The morning sun filtered through the trees, casting dappled light over the forest floor. Birds chirped, a soft breeze rustled the leaves, and the distant murmur of a brook added to the quiet rhythm of the morning.

Beneath a pile of moss-covered rocks, hidden from sight, Tod stirred inside the den. He stretched, his ears twitching as he blinked off sleep. Beside him, Vixey was already awake, watching the forest quietly.

"It’s a calm morning," she said, stepping outside into the crisp air.

Tod yawned, following her as he shook off the last traces of sleep. "Yeah, looks like it."

The forest was peaceful, the scent of damp earth and pine drifting through the air as the day began.