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A bit after leaving Victors Hollow, Cyrus heard a quiet whimpering in the bushes alongside the road. He inspected the bushes and found… “A dog?”
Tressa raced over. “Ooh, let me see!” She said.
The dog was a skinny little Border Collie, and it seemed wary of the travelers. It had a large cut on its leg.
“Aw, poor little guy’s hurt.” Alfyn said, gently reaching down to pick up the dog.
“It must have been attacked by a monster on the road.” Primrose said, shaking her head. “Is it a stray? Does it have a collar?”
Alfyn felt around the dog’s neck scruff and shook his head. “Doesn’t seem like it.”
“It might be a wild dog, though.” Olberic said.
“Thou canst be almost certain of that.” H’aanit said, looking at the dog affectionately.
“I can heal it if your abilities don’t extend to animals, Alfyn.” Ophilia said.
“Thanks, Ophilia. I can give it a good brushing, though. He looks like he needs one.” Alfyn said.
They were far enough from Victor’s Hollow to where they had to set up camp before it got dark. After everyone put up their tents and started a fire, Alfyn and Ophilia started tending to the dog.
Alfyn was a natural with animals, and was able to calm him down while Ophilia used her healing magic.
In a few minutes, the gash was completely healed. The dog stood uncertainly, and then wagged his tail, happy to not have to limp anymore. He jumped at Alfyn and Ophilia and licked their faces. “Aw shucks, thanks, little guy!” Alfyn said.
Therion silently walked over and patted the dog on the head. “You need to give him a name.” He said.
“Ah! How about Scruffles?” Tressa exclaimed. “It’s a cute name, right?”
“Yeah!” Alfyn agreed. “What do you think, little guy? Do you want that to be your name?” The dog wagged his tail and barked happily.
“Scruffles it is, then.” Cyrus said.