Post by Lonestar on Jul 3, 2012 16:36:57 GMT -5
Daer: The wind ruffled its banking currents beneath a massive wingspan, the great bird of the sky soaring up, up, up, and then tucking his wings to his side, diving headfirst towards the ground. At the last moment before impact, the feathered extensions unfurled, and like a parachute, the insanely fast speeds were lost, the creature climbing into the sky once more. He was utterly silent, his ebony body gliding with practiced ease. A first glance, he would appear to be an over-sized crow or raven, but his body structure was clearly that of a bald eagle. Albinos were seen much more often than one like Daer. But, alas, Daer is probably the only one to appear as a black bald eagle. Once more, he entered a steep dive, the sleek body twirling like a grenade through the air. Again, before impact, wings expanded, but this time, he did not launch upwards. There was a flutter of wings, and suddenly, it seemed, there was an eagle no more. Landing lightly on his feet, a male human stuffed his hands into his jeans pockets, There was a cave nearby, and a couple of boulders and rocks placed off to the side of its entrance. The drake walked over to the pile, plopping himself down on one and propping his feet up on another. His head leaned back, arms reaching up to rest behind it, eyes closing. Mmmm. A bit boring, but Daer was content, at least slightly.
Bricaza*Tanned mask was turned upward at the sun, lids shut over pools and arms spread out wide as the sun's rays were basked in through the tough Indian skin. It was simply another day to the lass, one that would repeat itself over and over just as the days always did for life had order. A shadow passed over the maiden's features, the sudden shift in the atmosphere causing shades to lift immediately, gaze following the figure in the sky as it moved past. Hmm... That is strange. No black eagle has made their nest here. Limbs jumped into a run, long limbs garbed in a pair of jean shorts pushing the essa forward effortlessly, bodice floating over the ground. "Step carefully, young one. Things are not always as they seem." Cautious tunes warned the fea, the other, older and much more experienced half of the fatal speaking up as it always did in situations such as these. Joyous smile pulls across features at the caring words. Ah, Caza was always so careful. What needs have I for caution? I have you on my side do I not? Brazen words were meant with a loving chuckle, cooing vocals coming out in reply. "Ah my dear, that you do, but I am not the strongest beast you will come in contact with. No, I want no questions to be cast my way about your fate. That is for you to find out on your own." Mouth opened as if a verbal protest was to be made, but was shut quickly as lobes caught the sound of wind whistling through feathers, the stranger was making a downwards glide. Pace increased slightly, the dame in no real hurry to catch the newcomer. There was no need to rush life for it came at its own speed. Better enjoy it while the acceleration remains level and easy. Then, just as suddenly as the noise had started, it stopped, crown tilting slightly in wonderment at the fiasco. A line of trees blocked her vision for now, but soon they were gone and pools locked upon the figure of another human, frown creasing beautifully exotic mask, strides shortening as she approached the rather unexpected visitor. "Do not let your human mind cloud your sight. You know how he came to be here." Older voice scolded, facade losing any sign of confusion almost immediately at the reminder. Yes, there is only one explanation for this. The eagle must have chosen this man as the wolf chose me. For a moment, the temptation to offer a smile to the drake filled her, the connection they shared allowing the vixen to feel comfortable around him. "You know nothing of him! You two are not the same! Remember how species vey for dominance." Soft sigh was let out of lips while any traces of the beginning of a grin erased from her kissers. Not many visit here.
Daer:A girl's words came to Daer, and his eyes opened slowly, taken in her feminine structure with little interest. She was deeply tanned, and seemed to be having some sort of inward conversation with herself. Freak. Orbs rolled slightly in their sockets, a sigh expelling from the drake's parted speakers. "Then you haven't been very observant," came his sarcastic baritonals, a single brow arching as her met her eyes. Shoulder plates rolled, crossing over each other in the movement, and he sat up, elbows resting on his knees. Two shapes or many? Daer inquired to himself, pondering the girl's possibilities. Obviously, he knew that she was a shape-shifter. Her rather open mind tempted him, and he dived in headfirst, pouring with curiosity over the lass's thoughts. He forced himself to remain on more current thoughts for the time-being, noting the fact that she was a bit comfortable with him, seeing as they were of the same kind. He shrugged to himself, peering up at the standing female. You'd be surprised how relaxed Daer can appear at certain times. This girl was lucky she'd arrived at just such a time.
Bricaza*Smile pulled at taught lips at the drake’s words, legs crossing slightly as rump sank to the earth. Emerald depths met the lord's easily, tiara still tilted slightly as she sat upon the ground Indian style, looking like an innocent little child. Nothing escapes my eyes here, stranger. Curious expression continued to remain upon mask as she openly studied him, crown tilted gently while the chastity of youth seemed to emit from her ever motion. Of course, the lady was not as young as she seemed, her obviously matured attributes showed that much, but it was fun to play the part when you were around one who knew nothing about you yes? Grin widens as she feels the duke try to probe her mind, laughter being held back. Previously roaming eyes lift to meet black holes once more as the vixen prepares herself to deal with such a naughty visitor. It is not wise to read the thoughts of others without permission. Thoughts spoke towards him, the open chasm that was shutting down quickly as it blocked whatever means he used to gain access to her thoughts. "I am surprised the eagle was able to take this one before the weasel did. A mischievous one he is. Not usually the eagle’s type." Caza's voice spoke within the locked down portion of the fea's complex cranium, causing the maiden to giggle at the words. My wolf says you would have made an excellent weasel. Tunes let out to him, orbs sparkling with playfulness, waiting in an amused state to see what the drake's reply would be to that.
Daer:A chuckle escaped Daer's lips, his gaze shifting downwards as the girl sat pretzel-style on the ground. "Then I don't know what you've been looking for, but it clearly wasn't me." Brows arched as she noted his entrance to her mind and cut him off, an amused smile brought forth to his speakers. She is wiser than I first thought, Daer said to himself, contemplating such a thought. No one had ever been aware of his entry to their mind, let alone been able to block him out. Coal eyes stared at her with intense interest, body leaning more upright to let his arms cross, his gaze scrutinizing. He was surprised by her light giggle before she spoke again, and he had to let a chuckle flit past his own vocal cords at her comment. "I can take the weasel just as easily I can take the eagle or the wolf," he told her. Oddly enough, Daer had taken a liking to this girl, her personality was unlike any other he'd come across. She was smart, but upbeat. He always met smart pessimistic people or dumb happy people, but never smart happy people. He shrugged to himself, sliding down off the boulder to sit in the dirt in front of her. "So, Bricaza, why haven't I seen you around here before?" He'd taken the liberty of snatching her name before anything else, and a good thing he did, as her wall was impenetrable. Soon enough, he gave up on trying to find a gap in the seal, and just focused on what he did know about her, which wasn't much. Daer didn't like it, he didn't like it at all.
Bricaza*Giggles cut off, crown tilting slightly and brow cocking at the drakes words. Upper body leans forward just as his did, a questioning expression on facade. What makes you think I was looking for anything? Vocals ask without emotion, frame leaning back again and hands coming to rest against the earth just behind the essa, all weight being transferred onto arms. Emerald pools continued to watch the male, her never ending curiosity about the world around her extending to who the man was and what he was about. Perhaps he could tell her more about their "kind." None within the tribe would hardly even acknowledge those who underwent the change, let alone tell the lass much about what was happening. Although Bricaza was an important asset to her extended family, ever since she had joined with the wolf, she had been excelled in a way. Her previous friends barely seeming to see her as she walked through the reservation to the elder's meeting house. Even her mother and father, who were very nervous and anxious that their daughter was one of the chosen, had managed to distance themselves from her. To the tribe, she was there to protect the wilderness and the people who lived in peace with it, but the presence of a shifter within the tribe's ranks was becoming less and less necessary as the government took more and more control of what happened. A slightly surprised look was sent to the lord at his declaration. One who shares his mind with all creatures? This was rare indeed. Small smile fluttered across features as the baron lifted himself from the rock and moved closer to her, deciding to join her upon the ground rather than keeping distance between them like before. Apparently, she was just as interesting to him as he was to her. Light hearted chuckle met his question and figure shifts forward, hands moving to fold in her lap while an answer is formulated. I am surprised neither of us has run into the other if you have been within these lands for long. These woods are mine to protect. I roam them constantly.
Daer:He shrugged at her question, for once having no sarcastic reply at the ready instantaneously. Torso leaned backwards against the bolder, one leg stretched out and the other bent at a tight angle, the paired arm resting on it whilst the other folded over his waist. Daer closed his eyes, sighing to himself in contemplation. Lips pursed, and lids slid open again, his eyes meeting her curious green gaze. Chest heaved as the sigh was expelled, and his mouth opened to let words escape. "I've always known that there were others like me," he said softly. "But we are not the same, you know. I am the last of my kind. If you'd come across anyone other than me, I can assure that they, too, would only be claimed by one animal. And, like you, they would not be able to pour over one's innermost thoughts." Daer paused, surprised that he had voiced so much to the female. But hey, he'd already said this much; why not go the whole nine yards? Lips parted and her murmured quietly again. "I am a dying breed, Bricaza. I am all that's left." She too, was part of a long-forgotten race, but there were others like her. Creatures like himself and the lass once roamed the earth freely, living in peace with the humans. But, if anyone knows basic knowledge of humans, they would know that a bi-pedal would consider such a creature a threat. And so they'd hunted them, driving shape-shifters to the brink of extinction. A select few managed to hide and hone their skills over the years until they found their full potential - this was Daer's kind. The others had found it best to abandon such a way of life, and were soon mere humans themselves. But every once in a while, an animal's spirit chooses a human; this is all they can become. And such was Bricaza's breed. They were once the same, but now they never could be.
Bricaza*A sudden new seriousness came over the essa's guise at the drake's sigh, something obviously weighing upon his mind. It was a strange occurrence to see one so confident and guarded to change their outerance in an instant to become almost the opposite. There was no pleasure in masculine tunes this time as they came forth to the maiden, her torso leaning closer as if something within the words, or perhaps the male himself, were drawling her towards him like a magnet who had just encountered its polar opposite. Orbs remained locked upon charcoal depths, unwilling to release the gaze. Sadness filled her breast at the sentences, all of this having already been known by the fea, but never really had she thought much about it. One thing that had always been a constant give and take between her and the tribe was protection. In the older days when none ruled over the Chiefs, the chosen protected the group in times of battle. Now, that principle was gone, but still another remained. Bricaza was to protect the customs and heritage of her people and in return, she gained the safety of being included within their number. The man before her had no such luxury and it was apparent that the decreasing number of their kind worried him. As pools continued to watch his, mood growing closer to depression than before, a strange impulse came from deep inside, the wild seeming to take over the girl's body, calling her to rise. Short, smooth strides brought her to the bloke's side, bodice twisting until rump slid onto the rock behind him. Diaphragm leaned over his, eyes no longer of human origins blazing down. Nature runs its course. Every creature adapts over time. Tiara tilts, hand reaching out to push strands of coal hair from the other's forehead. Realization jolts the damsel's mind at the connection of skin, confusion flashing through lanterns while she fought for control. Frame leaned back once again, digits pressing to her temples as lids closed. Dome shook gently, chin lifting again, gems meeting his again. One side of lips lifted in a slight grin. I’m sorry. I don’t know what came over me. Vision shifted to the woods then before returning. I feel at a disadvantage. Your abilities gave you my name, yet I have no such things at my disposal, as you've pointed out. Care to tell me your name? Brow cocks in question, any sign of the bizarre happening from only a few seconds ago erased from visionage while inside, mind churned over what had overcome her. Could the spirits really have such ability to take over her very being at their will? "You do not want to know what the spirits can do, young one." Soothing voice spoke quietly, silently willing the lass to think nothing more of it.
Daer:"Nature runs its course. Every creature adapts over time." Her words buzzed through his head, as if bouncing off the walls at a rapid rate, unable to be deciphered. How, though, had their species adapted? Over time, they had simply withered away, not thrived like such an evolved species should. Ebon gaze followed the lass as she trotted over to the boulder, planting herself on it and leaning over him. At her touch, it was like a bolt of electricity shot through him, but he did not move. It was over only too quickly, and the unruly locks fell back over his forehead anyway. He managed a small smile in return to hers; the first genuine smile he had given her. His head cocked upwards towards her, an arm reaching up, his fingers gently brushing her face before the limb dropped back to its resting position. "Don't be," he murmured. Oddly enough, the movement had felt... right, to Daer. He laughed lightly at her question. "I am Daer," he informed her. He head leaned back against the rock, eyes closing. His mind was still heavily weighted with his previous ponderings, but his tense facial features seemed to have relaxed slightly by now. It was no use worrying about how to change the past, and he figured the future would figure itself out. Or at least he hoped it would.
Bricaza*Organs regular beating jumped into a rapid pumping as hand moved towards her face, fingertips brushing barely against the skin upon her cheek. In a flash, the moment was over and the male's hand had dropped back to his side, as if it had never moved from that position. If only her heart would stop doing this craziness! God, it would be amazing if the drake didn’t hear the increasing pace. For her, it was hard to ignore, every pump resounding within her head, making her ears pound and all other noises seeming like whispers. Smile was returned to him, a weak attempt being made to push the action from her mind while the damsel tried to focus on what he said next. Daer... I like it. Vocals spoke, mulling over the name for a few seconds while she rolled the pronunciation around with her tongue. Form slowly slid down the rock face, legs extending out in front of her as the lass moved downward. Soon, her rump came in contact with the soil and knees were drawn up towards her chest, lower arms resting across knees while tiara turned towards the bloke, jade surfaces watching closed shades, feeling as if she was staring at just another piece of nature. Daer fit in here. Fit in perfectly with the wood and all of its surroundings. Which, as he shared his body with practically every creature in the world, was expected.
Daer:Daer could feel the heat of her body as she slid down the rock face to sit beside him. It was oddly comforting, much unlike other things he'd felt before. The male had never, in his lifetime, been attracted to anyone. Not that he talked to anybody that much anyway. But there was something about Bricaza that lit a fuse in him, and it burned at such a high rate, Daer wondered if he might turn bright red from it. However, his face remained the same pale shade it always was, though one could admit, it was slightly heated. He turned his head slowly, his ebon gaze meeting her vibrant green one. He was hesitant at first, his arm trembling slightly as he lifted it, but she had not objected to his previous movement, so he allowed himself to proceed. His fingertips brushed her cheek, collecting the wayward strands of hair and tucking them behind her ear. This time, his fingers lingered on her cheekbone, brushing against it as his hand drew down her face, tracing the contours of her cheek. His hand withdrew to rest across his waist again, his eyes searching hers. Daer had no idea what he was doing, touching her like that, but it wasn't a conscious movement. They were movements of times gone by, of ancestors many generations back. Movements of attraction, of affection. "I can't lie, Bricaza. You've got my full attention," he murmured softly. Normally, if he was conversing with someone else, Daer paid only the slightest attention to them, and they knew it. But, alas, he couldn't seem to take his eyes off of Bricaza. She was utterly fascinating, he had to admit.
Bricaza*Breath quickened slightly as previously closed lids lifted and bottomless black holes met the essa's emeralds, trapping her within its gaze and causing her to lose more and more of herself to the depths with each passing moment. This was so bizarre. Daer was like no one she had ever met before, but then again, there was only a select few people who the lass had come in contact with outside of her tribe. Lashes flutter gently as curtains lower to cover pools, the soft yet firmer touch of his hand against her cheek drawing such a reaction from her. Breathless sigh came forth from diaphragm, lips parting slightly to release the carbon just as surfaces exposed themselves the light of the sun once again. Brilliant grin lit up her suddenly shy mask as chin dropped to cast vision away from him, one hand dropping to play pointlessly with the few strands of grass by her feet. Why do I have a feeling that having your full attention is not something many people have the pleasure of getting? Quiet vocals questioned without really expecting an answer, guise lifting towards his again. It was weird for her to feel so comfortable in his presence, especially considering that she was attracted to him. Let’s just say, her experience with the opposite sex was limited and none of the guys she had run into while on the reservation or during the short and very infrequent trips to the town seemed to call to her as the one did. Perhaps it was the similarities they shared in life, but even the things they had in common had differences.
Daer:He chuckled softly at her seemingly shy nature, her gaze averting his as her fingers intertwined with the blades of grass along the ground. He dropped his own eyes, his fingertips brushing along the top of her hand, tracing the veins as he studied it, almost as if her hand were the eighth wonder of the world. Daer's head nodded slowly at Bricaza's words, his lips parting as he replied. "It's a first," he informed her with a soft smile. Maybe it was corny to just sit her with their backs to a boulder, giving soft gestures of affection, but Daer didn't really give a crap, and he doubted that Bricaza did either. His torso shifted, allowing his muscular shoulder to come in contact with hers with a light pressure; hardly an ounce of weight was rested on her, simply a gentle touch. But he stayed there, his eyes still following his fingers as they traced over Bricaza's hand. He'd never... cared, so much about another being. Daer had hardly known what it was to care before now, and the emotions welling up inside of him were like a time-bomb, ticking away until he'd explode.
Bricaza*Didgets stopped their twirling motion as gentle fingertips moved to trace the top of the essa's hand, one blade still twisted around forefinger, forgotten. Then, the warm puffs of air being exhaled from his parted lips sent a tingling down her arm, every little hint of his presence screaming out to her as if she would be able to ignore it in the first place. She could hear the smile in his voice as he spoke, position shifting slightly till their shoulders touched, yet another point of connection. Never in her life would the maiden expect such a simple touch as the one he had upon the skin of her hand to create a response in her like it was now. Tongue came out and wet lips as visionage tilted upward barely, hardly having to move for she was within centimeters of his facade without even trying. I suppose I should consider myself lucky then. Lyrics breathed, not daring to make another motion besides staring into those shadowy liquids, the tension in the atmosphere growing the longer she held her stance. His lips were close. She could kiss him easily if she wanted. Surprise at her own thoughts bubbled up inside of the fea, building the apprehension in the air even more. Bri didn’t know this man. How could she be thinking about someone she had just met in this way? It didn’t matter anyway. The damsel wanted him to kiss her. Wanted to know what his kissers felt and tasted like against hers. A deep breath was taken in through nostrils, the scent of the wood and more importantly, of Daer, finding its way into her passageways. Involuntarily, torso leaned in closer to his, nares flaring to bring in the aroma again. It was intoxicating! Pleasurable sigh was released from cavern, shoulders relaxing even further. What would happen next? With them, it seemed like anything could.
Daer:"If you wish to call it luck," Daer replied with a soft chuckle. "I think I'm the one that should be considered lucky." Most people hated the boy with morbid, burning passion. Of course, the feelings were mutual. He could feel her eyes searching his face, but still the male did not meet her gaze, for fear that it would reflect some sort of mistake he may have already made. Generally, strong emotions drew Daer into some animal's shape that most often took on such a mood, but for once, there was no possible threat of that happening. Everything he was feeling was so... human. A long, deep sigh was drawn in, a hand lifting as Daer's fingers pinched the bridge of his nose. He would appear stressed and fretful, which he was at the moment, his eyes closed and his head shaking in minuscule movements. His hand dropped back to resting on his knee, hitting the fabric of his jeans with a soft smack. The ebon eyes reopened, this time meeting her gaze. There was something he wished very badly to do, the thought nagging at all sides of his mind as his eyes roamed her beautiful face. His voice was nearly silent when he spoke again, barely even a whisper: "Don't... slap me." Somehow, he doubted that she would, but he said it all the same. Their faces were so close, and his own closed the gap fully, Daer's lips meeting hers with a burning longing.
Bricaza*Frown formed slowly on features, the valley between her perfectly manicured eyebrows growing smaller as concern started to fill her bosom. Frame leaned away from the lord slightly, relieving the pressure of her shoulder against his as anxious orbs watched his almost agony filled features. Had she done something wrong? Maybe she had confused the signs about his interest and he now was trying to figure it out how to break it to her. But, if she had, what did it mean, him tracing the bones and veins that ran through her hands? A section of her lower lip was pulled between her teeth, position shifting lightly and hand moving to rest once again in her lap, fingers of both hands twitting with the others while the silence continued and her dread grew. Damn it she had been so sure about this one. Her emotions were so strong. This was silly! How could she be sad about something she never had? After all, the lass had only known this man for what, a few minutes? That was not enough time to develop a relationship and besides, Bricaza didn’t need one anyway. Her life was complicated enough at this moment in time with the ceremony only having happened about two weeks ago. She had a whole forest and a tribe to protect. Where would there be time for a relationship? Knees were drawn up almost to her chin, wrists lifting to rest upon the top of them while an awkward feeling came over her, thumb nail running under that of her opposite forefinger and creating a slight popping sound. In fact, the lady had almost gotten the courage to stand up and declare that she had to be going when the sound of the male's hand slapping against his thigh caught her attention, startled eyes darting in his direction only to find coal pair incredibly close to her face. Gasp was drawn in quickly and the second it was the damsel felt the heat of embarrassment upon her cheeks, although, she doubted Daer could see it due to her dark skin tone, but he might just be able to feel it as near as his mask was to hers. Tongue again wet lips just before the baron's words came to her and his visionage moved closer. It took only a moment for her to realize what was happening and by then the lord's lips had already met hers and her lids were closing over orbs in response. Swooning sigh escaped diaphragm as the maiden leaned into his kiss, frame twisting slightly towards him and one hand bracing against the ground while the other dangled loosely at the end of her arm draped across jean clad legs.
Daer:As the girl leaned into his movement, a hand came to rest on her knee, his lips molding to hers. Sure, he had kissed a girl once or twice before; what teenage boy didn't? But Daer had never kissed a girl like this. There had never been the passion, the insistent need to not stop that there was now. He'd never imagined that he could feel so much. Later rather than sooner, he pulled away, his eyes reopening to glance at her and then to the treetops, seemingly so distant, but in actuality, rather close. Close enough to reach out, close your eyes, feel your fingertips brush their canopies. You'd realize moments later that it had merely been the wind. His eyes kept darting to Bricaza, as if she, too, was merely the wind playing tricks on him. But, alas, each time he looked, she was there. She was real. "Someday I'll take you flying," he murmured softly, smiling at the though. If shape-shifters still existed, one must believe that long-dead species lived on with them, no? He was, in fact, referring to dragons. But that wasn't the point of his words. In what he said, Daer was asking a question: will there be other days? He so hoped there would, and looking back to Bri, he draped and arm across her shoulders, pulling her a little closer, as if here were afraid she might slip, like the wind, right through his fingertips. Someday.
Bricaza*Smile was instantly on her facade as the drake pulled away from their kiss, shades lifting slowly from emeralds to meet with his dark pools. Position shifted closer to him as his gaze left hers, head bending to rest on the lord's shoulder while she looked off into the forest with a carefree smile. This was a totally new situation for the fea and unlike she had imagined, the essa was not nervous nor did she feel awkward leaning against him after having just kissed him. Grin broadened when words were formed by the man's mouth and they rumbled through his chest, the vibration of his cords causing an unknown sensation to run over the maiden's skin. Frame moved even closer while tongue wet lips before they parted and sound was released. I would love that. Came her reply, chin lifting as she struggled to try and look into his eyes once again. Unfortunately, the male was still looking away from her and so she could only see the edges of his surfaces. Hands reached over his body to grab the hand that was not draped over his shoulders and pulled the baron's arm across his lap, setting their hands on her thigh while thumbs and fingers ran gently over his hand, tracing the veins and bones on the top of the hand and the fold lines on the palm. The protective wall around her mind slipped down. Why did she need to defend herself from him anyway? "My child, you are foolish." Frown formed at her other half's warning. There was a bond of trust now between Daer and her. It didn’t matter to the vixen that it had been formed as quickly as it had, but it seemed like the wolf continued to be reserved in giving her full trust to the lad. Then, the surprised bark of a lupine came floating across the winds to enter into the dame's ear and instantly, a dread filled her. Lids shut tightly over mossy pair, trying to wish the distraction away, but a cry for help came again, urgency growing with every second she remained motionless. "Bricaza! You accepted this duty by bonding with me. That doesn’t change just because you have found this boy. Hazen child!" Sigh escaped through her nostrils, the wolf form threatening to take over while the lass let go of the male's hand and moved to her knees facing him. I’m so sorry, but I have to go. Torso leaned in towards him, hands bracing against the ground on either side of Daer's legs, a quick kiss being pressed to his lips. Look for me from the skies. Tunes whispered with a smile as Bri moved away from him quickly, standing to turn towards the wood and taking off at a run towards its edge, the change already starting to come over her bodice. By the time she entered into the tree line, the figure of a girl had disappeared, a coal varg remaining where the lass had once been. Footfalls landed soundlessly upon the earth, allowing the mistress to sneak up upon the hunter/prey pair without either of them noticing. A sharp bark distracted the larger beast enough for her fellow wolf to dash off and out of danger. Angered, accusing black orbs glared down upon the raven fem. "Ah, my dear. How wonderful for you to ruin my hunt. I was hoping that one was you, Caza." Growl escaped forth from parted lips, another bark being sent towards the creature. "You know better than to hunt in these woods, fiend. The spirits seek peace here and as you know, it is my duty to make sure they are promised such. Leave my domain or I shall invoke my rage." Practiced vocals warned, invoking only chuckles from the male's mouth. "Oh you shall Caza? What army shall enforce your rage this time?" Smug smile pulled across onyx features and muzzle lifted in a long howl, the songs of many coming in answer. "I am surprised you had forgotten that I command every wolf in these lands. Leave, Hunter. You shall get no bounty today."
Daer:Daer's head tilted as a wolf's bark reached his ears, and suddenly, Bricaza's position was tense, seeming to fight with herself. "I'm so sorry, but I have to go." He kissed her back as leaned towards him, and smiled slightly at her second sentence. "Look for me from the skies." Watching her disappear, Daer sat for a few moments, unwilling to believe that she wasn't just a figment of his imagination. Sure that she had been real, for he could still taste her on his lips, he rose and leapt upwards, his body soon embracing the form of a raven. Wings flapped powerfully as the male propelled himself after Bri, shadowing her wolf-body as it ran until she stopped to converse with another. He darted upwards, settling on a nearby tree branch and tilted his head like birds do, studying Bri while clearly attempting to appear like any normal raven. Of course she would know it was he, but surely the one who was threatening her would be unaware the danger that lurked just over his head. He shuffled his wings and hunkered down, settling to wait for the time-being, lest dear Bri should need him.
Bricaza*A rage filled look stared down from the disfigured face at the confident wolf, a white smile breaking through onyx layer to shine out at the beast. Adrenaline pumped continuously through veins, the maiden nearly yearning for battle through the invincible feeling that was supplied. "Relax my dear. You must learn to be choosey with your fights. We need naught waste our energy on this one." Fond, wise voice told the younger fatal, muscles instantly relaxing as the girl took her teachers advice to heart. Lobe flickered towards the flank, many heavily padding feet sending another shot of courage through the shared body. Wait, what was that sound? The foreign one that belonged to no wolf? Muzzle lifted slightly and orbs roamed around the clearing, finding the source quickly and letting a private smile and wink loose at the dark bird. "Focus Bri!" Previously gentle voice barked, obvious irritation at the male's continued distracting presence showing through the order. Defiantly, the lass kept her mind open, overpowering the attempts by her advisor to close the gap. Surprisingly, the fea managed to keep the elder from seceding, a feeling of accomplishment running through her brain at the triumph. Perhaps she was stronger than what had been previously believed. Of course, it was nowhere near likely that her spirit was using her full power, but it was nice to know that Bri had a stake in the defense of the wood. When voids landed again upon the intruder, they found the other had dropped into a fighting like crouch, teeth bared as if merely waiting for the right moment to attack. Formation immediately transformed into a defensive position, upper lifting and a warning growl emitting at the Were. "Has your hearing gone since our last meeting Hunter? You know there is little chance of success against me." "Ah, that might be so when your power is unlimited, but you reside in a newly shapes body. Your connection with the human is weak and naive. I doubt her skills are as developed as your own Caza." Another growl emitted, this time with both of the entities putting their force behind it. I can do this, adviser. Let us show him. Displeased syllables almost pleaded, limbs flinching in anxiety as the wait was too much. There was little doubt that the elder would turn her down. After all, the anger within the wolf was match that of the lady's. "No, Bri. Hold your position." Frame jerked forward the instant a reply started, only to have to pull back as the negative was given. Snarl ripped forth from snout, the Hunter's laughter filling the air at the scene before him. "Whats wrong Caza? Does the girl not approve of you decision?" Booming laughter continued to fill the forest, irritation within the fatal growing with every passing second. Soon, the rest of the wood wolves arrived, all evenly flanking the shifter on both sides. Leggings straightened then, the force of her mentor too much for the Indian girl to defy this time as the elder took control. "Leave now Hunter. You know well my soldiers are well trained." Chuckles subsided at this, sharply edged teeth grinding against one another, the beast visibly fighting to keep in his rage. A breathless second later, the grizzly creature turned and ran, a sharp bark from the ebony varg sending two wolves to follow his path to be sure the Hunter made his way out of the forest. Instantly after all three had disappeared, the shift began again, no warning being given to the wolf as the mortal willed herself into her human form. Jet black strands fell in the essa's face as the change finished, hands bracing against the ground and head hung low like, sharp breaths into and from her diaphragm. The other wolf who seemed to be in charge of the others whimpered once and pressed the tip of his muzzle to her tanned cheek, bringing the damsel to gather the strength and straighten her spine. One hand rustled the bloke's robe like one would do to any other dog, a quick wolfish smile flashing her way before they all disappeared, the running gait taking them back to where they had come from. Heavy sigh escaped body, knees lifting from the ground and feet replacing them slowly as Bricaza came to a stand, turning to look at the limb where Daer had been spotted earlier. That didn’t take you very long. Lyrics teased, an attempt at light heartedness being made by the vixen as she fought to block the previous events from her mind.
Daer:Daer tilted his head and watched from his perch as Bri conversed - in a way - with the wolf who was clearly unwelcome. He bristled at the creature's words as Bri grew more and more angry, his features puffing up and his eyes harsh. However, he went unnoticed, and after a while, the creature left. The girl was soon in human form again, and Daer watched as she ruffled the fur atop one of the wolf's heads. When she looked up at him, Daer was still bristling, and his posture was displeased. At her words and her smile, however, he visibly relaxed. His raven body melted into a long, thing creature - a snake- and Daer made his easy way across the tree branch. The black scales easily gripped the bark, but then he somersaulted off and into the air landing right-side-up on his feet - human feet. The boy leaned back against the tree, studying Bricaza with fair interest. He grinned after a while and spoke. "What can I say?" he asked rhetorically. "I'm not about to lose the best thing I ever found." He lifted his muscular arms and clasped his hands behind his head, his eyes venturing over the curves of Bri's lovely face. Black eyes met hers, and he spoke again. "Who was that guy, anyway?" he asked, nodding in the direction in which the wolf had vanished.
Bricaza*Dome tilted curiously as she watched the bird form slowly slink away to be replaced with that of a coal snake, trying to decide if the boy was simply showing off or if he enjoyed being in different forms constantly. The latter seemed less of a possibility to her for she had thought he preferred wings to scales or to a tail, but maybe the lass was wrong. Suddenly, the thin form went spiraling into the air and the dame almost jumped forward in an attempt to catch him. A second after the thought occurred to her, the lord stood in human form before her and the vixen began kicking herself mentally for being so foolish. Of course he wouldn’t let himself fall from a tree limb. Am I really that naive? Emerald gaze met his and the previous grievance was forgotten, curiosity entering her depths at the rather investigative expression found of the smooth, cleanly cut planes. Dome shook lightly at his words, orbs directing towards the ground before again lifting to meet the male's again. Losing me would be a hard thing to do considering I’m bound to these woods. Voice is surprisingly bitter, the fea regretting the words almost as soon as they had rolled across her tongue and into the air. Her situation was one that was particularly hard to explain, especially to those her family would dub "outsiders." The term had never set well with her, but that was mostly because she felt like an outsider herself. At least this was something the pair had in common. Frown formed upon lips at the question of who the intruder was, hands shoving into pockets as the urge to move next to the man and lean against his welcoming chest was resisted. Strange how she could be so comfortable around him not minutes before and now Bri was timid, unsure of herself around him. I don’t know much about who he was. Unfortunately my learning was started later than what was custom. All I can tell you is he is called The Hunter and feeds upon wolves. A cannibal. Weight shifted to one of her legs, the lady relaxing slightly while the rage from the other side of her mind started to distract her from the current situation. The Wolf was angry with the lack of teaching Bri had received, this much the woman knew. Once, the other side of her had even lost her seemingly impenetrable cool and nearly turned upon the mortal's parents with fangs barred. Luckily, the beast inside had enough sense not to attack the adults and the girl was able to take control again, but ever since then her father had been wary whenever Bri was around their house, which wasn’t very often, thankfully. After she had been Chosen, she had been free to move into her own home upon the reservation, a milestone that both her and her parents had been anticipating since it was made clear that the fatal would be one of the "other" group.
Daer:Arms came to fold across the boy's chest, a single brow arching at the surprisingly cold tones to her words. However, he did not respond, and he did not look insulted. His face was oddly placid and emotionless, his eyes blank as he met hers. He dropped his hands and shoved them into his jeans pockets, sighing slightly. Silently, he took in her answer to his question, and shifted slightly at the mention of the word 'cannibal.' One must think that a creature such as Daer couldn't help but be one. When he took the form of a bird of prey and ate a fish, was it not cannibalism when he took the form of a fish? Maybe not in context, but in an abstract way, it was. He didn't like the word; it made him feel as if he was some sort of demon. He muttered unintelligibly and closed his eyes, head leaning back against the tree's trunk, breathing deep and even. Without opening his eyes, he spoke quietly. "Why did you let him go?" If it had been up to Daer, the Hunter would have been dead in a split-second, no doubt about it. But yet, Bri had merely scared him and shooed him away. He didn't understand it. It made no sense to the boy.
Bricaza*Brilliant jade pools jumped to the male as he shifted uncomfortably at her explanation, broad brow furrowing in a worried frown while mind worked furiously at what had caused him discomfort. Abruptly, everything seemed to click and the lady felt instantly horrible, skin flattening upon her forehead once again as she let out a deep sigh and moved closer to him, her hand reaching out to touch his chest lightly, lashes shading orbs as they looked downward that the forest flooring. I'm sorry Daer. I. . . I didn't think. Apology managed to be stammer out of her mouth, even though it was in a low, meek voice, and she knew he heard her for gaze lifted and met the coal liquids, holding them for a minute, giving him more than words, before the lass seemed to lose her nerve, stepping back and letting her palm drop, stuffing it back into the pocket of her jeans. Uncertain depths looked upward and found lids closed, the man's facade a beautiful slate. It is different you know. He and you. He kills his own kind for the sport and does so by choice. You. . . Ivories bit down upon lower lip as she searched for how to explain what she knew. You are not just one animal, but all of them. Protein is needed from flesh to be healthy; therefore you have no real choice. Now that it was past the maiden's lips, the syllables sounded pathetic and weak, not at all how she had imagined they would come out. Another sigh escaped a small silence breaking with his question, riling up the hidden displeasure with the situation. Jaw tensed once, forcing back the irritation at her other half, but she knew well why she had not been allowed to kill, even though her instruction had barely just begun. I am to protect, to guard. That is my duty. There was no reason to do more than what was necessary. And I wouldn't have been allowed me to engage in battle. The last was held back, Caza stirring within the girl for a moment before Bri blocked her from her mind, putting up her own mental defenses that had been built recently. The bloke possibly thought her cowardly, but it didn't matter, not really. Sure, it stung to know he thought of her in this way, heck it made her FEEL like a coward, but none of this could be changed. Bri hoped the baron would not be so quick to judge. They really didn't know each other very well anyway and so it would be impossible for him to really know how she felt unless she told him and at the moment, he didn't ask and she was a bit reluctant to tell openly. It wasn't polite to talk someone’s ear off when they had only wanted a simple answer.
Daer:The male was surprised to feel Bricaza's fingertips against his chest, but he did not shift positions, even when she pulled away. Her touch had been light, like the soft flutter of a wing against him, and he was surprise that it compelled him to reach for her. However, he waited, refusing to give into his childish impulses so quickly. He had some self-restraint, though how long it would last, he did not know. His stilled expression remained just the same as he listened to her words, and slowly, the coal eyes revealed themselves, looking at the female who he was so attracted to. "It's fine, Bri," he murmured, trying to put a halt to her words. He hadn't really been very insulted by her words, though he supposed his reaction had suggested otherwise to the girl. He nodded at her answer to his question, chuckling quietly at some inner thought. "Well then, miss guardian," he said softly, stepping towards her with a smile. He reached for her hands and pulled her towards him, then turned so that her back was against the tree, his arms leaning on it on either side of her shoulders. "Someone must guard the guardian, no?" he asked rhetorically. "I will protect you, Bri," murmured the young man, meeting her eyes. His lips curved in a half smile, and though he wanted to kiss her again very badly, he restrained himself, wishing to allow her room to speak. Of course, the patience of Daer would soon wear down, that was for sure.
Bricaza*Gaze lifted at his laughter, head tilting slightly in curiosity, but the smile found there quickly stopped thoughts in their tracks, heart instead picking up the furious rhythm. Palms were taken out of pockets then, mossy orbs watching while the space between them diminished and skin brushed against skin as he grabbed her hands. Words had hardly been heard, but she knew they had been teasing, that much had been picked up from the tone. Suddenly, the world around her whirled unexpectedly and a moment of panic rose within the lass, barriers between herself and the wolf tumbling as instinctually, the girl reached for her inner defender. The beast jumped to the forefront, human arms jerking upwards and outwards in an attempt to break his hold, lupine eyes sharp and unforgiving. Then, spine fell against the bark and understanding came to the lady, haste being made to rein in the wolf, pairs returning to normal without lids ever closing. Features were once again vulnerable, tiara leaning back to rest against the tree trunk. Grins was returned at his words, hand lifting between them as nail grazed against his skin to brush an unruly lock of hair back into place. The guardian having a guard.... A strange concept. Chuckles were released and smile grew wider, hand lingering there in the air with the tip of a finger on his forehead for a moment before it fell back to her side reluctantly. Seconds passed and the maiden started to second guess herself, having earlier thought he was going to kiss her again, but yet he had not. Shoulders relaxed further at the thought, the muscles in her facade relaxing as she let the expression fall a bit.
Bricaza*Tanned mask was turned upward at the sun, lids shut over pools and arms spread out wide as the sun's rays were basked in through the tough Indian skin. It was simply another day to the lass, one that would repeat itself over and over just as the days always did for life had order. A shadow passed over the maiden's features, the sudden shift in the atmosphere causing shades to lift immediately, gaze following the figure in the sky as it moved past. Hmm... That is strange. No black eagle has made their nest here. Limbs jumped into a run, long limbs garbed in a pair of jean shorts pushing the essa forward effortlessly, bodice floating over the ground. "Step carefully, young one. Things are not always as they seem." Cautious tunes warned the fea, the other, older and much more experienced half of the fatal speaking up as it always did in situations such as these. Joyous smile pulls across features at the caring words. Ah, Caza was always so careful. What needs have I for caution? I have you on my side do I not? Brazen words were meant with a loving chuckle, cooing vocals coming out in reply. "Ah my dear, that you do, but I am not the strongest beast you will come in contact with. No, I want no questions to be cast my way about your fate. That is for you to find out on your own." Mouth opened as if a verbal protest was to be made, but was shut quickly as lobes caught the sound of wind whistling through feathers, the stranger was making a downwards glide. Pace increased slightly, the dame in no real hurry to catch the newcomer. There was no need to rush life for it came at its own speed. Better enjoy it while the acceleration remains level and easy. Then, just as suddenly as the noise had started, it stopped, crown tilting slightly in wonderment at the fiasco. A line of trees blocked her vision for now, but soon they were gone and pools locked upon the figure of another human, frown creasing beautifully exotic mask, strides shortening as she approached the rather unexpected visitor. "Do not let your human mind cloud your sight. You know how he came to be here." Older voice scolded, facade losing any sign of confusion almost immediately at the reminder. Yes, there is only one explanation for this. The eagle must have chosen this man as the wolf chose me. For a moment, the temptation to offer a smile to the drake filled her, the connection they shared allowing the vixen to feel comfortable around him. "You know nothing of him! You two are not the same! Remember how species vey for dominance." Soft sigh was let out of lips while any traces of the beginning of a grin erased from her kissers. Not many visit here.
Daer:A girl's words came to Daer, and his eyes opened slowly, taken in her feminine structure with little interest. She was deeply tanned, and seemed to be having some sort of inward conversation with herself. Freak. Orbs rolled slightly in their sockets, a sigh expelling from the drake's parted speakers. "Then you haven't been very observant," came his sarcastic baritonals, a single brow arching as her met her eyes. Shoulder plates rolled, crossing over each other in the movement, and he sat up, elbows resting on his knees. Two shapes or many? Daer inquired to himself, pondering the girl's possibilities. Obviously, he knew that she was a shape-shifter. Her rather open mind tempted him, and he dived in headfirst, pouring with curiosity over the lass's thoughts. He forced himself to remain on more current thoughts for the time-being, noting the fact that she was a bit comfortable with him, seeing as they were of the same kind. He shrugged to himself, peering up at the standing female. You'd be surprised how relaxed Daer can appear at certain times. This girl was lucky she'd arrived at just such a time.
Bricaza*Smile pulled at taught lips at the drake’s words, legs crossing slightly as rump sank to the earth. Emerald depths met the lord's easily, tiara still tilted slightly as she sat upon the ground Indian style, looking like an innocent little child. Nothing escapes my eyes here, stranger. Curious expression continued to remain upon mask as she openly studied him, crown tilted gently while the chastity of youth seemed to emit from her ever motion. Of course, the lady was not as young as she seemed, her obviously matured attributes showed that much, but it was fun to play the part when you were around one who knew nothing about you yes? Grin widens as she feels the duke try to probe her mind, laughter being held back. Previously roaming eyes lift to meet black holes once more as the vixen prepares herself to deal with such a naughty visitor. It is not wise to read the thoughts of others without permission. Thoughts spoke towards him, the open chasm that was shutting down quickly as it blocked whatever means he used to gain access to her thoughts. "I am surprised the eagle was able to take this one before the weasel did. A mischievous one he is. Not usually the eagle’s type." Caza's voice spoke within the locked down portion of the fea's complex cranium, causing the maiden to giggle at the words. My wolf says you would have made an excellent weasel. Tunes let out to him, orbs sparkling with playfulness, waiting in an amused state to see what the drake's reply would be to that.
Daer:A chuckle escaped Daer's lips, his gaze shifting downwards as the girl sat pretzel-style on the ground. "Then I don't know what you've been looking for, but it clearly wasn't me." Brows arched as she noted his entrance to her mind and cut him off, an amused smile brought forth to his speakers. She is wiser than I first thought, Daer said to himself, contemplating such a thought. No one had ever been aware of his entry to their mind, let alone been able to block him out. Coal eyes stared at her with intense interest, body leaning more upright to let his arms cross, his gaze scrutinizing. He was surprised by her light giggle before she spoke again, and he had to let a chuckle flit past his own vocal cords at her comment. "I can take the weasel just as easily I can take the eagle or the wolf," he told her. Oddly enough, Daer had taken a liking to this girl, her personality was unlike any other he'd come across. She was smart, but upbeat. He always met smart pessimistic people or dumb happy people, but never smart happy people. He shrugged to himself, sliding down off the boulder to sit in the dirt in front of her. "So, Bricaza, why haven't I seen you around here before?" He'd taken the liberty of snatching her name before anything else, and a good thing he did, as her wall was impenetrable. Soon enough, he gave up on trying to find a gap in the seal, and just focused on what he did know about her, which wasn't much. Daer didn't like it, he didn't like it at all.
Bricaza*Giggles cut off, crown tilting slightly and brow cocking at the drakes words. Upper body leans forward just as his did, a questioning expression on facade. What makes you think I was looking for anything? Vocals ask without emotion, frame leaning back again and hands coming to rest against the earth just behind the essa, all weight being transferred onto arms. Emerald pools continued to watch the male, her never ending curiosity about the world around her extending to who the man was and what he was about. Perhaps he could tell her more about their "kind." None within the tribe would hardly even acknowledge those who underwent the change, let alone tell the lass much about what was happening. Although Bricaza was an important asset to her extended family, ever since she had joined with the wolf, she had been excelled in a way. Her previous friends barely seeming to see her as she walked through the reservation to the elder's meeting house. Even her mother and father, who were very nervous and anxious that their daughter was one of the chosen, had managed to distance themselves from her. To the tribe, she was there to protect the wilderness and the people who lived in peace with it, but the presence of a shifter within the tribe's ranks was becoming less and less necessary as the government took more and more control of what happened. A slightly surprised look was sent to the lord at his declaration. One who shares his mind with all creatures? This was rare indeed. Small smile fluttered across features as the baron lifted himself from the rock and moved closer to her, deciding to join her upon the ground rather than keeping distance between them like before. Apparently, she was just as interesting to him as he was to her. Light hearted chuckle met his question and figure shifts forward, hands moving to fold in her lap while an answer is formulated. I am surprised neither of us has run into the other if you have been within these lands for long. These woods are mine to protect. I roam them constantly.
Daer:He shrugged at her question, for once having no sarcastic reply at the ready instantaneously. Torso leaned backwards against the bolder, one leg stretched out and the other bent at a tight angle, the paired arm resting on it whilst the other folded over his waist. Daer closed his eyes, sighing to himself in contemplation. Lips pursed, and lids slid open again, his eyes meeting her curious green gaze. Chest heaved as the sigh was expelled, and his mouth opened to let words escape. "I've always known that there were others like me," he said softly. "But we are not the same, you know. I am the last of my kind. If you'd come across anyone other than me, I can assure that they, too, would only be claimed by one animal. And, like you, they would not be able to pour over one's innermost thoughts." Daer paused, surprised that he had voiced so much to the female. But hey, he'd already said this much; why not go the whole nine yards? Lips parted and her murmured quietly again. "I am a dying breed, Bricaza. I am all that's left." She too, was part of a long-forgotten race, but there were others like her. Creatures like himself and the lass once roamed the earth freely, living in peace with the humans. But, if anyone knows basic knowledge of humans, they would know that a bi-pedal would consider such a creature a threat. And so they'd hunted them, driving shape-shifters to the brink of extinction. A select few managed to hide and hone their skills over the years until they found their full potential - this was Daer's kind. The others had found it best to abandon such a way of life, and were soon mere humans themselves. But every once in a while, an animal's spirit chooses a human; this is all they can become. And such was Bricaza's breed. They were once the same, but now they never could be.
Bricaza*A sudden new seriousness came over the essa's guise at the drake's sigh, something obviously weighing upon his mind. It was a strange occurrence to see one so confident and guarded to change their outerance in an instant to become almost the opposite. There was no pleasure in masculine tunes this time as they came forth to the maiden, her torso leaning closer as if something within the words, or perhaps the male himself, were drawling her towards him like a magnet who had just encountered its polar opposite. Orbs remained locked upon charcoal depths, unwilling to release the gaze. Sadness filled her breast at the sentences, all of this having already been known by the fea, but never really had she thought much about it. One thing that had always been a constant give and take between her and the tribe was protection. In the older days when none ruled over the Chiefs, the chosen protected the group in times of battle. Now, that principle was gone, but still another remained. Bricaza was to protect the customs and heritage of her people and in return, she gained the safety of being included within their number. The man before her had no such luxury and it was apparent that the decreasing number of their kind worried him. As pools continued to watch his, mood growing closer to depression than before, a strange impulse came from deep inside, the wild seeming to take over the girl's body, calling her to rise. Short, smooth strides brought her to the bloke's side, bodice twisting until rump slid onto the rock behind him. Diaphragm leaned over his, eyes no longer of human origins blazing down. Nature runs its course. Every creature adapts over time. Tiara tilts, hand reaching out to push strands of coal hair from the other's forehead. Realization jolts the damsel's mind at the connection of skin, confusion flashing through lanterns while she fought for control. Frame leaned back once again, digits pressing to her temples as lids closed. Dome shook gently, chin lifting again, gems meeting his again. One side of lips lifted in a slight grin. I’m sorry. I don’t know what came over me. Vision shifted to the woods then before returning. I feel at a disadvantage. Your abilities gave you my name, yet I have no such things at my disposal, as you've pointed out. Care to tell me your name? Brow cocks in question, any sign of the bizarre happening from only a few seconds ago erased from visionage while inside, mind churned over what had overcome her. Could the spirits really have such ability to take over her very being at their will? "You do not want to know what the spirits can do, young one." Soothing voice spoke quietly, silently willing the lass to think nothing more of it.
Daer:"Nature runs its course. Every creature adapts over time." Her words buzzed through his head, as if bouncing off the walls at a rapid rate, unable to be deciphered. How, though, had their species adapted? Over time, they had simply withered away, not thrived like such an evolved species should. Ebon gaze followed the lass as she trotted over to the boulder, planting herself on it and leaning over him. At her touch, it was like a bolt of electricity shot through him, but he did not move. It was over only too quickly, and the unruly locks fell back over his forehead anyway. He managed a small smile in return to hers; the first genuine smile he had given her. His head cocked upwards towards her, an arm reaching up, his fingers gently brushing her face before the limb dropped back to its resting position. "Don't be," he murmured. Oddly enough, the movement had felt... right, to Daer. He laughed lightly at her question. "I am Daer," he informed her. He head leaned back against the rock, eyes closing. His mind was still heavily weighted with his previous ponderings, but his tense facial features seemed to have relaxed slightly by now. It was no use worrying about how to change the past, and he figured the future would figure itself out. Or at least he hoped it would.
Bricaza*Organs regular beating jumped into a rapid pumping as hand moved towards her face, fingertips brushing barely against the skin upon her cheek. In a flash, the moment was over and the male's hand had dropped back to his side, as if it had never moved from that position. If only her heart would stop doing this craziness! God, it would be amazing if the drake didn’t hear the increasing pace. For her, it was hard to ignore, every pump resounding within her head, making her ears pound and all other noises seeming like whispers. Smile was returned to him, a weak attempt being made to push the action from her mind while the damsel tried to focus on what he said next. Daer... I like it. Vocals spoke, mulling over the name for a few seconds while she rolled the pronunciation around with her tongue. Form slowly slid down the rock face, legs extending out in front of her as the lass moved downward. Soon, her rump came in contact with the soil and knees were drawn up towards her chest, lower arms resting across knees while tiara turned towards the bloke, jade surfaces watching closed shades, feeling as if she was staring at just another piece of nature. Daer fit in here. Fit in perfectly with the wood and all of its surroundings. Which, as he shared his body with practically every creature in the world, was expected.
Daer:Daer could feel the heat of her body as she slid down the rock face to sit beside him. It was oddly comforting, much unlike other things he'd felt before. The male had never, in his lifetime, been attracted to anyone. Not that he talked to anybody that much anyway. But there was something about Bricaza that lit a fuse in him, and it burned at such a high rate, Daer wondered if he might turn bright red from it. However, his face remained the same pale shade it always was, though one could admit, it was slightly heated. He turned his head slowly, his ebon gaze meeting her vibrant green one. He was hesitant at first, his arm trembling slightly as he lifted it, but she had not objected to his previous movement, so he allowed himself to proceed. His fingertips brushed her cheek, collecting the wayward strands of hair and tucking them behind her ear. This time, his fingers lingered on her cheekbone, brushing against it as his hand drew down her face, tracing the contours of her cheek. His hand withdrew to rest across his waist again, his eyes searching hers. Daer had no idea what he was doing, touching her like that, but it wasn't a conscious movement. They were movements of times gone by, of ancestors many generations back. Movements of attraction, of affection. "I can't lie, Bricaza. You've got my full attention," he murmured softly. Normally, if he was conversing with someone else, Daer paid only the slightest attention to them, and they knew it. But, alas, he couldn't seem to take his eyes off of Bricaza. She was utterly fascinating, he had to admit.
Bricaza*Breath quickened slightly as previously closed lids lifted and bottomless black holes met the essa's emeralds, trapping her within its gaze and causing her to lose more and more of herself to the depths with each passing moment. This was so bizarre. Daer was like no one she had ever met before, but then again, there was only a select few people who the lass had come in contact with outside of her tribe. Lashes flutter gently as curtains lower to cover pools, the soft yet firmer touch of his hand against her cheek drawing such a reaction from her. Breathless sigh came forth from diaphragm, lips parting slightly to release the carbon just as surfaces exposed themselves the light of the sun once again. Brilliant grin lit up her suddenly shy mask as chin dropped to cast vision away from him, one hand dropping to play pointlessly with the few strands of grass by her feet. Why do I have a feeling that having your full attention is not something many people have the pleasure of getting? Quiet vocals questioned without really expecting an answer, guise lifting towards his again. It was weird for her to feel so comfortable in his presence, especially considering that she was attracted to him. Let’s just say, her experience with the opposite sex was limited and none of the guys she had run into while on the reservation or during the short and very infrequent trips to the town seemed to call to her as the one did. Perhaps it was the similarities they shared in life, but even the things they had in common had differences.
Daer:He chuckled softly at her seemingly shy nature, her gaze averting his as her fingers intertwined with the blades of grass along the ground. He dropped his own eyes, his fingertips brushing along the top of her hand, tracing the veins as he studied it, almost as if her hand were the eighth wonder of the world. Daer's head nodded slowly at Bricaza's words, his lips parting as he replied. "It's a first," he informed her with a soft smile. Maybe it was corny to just sit her with their backs to a boulder, giving soft gestures of affection, but Daer didn't really give a crap, and he doubted that Bricaza did either. His torso shifted, allowing his muscular shoulder to come in contact with hers with a light pressure; hardly an ounce of weight was rested on her, simply a gentle touch. But he stayed there, his eyes still following his fingers as they traced over Bricaza's hand. He'd never... cared, so much about another being. Daer had hardly known what it was to care before now, and the emotions welling up inside of him were like a time-bomb, ticking away until he'd explode.
Bricaza*Didgets stopped their twirling motion as gentle fingertips moved to trace the top of the essa's hand, one blade still twisted around forefinger, forgotten. Then, the warm puffs of air being exhaled from his parted lips sent a tingling down her arm, every little hint of his presence screaming out to her as if she would be able to ignore it in the first place. She could hear the smile in his voice as he spoke, position shifting slightly till their shoulders touched, yet another point of connection. Never in her life would the maiden expect such a simple touch as the one he had upon the skin of her hand to create a response in her like it was now. Tongue came out and wet lips as visionage tilted upward barely, hardly having to move for she was within centimeters of his facade without even trying. I suppose I should consider myself lucky then. Lyrics breathed, not daring to make another motion besides staring into those shadowy liquids, the tension in the atmosphere growing the longer she held her stance. His lips were close. She could kiss him easily if she wanted. Surprise at her own thoughts bubbled up inside of the fea, building the apprehension in the air even more. Bri didn’t know this man. How could she be thinking about someone she had just met in this way? It didn’t matter anyway. The damsel wanted him to kiss her. Wanted to know what his kissers felt and tasted like against hers. A deep breath was taken in through nostrils, the scent of the wood and more importantly, of Daer, finding its way into her passageways. Involuntarily, torso leaned in closer to his, nares flaring to bring in the aroma again. It was intoxicating! Pleasurable sigh was released from cavern, shoulders relaxing even further. What would happen next? With them, it seemed like anything could.
Daer:"If you wish to call it luck," Daer replied with a soft chuckle. "I think I'm the one that should be considered lucky." Most people hated the boy with morbid, burning passion. Of course, the feelings were mutual. He could feel her eyes searching his face, but still the male did not meet her gaze, for fear that it would reflect some sort of mistake he may have already made. Generally, strong emotions drew Daer into some animal's shape that most often took on such a mood, but for once, there was no possible threat of that happening. Everything he was feeling was so... human. A long, deep sigh was drawn in, a hand lifting as Daer's fingers pinched the bridge of his nose. He would appear stressed and fretful, which he was at the moment, his eyes closed and his head shaking in minuscule movements. His hand dropped back to resting on his knee, hitting the fabric of his jeans with a soft smack. The ebon eyes reopened, this time meeting her gaze. There was something he wished very badly to do, the thought nagging at all sides of his mind as his eyes roamed her beautiful face. His voice was nearly silent when he spoke again, barely even a whisper: "Don't... slap me." Somehow, he doubted that she would, but he said it all the same. Their faces were so close, and his own closed the gap fully, Daer's lips meeting hers with a burning longing.
Bricaza*Frown formed slowly on features, the valley between her perfectly manicured eyebrows growing smaller as concern started to fill her bosom. Frame leaned away from the lord slightly, relieving the pressure of her shoulder against his as anxious orbs watched his almost agony filled features. Had she done something wrong? Maybe she had confused the signs about his interest and he now was trying to figure it out how to break it to her. But, if she had, what did it mean, him tracing the bones and veins that ran through her hands? A section of her lower lip was pulled between her teeth, position shifting lightly and hand moving to rest once again in her lap, fingers of both hands twitting with the others while the silence continued and her dread grew. Damn it she had been so sure about this one. Her emotions were so strong. This was silly! How could she be sad about something she never had? After all, the lass had only known this man for what, a few minutes? That was not enough time to develop a relationship and besides, Bricaza didn’t need one anyway. Her life was complicated enough at this moment in time with the ceremony only having happened about two weeks ago. She had a whole forest and a tribe to protect. Where would there be time for a relationship? Knees were drawn up almost to her chin, wrists lifting to rest upon the top of them while an awkward feeling came over her, thumb nail running under that of her opposite forefinger and creating a slight popping sound. In fact, the lady had almost gotten the courage to stand up and declare that she had to be going when the sound of the male's hand slapping against his thigh caught her attention, startled eyes darting in his direction only to find coal pair incredibly close to her face. Gasp was drawn in quickly and the second it was the damsel felt the heat of embarrassment upon her cheeks, although, she doubted Daer could see it due to her dark skin tone, but he might just be able to feel it as near as his mask was to hers. Tongue again wet lips just before the baron's words came to her and his visionage moved closer. It took only a moment for her to realize what was happening and by then the lord's lips had already met hers and her lids were closing over orbs in response. Swooning sigh escaped diaphragm as the maiden leaned into his kiss, frame twisting slightly towards him and one hand bracing against the ground while the other dangled loosely at the end of her arm draped across jean clad legs.
Daer:As the girl leaned into his movement, a hand came to rest on her knee, his lips molding to hers. Sure, he had kissed a girl once or twice before; what teenage boy didn't? But Daer had never kissed a girl like this. There had never been the passion, the insistent need to not stop that there was now. He'd never imagined that he could feel so much. Later rather than sooner, he pulled away, his eyes reopening to glance at her and then to the treetops, seemingly so distant, but in actuality, rather close. Close enough to reach out, close your eyes, feel your fingertips brush their canopies. You'd realize moments later that it had merely been the wind. His eyes kept darting to Bricaza, as if she, too, was merely the wind playing tricks on him. But, alas, each time he looked, she was there. She was real. "Someday I'll take you flying," he murmured softly, smiling at the though. If shape-shifters still existed, one must believe that long-dead species lived on with them, no? He was, in fact, referring to dragons. But that wasn't the point of his words. In what he said, Daer was asking a question: will there be other days? He so hoped there would, and looking back to Bri, he draped and arm across her shoulders, pulling her a little closer, as if here were afraid she might slip, like the wind, right through his fingertips. Someday.
Bricaza*Smile was instantly on her facade as the drake pulled away from their kiss, shades lifting slowly from emeralds to meet with his dark pools. Position shifted closer to him as his gaze left hers, head bending to rest on the lord's shoulder while she looked off into the forest with a carefree smile. This was a totally new situation for the fea and unlike she had imagined, the essa was not nervous nor did she feel awkward leaning against him after having just kissed him. Grin broadened when words were formed by the man's mouth and they rumbled through his chest, the vibration of his cords causing an unknown sensation to run over the maiden's skin. Frame moved even closer while tongue wet lips before they parted and sound was released. I would love that. Came her reply, chin lifting as she struggled to try and look into his eyes once again. Unfortunately, the male was still looking away from her and so she could only see the edges of his surfaces. Hands reached over his body to grab the hand that was not draped over his shoulders and pulled the baron's arm across his lap, setting their hands on her thigh while thumbs and fingers ran gently over his hand, tracing the veins and bones on the top of the hand and the fold lines on the palm. The protective wall around her mind slipped down. Why did she need to defend herself from him anyway? "My child, you are foolish." Frown formed at her other half's warning. There was a bond of trust now between Daer and her. It didn’t matter to the vixen that it had been formed as quickly as it had, but it seemed like the wolf continued to be reserved in giving her full trust to the lad. Then, the surprised bark of a lupine came floating across the winds to enter into the dame's ear and instantly, a dread filled her. Lids shut tightly over mossy pair, trying to wish the distraction away, but a cry for help came again, urgency growing with every second she remained motionless. "Bricaza! You accepted this duty by bonding with me. That doesn’t change just because you have found this boy. Hazen child!" Sigh escaped through her nostrils, the wolf form threatening to take over while the lass let go of the male's hand and moved to her knees facing him. I’m so sorry, but I have to go. Torso leaned in towards him, hands bracing against the ground on either side of Daer's legs, a quick kiss being pressed to his lips. Look for me from the skies. Tunes whispered with a smile as Bri moved away from him quickly, standing to turn towards the wood and taking off at a run towards its edge, the change already starting to come over her bodice. By the time she entered into the tree line, the figure of a girl had disappeared, a coal varg remaining where the lass had once been. Footfalls landed soundlessly upon the earth, allowing the mistress to sneak up upon the hunter/prey pair without either of them noticing. A sharp bark distracted the larger beast enough for her fellow wolf to dash off and out of danger. Angered, accusing black orbs glared down upon the raven fem. "Ah, my dear. How wonderful for you to ruin my hunt. I was hoping that one was you, Caza." Growl escaped forth from parted lips, another bark being sent towards the creature. "You know better than to hunt in these woods, fiend. The spirits seek peace here and as you know, it is my duty to make sure they are promised such. Leave my domain or I shall invoke my rage." Practiced vocals warned, invoking only chuckles from the male's mouth. "Oh you shall Caza? What army shall enforce your rage this time?" Smug smile pulled across onyx features and muzzle lifted in a long howl, the songs of many coming in answer. "I am surprised you had forgotten that I command every wolf in these lands. Leave, Hunter. You shall get no bounty today."
Daer:Daer's head tilted as a wolf's bark reached his ears, and suddenly, Bricaza's position was tense, seeming to fight with herself. "I'm so sorry, but I have to go." He kissed her back as leaned towards him, and smiled slightly at her second sentence. "Look for me from the skies." Watching her disappear, Daer sat for a few moments, unwilling to believe that she wasn't just a figment of his imagination. Sure that she had been real, for he could still taste her on his lips, he rose and leapt upwards, his body soon embracing the form of a raven. Wings flapped powerfully as the male propelled himself after Bri, shadowing her wolf-body as it ran until she stopped to converse with another. He darted upwards, settling on a nearby tree branch and tilted his head like birds do, studying Bri while clearly attempting to appear like any normal raven. Of course she would know it was he, but surely the one who was threatening her would be unaware the danger that lurked just over his head. He shuffled his wings and hunkered down, settling to wait for the time-being, lest dear Bri should need him.
Bricaza*A rage filled look stared down from the disfigured face at the confident wolf, a white smile breaking through onyx layer to shine out at the beast. Adrenaline pumped continuously through veins, the maiden nearly yearning for battle through the invincible feeling that was supplied. "Relax my dear. You must learn to be choosey with your fights. We need naught waste our energy on this one." Fond, wise voice told the younger fatal, muscles instantly relaxing as the girl took her teachers advice to heart. Lobe flickered towards the flank, many heavily padding feet sending another shot of courage through the shared body. Wait, what was that sound? The foreign one that belonged to no wolf? Muzzle lifted slightly and orbs roamed around the clearing, finding the source quickly and letting a private smile and wink loose at the dark bird. "Focus Bri!" Previously gentle voice barked, obvious irritation at the male's continued distracting presence showing through the order. Defiantly, the lass kept her mind open, overpowering the attempts by her advisor to close the gap. Surprisingly, the fea managed to keep the elder from seceding, a feeling of accomplishment running through her brain at the triumph. Perhaps she was stronger than what had been previously believed. Of course, it was nowhere near likely that her spirit was using her full power, but it was nice to know that Bri had a stake in the defense of the wood. When voids landed again upon the intruder, they found the other had dropped into a fighting like crouch, teeth bared as if merely waiting for the right moment to attack. Formation immediately transformed into a defensive position, upper lifting and a warning growl emitting at the Were. "Has your hearing gone since our last meeting Hunter? You know there is little chance of success against me." "Ah, that might be so when your power is unlimited, but you reside in a newly shapes body. Your connection with the human is weak and naive. I doubt her skills are as developed as your own Caza." Another growl emitted, this time with both of the entities putting their force behind it. I can do this, adviser. Let us show him. Displeased syllables almost pleaded, limbs flinching in anxiety as the wait was too much. There was little doubt that the elder would turn her down. After all, the anger within the wolf was match that of the lady's. "No, Bri. Hold your position." Frame jerked forward the instant a reply started, only to have to pull back as the negative was given. Snarl ripped forth from snout, the Hunter's laughter filling the air at the scene before him. "Whats wrong Caza? Does the girl not approve of you decision?" Booming laughter continued to fill the forest, irritation within the fatal growing with every passing second. Soon, the rest of the wood wolves arrived, all evenly flanking the shifter on both sides. Leggings straightened then, the force of her mentor too much for the Indian girl to defy this time as the elder took control. "Leave now Hunter. You know well my soldiers are well trained." Chuckles subsided at this, sharply edged teeth grinding against one another, the beast visibly fighting to keep in his rage. A breathless second later, the grizzly creature turned and ran, a sharp bark from the ebony varg sending two wolves to follow his path to be sure the Hunter made his way out of the forest. Instantly after all three had disappeared, the shift began again, no warning being given to the wolf as the mortal willed herself into her human form. Jet black strands fell in the essa's face as the change finished, hands bracing against the ground and head hung low like, sharp breaths into and from her diaphragm. The other wolf who seemed to be in charge of the others whimpered once and pressed the tip of his muzzle to her tanned cheek, bringing the damsel to gather the strength and straighten her spine. One hand rustled the bloke's robe like one would do to any other dog, a quick wolfish smile flashing her way before they all disappeared, the running gait taking them back to where they had come from. Heavy sigh escaped body, knees lifting from the ground and feet replacing them slowly as Bricaza came to a stand, turning to look at the limb where Daer had been spotted earlier. That didn’t take you very long. Lyrics teased, an attempt at light heartedness being made by the vixen as she fought to block the previous events from her mind.
Daer:Daer tilted his head and watched from his perch as Bri conversed - in a way - with the wolf who was clearly unwelcome. He bristled at the creature's words as Bri grew more and more angry, his features puffing up and his eyes harsh. However, he went unnoticed, and after a while, the creature left. The girl was soon in human form again, and Daer watched as she ruffled the fur atop one of the wolf's heads. When she looked up at him, Daer was still bristling, and his posture was displeased. At her words and her smile, however, he visibly relaxed. His raven body melted into a long, thing creature - a snake- and Daer made his easy way across the tree branch. The black scales easily gripped the bark, but then he somersaulted off and into the air landing right-side-up on his feet - human feet. The boy leaned back against the tree, studying Bricaza with fair interest. He grinned after a while and spoke. "What can I say?" he asked rhetorically. "I'm not about to lose the best thing I ever found." He lifted his muscular arms and clasped his hands behind his head, his eyes venturing over the curves of Bri's lovely face. Black eyes met hers, and he spoke again. "Who was that guy, anyway?" he asked, nodding in the direction in which the wolf had vanished.
Bricaza*Dome tilted curiously as she watched the bird form slowly slink away to be replaced with that of a coal snake, trying to decide if the boy was simply showing off or if he enjoyed being in different forms constantly. The latter seemed less of a possibility to her for she had thought he preferred wings to scales or to a tail, but maybe the lass was wrong. Suddenly, the thin form went spiraling into the air and the dame almost jumped forward in an attempt to catch him. A second after the thought occurred to her, the lord stood in human form before her and the vixen began kicking herself mentally for being so foolish. Of course he wouldn’t let himself fall from a tree limb. Am I really that naive? Emerald gaze met his and the previous grievance was forgotten, curiosity entering her depths at the rather investigative expression found of the smooth, cleanly cut planes. Dome shook lightly at his words, orbs directing towards the ground before again lifting to meet the male's again. Losing me would be a hard thing to do considering I’m bound to these woods. Voice is surprisingly bitter, the fea regretting the words almost as soon as they had rolled across her tongue and into the air. Her situation was one that was particularly hard to explain, especially to those her family would dub "outsiders." The term had never set well with her, but that was mostly because she felt like an outsider herself. At least this was something the pair had in common. Frown formed upon lips at the question of who the intruder was, hands shoving into pockets as the urge to move next to the man and lean against his welcoming chest was resisted. Strange how she could be so comfortable around him not minutes before and now Bri was timid, unsure of herself around him. I don’t know much about who he was. Unfortunately my learning was started later than what was custom. All I can tell you is he is called The Hunter and feeds upon wolves. A cannibal. Weight shifted to one of her legs, the lady relaxing slightly while the rage from the other side of her mind started to distract her from the current situation. The Wolf was angry with the lack of teaching Bri had received, this much the woman knew. Once, the other side of her had even lost her seemingly impenetrable cool and nearly turned upon the mortal's parents with fangs barred. Luckily, the beast inside had enough sense not to attack the adults and the girl was able to take control again, but ever since then her father had been wary whenever Bri was around their house, which wasn’t very often, thankfully. After she had been Chosen, she had been free to move into her own home upon the reservation, a milestone that both her and her parents had been anticipating since it was made clear that the fatal would be one of the "other" group.
Daer:Arms came to fold across the boy's chest, a single brow arching at the surprisingly cold tones to her words. However, he did not respond, and he did not look insulted. His face was oddly placid and emotionless, his eyes blank as he met hers. He dropped his hands and shoved them into his jeans pockets, sighing slightly. Silently, he took in her answer to his question, and shifted slightly at the mention of the word 'cannibal.' One must think that a creature such as Daer couldn't help but be one. When he took the form of a bird of prey and ate a fish, was it not cannibalism when he took the form of a fish? Maybe not in context, but in an abstract way, it was. He didn't like the word; it made him feel as if he was some sort of demon. He muttered unintelligibly and closed his eyes, head leaning back against the tree's trunk, breathing deep and even. Without opening his eyes, he spoke quietly. "Why did you let him go?" If it had been up to Daer, the Hunter would have been dead in a split-second, no doubt about it. But yet, Bri had merely scared him and shooed him away. He didn't understand it. It made no sense to the boy.
Bricaza*Brilliant jade pools jumped to the male as he shifted uncomfortably at her explanation, broad brow furrowing in a worried frown while mind worked furiously at what had caused him discomfort. Abruptly, everything seemed to click and the lady felt instantly horrible, skin flattening upon her forehead once again as she let out a deep sigh and moved closer to him, her hand reaching out to touch his chest lightly, lashes shading orbs as they looked downward that the forest flooring. I'm sorry Daer. I. . . I didn't think. Apology managed to be stammer out of her mouth, even though it was in a low, meek voice, and she knew he heard her for gaze lifted and met the coal liquids, holding them for a minute, giving him more than words, before the lass seemed to lose her nerve, stepping back and letting her palm drop, stuffing it back into the pocket of her jeans. Uncertain depths looked upward and found lids closed, the man's facade a beautiful slate. It is different you know. He and you. He kills his own kind for the sport and does so by choice. You. . . Ivories bit down upon lower lip as she searched for how to explain what she knew. You are not just one animal, but all of them. Protein is needed from flesh to be healthy; therefore you have no real choice. Now that it was past the maiden's lips, the syllables sounded pathetic and weak, not at all how she had imagined they would come out. Another sigh escaped a small silence breaking with his question, riling up the hidden displeasure with the situation. Jaw tensed once, forcing back the irritation at her other half, but she knew well why she had not been allowed to kill, even though her instruction had barely just begun. I am to protect, to guard. That is my duty. There was no reason to do more than what was necessary. And I wouldn't have been allowed me to engage in battle. The last was held back, Caza stirring within the girl for a moment before Bri blocked her from her mind, putting up her own mental defenses that had been built recently. The bloke possibly thought her cowardly, but it didn't matter, not really. Sure, it stung to know he thought of her in this way, heck it made her FEEL like a coward, but none of this could be changed. Bri hoped the baron would not be so quick to judge. They really didn't know each other very well anyway and so it would be impossible for him to really know how she felt unless she told him and at the moment, he didn't ask and she was a bit reluctant to tell openly. It wasn't polite to talk someone’s ear off when they had only wanted a simple answer.
Daer:The male was surprised to feel Bricaza's fingertips against his chest, but he did not shift positions, even when she pulled away. Her touch had been light, like the soft flutter of a wing against him, and he was surprise that it compelled him to reach for her. However, he waited, refusing to give into his childish impulses so quickly. He had some self-restraint, though how long it would last, he did not know. His stilled expression remained just the same as he listened to her words, and slowly, the coal eyes revealed themselves, looking at the female who he was so attracted to. "It's fine, Bri," he murmured, trying to put a halt to her words. He hadn't really been very insulted by her words, though he supposed his reaction had suggested otherwise to the girl. He nodded at her answer to his question, chuckling quietly at some inner thought. "Well then, miss guardian," he said softly, stepping towards her with a smile. He reached for her hands and pulled her towards him, then turned so that her back was against the tree, his arms leaning on it on either side of her shoulders. "Someone must guard the guardian, no?" he asked rhetorically. "I will protect you, Bri," murmured the young man, meeting her eyes. His lips curved in a half smile, and though he wanted to kiss her again very badly, he restrained himself, wishing to allow her room to speak. Of course, the patience of Daer would soon wear down, that was for sure.
Bricaza*Gaze lifted at his laughter, head tilting slightly in curiosity, but the smile found there quickly stopped thoughts in their tracks, heart instead picking up the furious rhythm. Palms were taken out of pockets then, mossy orbs watching while the space between them diminished and skin brushed against skin as he grabbed her hands. Words had hardly been heard, but she knew they had been teasing, that much had been picked up from the tone. Suddenly, the world around her whirled unexpectedly and a moment of panic rose within the lass, barriers between herself and the wolf tumbling as instinctually, the girl reached for her inner defender. The beast jumped to the forefront, human arms jerking upwards and outwards in an attempt to break his hold, lupine eyes sharp and unforgiving. Then, spine fell against the bark and understanding came to the lady, haste being made to rein in the wolf, pairs returning to normal without lids ever closing. Features were once again vulnerable, tiara leaning back to rest against the tree trunk. Grins was returned at his words, hand lifting between them as nail grazed against his skin to brush an unruly lock of hair back into place. The guardian having a guard.... A strange concept. Chuckles were released and smile grew wider, hand lingering there in the air with the tip of a finger on his forehead for a moment before it fell back to her side reluctantly. Seconds passed and the maiden started to second guess herself, having earlier thought he was going to kiss her again, but yet he had not. Shoulders relaxed further at the thought, the muscles in her facade relaxing as she let the expression fall a bit.