[ P ] Avoidance

Eloise had quickly come to realize the privilege of her past. She missed being able to explore and socialize without the threat of arrest. She kept close to the shadows now, always scanning her surroundings before stepping out into the light. For someone who preferred to move through the world with her head in the clouds, being this vigilant was... uncomfortable.

When Eloise arrived at the lake, she lingered in the trees a moment longer. Her verdant eyes studied the shore for any movement while her nose twitched, scenting the air. It was quiet, save for two mallards that were floating over the otherwise undisturbed surface of the water.

Eloise departed from the trees and trotted toward the lake, eager for a drink and the chance to soak her paws. She'd done a lot of traveling recently. After sating her thirst, the young woman waded into the lake. She didn't venture far—she stopped when the water was barely above her ankles. Still, the coolness soothed the ache in her paws. She tipped her head back, eyes falling half-closed as she watched tattered white clouds drift through the sky.

If any good thing could come from war, it was this: Eloise would never again take these peaceful moments for granted.

@Luca