the day my dark, mulberry-tinged eyes first opened to the world, I never had good depth perception. The multitude of lonely hours spent chasing bugs while awaiting my dear Mother’s return quickly proved that. But now, staring over the rocky ledge, even I could tell it is a long way to the bottom. The wind pushes against me with a heavy hand, and I crouch close to the ground to still my spinning head. My heart pounds against my ribcage, palpitating loudly in my ears as adrenaline courses through my veins like electricity – I am utterly terrified, yet I feel so, so alive. Part of me wishes Mother were here, so I could beckon her to my side and we could experience this trepidating, exhilarating rush together. Of course, she’s not here, and if she were I doubt she would have let me so close to the edge to begin with – she’s probably frantic wondering where I am. I may have snuck out of the den, though I didn’t intend to be gone this long. I’m not lost, per se, I just don’t seem to be able to recall how to get back home yet. But I will! Eventually! Maybe! Anyway, it’s not like anything is going to happen, I’m already two seasons old, practically an adult – I can take care of myself!

I swear, if anyone reads that and thinks “famous last words, little wolf!” I will bite you. That’s not a threat, it’s a guarantee.

I pant against the sensation of vertigo, wrenching my gaze from the depths to turn toward the sky. The sun should be descending, I think, though I have yet to master time-telling. Either way, my stomach gurgles and I can’t help imagining I’m back home, wiggling in anticipation of whatever meal Exodus caught today. Mm, what I wouldn’t do for a nice rabbit right now! I lick my lips, salivating at the phantom taste of fresh meat and warm, rich blood upon my tongue. I rock back onto my feet, backing away from the cliff before giving a good shake from head to tail. It’ll do me no good to just lay there and think about eating, I need to find my way home – or better yet, find my own snack to hunt down! I’ve never been allowed to tag along (not that I hadn’t asked), however, it couldn’t be too hard. I’m sure I’ll know what to do when I see something, I’m a wolf after all, it should be instinct! I am about to strike off when suddenly, I get the best idea anyone has ever thought: I’ll howl! Surely Mother would find me then, and she’ll take me home, and then Exodus will bring us food! Maybe if I give Mother the look she’ll even find it too adorable to get mad at me! Genius!

Without a second thought I settle my bum on the ground, draw in a deep breath, and loose the loudest, longest howl my little lungs could muster.