Post by Pavane on May 21, 2012 12:59:40 GMT -5
Ahiga - male wolf
Tala - female wolf
Althaea - female adolescent wolf
Ikuna - male wolf
Skahla - male wolf
---Waterfall Pool---
It the dawn of a new day. The sun sits low on the horizon, shining its pale morning light that casts long shadows. As usual, the waterfall roars and the mist that sprays up catches the light, bending it to make a ghost of a rainbow. Ahiga has slept outside, as usual, partially keeping watch, and partially (and jus as usual) keeping himself out of the cavern. He's been awake for some time now, long enough to have watched the sun first peek out from above the horizon and lift to where it is now. Other than the sound of the waterfall, there's not much to be heard or seen, and that's just fine with him. He eventually sits up and stretches, arching his back and yawning widely. That done, he shakes briskly and moves somewhat away from the falls, head lowered to the ground as he sniffs around, checking the perimeter for any traces of doggish scents.
Tala is making her way out from the waterfall cave, pausing to give herself a good shake to get the water off of her in the process. Her gaze drifts over the area, ears perking forward before she moves onwards. She catches sight of Ahiga and smiles as she moves over to him, bumping her head against his shoulders with a faint murr escaping her in the process. "Hey." Is offered softly.
Awake for some time now, with only the whimsical dance of the pools reflecting light to keep her from wandering off, Althaea lays out on a rock a short distance from the falls and cave dwelling. Tail bouncing idly in rhythm to the swirling waters, the young she-wolfs patience has paid off for the time being; ears twitching to the sound of her aunts voice, looking up.
Hm. Something makes Ahiga pause, a look of confusion on his face. There's a scent...kinda muted by the constant and heavy moisture in the air, but...there /is/ a lingering scent that he catches that sparks a memory. A familiar scent. A scent of a packmate that he hasn't seen in ages. But, what sense would that make, for that scent to be suddenly here? He furrows his brows a little, but his thoughts are interrupted by the approaching Tala, and the lines of frowned thought soften as he greets her. "Hey. I was jus' about to look for you," said as he nuzzles the side of her neck, tail waving lightly. As for Althaea, he knows she's about. The both of them /have/ been lingering here all morning.
Tala glances over to Althea and nods to her before she sits down looking to Ahiga. A soft oh escapes her. "Really now?.." Is questioned with a curious tone. "Oh.. Guess who showed up last night?" A slight grin is seen. "Askuwheteau found us, his in the cave asleep."
Zzzzz. Waterfalls are like giant roaring bears. Or maybe like cats with fluffy hair. Ikuna's tired enough that he's slept through it regardless. It's hard to get a sense of time inside the cave, and so when he emerges, it's to blink at the light. Huh. Morning, is it? Water sprays against his fur as he pads out, and the young wolf shakes himself off before turning to look at the others. Althaea and Ahiga get a nod. So, not yet gone. As for Tala, well, he just followed her out. He wurfs a greeting, then goes to the water's edge and takes a drink.
A light smile crosses Althaea as Tala takes notice of her, nodding her her aunt in a similar greeting. It meant only one thing with her showing up and she glances to the side where she last saw Ahiga assuming him still there. Quiet she remained letting them talk, ear twitching a but though to a new name.. or least one she hasn't heard since well, puphood. Figuring how exactly who he was later, she turns to her appearing uncle and returns his nod should he see it. Dropping her head to the rock, she watches everything, eyes lidding some.
Ever since those dogs drove Skahla and his pups from the den, neither of the Ute alphas have been seen anywhere near where the rest of the pack has settled. That was some time ago, although Skahla has no idea how long. By his haggard appearance, Skahla has not been sleeping. Or eating. Or doing anything other than searching, fruitlessly, for his mate. EVen now, he doesn't want to give up. Something has told him that he needs to be with his pack now, though. He doesn't like it, not in the slightest, but it is the reason why the dirty, hungry, exhausted wolf is following the scent trail he left behind after he left his pups in an area at least... relatively... safe.
Asku! That's the scent! Surprise doesn't even begin to describe what Ahiga feels at this bit of news. Asku. His favorite wolf? Or at least, his former favorite wolf. He glances to the hidden cavern with a blink and a look that is difficult to read. "Wow. I....geeze, where's he been this whole time?" He looks at her with an expression of bewilderment. So many things to ask him! But...ah, the timing is all wrong. He hasn't the time, which brings him back to his 'I was just about to look for you' comment. "I've to talk to him when I get back," he says, nodding to Ikuna as he notes him as well. "After we chased that dog off," he continues, eyes on Tala, "Ikuna 'n I talked. We've got to find the Cerulean. We're here, but we don't know if they're even ok. An' with that dog showin' up here, I don' know what that means for them. If there are dogs here too, and Cerulean is in trouble, we're worse off than we thought. One've us has to see what the status is, an' if they're ok, they need to know we're here. So I'm goin'. Thaea's comin' with me."
Tala smiles and nods as she glances over to Ikuna, her tail swaying a few times before she lets her attention turn back to Ahiga. She tilts her head as she watches him, ears lowering a moment at what is said. Her gaze turns towards the falls as she seems to think over everything and soon takes in a faint breath. "Alright.. ya that is a good idea.." Is soon heard while her gaze rests upon Althaea a moment. A faint nod seen while she looks back to Ahiga. "You.. Promise to be careful.. Right?" Cause if not she'll be ripping his ears up too. She is getting rather good at it! A new scent catches her attention and she lifts her head letting her blue gaze settle upon Skahla.. She shifts up onto her paws and moves towards her elder brother's form. "Skahla..." They haven't seen him for days now, an well he doesn't look that good. She noses out at his shoulder slightly and shifts to let him lean against her if needs be.
Ikuna's ears perk as Ahiga explains the plan, but he continues to take his drink. Let the two have their moment. What does make him lift his head is the mention of another name - not Asku, no. The other older brother of Ute. Skahla! He turns to look, his muzzle still dripping with water, and takes in the bedraggled wolf before nodding to himself and turning around and heading right back into the cave.
Althaea would allow herself to slip off into a doze if it wasn't for the muffled talk of leaving from behind the falls and a rather odd but very familiar scent coming from behind in the distance. Lifting her head from the rock she peers around till noticing Tala getting up and moves closer. Head tilting she blinks shifting her gaze to one side. Skahla... wait thats her dad. Picking herself up from her resting spot and turning to face the nearing form of her father.
In times past, Skahla has virtually always been one to try to hold himself apart from his pack. Perhaps it was not the wisest decision on his part, but wise decisions have never been his strong point. He has always let his heart and, though muted in his adult years, fanciful nature guide him, and it was to Shawnee to be the wise one. The one forever concerned with what image they were presenting. Now, though, there is no reservation about him. Not as he approaches the small, so small, group of wolves, and certainly not as he accepts Tala's silent offer of support. He barely registers who all is in the area through his blurried vision as he leans against his younger sister, just breathing for a moment. Oh, but how he is tired. Finally, in a hoarse voice, he asks, "Is everyone still here?" Everyone who was here when Skahla left, anyway. It seems like the most important question to ask, although he doesn't ask it of any one wolf in particular.
"Course I'll be careful," remarks Ahiga with a smirk to Tala, lifting a brow. "It'll be easy, you'll see. We'll be there an' back in no time." And hopefully, with Cerulean's aid and blessing to be here. But his talk with Tala ends there, for now his attention turns too. Towards a haggard, scraggly wolf that's appeared. His ears lift up, eyes widening as his nostrils flare. Skhala? As Tala heads towards him he lingers behind, mind having to wrap around quite a few things at once. Spying movement, he glances at Ikuna, who seems to be heading back inside. Squaring his shoulders, he moves forth, following after Tala and approaching their wayward leader. "We're all still here," he answers. "Plus...a few extra." He furrows his brows a little. "Have a drink, Skahla. An' I'm sure there's leftover kill around here somewhere."
Tala watches Skahla and nods while slowly helping him towards someplace that he can rest and get a drink. Her gaze turns back to Ahiga, she is still unsure about him leaving but really..it needs to be done. "Yes where here Skahla.. An Asku has found us last night." She lets her older brother settle to the ground near the falls, a place he can get a drink easier from at least.
Speaking of leftovers... when Ikuna returns, moments later, it's with an only slightly worse for the wear mouse in his muzzle. It may not be much, but... it's only from last night, and Wachiwa didn't eat it yet, so! He brings it to Skahla, setting it on the ground by his elder brother as Tala supports the tired wolf. The one tired wolf; for there's no sign of Shawnee here. Hmm. Ikuna frowns at that part, but the expression is brief as he listens to what the others are saying.
As a pup, Althaea would of met at her fathers side and praised him for his return but now that she was older her actions are posed differently by just standing there. Tala had things handled when it came to her father, or thats what it looked liked anyway. So rather than smother Skahla she'll wait for her turn. In the mean time she looks down the way he came expecting to see another, her mother perhaps, but there was no one. If there ever was a sadder moment for 'Thaea it was now. Dropping her gaze to the ground she sighed in act of depression. Where was her mother if not here? She dreaded to think the worst. Giving herself a moment, she stands to leap from the rock she pauses upon Ikuna's reapperance with a mouse reminding her of the ones she caught. Moving to where she left them, grabbing them up, she slowly trails back to the others, more particular her father.
The news that everyone is here, including his littermate, is clearly some kind of weight off of Skahla's shoulders. As he sits, he answers the obvious concern from his younger siblings, and the wolf who has always been practically just another adopted younger sibling to him, by saying, "Thank you. I'm fine." Oh yes, he is exhausted. And hungry. And, like the rest of them, coming off of a lean winter. And... heartbroken. He is back, though, and what he says is nothing more than an attempt to reassure them all that, at the very least, he will not be passing out in the next few seconds. The sigh does not escape his attention, but his first order of business is to follow the suggestions of the other wolfs around him, helping himself to a quick drink and the mouse he is offered before speaking again. "Ahiga," the alpha says, his voice only slightly less hoarse for the quick drink of water. "You will keep an extra close eye on my daughter when you go." Skahla doesn't know HOW to be a father any more now than he ever has, as evidenced by how he barely looks at his sole healthy child. What he does know is that he has to fight against every instinct he has to give this approval for Althaea to still leave at all, even if it was he who first suggested it.
Ahiga's eyes begin to wander too, glancing, looking, for another form. He barely knows Shawnee and cannot think of a single time where he actually talked with her, but she is the alpha female, the other half the pack's leadership. It is important that she is here, but...she isn't. It's not difficult for him to assume the worst, for the worst seems to find them constantly. His eyes lower momentarily as he exhales a slow breath, but he refocuses his gaze as food is brought forth both by Ikuna and Althaea. He himself has stopped not far from Skahla, and he perks his ears up as he is spoken to. A glance is given to the younger female in question as he nods. "Of course I will," he answers. "Nothing'll happen to her, if I can help it."
Tala watches Skahla a few moments and soon glances back to Ahiga, she takes in a soft breath and soon nods to Skahla. She shifts forward a few steps an soon settles herself down next to where Ahiga is at the moment. Her gaze turns towards Althaea and then Ikuna as the bring the mice over to Skahla, well at least he'll have something to eat. "Ahiga will watch over her, as long she listens to what she is suppose too then she should be fine." This said with a soft tone as she looks towards Althaea.
Ikuna nods along as Skahla warns Ahiga to be careful with Althaea, and glances over to the other young male. Being careful is important for /both/ of them. If they end up savaged by dogs... no, let's not think about that. Ikuna glances also to Althaea, and asks, "With your father back... do you still want to go?" It was her idea to come along, after all - since there was, as she put it, nothing here for her to do. Perhaps, with Skahla here, she'll have changed her mind. If she wants to back out, he certainly won't hold it against her.
Reaching the group the young she-wolf places her catch at her paws nosing them forward some before looking up to her father then to Ahiga as he's spoken to. Since knowing him, 'Thaea's built enough of a confidence to truth that Ahiga will watch over her like one of his own. The look of sadness still in her eyes as she turns back to her father she tries to smile- redundant to even try. OPening her mouth to speak nothing escapes as Ikuna jumps in before her. Looking to him she nods. "I made the choice, I cant turn from it now." Not after all she's said, after what her father requested of her. Turning to her father this time manages a smile. "It'll be ok." She's a tough one afterall.
At least Ahiga is not alone in assuming the worst. It is why he is so adamant that Althaea be protected while she takes this first journey away from her pack. If he were to lose her as well... He may not be good at being a father, but of course he wants his children to be safe. Protected. To want for nothing. The desire is strong, it is simply in the providing of these things where Skahla meets his failings. Unable to smile back at his daughter, Skahla still nuzzles against the young female. "She will listen." As Skahla speaks, he slowly lowers himself to his belly. He has not given many commands in his tumultuous time as alpha, but he appears to have developed a commanding tone to go along with his hoarseness. It is the only thing holding him back from the panic of losing yet another family member in so short a span of time, though.
Tala lifts a brow as she hears Althaea and she watches the younger wolf a few moments as she takes in a breath. She looks back to Ahiga and lets her head press against his neck a moment while her eyes close. "You had better come back too.." Is murmured out faintly to him, her voice low so perhaps only he hears her but then the others might as well.
With Tala near again, Ahiga gently noses her, ears falling back as he listens to her. Skahla's return without Shawnee is an unhappy reminder that all things good can be taken in an instant, though with his own departure imminent, it's a thought that he pushes to a far corner of his mind. "You think I could stay away from you too long?" he answers just as lowly, a smirk on his muzzle. "An' let those brother wolves drool all over you? Pft. Right. I'll be back before you even start missin' me." Althaea's insistance that she still goes is met with a light nod from him. "I know she will," is said to Skahla. "No doubtin' from me." He pauses, jaw slightly working in a chewing motion. "My plan is to leave today. Though, if y'want, we can wait til tomorrow.." he suggests, eyes still upon their alpha. He just got back. Perhaps he'll want some time with what's left of his family before they're separated again.
Ikuna looks at Skahla; so tired and worn. Just looking for a nap. But an alpha's job is never done, and there are a few things that Skahla should know. Ikuna starts with what may be the most difficult part. "Wachiwa had pups." His tone implies that news is not so good as it might seem on the surface, and he continues on to make the reason clear. "From the dogs. Two of them lived."
Althaea had made it known that she would listen the day she decided to go along in the search for a pack they didn't know even still existed. She stands by her word though feeling the need to prove shes not just capable of handling herself but also responsibile enough to do what is required of her as a Ute. Retaining her smiles as her father leans in to nuzzle, she returns it holding him in close. Letting him go, taking a step back, she looks up at everyone. She knows how much they'd prefer her to say but this is something she feels she needs to do. Nothing more said she turns to the pool a few thoughts in mind; one standing out amongst the rest. She doesn't let her sadness get to much of her however, there was a job to be done.
"No," Skahla says without lifting his head. Without looking at his brother, either, as holds his head against his daughter's while she nuzzles back at him and addresses Ahiga first. "Go today. And return quickly, Ahiga, or there will be hell to pay." Not from him. The final part of his statement is said as he glances at Tala, as somehow Skahla has managed to miss what may be a romance blossoming right under his nose, and it gives him just a little bit of hope. After he talks to the young adult adopted so long ago into Ute, he takes a few quiet breaths. "And I want you to stay nearby, Ikuna. There are things about our history that I don't think Wachiwa ever would have told you. It is time you know them... but not now." Not until Skahla can think clearly. At his very best, he is not good at telling stories. When he is so tired as he is now? Nothing that needs to be passed on would be, so all Skahla can do for now is hope that the fact that Wachiwa's knowledge of Ute history will provide her with some little comfort in this time.
Tala glances over to Ikuna and then peers at Ahiga as she hears Skahla, her tail faintly swaying a few times. Oh yes there will forsure be hell to pay if he doesn't come back soon. Her gaze lingers on Ahiga's and she lets her head lower to nuzzle under his chin a moment. Yes there was a romance happening indeed. "You have to get there an warn Anoki about taht dog.." A ear perks as she hears Skahla and she ponders what he has to tell Ikuna.
Oh, he knows there will be much to pay if he messes this up and gets himself hurt. He glances to his friends. Or gets Althaea hurt. But, apparently, he has confidence in himself and looks unworried. The mentioning of the dog inspires a frown. "Yeah, that's on the agenda. Can't believe she's still around.. but when we find them, a lot've the questions we've got are gonna be answered, I know." As for Wachiwa and the pups, it's never a topic that he has much to say about, and today is no different. Though he hears it reported by Ikuna, he offers no input at all. Instead, he slightly leans against Tala, eyes half closing as he's nuzzled by her.
Ikuna nods to Skahla. "All right." That was already more or less the plan, after all; one of Ikuna and Ahiga to go, one to stay here and defend what's left of the pack. He's curious as to this knowledge of Ute's past, but... "You should rest," he says to his elder brother, and his tone has something of firmness to it. The same sort of tone he'd use for Ahiga or Tala - or one of the pups, adolescent or otherwise; not quite how one generally speaks to an older brother or an alpha, though Ikuna hasn't noticed that. He goes on. "I'll stay here, and Tala can go with Ahiga for a little bit, then go hunting." A glance to his sister, as he says that... not that he expects her to avoid an extra moment or three with her beloved before he departs, nor the confirmation that she's definitely better enough from that cold to go hunting for real. If she can chase dogs, she can chase hares.
The seperation of Ahiga and Tala would be a rough one but what about father and daughter? The time they've spent apart had been long almost to the point of not even known one another but the thought of never seeing her father again.. It was hard not to think about it. She'd return to see him again- her brother too. Dipping down to drink from the pool, she stares at the dancing lights soon standing and shaking out her coat before turning toward the trees. Time to get this over with. Course it would seem she had more waiting to do if they take Ikuna's advise and go hunting. She could of gone and come back by now if she were allowed.
Were it not for how his head if firmly against the ground, Skahla would nod. He does keep his eyes open long enough to listen to Ikuna, and the way his younger brother takes charge gives him just as much hope as this blossoming romance he is certainly aware enough. Enough so that, a moment later, as his eyes close, sleep is not long in coming. No period of trial in Ute has ever lasted forever, and they are always followed by periods of peace. That is just what they will all have to focus on to get them through this, and if Skahla has his way... or rather, whatever certainties that have gripped Skahla have their way... he intends to be here to make sure they remember this.
Tala ears perk as she hears Ikuna, her gaze turns towards her sibling and she smiles to him nodding before glancing to Skahla now that he is asleep. A soft breath escapes her and she turns to look at Ahiga. "So.. we're go when your ready.. I can follow for a bit and then come back and work on hunting something as I go."
Ahiga gazes at Skahla, vaguely wondering what Ute secrets he may hold. He never pegged him as a storyteller. That's always been Wachiwa's forte. But it's likely he has some tales of his own to tell, as they all do now. Ikuna's suggested plan is nodded to. Might as well get this show on the road, and beginning it with Tala for a shot while is just fine with him. So he stands, glancing to Althaea. "Time to go," he says. "Last time we saw Cerulean last...fall, right before the winter snow, they were north've here. S'a good place to start, and if they're not there, we find their trail and hopefully find them. We get back here before the moon is gone." He goes over the plan aloud both for his sake and theirs. They're all on the same page. "Ready?" is spoken to Althaea.
As the plan is rehashed, Ikuna nods. That done, he gives a fond nuzzle to Ahiga, his sister, and his niece in turn. "Good luck," he says softly, and pads to a flat bit of ground to sit down. Ikuna... will wait. And worry, perhaps, but he'll wait as patiently as he can manage nonetheless.
Tala smiles and nuzzles Ikuna back while nodding as she shifts to her paws. "I'll be back soon.. An with something to eat." She offers to her brother and then looks to Ahiga, a smile offered to him as well. "We should get going before its gets to dark for sure." A ear flicks towards Althaea. "Ready Althaea?"
Althaea has been ready since lastnight if it wasn't aready noticed by her readiness to go now. Looking back at Ahiga she nods. "Waiting on you." she smirks.
Ahiga snickers in response to Althaea's eagerness to go, nodding to her. Ikuna's nuzzle is returned, followed by a trademark headbump to his pal. "Don't have too much fun without me," he remarks before he turns to walk of with Tala and Althaea. He leads the way, usuing his memory and nose as a guide. And scent of dog is going to put him on alert, and...thank goodness, the further they get from the falls, the easier it is to scent things. No dog. He moves alongside Tala up the river, eyes alert and scanning for anything abnormal. He glances over to Tala, and nudges her. "Hey. While I'm gone, be careful alright? Grim 'n Brutal.. I don't trust'm. With Skahla back, it might be different but...jus' watch your back around vthem, will ya?"
A quick look is given to her now sleeping father before doing anything else. "See you soon." She say softly to him stepping forward. Trailing behind just a tad, she looks around the area to familiarize herself the surroundings should by chance she have to come back this way on her own. Catching up now she just catches the part about Grim and his brother.. motioning to say something but stops herself. Saying nothing, she just follows along.
Tala nods while she follows along at Ahiga's side, her tail twitches slightly while she takes in a soft breath and looks to him. "I'll be fine.. An I don't think Grimm will try anything with me again." She actually grins a moment. "I gave his ears a good ripping up last night actually." She seems rather happy over that.
Ahiga slightly quirks a brow. "...His ears?" he echoes, sounding faintly amused. "Uh...do I even wanna ask what happened?" They're far enough now that hte roar of the waterfall can barely be heard, thankfully. The dominant noise now is the sound of the river's flow, which compared to a waterfall, is merely a whisper. As Althaea moves up, he looks to her as well. "That goes for you too. I don' like the thought've either one've you alone with those wolves."
Althaea continues her looking around, raising a brow. Good thing he doesn't know about the meeting she had with Brutal- alone -then. Secrets are a good thing when you dont want to get yelled at. When enough of a fill is gotten, the adolescent turns to the ground, looking up every so often to make sure she's still going the right direction.
Tala snorts out faintly as she follows along at Ahiga's side. "He wanted me to cuddle with him. So I got close and chomped on his ears a few times." Well that is the jest of the story at least! "I don't think he'll be stupid enough to try it again." She looks to Althaea watching her a moment before continuing forward.
Well, the younger she-wolf is quiet. Ahiga can only eye her momentarily, as if trying to decipher what her lack of words may mean. Ah well. Hopefully it means 'Yes, Ahiga, I understand what you mean and will follow your advice without question!' Ah, at least he knows he can count on Tala, for her story has him smirking. Sort of. The cuddling part doesn't have him smirking at all. "He wanted to /what/ with you?" He quirks a brow. ".. Yeah, you jus' make sure you stick with Ikuna or Skahla or Asku while I'm gone." Phew. It's a good thing she has so many brothers! He looks ahead now, nose quivering. "This is probably a good place for rabbit huntin' too," he notes. "River. Open spaces. They're probably droppin' rabbit babies like crazy."
The first moments of following behind the older wolves was rather lonely. Guess thats what you get when your the odd one out in the relationship. Infact, while the two talked 'Thaea droped back a decent distance so she couldn't hear them, picking the pace up when she felt one of them about to turn back at her. Honestly, she felt they worried to much but like she has room to talk; always watched over like some kind of defenseless animal. She had no reason to worry and wasn't really going to start now. Looking up when eyed by Ahiga she half smiles as to say 'yea, still here.'
Tala can take care of herself thank you! Maybe that is why she is boyish, growing up with a bunch of brothers and Ahiga around.. "I'll be fine Ahiga.. Just worry about yourself alright?" She offers while leaning over giving his cheek a soft lick and nuzzles against his neck. A slight glance is offered over the area and she nods while taking in a breath. "Alright.." Is soon said and she looks to Althaea. "You listen to what Ahiga tells you.. An don't go getting into trouble. Your father and brother need you to come back, as do the rest of us." She offers with a soft smile to her neice. Her blue gaze turns back to Ahiga watching him a moment and she lets her nose press to his. "I love you." Is murmured out to him, she doesn't see a need to say anything more and she turns and starts to head homewards with a flick of her tail. She forces herself to keep going, and once a good distance away she sends a faint glance back towards them.
"I'll be alright," Ahiga promises as their steps begin to slow. There's no need for Tala to go much further, and in truth, Ahiga doesn't want her to. The further they go out together, the further she'll have to go back alone. And so when they finally stop, he leans against her as well, savoring her touch with closed eyes. The lick to his cheek inspires a grin, and he opens his eyes when she begins to speak to Althaea. He nuzzles her lightly as she does so til their noses touch and.. he's still not used to hearing those three words from her, and very much like the first time, he feels something close to an electric tingling feeling run through his veins. His tail wiggles gently behind him. "Love you too," is murmured in reply as she turns away, and he playfully nips at the tip of her tail before she gets too far off. Exhale. Golden eyes turn to Althaea. "Come over here. Few things before we get too far into their lands."
Yea, how many times has she heard that today. When Tala turns to look at her, Althaea isn't where she was last, infact she sort of wandered off some on purpose just to see how well they were actually paying attention to her presence. Keeping an open ear to her aunts words though dispite the relevant distance between them she shouts, "Ya, got it!" Head in the shrubbery, she doesn't give much of her attention to the two until spoken to by Ahiga. Pulling her head out, a tiny baby rabbit cries as it dangles from her jaws only to fall quiet as its body cracks within its confines. Carring it over, she drops it before her said traveling partner.
Tala did happen to know where Althaea went becasue she isn't sill enough to expect the young wolf to actually pay attention! She knows Ahiga will have his paws full with that one.
Oh yes he is. But oh, Ahiga shows an unnatural amount of patience as he waits for Althaea to emerge from wherever she may be, going as far as to sit. When she does finally come out of her hiding place, or rather hunting place, he watches her with a masked expression. For sure, the face of a lovestruck wolf is now gone as the younger female approaches with her prize. His eyes flit to her kill, and when it is deposited near him, he gives his head a small shake. "Eat it. All've it, an' now. We're not going to the heart've Cerulean danglin' a rabbit we didn't ask to take from them." A pause. "Plus," he adds, with vaguely furrowed brows. "I don' have to tell you to stay where I can see you, do I?"
Geez, someone can sure be a grouch when not paying attention to his girlfriend. Maybe he should just go back to fratinizing with her again.. he was so much more polite. "Thats no way to get someone to do something you know." She remarks picking up her dead baby rabbit and giving it a few chews before swallowing it. Licking her lips after she huffs. "Your suppose to make sure I dont get myself killed, not boss me around." She'll stand by that statement too. Want her to do something ask. Simple as that. "I was within eye sight earlier, you were just to struck by my aunt to notice." Her words are just asking for trouble, but if Ahiga wants her cooperation he'll need to show he deserves it by knowing where she's at at all times.
There's a small, near imperceptible narrowing of Ahiga's eyes, but it's enough of a change to change the entirety of his expression. A quiet breath is taken through his nose before he rises to his paws. Ears stand at atention, and though there's no need for him to raise his tail, he doesn't have to. He means business, and the way he carries himself and looks at her is enough to showcase that. His expression is stern, not angry, and the tone of his voice is the same. "Let me remind you, Thaea, that you told Ikuna, me, /and/ your father that you'd listen. This ain't a good start. I'm not a puppy sitter, an' the only reason I agreed to bring you with me with this is because I thought you were grown enough to handle it. Don't prove me wrong already. Or, actually," he pauses, seemingly changing his mind, "/please/ do cuz I'd rather you make a fool out've yourself here with me instead've in front of the Cerulean because when you visit another pack, what you do, say, an' how you act reflects not you, but your pack. I've no problem takin' you back and going at this alone. If that's what you want, fine. No fur off my back. But you're not gonna stay with me and think you can talk to me any sort've way you like."
Their barely away from the falls and he's acting like their smack dap in the middle of some massive dispute between packs. If this was Cerulean territory and they were truely allies what did she have to worry about. Its not like she ran off and ignored him the moment she thought she had the chance. She'd of done that long before now if that was the case. Listening to the older, not because he wants to but more out of the fact that she /has/ to, she huffs. First off she never said she'd listen, her father did. She's done everything she'd been told so far too. Stayed in eyes view, dispite Ahiga obvious distraction, came over when told to and even ate the rabbit. So what hasn't she done. Not like he started off all perfect either; being all mushy rather than responsible. Tail flicking she sighs. "Fine." She'll just follow close, not say a word and observe. What a great learning experience this is going to be.
Fine. Ahiga lets out a breath of air at the single utterance. It's better than what he thought he'd get, and thus takes it and moves on. He's out here for bigger reasons than this anyway, and it's that thought alone that keeps him from seeing red. His shoulders are rolled slowly, releiving what tension started to creep into them, and he turns his head northward again, gesturing for her to come along as he begins to walk. "We follow this river til it crosses with another. That was there that they all gathered last fall, jus' before winter. It's a little ways away, but you jus' ate and 'm not hungry, so we've got little reason to stop other than to rest. Briefly." He looks back at her. "The Cerulean are very kind, but they, especially their Beta, like it when visitors /act/ like visitors. So. When we find'm, you make sure to act like a visitor at first, especially if we find their leaders first. Things get friendly later. Keep your head level an' tail down are the main things. Be very polite when you talk." He glances over to her. "Got it?"
Althaea was starting to show signs of being tired; her earlier antics apparently having put a drain to her spirits, plus that rabbit kinda hit the spot. Ears drooping she looks up at the wolf with nothing but a nod to acknowledge his words as she zig-zags in her walk trying her best to not doze before the search actually starts.
Ahiga perks his ears a little. It doesn't look as if he has her full and undivided attention, and as she wobble walks, it becomes that much more obvious that he doesn't. Inwardly, he sighs. Pupsitting indeed. "Alright. How about we take a short break now? You don' look like you're gonna make it without one." He scans the area, taking note of their surroundings. Their guiding river is surrounded by open lands and brush. Ah, at least he can see anything that tries to approach. "Take a rest. I'll wake ya when it's time to go."
Althaea was greatful for the break, even though they hadn't got real far. Before now she had kept herself busy with other things. Patience wasn't her strong suit, neither was sitting around doing nothing. So being tired now was something she couldn't avoid. Moving over and dropping to her butt, she gives Ahiga a most apologetic look before leaning into him some. "I'm sorry." She says softly. "For how I..." Her words cut short for a moment as her eyes lid most the way. "..acted."
Apologies do go a long way, and upon hearing, hers Ahiga lightly smiles and nudges her shoulder with his muzzle. "No big," he says dismissively. It's much easier to move on from these things than to hold on and let them fester. At least, when it comes to packmates. As for the dog tragedy, he'll probably hold on to that and let it rot in his soul til the day he dies. Forgiveness is not an option. "We're still cool. Jus'...don't go crazy on me again. S'weird," he says despite the fact that she already seems well on her way to sleep. With this crises averted, he relaxes a little and will keep watch until it's time to hit the road again.
Althaea's eyes close let and a small smile creeps upon her face as a huffed chuckles escapes between her lips. "Okay." She murmurs brushing her head against him like a pillow. So soft and.. and.. she wasn't to sure about that smell but she didn't care. Soon she is in a light sleep.
Tala - female wolf
Althaea - female adolescent wolf
Ikuna - male wolf
Skahla - male wolf
---Waterfall Pool---
It the dawn of a new day. The sun sits low on the horizon, shining its pale morning light that casts long shadows. As usual, the waterfall roars and the mist that sprays up catches the light, bending it to make a ghost of a rainbow. Ahiga has slept outside, as usual, partially keeping watch, and partially (and jus as usual) keeping himself out of the cavern. He's been awake for some time now, long enough to have watched the sun first peek out from above the horizon and lift to where it is now. Other than the sound of the waterfall, there's not much to be heard or seen, and that's just fine with him. He eventually sits up and stretches, arching his back and yawning widely. That done, he shakes briskly and moves somewhat away from the falls, head lowered to the ground as he sniffs around, checking the perimeter for any traces of doggish scents.
Tala is making her way out from the waterfall cave, pausing to give herself a good shake to get the water off of her in the process. Her gaze drifts over the area, ears perking forward before she moves onwards. She catches sight of Ahiga and smiles as she moves over to him, bumping her head against his shoulders with a faint murr escaping her in the process. "Hey." Is offered softly.
Awake for some time now, with only the whimsical dance of the pools reflecting light to keep her from wandering off, Althaea lays out on a rock a short distance from the falls and cave dwelling. Tail bouncing idly in rhythm to the swirling waters, the young she-wolfs patience has paid off for the time being; ears twitching to the sound of her aunts voice, looking up.
Hm. Something makes Ahiga pause, a look of confusion on his face. There's a scent...kinda muted by the constant and heavy moisture in the air, but...there /is/ a lingering scent that he catches that sparks a memory. A familiar scent. A scent of a packmate that he hasn't seen in ages. But, what sense would that make, for that scent to be suddenly here? He furrows his brows a little, but his thoughts are interrupted by the approaching Tala, and the lines of frowned thought soften as he greets her. "Hey. I was jus' about to look for you," said as he nuzzles the side of her neck, tail waving lightly. As for Althaea, he knows she's about. The both of them /have/ been lingering here all morning.
Tala glances over to Althea and nods to her before she sits down looking to Ahiga. A soft oh escapes her. "Really now?.." Is questioned with a curious tone. "Oh.. Guess who showed up last night?" A slight grin is seen. "Askuwheteau found us, his in the cave asleep."
Zzzzz. Waterfalls are like giant roaring bears. Or maybe like cats with fluffy hair. Ikuna's tired enough that he's slept through it regardless. It's hard to get a sense of time inside the cave, and so when he emerges, it's to blink at the light. Huh. Morning, is it? Water sprays against his fur as he pads out, and the young wolf shakes himself off before turning to look at the others. Althaea and Ahiga get a nod. So, not yet gone. As for Tala, well, he just followed her out. He wurfs a greeting, then goes to the water's edge and takes a drink.
A light smile crosses Althaea as Tala takes notice of her, nodding her her aunt in a similar greeting. It meant only one thing with her showing up and she glances to the side where she last saw Ahiga assuming him still there. Quiet she remained letting them talk, ear twitching a but though to a new name.. or least one she hasn't heard since well, puphood. Figuring how exactly who he was later, she turns to her appearing uncle and returns his nod should he see it. Dropping her head to the rock, she watches everything, eyes lidding some.
Ever since those dogs drove Skahla and his pups from the den, neither of the Ute alphas have been seen anywhere near where the rest of the pack has settled. That was some time ago, although Skahla has no idea how long. By his haggard appearance, Skahla has not been sleeping. Or eating. Or doing anything other than searching, fruitlessly, for his mate. EVen now, he doesn't want to give up. Something has told him that he needs to be with his pack now, though. He doesn't like it, not in the slightest, but it is the reason why the dirty, hungry, exhausted wolf is following the scent trail he left behind after he left his pups in an area at least... relatively... safe.
Asku! That's the scent! Surprise doesn't even begin to describe what Ahiga feels at this bit of news. Asku. His favorite wolf? Or at least, his former favorite wolf. He glances to the hidden cavern with a blink and a look that is difficult to read. "Wow. I....geeze, where's he been this whole time?" He looks at her with an expression of bewilderment. So many things to ask him! But...ah, the timing is all wrong. He hasn't the time, which brings him back to his 'I was just about to look for you' comment. "I've to talk to him when I get back," he says, nodding to Ikuna as he notes him as well. "After we chased that dog off," he continues, eyes on Tala, "Ikuna 'n I talked. We've got to find the Cerulean. We're here, but we don't know if they're even ok. An' with that dog showin' up here, I don' know what that means for them. If there are dogs here too, and Cerulean is in trouble, we're worse off than we thought. One've us has to see what the status is, an' if they're ok, they need to know we're here. So I'm goin'. Thaea's comin' with me."
Tala smiles and nods as she glances over to Ikuna, her tail swaying a few times before she lets her attention turn back to Ahiga. She tilts her head as she watches him, ears lowering a moment at what is said. Her gaze turns towards the falls as she seems to think over everything and soon takes in a faint breath. "Alright.. ya that is a good idea.." Is soon heard while her gaze rests upon Althaea a moment. A faint nod seen while she looks back to Ahiga. "You.. Promise to be careful.. Right?" Cause if not she'll be ripping his ears up too. She is getting rather good at it! A new scent catches her attention and she lifts her head letting her blue gaze settle upon Skahla.. She shifts up onto her paws and moves towards her elder brother's form. "Skahla..." They haven't seen him for days now, an well he doesn't look that good. She noses out at his shoulder slightly and shifts to let him lean against her if needs be.
Ikuna's ears perk as Ahiga explains the plan, but he continues to take his drink. Let the two have their moment. What does make him lift his head is the mention of another name - not Asku, no. The other older brother of Ute. Skahla! He turns to look, his muzzle still dripping with water, and takes in the bedraggled wolf before nodding to himself and turning around and heading right back into the cave.
Althaea would allow herself to slip off into a doze if it wasn't for the muffled talk of leaving from behind the falls and a rather odd but very familiar scent coming from behind in the distance. Lifting her head from the rock she peers around till noticing Tala getting up and moves closer. Head tilting she blinks shifting her gaze to one side. Skahla... wait thats her dad. Picking herself up from her resting spot and turning to face the nearing form of her father.
In times past, Skahla has virtually always been one to try to hold himself apart from his pack. Perhaps it was not the wisest decision on his part, but wise decisions have never been his strong point. He has always let his heart and, though muted in his adult years, fanciful nature guide him, and it was to Shawnee to be the wise one. The one forever concerned with what image they were presenting. Now, though, there is no reservation about him. Not as he approaches the small, so small, group of wolves, and certainly not as he accepts Tala's silent offer of support. He barely registers who all is in the area through his blurried vision as he leans against his younger sister, just breathing for a moment. Oh, but how he is tired. Finally, in a hoarse voice, he asks, "Is everyone still here?" Everyone who was here when Skahla left, anyway. It seems like the most important question to ask, although he doesn't ask it of any one wolf in particular.
"Course I'll be careful," remarks Ahiga with a smirk to Tala, lifting a brow. "It'll be easy, you'll see. We'll be there an' back in no time." And hopefully, with Cerulean's aid and blessing to be here. But his talk with Tala ends there, for now his attention turns too. Towards a haggard, scraggly wolf that's appeared. His ears lift up, eyes widening as his nostrils flare. Skhala? As Tala heads towards him he lingers behind, mind having to wrap around quite a few things at once. Spying movement, he glances at Ikuna, who seems to be heading back inside. Squaring his shoulders, he moves forth, following after Tala and approaching their wayward leader. "We're all still here," he answers. "Plus...a few extra." He furrows his brows a little. "Have a drink, Skahla. An' I'm sure there's leftover kill around here somewhere."
Tala watches Skahla and nods while slowly helping him towards someplace that he can rest and get a drink. Her gaze turns back to Ahiga, she is still unsure about him leaving but really..it needs to be done. "Yes where here Skahla.. An Asku has found us last night." She lets her older brother settle to the ground near the falls, a place he can get a drink easier from at least.
Speaking of leftovers... when Ikuna returns, moments later, it's with an only slightly worse for the wear mouse in his muzzle. It may not be much, but... it's only from last night, and Wachiwa didn't eat it yet, so! He brings it to Skahla, setting it on the ground by his elder brother as Tala supports the tired wolf. The one tired wolf; for there's no sign of Shawnee here. Hmm. Ikuna frowns at that part, but the expression is brief as he listens to what the others are saying.
As a pup, Althaea would of met at her fathers side and praised him for his return but now that she was older her actions are posed differently by just standing there. Tala had things handled when it came to her father, or thats what it looked liked anyway. So rather than smother Skahla she'll wait for her turn. In the mean time she looks down the way he came expecting to see another, her mother perhaps, but there was no one. If there ever was a sadder moment for 'Thaea it was now. Dropping her gaze to the ground she sighed in act of depression. Where was her mother if not here? She dreaded to think the worst. Giving herself a moment, she stands to leap from the rock she pauses upon Ikuna's reapperance with a mouse reminding her of the ones she caught. Moving to where she left them, grabbing them up, she slowly trails back to the others, more particular her father.
The news that everyone is here, including his littermate, is clearly some kind of weight off of Skahla's shoulders. As he sits, he answers the obvious concern from his younger siblings, and the wolf who has always been practically just another adopted younger sibling to him, by saying, "Thank you. I'm fine." Oh yes, he is exhausted. And hungry. And, like the rest of them, coming off of a lean winter. And... heartbroken. He is back, though, and what he says is nothing more than an attempt to reassure them all that, at the very least, he will not be passing out in the next few seconds. The sigh does not escape his attention, but his first order of business is to follow the suggestions of the other wolfs around him, helping himself to a quick drink and the mouse he is offered before speaking again. "Ahiga," the alpha says, his voice only slightly less hoarse for the quick drink of water. "You will keep an extra close eye on my daughter when you go." Skahla doesn't know HOW to be a father any more now than he ever has, as evidenced by how he barely looks at his sole healthy child. What he does know is that he has to fight against every instinct he has to give this approval for Althaea to still leave at all, even if it was he who first suggested it.
Ahiga's eyes begin to wander too, glancing, looking, for another form. He barely knows Shawnee and cannot think of a single time where he actually talked with her, but she is the alpha female, the other half the pack's leadership. It is important that she is here, but...she isn't. It's not difficult for him to assume the worst, for the worst seems to find them constantly. His eyes lower momentarily as he exhales a slow breath, but he refocuses his gaze as food is brought forth both by Ikuna and Althaea. He himself has stopped not far from Skahla, and he perks his ears up as he is spoken to. A glance is given to the younger female in question as he nods. "Of course I will," he answers. "Nothing'll happen to her, if I can help it."
Tala watches Skahla a few moments and soon glances back to Ahiga, she takes in a soft breath and soon nods to Skahla. She shifts forward a few steps an soon settles herself down next to where Ahiga is at the moment. Her gaze turns towards Althaea and then Ikuna as the bring the mice over to Skahla, well at least he'll have something to eat. "Ahiga will watch over her, as long she listens to what she is suppose too then she should be fine." This said with a soft tone as she looks towards Althaea.
Ikuna nods along as Skahla warns Ahiga to be careful with Althaea, and glances over to the other young male. Being careful is important for /both/ of them. If they end up savaged by dogs... no, let's not think about that. Ikuna glances also to Althaea, and asks, "With your father back... do you still want to go?" It was her idea to come along, after all - since there was, as she put it, nothing here for her to do. Perhaps, with Skahla here, she'll have changed her mind. If she wants to back out, he certainly won't hold it against her.
Reaching the group the young she-wolf places her catch at her paws nosing them forward some before looking up to her father then to Ahiga as he's spoken to. Since knowing him, 'Thaea's built enough of a confidence to truth that Ahiga will watch over her like one of his own. The look of sadness still in her eyes as she turns back to her father she tries to smile- redundant to even try. OPening her mouth to speak nothing escapes as Ikuna jumps in before her. Looking to him she nods. "I made the choice, I cant turn from it now." Not after all she's said, after what her father requested of her. Turning to her father this time manages a smile. "It'll be ok." She's a tough one afterall.
At least Ahiga is not alone in assuming the worst. It is why he is so adamant that Althaea be protected while she takes this first journey away from her pack. If he were to lose her as well... He may not be good at being a father, but of course he wants his children to be safe. Protected. To want for nothing. The desire is strong, it is simply in the providing of these things where Skahla meets his failings. Unable to smile back at his daughter, Skahla still nuzzles against the young female. "She will listen." As Skahla speaks, he slowly lowers himself to his belly. He has not given many commands in his tumultuous time as alpha, but he appears to have developed a commanding tone to go along with his hoarseness. It is the only thing holding him back from the panic of losing yet another family member in so short a span of time, though.
Tala lifts a brow as she hears Althaea and she watches the younger wolf a few moments as she takes in a breath. She looks back to Ahiga and lets her head press against his neck a moment while her eyes close. "You had better come back too.." Is murmured out faintly to him, her voice low so perhaps only he hears her but then the others might as well.
With Tala near again, Ahiga gently noses her, ears falling back as he listens to her. Skahla's return without Shawnee is an unhappy reminder that all things good can be taken in an instant, though with his own departure imminent, it's a thought that he pushes to a far corner of his mind. "You think I could stay away from you too long?" he answers just as lowly, a smirk on his muzzle. "An' let those brother wolves drool all over you? Pft. Right. I'll be back before you even start missin' me." Althaea's insistance that she still goes is met with a light nod from him. "I know she will," is said to Skahla. "No doubtin' from me." He pauses, jaw slightly working in a chewing motion. "My plan is to leave today. Though, if y'want, we can wait til tomorrow.." he suggests, eyes still upon their alpha. He just got back. Perhaps he'll want some time with what's left of his family before they're separated again.
Ikuna looks at Skahla; so tired and worn. Just looking for a nap. But an alpha's job is never done, and there are a few things that Skahla should know. Ikuna starts with what may be the most difficult part. "Wachiwa had pups." His tone implies that news is not so good as it might seem on the surface, and he continues on to make the reason clear. "From the dogs. Two of them lived."
Althaea had made it known that she would listen the day she decided to go along in the search for a pack they didn't know even still existed. She stands by her word though feeling the need to prove shes not just capable of handling herself but also responsibile enough to do what is required of her as a Ute. Retaining her smiles as her father leans in to nuzzle, she returns it holding him in close. Letting him go, taking a step back, she looks up at everyone. She knows how much they'd prefer her to say but this is something she feels she needs to do. Nothing more said she turns to the pool a few thoughts in mind; one standing out amongst the rest. She doesn't let her sadness get to much of her however, there was a job to be done.
"No," Skahla says without lifting his head. Without looking at his brother, either, as holds his head against his daughter's while she nuzzles back at him and addresses Ahiga first. "Go today. And return quickly, Ahiga, or there will be hell to pay." Not from him. The final part of his statement is said as he glances at Tala, as somehow Skahla has managed to miss what may be a romance blossoming right under his nose, and it gives him just a little bit of hope. After he talks to the young adult adopted so long ago into Ute, he takes a few quiet breaths. "And I want you to stay nearby, Ikuna. There are things about our history that I don't think Wachiwa ever would have told you. It is time you know them... but not now." Not until Skahla can think clearly. At his very best, he is not good at telling stories. When he is so tired as he is now? Nothing that needs to be passed on would be, so all Skahla can do for now is hope that the fact that Wachiwa's knowledge of Ute history will provide her with some little comfort in this time.
Tala glances over to Ikuna and then peers at Ahiga as she hears Skahla, her tail faintly swaying a few times. Oh yes there will forsure be hell to pay if he doesn't come back soon. Her gaze lingers on Ahiga's and she lets her head lower to nuzzle under his chin a moment. Yes there was a romance happening indeed. "You have to get there an warn Anoki about taht dog.." A ear perks as she hears Skahla and she ponders what he has to tell Ikuna.
Oh, he knows there will be much to pay if he messes this up and gets himself hurt. He glances to his friends. Or gets Althaea hurt. But, apparently, he has confidence in himself and looks unworried. The mentioning of the dog inspires a frown. "Yeah, that's on the agenda. Can't believe she's still around.. but when we find them, a lot've the questions we've got are gonna be answered, I know." As for Wachiwa and the pups, it's never a topic that he has much to say about, and today is no different. Though he hears it reported by Ikuna, he offers no input at all. Instead, he slightly leans against Tala, eyes half closing as he's nuzzled by her.
Ikuna nods to Skahla. "All right." That was already more or less the plan, after all; one of Ikuna and Ahiga to go, one to stay here and defend what's left of the pack. He's curious as to this knowledge of Ute's past, but... "You should rest," he says to his elder brother, and his tone has something of firmness to it. The same sort of tone he'd use for Ahiga or Tala - or one of the pups, adolescent or otherwise; not quite how one generally speaks to an older brother or an alpha, though Ikuna hasn't noticed that. He goes on. "I'll stay here, and Tala can go with Ahiga for a little bit, then go hunting." A glance to his sister, as he says that... not that he expects her to avoid an extra moment or three with her beloved before he departs, nor the confirmation that she's definitely better enough from that cold to go hunting for real. If she can chase dogs, she can chase hares.
The seperation of Ahiga and Tala would be a rough one but what about father and daughter? The time they've spent apart had been long almost to the point of not even known one another but the thought of never seeing her father again.. It was hard not to think about it. She'd return to see him again- her brother too. Dipping down to drink from the pool, she stares at the dancing lights soon standing and shaking out her coat before turning toward the trees. Time to get this over with. Course it would seem she had more waiting to do if they take Ikuna's advise and go hunting. She could of gone and come back by now if she were allowed.
Were it not for how his head if firmly against the ground, Skahla would nod. He does keep his eyes open long enough to listen to Ikuna, and the way his younger brother takes charge gives him just as much hope as this blossoming romance he is certainly aware enough. Enough so that, a moment later, as his eyes close, sleep is not long in coming. No period of trial in Ute has ever lasted forever, and they are always followed by periods of peace. That is just what they will all have to focus on to get them through this, and if Skahla has his way... or rather, whatever certainties that have gripped Skahla have their way... he intends to be here to make sure they remember this.
Tala ears perk as she hears Ikuna, her gaze turns towards her sibling and she smiles to him nodding before glancing to Skahla now that he is asleep. A soft breath escapes her and she turns to look at Ahiga. "So.. we're go when your ready.. I can follow for a bit and then come back and work on hunting something as I go."
Ahiga gazes at Skahla, vaguely wondering what Ute secrets he may hold. He never pegged him as a storyteller. That's always been Wachiwa's forte. But it's likely he has some tales of his own to tell, as they all do now. Ikuna's suggested plan is nodded to. Might as well get this show on the road, and beginning it with Tala for a shot while is just fine with him. So he stands, glancing to Althaea. "Time to go," he says. "Last time we saw Cerulean last...fall, right before the winter snow, they were north've here. S'a good place to start, and if they're not there, we find their trail and hopefully find them. We get back here before the moon is gone." He goes over the plan aloud both for his sake and theirs. They're all on the same page. "Ready?" is spoken to Althaea.
As the plan is rehashed, Ikuna nods. That done, he gives a fond nuzzle to Ahiga, his sister, and his niece in turn. "Good luck," he says softly, and pads to a flat bit of ground to sit down. Ikuna... will wait. And worry, perhaps, but he'll wait as patiently as he can manage nonetheless.
Tala smiles and nuzzles Ikuna back while nodding as she shifts to her paws. "I'll be back soon.. An with something to eat." She offers to her brother and then looks to Ahiga, a smile offered to him as well. "We should get going before its gets to dark for sure." A ear flicks towards Althaea. "Ready Althaea?"
Althaea has been ready since lastnight if it wasn't aready noticed by her readiness to go now. Looking back at Ahiga she nods. "Waiting on you." she smirks.
Ahiga snickers in response to Althaea's eagerness to go, nodding to her. Ikuna's nuzzle is returned, followed by a trademark headbump to his pal. "Don't have too much fun without me," he remarks before he turns to walk of with Tala and Althaea. He leads the way, usuing his memory and nose as a guide. And scent of dog is going to put him on alert, and...thank goodness, the further they get from the falls, the easier it is to scent things. No dog. He moves alongside Tala up the river, eyes alert and scanning for anything abnormal. He glances over to Tala, and nudges her. "Hey. While I'm gone, be careful alright? Grim 'n Brutal.. I don't trust'm. With Skahla back, it might be different but...jus' watch your back around vthem, will ya?"
A quick look is given to her now sleeping father before doing anything else. "See you soon." She say softly to him stepping forward. Trailing behind just a tad, she looks around the area to familiarize herself the surroundings should by chance she have to come back this way on her own. Catching up now she just catches the part about Grim and his brother.. motioning to say something but stops herself. Saying nothing, she just follows along.
Tala nods while she follows along at Ahiga's side, her tail twitches slightly while she takes in a soft breath and looks to him. "I'll be fine.. An I don't think Grimm will try anything with me again." She actually grins a moment. "I gave his ears a good ripping up last night actually." She seems rather happy over that.
Ahiga slightly quirks a brow. "...His ears?" he echoes, sounding faintly amused. "Uh...do I even wanna ask what happened?" They're far enough now that hte roar of the waterfall can barely be heard, thankfully. The dominant noise now is the sound of the river's flow, which compared to a waterfall, is merely a whisper. As Althaea moves up, he looks to her as well. "That goes for you too. I don' like the thought've either one've you alone with those wolves."
Althaea continues her looking around, raising a brow. Good thing he doesn't know about the meeting she had with Brutal- alone -then. Secrets are a good thing when you dont want to get yelled at. When enough of a fill is gotten, the adolescent turns to the ground, looking up every so often to make sure she's still going the right direction.
Tala snorts out faintly as she follows along at Ahiga's side. "He wanted me to cuddle with him. So I got close and chomped on his ears a few times." Well that is the jest of the story at least! "I don't think he'll be stupid enough to try it again." She looks to Althaea watching her a moment before continuing forward.
Well, the younger she-wolf is quiet. Ahiga can only eye her momentarily, as if trying to decipher what her lack of words may mean. Ah well. Hopefully it means 'Yes, Ahiga, I understand what you mean and will follow your advice without question!' Ah, at least he knows he can count on Tala, for her story has him smirking. Sort of. The cuddling part doesn't have him smirking at all. "He wanted to /what/ with you?" He quirks a brow. ".. Yeah, you jus' make sure you stick with Ikuna or Skahla or Asku while I'm gone." Phew. It's a good thing she has so many brothers! He looks ahead now, nose quivering. "This is probably a good place for rabbit huntin' too," he notes. "River. Open spaces. They're probably droppin' rabbit babies like crazy."
The first moments of following behind the older wolves was rather lonely. Guess thats what you get when your the odd one out in the relationship. Infact, while the two talked 'Thaea droped back a decent distance so she couldn't hear them, picking the pace up when she felt one of them about to turn back at her. Honestly, she felt they worried to much but like she has room to talk; always watched over like some kind of defenseless animal. She had no reason to worry and wasn't really going to start now. Looking up when eyed by Ahiga she half smiles as to say 'yea, still here.'
Tala can take care of herself thank you! Maybe that is why she is boyish, growing up with a bunch of brothers and Ahiga around.. "I'll be fine Ahiga.. Just worry about yourself alright?" She offers while leaning over giving his cheek a soft lick and nuzzles against his neck. A slight glance is offered over the area and she nods while taking in a breath. "Alright.." Is soon said and she looks to Althaea. "You listen to what Ahiga tells you.. An don't go getting into trouble. Your father and brother need you to come back, as do the rest of us." She offers with a soft smile to her neice. Her blue gaze turns back to Ahiga watching him a moment and she lets her nose press to his. "I love you." Is murmured out to him, she doesn't see a need to say anything more and she turns and starts to head homewards with a flick of her tail. She forces herself to keep going, and once a good distance away she sends a faint glance back towards them.
"I'll be alright," Ahiga promises as their steps begin to slow. There's no need for Tala to go much further, and in truth, Ahiga doesn't want her to. The further they go out together, the further she'll have to go back alone. And so when they finally stop, he leans against her as well, savoring her touch with closed eyes. The lick to his cheek inspires a grin, and he opens his eyes when she begins to speak to Althaea. He nuzzles her lightly as she does so til their noses touch and.. he's still not used to hearing those three words from her, and very much like the first time, he feels something close to an electric tingling feeling run through his veins. His tail wiggles gently behind him. "Love you too," is murmured in reply as she turns away, and he playfully nips at the tip of her tail before she gets too far off. Exhale. Golden eyes turn to Althaea. "Come over here. Few things before we get too far into their lands."
Yea, how many times has she heard that today. When Tala turns to look at her, Althaea isn't where she was last, infact she sort of wandered off some on purpose just to see how well they were actually paying attention to her presence. Keeping an open ear to her aunts words though dispite the relevant distance between them she shouts, "Ya, got it!" Head in the shrubbery, she doesn't give much of her attention to the two until spoken to by Ahiga. Pulling her head out, a tiny baby rabbit cries as it dangles from her jaws only to fall quiet as its body cracks within its confines. Carring it over, she drops it before her said traveling partner.
Tala did happen to know where Althaea went becasue she isn't sill enough to expect the young wolf to actually pay attention! She knows Ahiga will have his paws full with that one.
Oh yes he is. But oh, Ahiga shows an unnatural amount of patience as he waits for Althaea to emerge from wherever she may be, going as far as to sit. When she does finally come out of her hiding place, or rather hunting place, he watches her with a masked expression. For sure, the face of a lovestruck wolf is now gone as the younger female approaches with her prize. His eyes flit to her kill, and when it is deposited near him, he gives his head a small shake. "Eat it. All've it, an' now. We're not going to the heart've Cerulean danglin' a rabbit we didn't ask to take from them." A pause. "Plus," he adds, with vaguely furrowed brows. "I don' have to tell you to stay where I can see you, do I?"
Geez, someone can sure be a grouch when not paying attention to his girlfriend. Maybe he should just go back to fratinizing with her again.. he was so much more polite. "Thats no way to get someone to do something you know." She remarks picking up her dead baby rabbit and giving it a few chews before swallowing it. Licking her lips after she huffs. "Your suppose to make sure I dont get myself killed, not boss me around." She'll stand by that statement too. Want her to do something ask. Simple as that. "I was within eye sight earlier, you were just to struck by my aunt to notice." Her words are just asking for trouble, but if Ahiga wants her cooperation he'll need to show he deserves it by knowing where she's at at all times.
There's a small, near imperceptible narrowing of Ahiga's eyes, but it's enough of a change to change the entirety of his expression. A quiet breath is taken through his nose before he rises to his paws. Ears stand at atention, and though there's no need for him to raise his tail, he doesn't have to. He means business, and the way he carries himself and looks at her is enough to showcase that. His expression is stern, not angry, and the tone of his voice is the same. "Let me remind you, Thaea, that you told Ikuna, me, /and/ your father that you'd listen. This ain't a good start. I'm not a puppy sitter, an' the only reason I agreed to bring you with me with this is because I thought you were grown enough to handle it. Don't prove me wrong already. Or, actually," he pauses, seemingly changing his mind, "/please/ do cuz I'd rather you make a fool out've yourself here with me instead've in front of the Cerulean because when you visit another pack, what you do, say, an' how you act reflects not you, but your pack. I've no problem takin' you back and going at this alone. If that's what you want, fine. No fur off my back. But you're not gonna stay with me and think you can talk to me any sort've way you like."
Their barely away from the falls and he's acting like their smack dap in the middle of some massive dispute between packs. If this was Cerulean territory and they were truely allies what did she have to worry about. Its not like she ran off and ignored him the moment she thought she had the chance. She'd of done that long before now if that was the case. Listening to the older, not because he wants to but more out of the fact that she /has/ to, she huffs. First off she never said she'd listen, her father did. She's done everything she'd been told so far too. Stayed in eyes view, dispite Ahiga obvious distraction, came over when told to and even ate the rabbit. So what hasn't she done. Not like he started off all perfect either; being all mushy rather than responsible. Tail flicking she sighs. "Fine." She'll just follow close, not say a word and observe. What a great learning experience this is going to be.
Fine. Ahiga lets out a breath of air at the single utterance. It's better than what he thought he'd get, and thus takes it and moves on. He's out here for bigger reasons than this anyway, and it's that thought alone that keeps him from seeing red. His shoulders are rolled slowly, releiving what tension started to creep into them, and he turns his head northward again, gesturing for her to come along as he begins to walk. "We follow this river til it crosses with another. That was there that they all gathered last fall, jus' before winter. It's a little ways away, but you jus' ate and 'm not hungry, so we've got little reason to stop other than to rest. Briefly." He looks back at her. "The Cerulean are very kind, but they, especially their Beta, like it when visitors /act/ like visitors. So. When we find'm, you make sure to act like a visitor at first, especially if we find their leaders first. Things get friendly later. Keep your head level an' tail down are the main things. Be very polite when you talk." He glances over to her. "Got it?"
Althaea was starting to show signs of being tired; her earlier antics apparently having put a drain to her spirits, plus that rabbit kinda hit the spot. Ears drooping she looks up at the wolf with nothing but a nod to acknowledge his words as she zig-zags in her walk trying her best to not doze before the search actually starts.
Ahiga perks his ears a little. It doesn't look as if he has her full and undivided attention, and as she wobble walks, it becomes that much more obvious that he doesn't. Inwardly, he sighs. Pupsitting indeed. "Alright. How about we take a short break now? You don' look like you're gonna make it without one." He scans the area, taking note of their surroundings. Their guiding river is surrounded by open lands and brush. Ah, at least he can see anything that tries to approach. "Take a rest. I'll wake ya when it's time to go."
Althaea was greatful for the break, even though they hadn't got real far. Before now she had kept herself busy with other things. Patience wasn't her strong suit, neither was sitting around doing nothing. So being tired now was something she couldn't avoid. Moving over and dropping to her butt, she gives Ahiga a most apologetic look before leaning into him some. "I'm sorry." She says softly. "For how I..." Her words cut short for a moment as her eyes lid most the way. "..acted."
Apologies do go a long way, and upon hearing, hers Ahiga lightly smiles and nudges her shoulder with his muzzle. "No big," he says dismissively. It's much easier to move on from these things than to hold on and let them fester. At least, when it comes to packmates. As for the dog tragedy, he'll probably hold on to that and let it rot in his soul til the day he dies. Forgiveness is not an option. "We're still cool. Jus'...don't go crazy on me again. S'weird," he says despite the fact that she already seems well on her way to sleep. With this crises averted, he relaxes a little and will keep watch until it's time to hit the road again.
Althaea's eyes close let and a small smile creeps upon her face as a huffed chuckles escapes between her lips. "Okay." She murmurs brushing her head against him like a pillow. So soft and.. and.. she wasn't to sure about that smell but she didn't care. Soon she is in a light sleep.