Seven emerged slowly from behind a fallen jar of small-rodent food, scenting the air about him. The slender male was cautious, not wanting to risk confrontation with any bigger, stronger, more aggressive rats unless they ventured upon him first. Though not painfully shy, he knew he was, now at least, only one rat, and only just coming into his adult growth. Not seeing anyone around, he moved, more quickly, to the front of the jar, and began to nibble at some of the non-spoiled pellets from within.
