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8.A lost puppy
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Maintaining his focus on the small animal, Addison advances. As he advances his voice is getting clearer. He knows about the small animal that is rather near by. He moves gently to prevent frightening the small animal. Addison's pulse races with a mix of expectation and anxiety as he gets closer to the source of the upset screams. Though he tries to move as gently as possible, the woodland floor underfoot seems to magnify every step. Addison winces at every sound, fearful he could frighten the creature away; leaves crunch gently, twigs snap with subdued cracks. With every measured stride forward, the shouts get louder and more distinct. Although Addison's trained ear attempts to identify the species, the sound stays strangely alien. His eyes sweep across the foliage in search of any movement or flash of fur. Abruptly he sees something little and dark curled under a fallen log. Realising he had discovered the cause of the sobbing, Addison's breath freezes in his throat. From his vantage point right now, the animal really resembles a tiny black puppy. It seems to be shaking; its fur is matted and soiled. Though years of experience have taught him prudence, Addison's impulse to run forward and scoop up the creature is strong. He is aware that, under fear, even a little, apparently innocuous animal might be lethal. He starts to stoop slowly, giving himself less weight and less threat. Starting to whisper gently, he uses his voice to try to relax the animal. Addison's imagination leaps with possibilities as he approaches. Really is it a lost puppy? Alternatively would it be something quite different? He understands the response will decide his next line of action.
