morning dew

[Free]

[bg=764f2e][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] It was morning, and fog lay about the river like a blanket. It was hard to see anything, but Rhosyn made do. She knew the area quite well, having traversed it at length a couple months ago. She had found the fog could be quite thick in the morning, and she had fun drifting in and out of sight. She knew she did so because even dark things like trees and brush was sometimes invisible, thus making her more so. The ground beneath her feet was the only thing her eyes could be sure of, but she knew better than to always believe her eyes. She was a pretty wolf, a creamy white with a bit of red around her ears and running down her back. Her fur was fairly long and very thick, making the cool river and dense fog a perfect habitat for her. What made her different was her size. Put her up next to an average wolf and she'd be dwarfed by about a foot. That was the main reason she was alone, the main reason she had no mate. Even her alluring light rose eyes didn't seem to bridge the gap enough. She figured they were probably too piercing for others to enjoy them, because she knew from experience she was smarter than the average wolf, and could tell you more about a stranger you knew about a friend. She was good at reading body language, good at picking up on the tiniest details. The humans would recall Sherlock Holmes, but she wasn't at his level. At least, not yet. Maybe when she was older and grayer she would be able to reason and think like he. But even with her four years of social interactions, she doubted she could ever become so great. Nor would she boast about her simple talent. Any wolf could be like she, if they were quiet and took the time to learn. That was the problem with her generation. Always rushing about, drama every step, only searching for a mate and their next meal. She wasn't about to call them out on it, but she would marvel at their folly when she saw wolves wrapped up as such. She could be invisible so easily. A small wolf was oft not taken seriously, thus allowing her to slip under the radar with so many wolves. It was rare she was spoken to as an equal, although she often had something intelligent to add. Wolves forget it is hard to survive when normal prey is far too big for you to fell by normal means. You have to be smart to be able to survive as a small specimen. She knew that quite well, but unless they managed to spend a month or two in a small body, they wouldn't be able to understand. Not that she held it against them. Their own little worlds occupied too much of their time to stop and think of another person's situation. Maybe that was her problem, she mused, too much time on her hands. Take now for instance. She was sitting facing the river, sometimes seeing it, sometimes not, thinking about the problems of her own generation. Maybe she was the one with the issue. She smiled, amused at the thought. It made sense, complete sense. Maybe they were the smart ones, not allowing themselves to be wrapped up and immobilized by such thoughts. That makes me insane. Her smile was full, her light rose eyes glinting with humor. She shook her head, knowing even if she wasn't insane, she definitely had issues to be thinking along this line. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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Muse; Eh
Words; 606
Notes; I think I'm insane for having this conversation through her. xD[/center]
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[DingoMutt]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,500,true][bg=FEF0DB] [atrb=style,text-align:justify; ] Rust moved with quiet, careful steps, his great bulk gliding easily through the underbrush. There was comfort and solace for him in the branches and leaves that gripped at his body, aside from the occasional rogue one that went for his eyes, or dug in to his lips. Shaking his tawny pelt, he broke from the brush and trees to the river's shore. The bubbling water was music to his ears, and a small smile flitted across his blood-stained lips. His eyes fell shut as he let his body flow on auto-pilot towards the words. When he reached the smooth stones of the shore he stumbled on the rocks, his gait becoming awkward as his weight was flung idly about. His tail shot towards the sky as he attempted to balance himself, a feat that would never be accomplished as long as his golden eyes were held shut. When his paws hit the water, the brute's eyes shot wide open. The cold water instantly made his paws numb, so he leaped quickly out of the water's grasp and danced in place to warm his pads. When he was done with his awkward little jig, he glared at the water as if his heated gaze would warm the river. Pinning his ears, the brute quaintly licked his lips, savoring the taste that he found there. The blood on his maw was all that remained of his morning meal, a young rabbit kit that had been much too curious about the sleeping giant. He had felt a bit bad for snapping up the rabbit who had only wondered what on earth he was, but the sudden rumble in his belly told him that it was alright. The winter wasn't kind to his bulk, even as a member of the Zenica pack that had wandered a little too far. Now he was lean, running on fumes, and terribly lost. He was sure that if he kept moving, he'd find his way home... but now he wasn't so sure. Rust was also unsure that Zenica was his home. Sure, he resided there, he conversed politely with the alphas and other wolves there, but he felt little loyalty. It was only a promise that bound him there, one that he'd probably break if it came down to it. He didn't want to be a subordinate, he wanted to be a leader like he was in his old life. He wanted a mate, and he wanted puppies; he wanted others to care for, purpose in this dull life of his. Giving his body a shake to rid himself from negative thoughts, the wolf turned and headed back towards the water. This time he was careful, placing his large paws so that he wouldn't slip. When he was close, he dipped his head and greedily lapped up the water. His eyes fell shut as he enjoyed the freezing sensation that trickled down his throat. He was shocked from his reverie by a feminine voice, his head twisting and ears perking to the source of the words. Excitement filled him. He felt he'd been in this situation before; wandering aimlessly, he'd stumbled upon a she-wolf talking to herself. He smiled lightly, wondering how Cassandra was. His eyes scanned the bank, searching for the wolfess he'd just heard. He was surprised when he saw her, his blood running as cold as the river in his veins. His heart fluttered in his broad chest. "Faolan? ... Is that you, dearest?" He said weakly. This wolfess was white, red tinging her ears and back and tail. He began to head towards her, crossing the river. He stumbled as he walked, his paws slipping and sliding on the smooth stones of the riverbed. Here the water only came up to his chest, so he was still able to plow his way through the icy water. His blood began to boil and excitement filled him, his golden eyes lit up. "Faolan, dear, I missed you so much! I thought you were dead! What are you doing here, Faolan? Where are our babies?" No, he'd seen his mate die, heard her heart quit beating, smelled the death radiating off of her within moments of her last breath. But still, his mind screamed at him that this was his love, standing here before him. word count: seven hundred and fifteen tag: Rust for Rhosyn notes: Sorry for the lameness. owo;

[Free]

[bg=764f2e][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] Wolfess let her eyes wander, beginning to make shapes in the fog. Over the river it was beginning to clear, but along the banks things still shifted in and out of focus. Finally she let her mind clear, wondering now upon her future. A pack would be nice, maybe even one who appreciated her for what she brought to the table. Strength was not one of her attributes, but it was one of the only ones she didn't have. Speed, agility, and intelligence were hers for the taking. At least while she was young and her mind was clear. SHe wouldn't live long in old age unless she had a pack or mate to protect her, but she rather doubted anyone would develop that kind of loyalty to her in the next couple of years. Being invisible was too easy for her to stick out enough to be noticed. She was betting her death would be one where she was missed, but not by many. She didn't even really have friends at the moment, merely wolves she saw around. She was startled from her again disturbing thoughts by the splashing in the river that told her another wolf was nearing. The light of recognition was in his eye, but he was one of the wolves she had never seen before. He was soaking himself, down to the core, and she knew he would regret that later. Winter was no time to be crossing rivers or playing with water. It could actually mean a wolf's death unless he had someone to care for him or her. Sorrow crossed her face as she realized she must look like his mate. Not sorrow for herself, but for him. I'm not Faolan. she told him softly, readying herself for an explosion of grief, if he were to take it out on her or himself. Despite his size (he practically towered over her), he was lanky and didn't look too well fed, so she could probably dodge anything he chose to throw at her. Especially in his grief stricken state. But who knew? Maybe that would just make him more accurate. She was ready, and she wouldn't hold it against him if she got hurt. I'm sorry. The love, the adoration in his eye was something she only dreamed about, and she yearned to have another wolf look at her that way, not in who thought she was someone else, but her. Someone who loved her despite her size and lack of strength. Someone who loved her like this male loved his lost Faolan. She let her light rose eyes linger on his, doubting his mate had the same eyes. But who knew? Wolves came in all shapes and colors, maybe there had been another a lot like her. Suddenly, hope sprung into her heart. This male had loved a wolf that looked enough like her that he had mistaken her for his mate. Of course, she didn't know the personality of Faolan, but by looks alone she had a chance. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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Muse; Eh
Words; 506
Notes; Pfft, you're fine. C:[/center]
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[DingoMutt]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,500,true][bg=FEF0DB] [atrb=style,text-align:justify; ] As Rust's great, sable colored body approached the small, red and white female, he quickly realized it wasn't his mate. She was much too small, vertically challenged as he would surely later describe her to others, but she seemed muscular and fit and able to hold her own. But perhaps not against a wolf of his bulk, or if she were ganged up on. Her small figure was shapely, unlike the box that his mate had been. He shook his head, clamping his jaws shut tightly to make them ache, the pain dragging him back to reality. He suddenly realized he was very cold and very wet, and standing just a few feet away from a pretty young wolf. His tail gave a weak wag, one that was embarrassed and pained and a million other emotions he couldn't name. The sorrow in her rose colored eyes, that he was captured by for a moment, made his heart ache with shame. How could he have been so stupid? His mind and nose and eyes said no no no but his heart said yes yes yes, that's your girl right there in font of you. Her words only confirmed his suspicions, but he cringed when she braced herself. He wouldn't harm her; he'd never intentionally harm another being, unless it had done something against him or his family. Rhosyn had done him no ill, so he just dipped his muzzle and gave his body a weak shake. He was careful not to get any water on her, not wanting to share his grief and the terribly cold night that was sure to come. When he was healthy, he would probably have no problems, but in his sorrowful, skinny one he was worried for his own life. But he pushed those concerns to the back of his mind, focusing instead on the wolfess in front of him. She was petite, but not in an unhealthy fashion. In fact, she was probably the smallest wolf he'd ever met, while he was probably the biggest. He licked his nose to calm himself, letting out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding. He shook his fur once more before taking in a shaky breath, preparing to speak. He struggled to find the words, so he frowned and his eyes fell shut, his brows furrowing with concentration. "I know... Somehow I knew the instant I saw you, but my heart urged me otherwise. I'm sorry. Please don't apologize to me, I am the one at fault." He said, pinning his ears. He knew he was a wordy brute, but he wasn't too terribly talkative. He could never leave any words unspoken; Faolan had often misunderstood what he said, so he always had to make his meaning clear as freshly melted snow. He fought against a shiver, planting his paws and stiffening his tail. When the urge passed, he gave the wolfess a weak smile. His ears perked forward, and he took a tentative step closer. He tried to shake the connection between her and his mate in his mind, and to look at her for who she was. She was pretty, he decided. "I'm Rust," he said, introducing himself with a kind smile that was mostly a lie. He tried to be friendly and happy all the time, but it was hard. "I'm a member of the Zenica pack, but I've accidentally wandered too far," he added, frowning. "No, I left." he finished. He wasn't sure what he was doing. He didn't know what he would do in a moment, that evening, in a year. His mind was swimming; he'd found the girl, they'd claimed territory, she'd became pregnant, he'd became proud. It was all going perfectly, until she grew ill. All their plans were tossed down the drain, leaving Rust drowning in a world he'd forgotten how to live in. word count: six hundred and forty two tag: Rust for Rhosyn notes: Lamelamelame. >C

[Free]

[bg=764f2e][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] Realization that she wasn't his mate was not far in coming. In fact, he had probably known all along, but was too grieved to be able to stop his heart from reacting to a wolf so similar to his mate. It couldn't have happened long ago, because his feelings definitely weren't gone, and his grief hadn't lessened. He looked her over, and then shook his head, probably attempting to return to reality. He seemed like a nice wolf, beneath the grief. He cringed when she had readied herself to doge any attacks, and she wished she could take that back. The burden he carried was enough for him to bear, he didn't need to carry additional guilt because she thought he might be the type to turn sadness into anger. He spoke, seemingly over explaining his actions. She tended to speak only when spoken to, and even then tended to be a wolf of few words. Unless, of course, she was by herself and felt free to say anything and everything she wanted. She had never had a friend where she just voiced what she thought and didn't worry too much about the consequences. He was wet and cold, she could tell. He was trying to hide it, but his legs and belly and chest were still quite wet, and that would make any wolf cold in the frigid temperatures. When he smiled, she saw right through it. While he may have been glad to see her at another time, right now he was too steeped in water and grief for him to truly appreciate another wolf's presence. Then when he said who he was, it was almost confusion that marred his features, like he wasn't sure where he was, what he was doing, or if he really was a part of the Zenica pack. He was lost without his Faolan, and he didn't know how to pick up his life and start living again. She barely knew this wolf, and she knew she was going to help him. Rust, I'm Rhosyn. You need to get warm or you'll freeze, and you need to tell somebody of your grief before you die from it. If that person isn't me, that's fine. But I'm going to help you get warm, and then you can go find that person to tell. Her tone had become almost businesslike, but the care, for a stranger no less, was fairly obvious to see. She knew he wouldn't harm her, nor would he attempt to take her honor. It was the least she could do to help him on his way and survive the night ahead. She trotted to his side, rising on her hind legs to gently push his rump down until he was in a sitting position, and then she did the same with his shoulders. With his weight advantage, he very well could fling her off with a snarl, but from what she had seen in him, she doubted he would do such. As soon as he was in a lying position, she curled her body along his back, sharing what little warmth her body could give. He was so much bigger than her that her head rested on his ribcage, instead of near his neck. She just hoped she was big enough to give him the warmth he needed. If you have no one better to tell, Rust, I'll be here as long as it takes for you to spill your tale. And if you want, I can be sure you never see me again. She left her offer standing in the air, her motives only to unburden this great wolf so that he could stand proud, stand tall like she was sure he once had, probably with Faolan at his side. He was aching at the loss of something so great, while inside she had a hollow ache to find something that he had found, and then lost. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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Muse; Eh
Words; 652
Notes; If yours is lame, mine is lamer. XD[/center]
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[DingoMutt]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,500,true][bg=FEF0DB] [atrb=style,text-align:justify; ] Rhosyn. Her name was Rhosyn. That was the final nail in the coffin, the one that told him that indeed, this was not his mate. Suddenly he saw everything about this she wolf that was not Faolan. Faolan's ears were chipped, scars covered her face and entire being. That her life had been rough was an understatement; it was Faolan that had transformed the big, bulky, cocky young male to the easy going, relaxed, steady being he was now. He had taken a scared, uneasy young female and made her into a bossy monster. But he only smiled at that thought, glad that with one another, the wolves had been able to become themselves. A lazy grin spread across his lips at the memory, and suddenly all the sadness cleared. When he was able to focus on the good, he looked at Rhosyn with clear, golden eyes that admired her. She was kind and commanding, and he listened to her words with perked ears that ignored all ambient noises, that ignored everything but her sweet, commanding, caring tone. He was glad that she seemed to relax around him, and he merely nodded at her words. His sadness was gone, no longer consuming him but just blurring the edge of his vision, just making his mouth dry. He watched with curious eyes as she trotted up to him, wondering why she had chosen such a quick gait. Did she think he'd run off? Oh no, he was here to stay, to protect this pretty little wolfess and make sure her belly was full. It was the least that he owed her, and he couldn't help but admire her commanding personality. He'd been shaped to need a commanding force in his life, and if it had to be Rhosyn, then that would be just fine with him. He sidestepped a little as she rose to press down upon his rump. Her weight didn't make it difficult to stand; he just stood, watching and licking his lips. When he understood what she wanted, he eased to a sitting position, and then he let himself lay when she pushed on his shoulders. At first he had assumed she was trying to mount him in a silly display of dominance, but he was glad that she was just trying to help him. He smiled when she laid beside him, obviously trying to warm him up. Her attempt was weak; she was much too small to do anything simply laying beside him. He curled around her in one swift motion, his neck crossing over hers, his tail wrapping around her rump. He'd often lay like this with Faolan, and they'd talk about the future. He nuzzled Rhosyn's neck, appreciating her delicate, feminine scent. She'd never replace Faolan, but maybe they could be friends. Or more, he added quietly in his mind. "Oh, no, please don't leave me..." he paused, breathing in her ear. He was tempted to nip it. "Wow, that was pitiful. I'd like it if you would stay... You're warm," He nuzzled her white neck, enjoying her warmth. He fought a shiver, his tail giving a wave-like wiggle as he rubbed his chin against her forehead. "Am I hurting you? I don't want to squish you, Rhosyn." He uncurled a bit, giving her more room to breath. He hoped he wasn't making her uncomfortable; he snaked his neck around so that he was beneath her head, giving her a big fluffy pillow of his neck to rest on. He was comfortable with his head on the dirt, and he let out a gentle huff as he prepared his thoughts. How much did he want to reveal? "Well, to make the story of my life short... I met Faolan, and we fell in love at first sight. She was so pretty," he sighed lightly, shutting his eyes so he could see his past more clearly. "We claimed a pretty piece of land far in the... far from here. She got pregnant, and we were soooo happy," his smile faded a bit, his brows furrowing. "A few weeks before she was due, she got very sick. And she died. So I left, and I wandered into Zenica territory and they let me join," he sighed, the thought of his "home" making him feel guilty. He'd promised them, but his words were now empty. He'd rather stay here with Rhosyn. "... And that's the story of my life; short, tragic, and a real downer." he finished with a forlorn sigh. His eyes opened after a short struggle; he wanted to stay in dream land, where he was with Faolan and his puppies. But he was here, curled up with this pretty wolfess, so a smile spread across his maw. "What's your story, dear Rhosyn?" he asked, sighing lightly through his nose. Her warmth was making him relax, his ears swiveling lazily. He was sure any passersby would wonder about their curious situation, but he didn't care. He had no pride, he had no life. Right now, he was hanging on by a fine thread, depending on this little wolf to keep him grounded. This little she-wolf that he knew nothing of, but he planned to learn about. Well, he knew she was pretty and demanding when she felt the situation demanded her to take take control, and she cared enough to ask the big, listless male what was bothering him when she should just be worrying about getting her pretty little head through the winter. word count: nine hundred and thirteen tag: Rust for Rhosyn notes: Lalala~ I love my Rust~ And I love Rhosyn too. xD

[Free]

[bg=764f2e][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] He seemed to be relaxing, some of the tension from mistaking her as his mate started to go away. A smile even adorned his face, and she bet, for once, he was having a good memory of her. She hadn't ever experienced his kind of grief, but from watching others, when you could smile and move on when you had good memories of that loved one, you were well on your way to releasing that pain, and often the guilt that went along with their death. It took a confident, sure of himself wolf not to blame himself for the death of someone close. He lay down just as she had asked, in her strange fashion, and let her curl around him. But in one swift motion, it was her being curled around. While she had felt comfortable and in control, she now felt small and rather uncomfortable, not that the position was uncomfortable, but because of just how close they were. Or maybe it was just the pleasant feelings flooding her body that made her uncomfortable. Feelings that made her want to relax and let down her guard, feelings that made her want to open herself completely to this male. She licked her paw unsteadily, trying not to let on to her feelings or why she was caught off guard with this. Her fur was soft too, and she wondered if he liked it. He liked it? Where did that thought come from? She liked his fur, it was coarse, like it looked, but underneath that was the softest under layer. What? How had he managed, with one move, to throw her totally off her rocker? For once in a long time, she felt vulnerable. She couldn't use her intelligence, or agility, or even speed to escape this. His words made her smile, and something inside her responded to him, making her think there was something more about just being warm that he wanted her to stay. Wait, what was she thinking? She clenched her jaw, reminding herself that he had just lost his mate. She needed to squelch whatever was happening to her so she could be a supporting friend, instead of whatever she was becoming. His nuzzle sent fire up her spine, and she closed her eyes to attempt to put herself back in position. She was helping him get warm. He was grateful, thus the nuzzle. But her feelings rebelled, telling her that there was something more, and undercurrent flowing between them. He shifted a bit, snaking his head beneath hers and giving her a little more space. Inside, she was screaming for him to come close again, but her mind was happy, she could think a bit straighter now, and she could be the friend he needed. She could keep the distance he needed to grieve for his Faolan. She was able to listen to his story, and her heart ached for him and what he had to go through. Not only had he lost his mate, he had lost land and pups too. Not to mention a position some wolves would die for. My story? she huffed, knowing her feelings of rejection were nothing compared to his feelings of loss. Well, I was born to the omegas of a pack, nothing to say there. I was always looked over because I was small, even though I was making a name for myself. There were wolves just as pretty who were taller or born of the alphas or whatever. When my brother and I were out hunting, we got trapped in a human trap. I never saw him again and I ended up here. Thinking of her brother made her get quiet, hoping he hadn't ended up dead, or even that he was living his life monotonously. She hoped he had a mate, with lots of puppies and love spilling out of his heart. Looking from her wish for him and her life, she felt hollow. She didn't really know any wolf but the one curled around her, and she barely knew him. She sighed, unconsciously, taking a look at her life and not liking it one bit. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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Muse; Pretty good
Words; 697
Notes; I love them too. C:[/center]
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[DingoMutt]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,500,true][bg=FEF0DB] [atrb=style,text-align:justify; ] Rust had always been a fan of the casual touch. As a pup, his packmates had laid beside him, brushed against him when they walked past, nibbled his cheek just to tell him they care. Faolan had at first been upset when he insisted they lay together, but she'd learned to enjoy the casual bump of shoulders and the twining of tails when they slept side by side. He'd simply assumed that all other wolves were this way, so he was a little surprised at how tense and unhappy Rhosyn had been in his grasp. Wasn't this what all wolves wanted? Someone to curl up with and talk to, to share your ambitions and past with? At least, that's what he wanted and had, and he decided he'd need if he were to settle down once more. The thought made his belly grow warm with anxiety, but a deep breath made him calm. The weight of Rhosyn's head on his neck was reassuring. Her huff of what he thought was annoyance made his ears want to flick back, but he held back the urge so he wouldn't smack her in the muzzle with his auds. He let out a yawn, feeling comfortable here, with Rhosyn. He couldn't help but think of Faolan, but his body and mind insisted that he should focus on the here and now, on the pretty wolfess that he was curled around and not the dead one that he'd left behind. The thought made him frown deeply, and he quickly refreshed his memory of his mate to be the pretty, plump wolf he knew before she died, not the dull, lifeless form she'd become after her last breath. He missed her terribly, he knew that, but he was sure that moving on would be best thing to do. While Faolan held a special place in his heart, she no longer filled it. But here, he felt important and powerful as he was wrapped around Rhosyn, his body tingling not only with warmth but with anxiety. He tail moved with a contented wag, his eyes falling shut lazily. He wanted to inch closer, to once again wrap around this she-wolf as if she were his, but her story began so he remained as still as a rock. His chest rose steadily with his deep breaths; when was the last time he'd had to control his breath? It had been a long time, such a long time, since he'd been so excited, especially in the presence of another wolf. Sure, there was that moment of wow when the sun begins to set and paints the sky a thousand colors, or the being absorbed by a young sparrow's story of it's first flight. But no, this was different. A small grin fluttered across his lips, but her story began so he relaxed and focused on her words. Her story intrigued him; he'd heard little of humans in all his life, but he was worried to hear that they captured wolves and took them to other places. He understood then why Rhosyn was so bold and commanding; she had to be, or she'd simply fade into the woodwork. She was little and thought to be of little value because of her blood. He was almost thankful of her past, fore it had made her into the wolf she was. She'd been shaped by unfortunate circumstances to be caring and strong and smart. Her silence was unnerving; it was the sort of reflection and deep thought, not a simple lack of words. She seemed to tense as she thought, perhaps about her brother. Rust didn't know what siblings were like; his had been stolen when he was young, ripped from the den and under the nose of a tired guard by a grizzly with a taste for young wolves. He delicately pulled away from her, so that they were still side by side but no longer intertwined. He remained curled around her, but she was now free to move. He craned his neck so that he could see her face, her sigh affirming his thoughts that something was wrong with the little female. He frowned deeply, pinning his ears for a moment. He'd never been good with feelings; sure, he had them and he knew how to tell of his own, but with Rhosyn as distressed as she was, he didn't know what to say. He delicately licked her chin, hoping to comfort her in the only way he knew how. "Well, if it's any consolation... you've turned into a fine wolf," he murmured, his sweet words intended only for her soft, peach colored ears. "Don't ever let others tell you what you are or aren't," he added, hoping his words would convince her that she was doing just fine in the game of life. Better than he was, at least. He leaned a little closer, his eyes falling shut as his tone softened, his words light and quiet as if he was telling a secret. "Because they'll lie to you, every chance they get." he finished. He pressed his forehead to her cheek, feeling tired and warm and hungry. word count: eight hundred and fifty five tag: Rust for Rhosyn notes: Lalala~ It's hard to flirt but not flirt. xD

[Free]

[bg=764f2e][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] She just hoped, wherever he was, he was safe. Like she was safe. She wasn't in a pack, didn't have a mate, but she was safe. Comfortable even, despite the fact she was still rebounding from the feelings that flooded her when Rust had wrapped himself around her. He obviously thought nothing of it, so she needed to be able to think the same. But right now, her want and her need were two totally different things. She wanted to let herself snuggle up to him, but she didn't think he had gotten over Faolan yet. Although that was rather obvious because of the pretense they had met. She just wished he wasn't still grieving. But, what if he wasn't? What if he was as available as a loner? She definitely wouldn't be this close to him, too weary of an available male hanging around a small, available female. She knew that looks could be deceiving, an innocent looking male could turn out to be the terror of all single ladies. So technically, she wouldn't have even had these feelings if he weren't a grieving wolf, wouldn't have been this close to a male. Would she take back this new found awareness of him, of the happiness and contentment she now knew a mate would bring? The resounding answer was conflicting. If she were never to see him again, yes. If the undercurrent she had thought she felt had been true and he had felt it too, no. It was as if she were made of coiled up hot wire. When he pulled away, even just a bit, she felt it and wondered what she had done. When his tongue gently licked her muzzle, it was as if a current ran to all the parts of her body. He meant nothing by it! Why was she strung so tightly? She got up and began to pace, wondering if her emotions showed on her face. They were such a jumbled mess she doubted he would be able to sort through them, but she just hoped she didn't hurt him or his memory of Faolan. his mate. For all intensive purposes, she was his mate. Rhosyn just had to remind herselfof that fact. He was an uneligible male. Why didn't that squash her emotions? Why didn't that make things go back to normal? As he began to speak, she forced herself to stop, sitting quietly next to his head. She gave a half-smile at his words, wondering if he could read her mind. Her thoughts earlier had been quite the downers, and he had just the right thing to say. Although if that were true, he would either be revolted by her interest, or showing his intrigue about it. Not for the first time in her life, she wished someone would take an interest in her. Specifically a male. He sat up as he finished, or, more like just lifted his head, and put it next to her head. She licked his muzzle, half hoping he would understand what was happening to her, half hoping he would never find out. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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Muse; Fairly good
Words; 531
Notes; XD yeah. And poor Rhosyn is confused and hoping and a whole mess of emotion. IT'S YOUR FAULT, RUSTY DEAR. Oh, and sorry for the lack of talking. She just doesn't know what to say or trust herself to talk and all that fun stuff. XD[/center]
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[DingoMutt]

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[atrb=background,http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f336/DingoMutt/RP%20Characters/Canine/rustbg1-1.png,true][atrb=style,text-align:justify; ] Rust was upset at the myriad of emotions the she-wolf seemed to be going through. She seemed worried, of what he wasn't sure. Was she afraid he'd hurt her? He flicked his ears back, understanding that the average wolf was wary of him and his large size. But surely after the few moments they'd been together, she knew he meant no harm? Surely she knew that he didn't just rub against and curl up against random females? Sure, he'd... thought of Cassandra, a female in his pack, but he knew nothing would come of the relationship. It'd been far to casual, him searching for an outlet for his grief, and her seeming quite ignorant. And she was pack. She was a sister. This was Rhosyn, a lovely young wolfess that seemed very aware that her excitement was filling him, teasing him. "I promise I won't hurt you..." he said, watching with concern as she uncurled herself from him and began to pace. He watched her movements and saw the emotions dancing across her face. She's easy to read, he thought with a delicate smile. He licked his lips, watching her movements anxiously. He was alert, tracking her steps with his golden eyes like she was a piece of meat. Not that he thought of her that way, but how was he to convey his feelings, his attraction, without just saying it? His words, usually plentiful and spilling from his lips, could not come aside from the cool, cryptic messages he'd whispered in her ears. He leaned a little closer as she licked his muzzle, appreciating the unspoken message passed between the pair. He felt that for once, he could just sit and enjoy the presence of another wolf. Faolan's pretty face gave him a glare, but there was a twinkle of playfullness in her usually cold gaze. He'd take that as his blessing to court the young female. It'd been nearly a year since she'd left him; while she'd remain, now she'd be just a casual, sweet whisper in his ear. He felt a great emptiness in his heart, but the ache began to fade. Rust rose quickly, his weight shifting to his hind legs, then to the front ones as he dragged his body to his full height. As he leaned forward in the swift, sweeping motion, he pressed his cold nose to Rhosyn's, his eyes searching hers for a brief moment. When he was standing, he dropped his chest in a stretch, his tail waving back and forth. He let out a few quick, panting breaths, his tongue lolling as his eyes took on a playful light. He was sick of being sad and mournful; that was no way to court a lady. He leaped back to a standing position, whirling quickly so that his plumed tail rubbed against Rhosyn's chin. He glanced back at her with a teasing smile before he took off at a quick gallop. He licked his lips as he ran, hoping desperately that the female would follow. He glanced back at her, his stride faltering as he twisted his neck to glance back at Rhosyn. He was sure she could pass him up with no problems; he wasn't slow, but she had the lithe build of a runner, one that starkly contrasted his bulky form. "Oh, Rhosyn! You're so kind and caring! Your lovely voice has found me in the darkness, and brought me to the light! Now we run along this river full of herring! Rhosyn! Rhooosynn~" He sang as he ran along the river's shore, carefully leaping over large stones that would surely trip him up. He dodged fallen rocks here and there, his tail shooting for the sky. He felt free and content, his heart fluttering with excitement. word count: six hundred and twenty five tag: Rust for Rhosyn notes: Sorry for the wait, and sorry this is so bad. >> I may come back and modify it later, but his actions will be the same.

[Free]

[bg=764f2e][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] She smiled when he spoke, knowing he had gotten her totally wrong. She wasn't afraid of what he might do to her physically, but of what he was currently doing to her emotions. I know. she said softly, letting her rose colored eyes look across the river, which had by now nearly cleared of the fog. Both banks were clear, and her fun with drifting in and out was no more, at least until tomorrow. But would she still be free tomorrow? Would she in a pack? The greater question was, would she have a mate? Her attention was jerked back to Rust, as he stood. He placed his nose on hers, and then looked deeply into her eyes. She found herself drowning in his amber eyes, emotions flitting across them. For the moment they stood there, she felt her walls dropping, just letting him in. And when she looked into his eyes, she saw herself, and the beginnings of affection in his. While his grief had been fresh just this morning, he seemed to be moving on. Not forgetting, but moving on with life, going forward and taking opportunities as they came. He dropped down into a stretch, and she blinked, processing what had just happened there. His long tail waved as his rump was thrust in the air, the ever classic play stance. She grinned, her smaller tail beginning to wag. In a flash the game had begun. For a second, she just watched him run. He was built for strength, plain and simple. His tall frame didn't hide the muscular structure beneath, and his thick pelt did little to hide the fact he was probably a great warrior. Herself, she was none of that. Muscular, kind of, but not in the bulky way he was. Instead, she was lithe, her muscles long and slender, not built for strength. They were built for flight, built for swift agility. Even though he was probably two times her size, she had no doubt she could catch up with him. And just as she had finished her examination, she had taken off, small legs stretched out over the ground as her strides were as long as she could make them, and faster than he could probably force his to go. She gained him steadily. Her tail was stretched out behind her, acting as a rudder and helping her keep her balance in her speed. In the cool air, she felt good, and knew she could run long before she got hot. She slowed down to a leisurely pace when he looked back, giving the illusion that it was easy to catch up. She grinned at him, and then resumed her quick run when he looked back ahead. The large rocks he easily leaped over brought her a bit more trouble. She had to launch herself at the rock, and use it as a springboard to clear the rock and still keep up speed. Her landings, surprisingly, didn't seem too rough on her. Before long she had caught up with him, and caught his song. She laughed, feeling more carefree than she had in quite a long time. Silly Rust, I only nudged you in the right direction. she told him, running at his side. She took two or three strides for his one, but speed for her came with ease, just as strength came so easily for him. He could easily intimidate most wolves, just as she could easily outrun most wolves. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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Muse; Pretty good
Words; 581
Notes; That's okay. XD[/center]
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[DingoMutt]

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[atrb=background,http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f336/DingoMutt/RP%20Characters/Canine/rustbg1-1.png,true][atrb=style,text-align:justify; ] Rust flicked an ear back as he ran; he knew Rhosyn would catch him easily, but she seemed to be sticking back to let him feel fast. He was fast, but she was faster. He pushed himself a little harder, rounding a sharp bend in the river. He lost his grip for a few moments, his entire body at the mercy of inertia, but he dug in his claws and managed to save himself. He let out a big puff of air, watching it escape as vapor. His shifted focus made him trip, but he was able to catch himself. By then Rhosyn was running side by side with him, laughing freely. A large smile spread across his lips, his ears perked forward at the sweet notes that drifted from her creamy colored maw. "You have a lovely laugh, Rhosyn. I'll have to make sure you use it often." he said, feeling terribly silly and flirting. This was all too much for his fragile heart, but he couldn't stop. He knew that him and Rhosyn had hit off spectacularly well, but surely a relationship couldn't be forged over such an unfortunate meeting? But he shoved that thought from his mind, knowing that if such a thing as fate did exist, it was working in his favor by bringing him this lovely wolfess. And who was he to deny fate, to deny such a lovely and wonderful gift? He certainly didn't think himself better than the fates... and he was certainly ready to take the plunge. He knew that if he paused, that if he stopped running, he'd think about it too much and never get around to it. He'd never been spontaneous in his life, so he could go ahead and give it a try. He took a gulp of cool air to calm his nerves. It didn't work, so he shut his eyes and took his leap of faith. "Rhosyn, will you... stay with me?" he said, his voice quivering. He hoped she understood the meaning of his words, that he was asking her to stay forever, but being vague for the first time since he'd met his first mate could certainly come and bite him in the rump. Maybe she wouldn't understand, maybe she would! He couldn't stand the the uncertainty, so he looked at the wolfess with all the desperation and agony he could manage, hoping her mind and feelings would supply all the words that he couldn't, wouldn't, shouldn't. His amber eyes searched for her pale rose ones, his pace slowing. He could probably keep up with her when he was healthy, but in his thin and cold state, he was no match for her speed and endurance. He came to a halt in a few more strides, his head lowering as he panted for breath. Puffs of vapor escape his nose and drifted around his pearly whites and lolling tongue. Rust's tail rose anxiously, his mind drifting to the Zenica pack. Would he be able to return with Rhosyn? He was sure that he'd try, that he'd see if the pair could share the company of the Zenica wolves while their love blossomed, if their love blossomed. Perhaps they'd remain when they decided to have pups, if Roslyn and Wyren would allow it, and if they had children, if they became mates, if she said yes to staying with him. The male's sides began to slow as he provided his oxygen starved body with what it desired, his erect tail swaying lightly to and fro, his body rigid with anxiety. He didn't know what he'd do if he was rejected; no, he was sure he'd just go "home" and "live" his "life." word count: six hundred and fourteen tag: Rust for Rhosyn notes: Sorry for the wait. ;w;