unfamiliar places (Issy)

[Free]

[bg=ffe7f4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,400,true][cs=7] Once again, she was staring at an unknown island. Once again she was cold, the brisk winter breeze sending a shiver down her spine. But this time, she had somebody else who was facing it with her. One glance beside her showed he hadn't yet woken up, still a victim of whatever they had snuck into their last meal. Although the meal had been quite the good amount, her stomach still rumbled indignantly. But she was loath to leave her spot here, with Requiem. He made her feel safe, an emotion she had had before it had been shattered by one dog. Now it was so fragile, a breath of wind could sent it to pieces once more. This time, was she hopeless? She spent a moment reflecting on that. She wasn't ready to die, no, but neither did she have much hope of her life taking a 'good' turn. She had a fragile trust in Requiem, because he had helped her and seemed to ask nothing in return. That made her heart ache with fullness, that somebody cared. Someone actually cared what happened to her, without thoughts of getting under her tail. Well, she couldn't actually say he had no such thoughts, but neither could she say he had them. She gave a soft sigh, gaze going to the distant horizon. A horizon, while not exactly the same, her mother and brother could be looking at right now. An innocent, naive Devi had looked upon while she was younger. Of all the things she would give to go back, to have never talked with that stranger. To have never experienced what came next. She gave an involuntary shudder, and immediately attempted to think on something else. Like food. And how her skills at catching it were improving, but not fast enough to suit her. While she felt graceful naturally, when she was hunting she felt clumsy and loud. It didn't help that her brother and mother had done most if not all of the hunting when she was younger. She got up and began to pace, not too far away from Requiem. She focused on her footsteps, and began to experiment with how she walked, trying for something that made her quieter. After a couple of moments, she had settled on a method. If she walked on her toes, and put her feet down carefully, she had to strain to hear her own footsteps. She finally stopped her practicing, knowing she'd feel foolish if Requiem had chosen any moment while she had been pacing to wake up. She had had many a close call when she had been up on her toes where she had teetered and tottered, just barely managing to stay upright. She squashed the thought bud before it could continue, not wanting to think on the good times with her brother and his gentle teasing. As the sea breeze continued, and her warmth from moving wore off, she glanced longingly in Requiem's direction before curling herself into a small ball, eyes unblinkingly staring into space. She managed to keep her mind fairly blank, and she wished Requiem would wake up. He was her only ally in this strange world, this second strange world, and she desperately needed someone to take her with command and begin to do something, anything to keep memories and feelings from flooding her anymore. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Muse; Eh Words; 568 Notes; Love my Devi. <3 And sorreh for the lameness. This is Devi saying something.

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[Issalyn]

[bg=d6dde5][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] Russet fur danced as a gentle breeze swiped across the beach. The figure it belong to lay unmoving in the sand, sprawled out with his legs going one way and his head going another. It didn't look comfortable, but it was the position he'd been deposited in, and so far he hadn't stirred. The tranquilizers the humans had placed in his food had knocked him out cold for the journey from the land he knew as home to a strange new island. Paws stirred up the air as he paddled his limbs softly in his sleep. He was dreaming peacefully about something he wouldn't remember when he woke. A gentle whine formed at his throat as he lay there, barely audible over the sounds of the waves crashing on the beach not far from where he lay. Gradually, his movements subsided and his breathing grew stronger. His eyelids flickered, like a newborn preparing to take their first view of the world. Then they parted, revealing one grey eye and one amber eye, bright against his otherwise dirty, matted coat. He blinked, twice, and then again. The sun shone down upon the beach in a blinding fashion, at least to one who had been laying in the dark so long. Suddenly he realized something wasn't right. He jumped to his feet and stood stanch on all four, proud and mighty. He looked around, realizing he was on unfamiliar ground. Bi-colored eyes swept over precious few other creatures laying on the beach, coming to rest on the figure closest to him. She was a soft looking copper hue, curled up about as small as she could. Her skeleton peeked out through her skin, though it was nothing compared to how she'd looked the first time he lay eyes on her. His mind started growing less fuzzy as he stared at her, and her remembered the short time they'd shared together. He'd found her deathly cold and starving on the beach of his homeland during the worst season of the year. Slowly, he'd helped her regain her strength, staying unfaltering by her side. Devi had wormed her way into a special place in his heart, one that he hadn't felt warmed in some time. He wasn't in love with her, per say, but he cared for her and worried upon her like a brother might worry over a sister. He'd grown to think of her as something given to him to watch over. A way to make up for his failures earlier in life. Requiem watched the precious female, wondering if she was still under the effects of the drugs, or if she was just sleeping while she waited for him to wake. There were a few pawprints around the area where they were, but he couldn't really tell if they were hers or someone else's. Feeling drawn to her, he crept over to her and prepared lay down. He thought for a moment, then decided he could lay in alert position, on his belly, and drape his head over her like a pillow. From there, he could watch quite a bit of the scenery around them while still letting her know he was nearby. He lowered himself into this position softly and tediously, being careful not to stir her if she was indeed asleep. Her face was turned away from him, so he wasn't entirely sure what her state was. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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Muse; Peeking out.
Words; 650
Notes; The cutest couple everrrr.
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[Free]

[bg=ffe7f4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,400,true][cs=7] Female just lay there, keeping her mind blank until she just drifted off to sleep, despite the cool weather and sea breeze. In her dreams, she was full and happy, with no more bones showing. She and Requiem were running full out along the beach of the old island, just having a good time. She had let her guard down, was just playing and having fun, just like she had when she was a pup. It had been so long since she had felt this whole, this good, and she felt herself surrendering to the dream, even believing it. What jerked her from her dream was when another dog gently curled himself around her, laying his head on her back. She tensed, but when she realized it was Requiem, she just relaxed, wondering where such good feelings had come from. She knew she had dreamed something good, she just wouldn't quite remember what. She wished whatever it was would come true, so she could have those feelings out of the dream world too. Slowly she warmed up, and relaxed her ball position some. She had grown used to having Requiem near her or with her, and she knew if he ever left or they got separated, she would feel the loss acutely. Right here and now, she admitted she cared for him. She wouldn't want to lose him, and having him around helped her feel safe. He meant something to her, much like her brother and mother had meant something to her. Did mean something to her. She wondered if she would ever see them again. She highly doubted it, and she pressed into Requiem, not wanting to lose him like she had lost her brother and mother. Big brown eyes blinked, feeling warm and secure. Requiem, are you ever going to leave me? The question showed her innocence, or at least what was left of it. It showed her damaged trust, her youth. That question alone showed how much she already trusted him, to be herself enough she voiced her innermost thoughts. She yawned, twitching her ears as she listened to the surf pounding the beach. She wasn't worried, because they were far enough they couldn't get wet again. Maybe in the summer it would be fun to go out swimming in the waves, but not early spring. Not when it was still pretty cold.

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Muse; Eh
Words; 396
Notes; They are. <3[/center][/size]
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[Issalyn]

[bg=d6dde5][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] Seconds turned into moments and moments turned into minutes. There was no clock ticking. No counter of time besides the beating of two hearts and the rhythmic sound of the waves rushing the beach. He felt her body uncoil slightly. She was stirring awake in the same delicate way she seemed to do everything. With gentle precision and grace. She had this air of sweetness that clung to her. It was such a strong sense he felt like he could almost smell it. Like freshly bloomed daffodils on a late spring morning. She didn't really move. Just relaxed beneath his jaws. He could feel her breathing. He could hear the faint murmur of her heart. It was such an intimate position, so vulnerable. He, a larger, stronger male, laying with his head atop of her body. Her, asleep. Unaware. He could so easily harm her. But his jowl rested on her gently, with a kind of innocence that could only be true to his heart. He had no desire to do anything to hurt her - not ever. Not Devi. And if he had his way, nothing else would hurt her either. Her fawn body stretched some, and he felt her moving closer against him. She had to be somewhat conscious now, and would feel the weight of his head on her. He lifted his head up, wondering if she wanted to stand up, of if she just wanted to lay there, savoring the brief moment in time. As he lifted his head he saw her body in it's new position. Not curled up anymore, he could just barely see the hints of ribs, and hardly discern where her spine was. She was starting to look healthy again. She'd put on weight faster than he expected. It hadn't even been 2 months since he met her, and she'd almost immediately started to fill out in the stomach. He tilted his head, wondering if everything was okay. He knew that things like that could be signs of sickness and disease, but she seemed mostly okay besides the fatigue she still suffered. But that was to be expected after what she'd been through. She would be fine, he just knew she would. Her words interrupted his thoughts and he looked down at her with a soft expression. He thought a moment. What did she want him to say. Oh, Devi, you should know by now. Did she just want him to reassure her again? Or was she actually questioning his sincerity? She didn't seem to be agitated in any way, so he guessed it was just a plea for assurance. They'd once again had their lives upturned. They'd been heaved into a new world without getting any say in the batter. Of course she'd be feeling insecure, it was only natural. I always be here Devi. I'm not leaving. Not now, not ever.

[/color] One blue eye and one amber eye glistened with honesty. He wasn't lying. As if to convince her, he moved his head down and licked her on the forehead. Then, he stood up, once again realizing he was in a foreign place. He didn't know every inch of the land like he did his old territory. He didn't know what other creatures lived there. For the first time, he felt truly scared. Here he was, without a clue what to do. All he knew was that somehow, he had to get through it with Devi.
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Muse; Meh.
Words; 669
Notes; Where to? xD
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[Free]

[bg=ffe7f4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,400,true][cs=7] It was nice, laying there with him. Nowhere to go, nowhere to be. But she did have someone to be with. She was successful in not thinking about her past, except that her brother kept popping up in her thoughts. But for the moment, the memories were fond, and she felt herself relaxing into them. Relaxing into Requiem. He was the next stage of her life, be it keeping her alive and then letting her leave, or being a close friend and sticking with her. At his reassurance, she felt the final wall between harbored hurt and trust fall. With her trusting him, it was starting to ease the pain of having her trust shattered by one dog. When that pain was gone, maybe she would be whole again. Maybe she would be more herself, less melancholy and tired. His warm tongue on her forehead made her mushy, and she wondered why. One moment she was questioning his intentions and the next one kind touch sent her insides to mush. As he stood, she reluctantly stirred, getting to her feet with minimal effort. She had gained weight surprisingly fast, and her slender paws were having a hard time keeping up. They didn't like her to be on them very much. She moved to stand right by Requiem, ribs brushing his. Her tall ears took in the sounds, not finding many animals near them. So do we look for food or shelter first? she asked, feeling out how you would go about conquering a new land. The last place they had been, Requiem just knew like the back of his paw. But here, neither of them knew their way around, and it would be hard to find their way, especially him because he had to take care of her. She felt sorry she was a burden, but she couldn't do much about that.

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Muse; Eh
Words; 312
Notes; I feel like soon she'll tell him what happened to her, and maybe he'll figure out why she gained weight so quickly. XD And I dunno where to go.[/center][/size]
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[Issalyn]

[bg=d6dde5][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] His reassurance seemed to have quieted Devi's fears for now and he was content not to push the issue. He understood that she had some kind of trust problems, and she'd only fully get over it with time. He still wasn't sure what caused them, but he knew there was no use prodding her until she felt ready to discuss them - if she ever did. He noticed her take a little extra effort to stand up, and his brows crinkled with worry above kind eyes. She seemed fine mostly, but there were just hints of things here and there that hinted her recovery to health may not be as simple as it had sometimes seemed. Thankfully, he'd never been as destitute as he'd found her. Less thankfully, this meant he really didn't understand what she was going through. He'd been through tough times and had felt the pangs of hunger more than once, but he'd never been on death's door like she had. The thick-coated male stood gazing over the land, feeling Devi's rhythmic breathing as her ribcaged stayed in place just gently brushed up against his. They were quite a pair. Other than the vast different between their coat length, from a distance they looked almost evenly matched. Both the same colors with similar markings. One of the notable differences was their ears. Hers, which stood erect, somehow just perfecting her look. His, small and floppy, very much like his Australian Shepherd breeding. Despite the difference in their ears, they picked up the same sounds of nothingness. For Requiem, it only reminded him just how empty he felt in this strange land. As Devi spoke to him, he started pacing for a minute, trying to think. What should he do? Food was definitely a concern, especially with Devi's previous (and still lingering) condition. But shelter...shelter would be necessary for survival as well. He had no idea what they'd face in these lands. He didn't even know if there was a leader of the territory who would try to fight them or enslave them. After a few more minutes of silent thinking, all he could conclude was that they needed to get off the forsaken beach. To be certain, there was almost nothing it could offer them. He wasn't going to be able to catch any fish in the ocean waters, and the low grassy dunes weren't any kind of shelter. All he saw for miles and miles was sand...some flat, and some growing into hills. He came back to stand by her and stopped so close his fur brushed hers. His stance was bold and protective as he raised his head into the air and closed his eyes, taking in a big gulp of the air. He was trying to find even a trace of the scent of another dog. He wanted to know what he was up against. But he found nothing strong enough to be a definite scent. He sighed, and decided it was up to him to get them out of this mess. Decidedly, he spoke. His voice held tones of confidence, even though his insides quivered in worry. I think we just need to get away from here. We have no idea what the climate is like or what kind of animals we'll run into. Our best bet is to keep moving and take whatever we find first. Hopefully, we'll find food and shelter, but we're not going to find either anywhere near this beach. Requiem stared out across the horizon, wishing he could figure out just what lie ahead. Should they head directly north, into the seemingly endless sands? He was half worried it might turn into a desert, though the climate wasn't really desert-like, it would still be a problem. They could follow along the coast as far as they could towards the east or the west. To the west, he saw nothing but coastline, and it looked like it would be a long trip. To the east though, it seemed like some hills topped in green began to rise, and he hoped if they went that way, they'd find some sort of grassy terrain. If they were lucky, it wouldn't be as far as it looked. He started walking and didn't even have to look back to know Devi would follow him. They'd been together long enough that he knew she'd probably follow his lead, which told him slowly but surely she was beginning to trust him. Nonetheless, he turned his head back to her, wanting to make sure she agreed with him every step of the journey. I'm going to head northwest, angling away from the beach but not heading into the massive expanse of sand to the north. If we're lucky, we'll find some kind of grassy land ahead. It'd be best if we hurry, but don't wear yourself out.

[/color] His pace grew faster and broke into a trot, then a long, slow lope. It felt good to stretch his legs out a bit, even if he wasn't pushing himself. He kept a close watch on Devi, carefully checking for even the slightest hint that she was to tired to keep up.
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Muse; Got better as I went lol
Words; 970 WOO!
Notes; Heading to the Footlands, eventually It'll be easier for her to travel through but will provide more shelter for them than the Lealands would, plus they don't have to worry about running into humans. xP
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[Free]

[bg=ffe7f4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,400,true][cs=7] Devi stood quietly as Requiem thought, respecting his right to think through things before they took off in some random direction. He seemed worried, but she couldn't be sure. The sea breeze came through and ruffled Requiem's fur, making it stand on end in some places. She smiled, knowing her short, tight coat probably didn't move. Requiem was pacing, and she stood still, watching him. If you put hair on her and made her ears floppy, they would look much the same. She didn't really know much about his build, definately not enough to know that if you put short hair on him how he'd look. He was a darker tan, and it made him jsut look more handsome. He'd be quite the catch for someone. She felt herself rejecting that thought, despite the fact it was her truthful opinion. She sighed, and he came to a stop next to her. His stance was confident, and how close he was showed he was protective of her, and was going to face it with her. That gave her a boost of confidence, despite the fact she didn't want to be on her feet and didn't want to have to face a whole new land. She nodded at his assessment. He looked around for a short while longer, and then started off. She fell into step with him, her head coming to about his shoulder as she let him lead and she followed. She appreciated it when he turned to explain himself, feeling almost like she was an equal. She knew she wasn't, but she felt respected. For the first time since that night. Slowly, guilt began to weigh her down. She lengthened her stride to match his, but her mind was weighed down. He didn't know that part of what happened to her. For all he knew she had had a happy childhood and just happened to get caught by the first boat. Her body protested the continued movement, but she knew they needed to find someplace safe she could rest. Her paws hurt, her muscles protested, and it wasn't long before her tongue was hanging out of her mouth and she panted. Soon their paws were hitting more solid ground, and while her mucles rejoiced at not foundering in the sand, but her paws protested all the more. She briefly closed her eyes, but pressed on. Then they were heading up a hill, and she resolved to get to the top. Once they reached her goal, she just stopped. She didn't feel like she could go much further, either physically or mentally.Req, why are you helping me? she was too tired to keep up the formality of his full name, but instead called him her nickname she had come up with in her head. I was raped.

[/color] she bluntly stated, tortured eyes locking onto his. You're helping a soiled rag survive. But for what? So I can survive with this memory? Why do you stay with me, when I'm a burden and you could so easily thrive without me?[/color] After that, she could only pant, catching her breath and letting emotion get the best of her.

Her paws hurt, but she thought he deserved to face her standing, not looking down at her where he could feel sorry for her. She couldn't make head or tail of what she was feeling, only that she desperately needed him to stay with her despite all this, but he shouldn't have to take care of her. He should find a beautiful mate who doesn't need to be nursed back to health and lead a pack. He'd be so good at it, and instead he was helping her. Making sure she made it through the night. Making sure she had something to eat. It wasn't fair to him.
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Muse; Not bad
Words; 634
Notes; Poor girl is an emotional wreck. XD[/center][/size]
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[Issalyn]

[bg=d6dde5][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] The pair walked for quite some time without really speaking. He focused on moving forward, first stretching out his muscles and then starting to actually put them to work. The sand sank in around his paws with each and every step, making him really have to work at it. He didn't want to feel fatigued, but he did, a little. They were just moving along at an easy pace, but recent events had taken a toll on him. He didn't know just how long they'd been on the boat, but the growling in his stomach told him it had been too long since either of them had enjoyed a good meal. Eventually, they reached the edges of the beach, where the sand started to give way to grasses. The grass was stills sparse, just barely peeking out here and there, but the sand was more rigid and compacted, and provided solid footing that didn't make him feel so exhausted with effort. By this time, he was panting, not heavily, but his sides heaved in and out slowly as he took deep breaths and paced himself. Every so often he'd twist his head back to check on Devi, who remained ever faithful beside and just a stride behind him. Her smaller frame was set almost exactly even with his shoulders, letting him lead but still keeping up with him. He could read the fatigue creeping into her eyes. He'd come to enjoy gazing into her soft brown pools, but now the sparkle they sometimes had was fading away. They looked darker and more somber, even a bit lost and unresponsive. He felt himself wondering if it was all because she was expending her energy or if something else was bothering her too. Requiem slowed his pace ever so slightly, his furry russet body now almost evenly striding with hers. Now they were neck and neck, neither the leader and neither the follower. Their pace slowed even more as they struggled up the side of a hill, where the land was become much more grassy. He hoped, that from atop this hill, they would be able to see just what lie ahead and make better plans for what direction they could go. Claws churned through the dirt with more determination, his entire body resolving to make this worth their effort. Gradually, the distance grew smaller and smaller and they found themselves almost to the top. He felt his muscles arguing against him with every stride and knew that Devi had to be feeling the burn too. Just as he was thinking this, they made it to the top, and as he instantly started surveying the land, she stopped. His attention was righted back to her, rather than the landscape ahead, as she spoke. She seemed distraught as she spoke in a soft, almost pleading, tone. He started to answer her, for her question required only a simple answer, but she spoke again. Her words were blunt, and as sure as he was it was ripping her heart to admit the truth, he felt his own heart crumbling in sympathy towards her. She spoke about herself with such a lack of respect, as if she had no will to continue. He felt a sharpness in his breath and his eyes mudded over with worry. Before he began to speak he took a step closer to her and draped his head across her neck, nuzzling her gently on the cheek. Then he lifted his head again and looked at her with clear, yet pained, eyes. Oh Devi, I'm so sorry. Why didn't you tell me? Of course, why would she have told him. She was clearly ashamed of the situation someone else had put her in. She probably feared rejection. But he wasn't just any average guy. He nuzzled her muzzle softly and licked her across the brow. You're so much more than you let yourself believe. You're special and I believe I found you on that beach for a reason. You're no burden to me at all.

[/color] He wagged his tail and nuzzled her again, smiling. We may not have been together that long yet, but I feel like I've known you forever. I enjoy your company so much, I don't know what I'd do without you.[/color]

Reqiuem paused in his speech and glanced out at the world around them, letting his words sink in. He tried to focus on thinking about anything but her, but he found that he couldn't. So he brought his eyes back to rest on her, seeing her broken, hopeless appearance. All the time he'd spent nurturing her and helping her back to health...he hadn't know he was dealing with a broken spirit and wounded heart. He didn't care about the past, couldn't she see that in him already? Nothing she'd done, even if it had been her fault, mattered to him. All that he cared about was the here and now, and the future. And suddenly he realized that more than anything, he wanted her to be a part of that future.

He moved back to her again, sitting down beside her and speaking softly. Devi, whatever it takes, I'm here for you. I will help you get over this. You've just gotta see it, there's hope in the future. I'm not leaving you now...and I promise I'm not leaving you ever. Never again will you be hurt, I will make sure of it.[/color] He stood them, feeling a surge of power sweep over him. This was the defining moment of his life. Whatever happened here would determine everything. He couldn't fail. He couldn't deal with the heartbreak of his own if he lost her.
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Muse; Here and there.
Words; 1090
Notes; <3 poor little Devi.
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[Free]

[bg=ffe7f4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,400,true][cs=7] That last couple of yards they had gone up the hill he had fallen into step beside her, and she had berated herself for feeling like his equal. She didn't deserve his help, his undying devotion. She didn't understand it, didn't deserve it, but needed it desperately. She definitely wouldn't be alive if it wasn't for him, wouldn't be surviving as well as she was. If she didn't have this haunting memory clinging to her, she could almost be thriving. He started to look around, but apparently he could feel that she wasn't okay, and his attention focused on her. His eyes, one beautiful deep brown, and one a stormy gray blue, held her in such high regard. But now she was coming clean. SHe was bearing the secret that made her someone he shouldn't be with. He was too kind, too caring to have to put up with her. SHe found herself braced for what she deserved, and yet again, he did not give it. Even though he now knew what she deserved. His neck draped over hers, and his strength seemed to seep slowly into her. His question seemed almost accusing, but she knew he deserved to know. As he continued to speak, she drew back in disbelief. "so much more... special... no burden... enjoy your company... don't know what I'd do without you..." Tears came to her eyes. He didn't look over her body, he didn't mention her looks, he took her at face value and had gotten to know her. He didn't let lust get the best of him, but was the most respectful of gentleman. Touch was something that was in their relationship, but it was friendly and to show affection, nothing past that. And to hear him say this after what she had told him humbled her. How was she supposed to react to this? How was she supposed to show her gratitude and her respect? He moved away, and she couldn't control the emotions she was feeling. They all crowded on her face, plain for him to see. He distanced himself for a second, looking around them once more, making sure she was safe. This wasn't a burden to him? Tears threatened and her throat constricted, but she kept the tears at bay. When his gaze found her again, it was full of caring and concern. What had happened to her hadn't changed what he felt, hadn't changed the way he viewed her, and she felt the first tear fall. She wasn't sure she'd be able to stop. He came closer and spoke so kindly, with force behind his words. He meant what he said, and he was wanting her to let him protect her. Wanting her to give him permission to stay with him forever. How could she say no, especially when she was just starting to realize that she thought she loved him? As the tears continued to fall, she moved to lean on his side, sitting to rest her paws and burying her face into his shoulder, in the long fur that smelled distinctly of him. He wasn't going to leave her. He wasn't going to disrespect her. He wasn't going to let another dog like that one come and place her life into ruins. He wanted to take what she had left and make it new, build it up. How could she say no? How could she walk away from someone willing to take who she was and care for her? Req, I don't know why, but you accept me. That's not something I'm going to throw away. her voice cracked at the end, and she didn't know if he'd be able to understand her teary and muffled voice from being pressed up against him. But she was hurting on the outside and healing on the inside, and she didn't want to move. Didn't want to have to get up and face her feelings that were being uncovered before her eyes for him. She felt old, felt tired, and knew only time would help her get rid of these feelings and be herself again. With Req at her side.

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Muse; Not bad
Words; 690
Notes; Poor girl is still emotional wreck. XD[/center][/size]
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[Issalyn]

[bg=d6dde5][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] Devi's reaction to his speech was heart wrenching. He started to worry that he'd said too much. It was too soon, far too soon, in their relationship to think about having feelings for each other. Sure, a lot of dogs would take advantage of a female without having any feelings for her, but he wasn't like that. He wanted to take it slow and make sure both of them were feeling the same things before he jumped into anything. But now, he felt like he had just plunged headfirst into a stream of emotions that had been tugging at him for weeks. At first, he'd just felt like she was a second chance to him. He had a protective feeling over her from the start, but more like the kind a brother would have for a sister or the companionship between best friends. Lately, he realized she was worming her way into his heart. Her soft brown eyes held such an innocent, sweet, doe-like appearance that could make his every fiber melt. There was nothing she could ask of him that he wouldn't do to the best of his ability. No, the relationship for him was moving into dangerous territory. Beyond friendship or kinship, he was starting to feel glimmers of love prick at his heart for the first time in...maybe forever. He'd loved his mother, but it wasn't the same kind of love. It didn't make his gut twist and his breath catch in his throat. As he watched Devi, clearly sinking in despair, he just didn't know what to do. He felt her pain. He tried to image just what she was thinking or feeling, but he really couldn't know just what it felt like. He just knew that she hurt inside, and was cracking at the core. His ears perked up a little as she spoke “I don't know why, but you accept me.” Of course he accepted her, how could he not. She was too capable of love, too kind, too sincere. She didn't want to need him, he'd felt it from the start. She wasn't just using him until she could do something better. There was more to it than that. Her words cracked at the end, but he thought she'd said she wasn't going to throw it away. She wasn't going to throw him away? It made him smile softly, and once again he moved closer to her and nuzzled her, standing beside her with the heat of his body against the tense coolness of hers. He laid his head across the top of hers protectively, as if to shield her from her pain. He stared out blankly at the land, his body more relaxed than hers, but still a bit rigid from the tension. His rusty fur waved softly as a breeze swept over them, but otherwise, he remained still for a few moments. Requiem got to thinking as he sat there, not yet speaking. There were no words. Nothing he could say would really be able to ease her pain. A soft growl crept into his throat, almost startling him. He wanted to find whoever had done this to her and take his revenge. No one, absolutely no one, should be able to live with themselves after that. Sure, a lot of males rushed into starting a pack before they really got to know the female, but...at least they stuck around for the duration. Suddenly this connected him to another thought and he quickly lifted his head from her and jumped into a standing position, still close but not close enough to be touching her. His bi-colored eyes stared at her, boring into her soul, looking for answers. He didn't look mean really, maybe worried and a little defiant. Her sickness, her continued fatigue even after she'd seemed to be getting better. The way she carried her weight more in her stomach. Oh no. It couldn't be. Devi was too precious, too immaculate. Rape was one thing, but he hoped with time she could get over it. But...the other thing, he just didn't know if she could. He prayed silently that he was wrong, but he felt he had to speak finall. His eyes glazed over with an unreadable emotion, perhaps the inner turmoil of his fears for her was getting the better of him. He paced back and forth beside her as he talked, not trusting himself to stand still anymore. Devi, who did this? Who? I will find them... His words trailed off as he realized it was too late now. They'd left the place where he might have had a chance at finding the other one, if he had been on the boat with Devi. But finding him here where they'd been dumped...it wasn't likely. He sighed and stopped in his tracks, giving Devi a pained look, yet one that was full of love for her. He stuttered as he spoke, the next words being hard for him to get out. When-when did it...happen? Devi? D-do you t-think...?

[/color] He dropped his head and his tail moved between his legs as he felt himself crushing inside. He could only imagine if he felt like this, how bad she must feel. Once again, he moved closer to her, this time sitting down facing her with a worried expression in his odd looking eyes.
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Muse; Maybe a 7?
Words; 980
Notes; Makes me want to cry!
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[Free]

[bg=ffe7f4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,400,true][cs=7] He just stood there, and she felt as if he were her lifeline. Steady, dependable, handsome... She felt her thoughts drifting away. Emotional and physical exhaustion was wearing down her walls, allowing her to think, feel and say just what she usually stopped herself from thinking. But having Req's presence there comforted her. She felt, for the first time in her life, that she might be able to move on. She might just be able to have a normal life. If it was possible, Req would make it happen. Tears came to her eyes at that, but they were good tears, healing tears. Maybe some of the sorrow was leaving her body, seeping through Req into the stoic ground that held centuries of secrets tucked away from sight. Her body slowly began to relax against his, and the way her body fit next to his just worked. It felt good. For the first time, she just let this feeling through her body, basking in it. Every now and then he'd move his head over to hers, making sure she was okay. She could only imagine what he was thinking. While he might be thinking on her emotional state, for the first time she doubted it was negative. Maybe he cared for her, like he always acted. Maybe he felt the same undercurrent as she did. Maybe. Until now, her life had been a string of definite no's. Now her life had enough hope to change those no's into maybes. She jumped as he softly growled, looking him with wide brown eyes. What was that for? He soon stood and his eyes bored into hers, defiant and searching. Did she do something wrong? Was he not wanting the way they sat, close, cuddling? Or maybe it was just something simple, as in he just wanted her to drop her emotional burden? Then his eyes shuttered closed, and he began to pace. His words startled her, but they made sense. He was only feeling protective, as he had since they had first met. Immense relief filled her eyes, and she resumed her sitting position as he paced. He's gone. she replied quietly, seeing her brother's face. And besides, if my brother hasn't found him and dealt with him, I doubt you would have any chance of finding him. He loved me more than anyone.

[/color] she said, sorrow filling her eyes. She missed him. She missed him a lot. She took a deep breath, closing her eyes and picturing her brother smiling. He would want her to remember the good times, and hope for a time he would make it here. He wouldn't want her to mourn for him if he wasn't actually dead. She took a deep shuddering breath, opening her eyes and tracing Req's path.

His glance took her breath away. Though pained with all that was on his mind, it was filled with what she felt inside. She was frozen, and that moment seemed to last forever. She completely surrendered to it. Whatever she was feeling, he mirrored it. Which only seemed to allow her to let it fester, let it grow. If he felt it too, there was no fear in letting it out. She had the feeling her eyes too were shouting the same message to him, but she couldn't be sure.

The moment was broken when he began to speak. He was afraid of the consequences of his question, but it was simple. Only a little over a month ago.[/color] she replied, giving him a small smile. She could overcome this, with his help. But then her face drained of that smile as the implications hit her. He came close again, and she felt herself trembling. Dogs... dogs were pregnant for about two months. Her swelling belly, her hurt paws, emotional stress. I'm pregnant.[/color] she murmured, disbelief shading her features. Suddenly anger broke free. How dare he! It's bad enough he raped me, but now I am carrying his pups! How dare he?[/color] Her voice broke, and she sobbed that last sentence.

All of this was his fault. And now, for sure, Req would leave her. He didn't need to take care of her, but now pups? They weren't his, he wouldn't take care of them, she wouldn't make him. The shaking got bad enough she lay herself down, panting heavily as the realization set in. Was this how her mother felt? Was this what she was thinking when she got pregnant? But she didn't have Req, she didn't have a support system. But Devi had to remind herself, Req wouldn't stick around for long. At this realization he would come to the limit of his compassion and leave her. He needed to learn the land, hunt, spend all his time trying to survive, rather than take care of her and an unknown amount of pups.

But she couldn't do it without him. She turned her dark eyes to his, and she could feel herself silently pleading with him. He had to stay with her. He had to. What about that moment they had just shared? Wasn't that enough of a connection that he would stick around? Would this bout of positive thinking work out for her? Would she survive to teach her daughters about the cruel dogs that lived in the world? Her heart was beating wildly, not sure which way to lean, despair or hope.
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Muse; Not bad
Words; 900
Notes; Poor Devi girl. Stuck between what she should be feeling, despair or hope.[/center][/size]
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[Issalyn]

[bg=d6dde5][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=border,0,true][cs=7] The usually strong, sturdy male looked timid and weak as his glazed eyes peered at Devi. He watched her ponder over his words, and saw the despair hit her as the realization sunk in. Apparently she hadn't figured it out yet. He blamed himself for not realizing it sooner. Hadn't he seen those same symptoms show up in his mother before each miscarried litter? Such thoughts about his mother made his heart jump as he placed Devi in that position. As Devi sat there leaning into him sobbing, he felt himself wondering which would be worse. For some reason, he felt like he'd be destroyed if Devi lost her pups, even if they weren't what she wanted. He let her get her angst out without bothering her. He offered a soothing voice and a tender touch as she quivered and cried. Then her beautiful dark eyes met his with a pleading look. She looked hopeless and afraid, just as she had the first time he'd seen her precious gaze. He felt himself wondering if the look she'd given him then hadn't been almost as much emotional turmoil as it was now. He'd assumed it was all physical – the hunger, the pain. But now he was hating himself, wishing he would have given her emotional support sooner. Shhh. It's all right Devi. I'm here. We'll get through this. He lifted his head away from her as he realized what he'd said. We'll get through this. Not just her, but both of them. He sat up a little prouder then, as if remembering he was there to help her through it all. One blue-grey eye and one warm brown eye peered tenderly upon her as he offered as much comfort as he could. Finally the sobs subsided and Requiem stood and cleared his throat. She needed to get past this, for her sake, and for the health of the pups. She'd need every bit of strength she had in the coming weeks, and if she kept wallowing in sorrow he feared he'd end up losing her entirely. His dark pinkish tan nose softly nuzzed the white of her chin as if asking her to look up and listen to him. Dev, I know this is terrible. It really is. But... I'm not going anywhere. After what we've been through, you know you can trust me. Right? You're the first thing that has given my life purpose in a long time. Nothing will turn me away from you.

[/color] He locked his eyes with hers in a steady stare, unblinking for a moment. He wanted to know he had her attention. I can't image how you feel, but believe me when I say nothing from your past is going to change my feelings for you.[/color]

His solid gaze melted into a fondness which was unexplainable. His tail thumped the ground and his entire expression grew more confident and also more joyful. If you really are...going to have puppies, you need to keep up your health. Right now it may seem like a huge burden, but remember, those puppies are just as innocent as you. They didn't ask for this any more than you did. They aren't the ones who hurt you. They will need love and guidance just like any pup, and I hope you can find it in your heart to accept them. It will take time, but I'll be here with you the whole way.[/color] Requiem turned and walked a couple paces away then, hoping he hadn't just hurt her feelings with what he was asking of her. He knew she probably wasn't ready for acceptance yet. But someday she might learn to love those pups and realize that joy can result from even the worst circumstances.

He sat down, with his back to her then. He couldn't face her yet. His heart was still a churning mixture of anger and sadness, but he was trying to work past that and find happiness. He had Devi now. He hoped he had her as his own forever. But it was too soon to call her 'his', and until she was ready he tried to brush such thoughts from his mind. Eyes narrowed into slits as the breeze picked up and pricked at his fur. The daylight was starting to grow dimmer, and soon they'd need to rest. Sensing how physically and emotionally spent Devi was, he decided they probably couldn't travel any more. He looked around for a shelter, his eyes coming to a few trees and bushes only a moment's jog away. He didn't move. Nothing in his body stirred other than the wind tossing his hair around. When she was ready, he'd take her to their resting spot for the night.

---TWO MORNINGS LATER---

The past two days had been hell for Requiem, and he knew Devi had to be feeling the same. Their journey had been slow, with many breaks. If he'd been alone, he probably could have ran the distance in the time between one sunrise and one sunset. But they'd stopped early two evenings for a good night's rest, and only started out again once dawn had fully bloomed.

They'd crossed from the sandly lands into the grassy lands, and just this morning had been loping across some flat plains. The travel was easier on the rich viridian flat lands. The grasses sometimes felt tangled around his legs, but if he kept his nose to the ground and pushed through, it still felt less straining on his muscles than the deep sands of the first day had.

He was panting now, feeling the sun growing warmer and the air drier. Devi was always by his side, or at least never far from it. She hadn't talked a whole lot the day before, but what little had been said between them made him hope things would get better. At least she was moving now and hadn't completely given up and refused to go on.

Requiem hadn't shared his plans with her yet. Over the past two nights, he'd lain awake into the darkest hours, thinking about their life. He'd decided she needed a consistency that so far they hadn't had in their relationship. She needed a permanent home where she'd feel safe – and where her puppies would feel safe when they made their entrance to the world. He needed a place where he could get to know the land well enough to leave her side for a few hours to go hunting and bring food back to her. For the first time in his life, he felt like he was ready to take on a challenge. He was going to claim a piece of territory as his own. He wasn't the strongest dog out there, but he would gladly fight off anyone who dared pose a threat to his growing 'family'. He'd also realized how much he loved Devi's companionship, but knew that both of them would benefit from having a larger pack around.

He felt a little dishonest because he hadn't shared his ideas immediately, but he had to find just the right time. He wanted her to be surprised, happy even. She had to know that he was doing this for her, but not because he felt obligated to. It was because he wanted to. He wanted to belong to something bigger than just himself. He wanted to prove that he was capable of doing something right. He also wanted to quit dwelling on his past and start looking at the future. How could he ask Devi to do that if he wasn't also willing to do the same?

All his musing had kept him quiet, but Devi hadn't seemed to mind. It wasn't an awkward silence that had been traveling with them. Just the silence of two troubled souls sorting out their feelings and trying to set themselves on the right path.

But now, now the time was right. They had been walking up a crest of land, slowly gaining elevation. Finally, they reached the top. The sight was breathtaking. From atop the hill, they could see many more rolling hills out ahead of them. They could see some lakes and ponds in the distance. There were trees and flowers and...life. It was thriving. The perfect balance of security and open land. His heart lept inside his chest and his entire body swelled with pride. This, all of this magnificent land, was their new home.

He hadn't picked up a trace of canine scent since early the day before. He knew he was safe staking a claim on this land. He'd still have much scouting to do to find his boundaries, but he was ready to get settled in.

Reqiuem sat down at the top of the hill and then turned to look at Devi. It's perfect, don't you think?[/color] He couldn't help the smile that spread across his lips and he stood up excitedly. He felt a spring in his step for the first time since they'd landed on this unknown land. What would you say about making this land ours, Devi girl? Mine...and yours? I think it's time we settled down someplace we can call our home.[/color] His opposite hued eyes poured out the excitement he was feeling as he met her gaze. His muscles were itching to let loose and run, really run, but he forced himself to stay still until she was on the same page.
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Muse; Holy cow.
Words; 1725
Notes; Ends with them seeing Honoka Hill. (:
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