{Capranis novel} Snowed In

[Ryuukokoro]

Snowed In
By Ryuukokoro

Disclaimer: Concept and art for the Capranis adoptable is ©Misplaced. Characters and story belong to Ryuukokoro.

Prolog: Coming Home

Headlights illuminated the swirling snow in the air as I pulled my old beater up to the front gates and put it in park. A blast of frigid air invaded the cab when I opened the door--you'd think I'd be used to it by now, but I always winced and pulled my wings in tight when I stepped out into the cold.

I had been telling myself lately to get with the present century and update the gates to be automatic, but truth be told, I preferred the simple ways. If it meant having to get out of my vehicle and manually open the gates when I drive up, so be it.

My ears aren't particularly sharp, compared to your average human, but even I could hear the chorus of barking that started up as soon as I opened the gates. Somehow, they always knew when I got home. I had long gotten used to the bleating noises (would have gone crazy long before now if I hadn't) so I only grinned and walked back to the truck. The snow hadn't accumulated much on the ground yet, which was beneficial to me since I was currently barefoot. Thick skin and talons usually kept me comfortable in all but the harshest conditions, but I knew soon I would have to give in to the oncoming winter weather and struggle into boots that were never comfortable on reptilian feet.

When I climbed back into the cab, the furry mound in the seat next to me gave a whimper and a pair of solemn pale eyes regarded me with what I imagined was a worried expression. I reached over and scratched behind the small, round ears. It didn't make him look any happier.

"It's okay, boy," I said, keeping a cheerful tone of voice. Call me crazy, but I talk to all my caprani. What else are you going to do when you live on a big old farm/kennel by yourself? Blast music? Watch tv? Yeah, I did those too on occasion. "I promise you'll fit right in here," I told him.

The long face looked back at me doubtfully.