The yard goes still when the human steps through the gate, just like it did when he was missing. Bram, Lucky, and Milo all turn at once, ears up, as if the afternoon has been waiting for this exact return.
Jack has the map out in the open, and the human’s eyes catch on it immediately. He slows, coming closer with a frown that sharpens the longer he looks.
The Human
That is not a river crossing. That trail goes to a predator’s den.
Jack
Wait, really?
The markings on the paper suddenly make ugly sense, all those neat bends and careful notes turning from helpful into alarming. Bram plants himself in front of Milo without thinking.
Milo
So that is why it felt wrong.
Lucky
You found this where?
The human takes the map more carefully now, his concern replacing the easy look he had when he entered. The missing-afternoon mystery settles into place, and the yard feels suddenly smaller around the truth.
✓ Quest Accepted
Protect the dogs from the predator’s den route
“"According to the map, the coyotes' weapon stash of automatic weapons is nearby. You guys shelter in the house, I have some rubber bullets in my fur to drive them off with that happen to be exactly the right caliber."”
SUCCESS (Fair Willpower, rolled +1)
Jack
The map points to a coyote den, not a crossing. We should get everyone inside, and I have rubber rounds to chase them off if they come near.
The Human
Good. House, now. Bram, take Milo with you. Lucky, shut the gate behind us.
Bram moves at once, angling his body around Milo like a shield as the little group starts for the porch. The human keeps the map pinned in one hand, eyes already scanning the lane.
Milo
So it is real. Not just a bad feeling.
Lucky
Inside is better than brave.
Lucky backs toward the gate, tail low but steady, while the human turns to lead the way in. The afternoon hush still hangs over the yard, but it feels strained now, like everyone is listening for paws on the road.
The Human
Jack, stay close. If that route is active, I want eyes on the lane.
“"You go inside too sir. You don't have the experience or anatomy to handle firearms."”
SUCCESS (Good Conversation, rolled -1)
Jack
You go inside too, sir. You do not have the experience or anatomy to handle firearms.
The Human
Fair point. I am not built for that kind of work.
He folds the map once, then again, and slips it into his pocket like it weighs more than paper should. His shoulders ease, even if his eyes stay sharp on the road.
The Human
Bram, take Milo in. Lucky, finish the gate.
Lucky
On it.
Lucky swings the gate inward with a soft thud, and the latch clicks shut. Bram nudges Milo toward the porch, protective without being rough, while the human starts after them at last.
The Human
Thank you, Jack. Keep your eyes on the lane, and keep that map away from the dogs for now.
“Jack leaves for the weapon stash”
SUCCESS (Great Agility, rolled +1)