Post by Kvatch on Jan 18, 2013 9:23:43 GMT -5
| Althaea, a female wolf (Ute) |
| Miakoda, a female wolf (Ute) |
| Brutal, a male wolf (Ute) |
| Gomati, a female wolf (Rogue) |
Dense Undergrowth
==============================================================
Since the bear attacks, the air has taken on the foul stench of blood. Birds sing through the silence of the wood like nothing had happened, perching on low hanging branches only to observe. Sitting nearby to Gomati, whose own wounds supersede hers, Althaea had cleaned the gashes and provided a single hare for her to eat. Pained by such endevours, she now takes the time to tend to herself.
After the hectic, if not outright crazy, events of yesterday, it is with great caution that Miakoda returns to the area of heavy vegetation where the bear went on its most recent rampage. The young she-wolf's paws are moving slowly, each one placed with care as she closely watches her surroundings. The last thing she wants is that lunatic of a bear choosing her as its next target. And not only is she herself a possible temptation for the marauder, but the kill she's dragging with her is too. Mia managed to bring down a deer, but a young one that was born during the summer and now will not ever see winter. And now, aware of not one but two injured wolves ... well, she has to do something, and hunting is one of the few methods of assistance she can offer.
Where /does/ he go? After the meeting, Brutal seemed to become even more withdrawn, including from Althaea. The reason, if there is one, remains to be voiced or even guessed at. However, with days gone by and with the massive male spending them mostly beyond the fringes of the territory, today sees his return. But what he returns too is surely the furthest thing from his mind. So intent has the massive male been in protecting Althaea and the members of Ute from any possible attacks from Grim, that he's forgotten that his traitorous brother isn't the only danger lurking in the forest. Initially, Brutal's gait is a casual walk, his head carried mid height and his hulking mass portraying a demeanor of casual nonchalance. It isn't until he begins to close in on Althaea's location and that metallic scent of blood, that his brows knit together in consternation and he picks up his pace, a hulking shadow of black pushing through the thicket. In fact, the wolf himself could possibly be mistaken for a bear in the cautious minds of the others, but this perception is quickly broken as his rugged voice calls out, a hint of anxiety clearly heard, "Althaea?"
Althaea's back turned, the birds take advantage of the wolfs distraction as an opportunity to steal pieces of hair that have been removed and left to drift. The flapping of their winds perks the she-wolfs ears but she does not turn to gaze at their actions. Leaned to one side, forelegs spread to provide support, 'Thaea reaches around to lick at her side wounds- the grity taste of dirt a distasteful one. When her right foreleg starts to hurt from the weight, she reverts back to a normal position easing off the pain from the ones on her back. Taking in a slow breath, 'Thaea looks back toward Gomati who still rests soundly. A little worried, she stands to move closer but halts to the sound of something approaching. Sniffing the air, she's put a little at ease with the scent being familiar, barking a few times. Motion her attention back upon her injured friend, she is brought to yet another pause from a voice she hasn't heard in days calling out her name. Barking a few more times, "Brutal!" she calls out back.
It is a good thing that Brutal is approaching from the opposite direction on the same path she walks. Were she to hear something of his stature drawing closer from behind, it's quite likely that she simply would have turned and attacked without a single glance. Paranoia is running rampant, it would seem. But even so, Miakoda freezes in place and looks ready to abandon her kill in favor of defense ... when Brutal calls out, and a muffled sigh of relief is whuffled around her mouthful of deer neck. She barks back to the other she-wolf as best she can with her crammed jaws and then resumes her hauling and tugging.
The closer that his thick paws carry him toward Althaea's proximity, the deeper do those lines of concern etch themselves into his age grizzled and battle scarred face. Though as much as he is concerned, equally is he confused. Especially with the sight of the unknown female resting near Althaea. "What the hell happened?" he questions, his tone firm with obvious distress as he comes to stand beside her, hackles slightly bristled in defense as his muzzle extends to sniff, lick, and nuzzle along her body. A soft whine slips out as he discovers her wounds, "I'm so sorry.." he whines again, clearly feeling guilty for not being around. Its like Grim all over again. By the heavens, can he never do anything right? Before Brutal can finish his assessment of Althaea's injuries though, the arrival of Miakoda is quick to captures the she-wolf's arrival, which is equally surprising. Especially since by all appearances, the female is dragging a kill in. Ever since they both got off on the wrong paw, Brutal was fairly sure that Ahiga and Tala had poisoned her against him and possibly Althaea too. Afterall, isn't that why Ikuna is separating the pack? So that everyone can have their way? That nobody will have to admit to harsh judgments or apologize for bad behavior. Such is Brutal's suspicion, but hell if he was going to try and argue it at the meeting, especially since it likely wouldn't have been heard by the two who need to hear it most. So in this moment, Mia' gains something of a quirked brow from the male, curiosity briefly glimpsed. Well, this day is just full of the unexpected. But, at least this is a /nice/ surprise.
With wolves seeming to come in from multiple directions, Althaea can feel at ease enough to relax and settle to the ground. Another look is made to Gomati as she listens to the dragging sound emitting from Miakoda's direction. A kill perhaps, its scent masked by the bloody aroma of the scene set. Waiting to discover that, Althaea turns to where Brutal carries himself in, ears dropping at his distressed tone. How was she suppose to tell him about the bear.. she knew he'd be frantic, blame himself. Nuzzling the wolf back she tells him, "Its nothing, I'm fine." Sure there are grotesque wounds covering her body but really, she's fine. A clear sign of that being false as a slight whine slips out as she tries to press herself against him. When Brutal's gaze is brought to Mia, she looks back to the she-wolf. "Need some help?"
To say that they had gotten off on the wrong paw is something of an understatement, at least from Miakoda's perspective; she had developed a flat dislike, if not hatred, for the hulking Brutal. And yes, true enough, some of that dislike had spread to Althaea. To her teenage mind, at the time, it had made sense; if Althaea not only tolerated but enjoyed Brutal's presence, she must share some of his mentalities, right? But many moons have passed since that incident and Mia is no longer a half-grown adolescent. Adulthood has bestowed maturity and even a tidbit of wisdom, and they are the reason that she is struggling to haul the deer over to the others. The going becomes especially difficult when she has to step off the path and shove through the thick brush, since she's certainly not a large wolf. But she persists, grunting and grumbling with the effort, pausing and letting the head of the deer thump to the ground as she answers Althaea. "No help," she says, short of breath, muzzle curved upward in a slight smirk. "Don't take ... help from ... wolves with holes in them. Inapp ... inappropriate, as my mother would say."
It goes without saying that Brutal is very much doubtful about the state of Althaea's health. On the bright side (if such could be said), he has discovered her in much worse condition, but that doesn't make this any less alarming. The massive male returns her nuzzle, but the grunt issued afterwards implies his dislike for her flippant behavior. "Yes, you are right. It is 'nothing'. Nothing to so quickly dismiss." He almost gives a visible wince as his yellow eyes sweep over the extent of the wound on her side, the bridge of his muzzle wrinkling with distaste at the sight. "You're going to need some healing herbs. Something to keep the infection out." At this moment, Brutal wishes he would have paid more attention to Grim's talent for the usage of herbs for such things. But then, Brutal never imagined that there would be a day when Grim wasn't around to find them for him. Despite the frustration that he feels at his own uselessness, the hulking male manages to retain a calm composure, letting his attention be drawn back to Miakoda as Althaea offers her help and Mia' denies it. Something that gains a small smile of gratitude from the male. "She's right. In fact, if you keep moving around, you're just going to keep breaking the wound open." He scolds, though his tone is still affectionate. "However, I have no holes, so..." He strides forward toward Miakoda, careful to keep his body language as unassuming as possible as the burly male draws close. Brutal hasn't forgotten that first meeting and the way he behaved. But, just as adulthood has bestowed in the young she-wolf wisdom, so has that passage of time bestowed in Brutal a similar change. So now, even as he nears her and the deer she drags in, he doesn't immediately move to assist her, at least not before seeking her permission first, "May I?"
The past day was a nightmare, one she'd prefer to forget then continue to discuss. However, the wolf that lays before her in shambles, and the marks she now bares probably for life.. it was all made impossible. She didn't need to be reminded this was no joking matter. Life was a precious commodity not to be wasted. Brutal's concern over her is well appreciated but she wont get any better by just talking about it. If it wasn't for the said 'holes' in her, Althaea would laugh to Mia's remark. It was true, she didn't need to be straining herself but she didn't actually mean she herself would be doing the helping. Looking to Brutal briefly then back to Mia, she takes to a sit. Not having to say a thing, the words are spoken for her when Brutal offers his own services.
Miakoda's ears prick as she hears Brutal speaking of herbs and remedies, but they are things she knows nothing about and so no comments are made. Instead, she readies herself to pick up the deer by the neck again ... but that is when the male begins moving toward her. In truth, Brutal could be wriggling along on his belly with tail wagging, whimpering and licking his nose, and Mia would still bow down and tuck away; he's just too big. And so, despite his best efforts to show his neutrality, the young she-wolf still crouches her body and lowers her tail. But at least her ears are erect as Brutal speaks to her, and with a smile that is half-nervous and half-self-conscious, she eventually nods. "Thank you."
Brutal isn't oblivious to the anxious cringe that his presence provokes from Miakoda. This reaction isn't anything new to Brutal, but it is old, bringing his memories back to a time when anything except blatant subservient behavior was expected. If he let it, he could still hear his sire's voice in his ear, telling him that there is no room for defiance and any insubordination must be dealt with swiftly. Of course, Brutal has since learned the folly of such tyranny, but some teachings are just too deeply ingrained. However, being a brute isn't one of them. And so, over-looking Miakoda' anxiety, Brutal just smiles a soft smile, letting those yellow eyes sweep across her face without a direct stare, "I should be thanking you, Miakoda." he says, though his tone is still more formal than he cares for. A bit cautious himself, so as to not spook the she-wolf any more than he already does, the massive wolf moves forward to take up a front let, letting Mia' keep hold of the neck of the felled deer. From here, he rocks back a bit on his haunches, starting the corpse forward with a tug to free it from the tangle of brush, before he continues to walk backwards. There is no doubt that Brutal could easily drag the thing on his own, but he seems intent on allowing Miakoda a share of the effort, after all, it is her kill and he wouldn't want the she-wolf to take offense by him just taking over. Afterall, isn't that what got him in trouble in the first place? Everyone thought he was trying to take over?
Gomati has connected.
Gomati slowly opens her eyes waking up from her slumber. The rogue then emits a slight yawn and looks around the area not trying to get up yet. Remaining where she is the female wolf looks around the area noticing Althaea and the others and greets them with one simple word. "Hello." Not saying anything else letting her shy tendencies show through.
Relieved that Miakoda has allowed Brutal to assist her, Althaea smiles grateful, sinking even as her body begins to grow weary of holding itself up. Still rough around the edges, Brutal can be intimidating no matter how much he tries not to be. And the reaction she sees from Mia due to his approach is enough to prove it. All the same, its good to see them cooperating. Watching the two, her ears turn back to the yawn emitted behind her, immediately looking back. Gomati was awake, thats a good sign. Tail wagging in joy, 'Thaea stands to approach her injured comrade. "Thank goodness. How're you feeling?" A quick glance is made to her wounds, certainly cleaner than hers right now.
At first, just the thing Brutal is trying to avoid is exactly what she had expected to happen. Although she mentally wasn't considering it a forfeit of her kill, more like handing it over to another who happens to be significantly larger than her, it is nevertheless what she was waiting for. So when that doesn't occur, when Brutal instead only takes hold of one of the deer's foreleg, Miakoda's first reaction is confusion. And really, can you blame her, all things considered? Yet her perplexion lasts two, perhaps three seconds and then she realizes what the male is trying to do. And it is greatly appreciated, her thankfulness shining in her golden eyes as she replants her teeth in the neck of the deer. Together, the hulking male wolf and the petite she-wolf tote the kill to the two wounded wolves ... and really, to an outsider it might look funny, the giant holding a leg and the midget holding the neck.
[OOC] Miakoda says, "Afraid I have to go ... Just say Mia curled up somewhere nearby to rest after she and Hercules dropped off the food. Thanks for the scene!
"
With his attention focused on the task at paw, not that it exactly requires a lot of thought, Brutal doesn't notice the waking of the unknown she-wolf, Gomati. Instead, Miakoda remains the subject of his interest, with the female gaining the occasional glance from the dark wolf as he continues to assist, pulling his weight only when the animal's shoulder catches on a root. It isn't a lengthy process though and before long, Brutal gives up his hold on the slender leg to allow Miakoda to finish manipulating the fresh corpse however and where ever she'd like. He does however, offer her a warm smile and a brief dip of his head in another show of thanks before turning back to Althaea, who the sight of promptly brings back a frown of concern. At this time, he takes notice of Gomati's wakefulness, her voiced greeting gaining a small nod of acknowledgment from the burly male, along with a bit of a wary stare. Adverting his attention back to Althaea, he returns to her side, his tongue darting out to carefully dab at a ear, asif any touch might cause her discomfort, "So are you going to tell me what happened and who your friend is? Or am I going to have to interrogate you?"
Gomati can not help but giggle at Brutal's comment about the interrogation to Althaea. Her eyes gaze upon both of them then responds to the enquiry. "I have been better Althaea. I could be worse though. How are you doing?" The she-wolf then slowly forces herself back up wincing in pain and is trying her best to hide it.
Back turned, Althaea misses the awkward sight of how the deer is carried in her direction. Likely for the best too as laughing, as hard as it is not to do, hurts. Forgetting her own condition for the time being, she settles to her haunches giving Gomati yet another look over. The rogue it lucky its just a gouge but considering her thin stature and size, Goma's wound makes hers look a scuff. Throwing her attention back toward the two wolves behind her as the sound of their efforts grows louder upon approach, she gives a few moments of watching before adverting her gaze back toward her injured friend. Side pain evident in her posture, Althaea is grateful Brutal shows up when he does, leaning into his frame for support. Gomati's reponse brings a short lived smile to her face saying, "I've been worse." Being unconscious for the first near death experience made things easier, but since she's awake then time around, its the worse feeling ever. Flick her dabbed at ear, the she-wolf looks up toward Brutal. Mildly scared of what may happen if she chooses interrogation, she goes with the latter. "This of Gomati. I met her a few nights ago." Her voice holding in a bout of pain. "She and I were attacked by a bear while hunting." Seperate occasions of course.
In most cases, a session of interrogation by Brutal would no doubt consist of many unpleasant possibilities, but in this instance, the worst Althaea would have to fear from the brute is a vigorous bout of wound cleaning. But then, she'll likely get that no matter what, regardless of any protest or fight she might put up. For the moment though, since the she-wolf willingly gives up the information, the massive wolf will refrain from this administration. Right now, his attention returns to the scrap of a wolf, who now has a name. This doesn't keep Brutal from looking her over with a assessing eye and lingering hint of wariness. Who's to say she isn't some kind of spy sent ahead by his brother? Brutal knows it a silly concern that is heavily steeped in paranoia, but he isn't willing to just dismiss the possibilities. Still, this doesn't mean that he won't offer the female a amicable greeting nevertheless. "Gomati." he repeats, ears perking forward, "An unusual name." He would have been inclined to venture from where the she-wolf's origins lay, except that mention of a bear attack quickly captures his attention. Thick brows furrow and his eyes narrow a touch, gaze sweeping over to Althaea, "A bear?" he says in disbelief, his demeanor suddenly becoming more tense as he glances around the area, clearly this news putting him on edge. Looking back to Althaea and Gomati, a renewed concern for the two of them is glimpsed upon his visage, "What provoked the attack?" His choice of words is precise, for surely the creature would have had some reason, or so he hopes. Because to have a bear attack a wolf for no reason at all...well..that means both Althaea and Gomati might have more to worry about than the wounds they carry. Brutal has seen the deadly curse of a rabid animal before and he'd happily go the rest of his life without ever seeing it again. A fear that is glimpsed in his eyes as he waits for Althaea to explain further.
Gomati fixes her attention on Brutal this time. "I am not sure what provoked the attack. I found Althaea floating in the river and she was not moving. So I jumped in to bring her to shore even though we just met. I did not want anything to happen to her. She told me that it was a bear. We ate a hare." She pauses for a moment then adds. "I was still hungry and went hunting trying to get some food for both of us. I saw the bear and started to run away because it was chasing me. I was tired and resting thinking the bear has given up chasing me. But it was still around and the last thing I knew the bear caught me off guard and got me and Althaea saved my life. That is all I can say. I do not know exactly what happened to Althaea though unfortunately." Then waits to hear what else is going to be said.
In truth, Althaea had no idea what sparked such ferocity in the bear. She was out hunting when she came upon it, or rather it came upon her. Everything was fine up to the point where... Then its hit her- the hare. Ears perked she waits for Gomati to finish her part of the incident then says, "It was the hare." Her tone soft and sure of itself. "First a deer, then a hare." She looks down the way to where she had seen the deer carcass not two days ago. "Hare are to fast for it and the deer wasn't enough. So he waited. My catching one was a coincidence.. an opportunity. He hadn't seen that I'd given it up, attacking." She ends there looking back to the two. "Gomati had caught one too when she was chased."
Brutal's concern remains evident up until Althaea provides a plausible explanation for the bear's attack, which does help to alleviate some of his fear, but tendrils still linger, told as he voices a few words of caution. "Be that as it may, probably best to avoid hunting alone. At least until winter." He exhales a sigh, giving his head a small rueful shake as he now looks to Althaea, "I know I already said it, but I am truly sorry I wasn't there." For a moment, his gaze adverts to the ground, his jaw setting as the massive wolf falls into the silence of his thoughts as he mutters a low, "Seems to be a common fault of mine." It doesn't last long though before Brutal gives it up, mostly because the presence of Gomati keeps him from saying more on it. Instead, he just focuses on what needs to be done now that he IS here. Turning his head, he gently noses at Althaea's neck, nuzzling up toward the base of her ear as he releases another dejected exhale, "How about you and Gomati go ahead and tear into that deer. I'm going to go see if I can find something for your wounds." His tongue flicks forward to draw along the edge of the she-wolf ear, "I won't be far. Or long." he assures, just before taking a step back to access Althaea's injuries again. Sigh. Without further adieu, the massive male turns to set out in his search for some herbal remedies and hoping that he can remember which ones, least he end up poisoning both of the them. Now wouldn't that be just like him? Never able to do anything right and instead, making things worse rather than better.
Gomati keeps her attention on Brutal as she listens to him. "Thank you." She says simply. Then eats some of the deer before yawning and laying back down. "I am going to try and get some sleep." The female wolf says and falls fast asleep.
Summarizing the events of that day was easy, but what wasn't was witnessing the acts of hunger. A bear who chose to steal from another rather than find his own, it was selfish and lazy. Ears drooping as she listens to Brutal ring caution over the group and Althaea sighs herself. Winter was a season of opportunity, one she couldn't wait for yet was uncertain about aswell. Looking up at Brute she smiles just at the very thought of winter. That smile soon fades however as she is apologized to. Such a think was never needed when it came to him and her yet he seemed it necessary each time she got hurt. Dropping her muzzle below his, she gives a lick. "Dont be so hard on yourself, hon." It made her sad seeing him put so much blame upon himself. Things might of been different had he been around, but its not something he should feel shame over. "You are here now." Pushing herself from the burly wolf, Althaea looks to the deer that was brought. They really should eat that huh. Taking Brutal's offer to heart, she stands slowly taking a step to the side. "Watch your back." She calls out as the wolf begins his search. To the deer she makes then rest.
| Miakoda, a female wolf (Ute) |
| Brutal, a male wolf (Ute) |
| Gomati, a female wolf (Rogue) |
Dense Undergrowth
==============================================================
Since the bear attacks, the air has taken on the foul stench of blood. Birds sing through the silence of the wood like nothing had happened, perching on low hanging branches only to observe. Sitting nearby to Gomati, whose own wounds supersede hers, Althaea had cleaned the gashes and provided a single hare for her to eat. Pained by such endevours, she now takes the time to tend to herself.
After the hectic, if not outright crazy, events of yesterday, it is with great caution that Miakoda returns to the area of heavy vegetation where the bear went on its most recent rampage. The young she-wolf's paws are moving slowly, each one placed with care as she closely watches her surroundings. The last thing she wants is that lunatic of a bear choosing her as its next target. And not only is she herself a possible temptation for the marauder, but the kill she's dragging with her is too. Mia managed to bring down a deer, but a young one that was born during the summer and now will not ever see winter. And now, aware of not one but two injured wolves ... well, she has to do something, and hunting is one of the few methods of assistance she can offer.
Where /does/ he go? After the meeting, Brutal seemed to become even more withdrawn, including from Althaea. The reason, if there is one, remains to be voiced or even guessed at. However, with days gone by and with the massive male spending them mostly beyond the fringes of the territory, today sees his return. But what he returns too is surely the furthest thing from his mind. So intent has the massive male been in protecting Althaea and the members of Ute from any possible attacks from Grim, that he's forgotten that his traitorous brother isn't the only danger lurking in the forest. Initially, Brutal's gait is a casual walk, his head carried mid height and his hulking mass portraying a demeanor of casual nonchalance. It isn't until he begins to close in on Althaea's location and that metallic scent of blood, that his brows knit together in consternation and he picks up his pace, a hulking shadow of black pushing through the thicket. In fact, the wolf himself could possibly be mistaken for a bear in the cautious minds of the others, but this perception is quickly broken as his rugged voice calls out, a hint of anxiety clearly heard, "Althaea?"
Althaea's back turned, the birds take advantage of the wolfs distraction as an opportunity to steal pieces of hair that have been removed and left to drift. The flapping of their winds perks the she-wolfs ears but she does not turn to gaze at their actions. Leaned to one side, forelegs spread to provide support, 'Thaea reaches around to lick at her side wounds- the grity taste of dirt a distasteful one. When her right foreleg starts to hurt from the weight, she reverts back to a normal position easing off the pain from the ones on her back. Taking in a slow breath, 'Thaea looks back toward Gomati who still rests soundly. A little worried, she stands to move closer but halts to the sound of something approaching. Sniffing the air, she's put a little at ease with the scent being familiar, barking a few times. Motion her attention back upon her injured friend, she is brought to yet another pause from a voice she hasn't heard in days calling out her name. Barking a few more times, "Brutal!" she calls out back.
It is a good thing that Brutal is approaching from the opposite direction on the same path she walks. Were she to hear something of his stature drawing closer from behind, it's quite likely that she simply would have turned and attacked without a single glance. Paranoia is running rampant, it would seem. But even so, Miakoda freezes in place and looks ready to abandon her kill in favor of defense ... when Brutal calls out, and a muffled sigh of relief is whuffled around her mouthful of deer neck. She barks back to the other she-wolf as best she can with her crammed jaws and then resumes her hauling and tugging.
The closer that his thick paws carry him toward Althaea's proximity, the deeper do those lines of concern etch themselves into his age grizzled and battle scarred face. Though as much as he is concerned, equally is he confused. Especially with the sight of the unknown female resting near Althaea. "What the hell happened?" he questions, his tone firm with obvious distress as he comes to stand beside her, hackles slightly bristled in defense as his muzzle extends to sniff, lick, and nuzzle along her body. A soft whine slips out as he discovers her wounds, "I'm so sorry.." he whines again, clearly feeling guilty for not being around. Its like Grim all over again. By the heavens, can he never do anything right? Before Brutal can finish his assessment of Althaea's injuries though, the arrival of Miakoda is quick to captures the she-wolf's arrival, which is equally surprising. Especially since by all appearances, the female is dragging a kill in. Ever since they both got off on the wrong paw, Brutal was fairly sure that Ahiga and Tala had poisoned her against him and possibly Althaea too. Afterall, isn't that why Ikuna is separating the pack? So that everyone can have their way? That nobody will have to admit to harsh judgments or apologize for bad behavior. Such is Brutal's suspicion, but hell if he was going to try and argue it at the meeting, especially since it likely wouldn't have been heard by the two who need to hear it most. So in this moment, Mia' gains something of a quirked brow from the male, curiosity briefly glimpsed. Well, this day is just full of the unexpected. But, at least this is a /nice/ surprise.
With wolves seeming to come in from multiple directions, Althaea can feel at ease enough to relax and settle to the ground. Another look is made to Gomati as she listens to the dragging sound emitting from Miakoda's direction. A kill perhaps, its scent masked by the bloody aroma of the scene set. Waiting to discover that, Althaea turns to where Brutal carries himself in, ears dropping at his distressed tone. How was she suppose to tell him about the bear.. she knew he'd be frantic, blame himself. Nuzzling the wolf back she tells him, "Its nothing, I'm fine." Sure there are grotesque wounds covering her body but really, she's fine. A clear sign of that being false as a slight whine slips out as she tries to press herself against him. When Brutal's gaze is brought to Mia, she looks back to the she-wolf. "Need some help?"
To say that they had gotten off on the wrong paw is something of an understatement, at least from Miakoda's perspective; she had developed a flat dislike, if not hatred, for the hulking Brutal. And yes, true enough, some of that dislike had spread to Althaea. To her teenage mind, at the time, it had made sense; if Althaea not only tolerated but enjoyed Brutal's presence, she must share some of his mentalities, right? But many moons have passed since that incident and Mia is no longer a half-grown adolescent. Adulthood has bestowed maturity and even a tidbit of wisdom, and they are the reason that she is struggling to haul the deer over to the others. The going becomes especially difficult when she has to step off the path and shove through the thick brush, since she's certainly not a large wolf. But she persists, grunting and grumbling with the effort, pausing and letting the head of the deer thump to the ground as she answers Althaea. "No help," she says, short of breath, muzzle curved upward in a slight smirk. "Don't take ... help from ... wolves with holes in them. Inapp ... inappropriate, as my mother would say."
It goes without saying that Brutal is very much doubtful about the state of Althaea's health. On the bright side (if such could be said), he has discovered her in much worse condition, but that doesn't make this any less alarming. The massive male returns her nuzzle, but the grunt issued afterwards implies his dislike for her flippant behavior. "Yes, you are right. It is 'nothing'. Nothing to so quickly dismiss." He almost gives a visible wince as his yellow eyes sweep over the extent of the wound on her side, the bridge of his muzzle wrinkling with distaste at the sight. "You're going to need some healing herbs. Something to keep the infection out." At this moment, Brutal wishes he would have paid more attention to Grim's talent for the usage of herbs for such things. But then, Brutal never imagined that there would be a day when Grim wasn't around to find them for him. Despite the frustration that he feels at his own uselessness, the hulking male manages to retain a calm composure, letting his attention be drawn back to Miakoda as Althaea offers her help and Mia' denies it. Something that gains a small smile of gratitude from the male. "She's right. In fact, if you keep moving around, you're just going to keep breaking the wound open." He scolds, though his tone is still affectionate. "However, I have no holes, so..." He strides forward toward Miakoda, careful to keep his body language as unassuming as possible as the burly male draws close. Brutal hasn't forgotten that first meeting and the way he behaved. But, just as adulthood has bestowed in the young she-wolf wisdom, so has that passage of time bestowed in Brutal a similar change. So now, even as he nears her and the deer she drags in, he doesn't immediately move to assist her, at least not before seeking her permission first, "May I?"
The past day was a nightmare, one she'd prefer to forget then continue to discuss. However, the wolf that lays before her in shambles, and the marks she now bares probably for life.. it was all made impossible. She didn't need to be reminded this was no joking matter. Life was a precious commodity not to be wasted. Brutal's concern over her is well appreciated but she wont get any better by just talking about it. If it wasn't for the said 'holes' in her, Althaea would laugh to Mia's remark. It was true, she didn't need to be straining herself but she didn't actually mean she herself would be doing the helping. Looking to Brutal briefly then back to Mia, she takes to a sit. Not having to say a thing, the words are spoken for her when Brutal offers his own services.
Miakoda's ears prick as she hears Brutal speaking of herbs and remedies, but they are things she knows nothing about and so no comments are made. Instead, she readies herself to pick up the deer by the neck again ... but that is when the male begins moving toward her. In truth, Brutal could be wriggling along on his belly with tail wagging, whimpering and licking his nose, and Mia would still bow down and tuck away; he's just too big. And so, despite his best efforts to show his neutrality, the young she-wolf still crouches her body and lowers her tail. But at least her ears are erect as Brutal speaks to her, and with a smile that is half-nervous and half-self-conscious, she eventually nods. "Thank you."
Brutal isn't oblivious to the anxious cringe that his presence provokes from Miakoda. This reaction isn't anything new to Brutal, but it is old, bringing his memories back to a time when anything except blatant subservient behavior was expected. If he let it, he could still hear his sire's voice in his ear, telling him that there is no room for defiance and any insubordination must be dealt with swiftly. Of course, Brutal has since learned the folly of such tyranny, but some teachings are just too deeply ingrained. However, being a brute isn't one of them. And so, over-looking Miakoda' anxiety, Brutal just smiles a soft smile, letting those yellow eyes sweep across her face without a direct stare, "I should be thanking you, Miakoda." he says, though his tone is still more formal than he cares for. A bit cautious himself, so as to not spook the she-wolf any more than he already does, the massive wolf moves forward to take up a front let, letting Mia' keep hold of the neck of the felled deer. From here, he rocks back a bit on his haunches, starting the corpse forward with a tug to free it from the tangle of brush, before he continues to walk backwards. There is no doubt that Brutal could easily drag the thing on his own, but he seems intent on allowing Miakoda a share of the effort, after all, it is her kill and he wouldn't want the she-wolf to take offense by him just taking over. Afterall, isn't that what got him in trouble in the first place? Everyone thought he was trying to take over?
Gomati has connected.
Gomati slowly opens her eyes waking up from her slumber. The rogue then emits a slight yawn and looks around the area not trying to get up yet. Remaining where she is the female wolf looks around the area noticing Althaea and the others and greets them with one simple word. "Hello." Not saying anything else letting her shy tendencies show through.
Relieved that Miakoda has allowed Brutal to assist her, Althaea smiles grateful, sinking even as her body begins to grow weary of holding itself up. Still rough around the edges, Brutal can be intimidating no matter how much he tries not to be. And the reaction she sees from Mia due to his approach is enough to prove it. All the same, its good to see them cooperating. Watching the two, her ears turn back to the yawn emitted behind her, immediately looking back. Gomati was awake, thats a good sign. Tail wagging in joy, 'Thaea stands to approach her injured comrade. "Thank goodness. How're you feeling?" A quick glance is made to her wounds, certainly cleaner than hers right now.
At first, just the thing Brutal is trying to avoid is exactly what she had expected to happen. Although she mentally wasn't considering it a forfeit of her kill, more like handing it over to another who happens to be significantly larger than her, it is nevertheless what she was waiting for. So when that doesn't occur, when Brutal instead only takes hold of one of the deer's foreleg, Miakoda's first reaction is confusion. And really, can you blame her, all things considered? Yet her perplexion lasts two, perhaps three seconds and then she realizes what the male is trying to do. And it is greatly appreciated, her thankfulness shining in her golden eyes as she replants her teeth in the neck of the deer. Together, the hulking male wolf and the petite she-wolf tote the kill to the two wounded wolves ... and really, to an outsider it might look funny, the giant holding a leg and the midget holding the neck.
[OOC] Miakoda says, "Afraid I have to go ... Just say Mia curled up somewhere nearby to rest after she and Hercules dropped off the food. Thanks for the scene!
"With his attention focused on the task at paw, not that it exactly requires a lot of thought, Brutal doesn't notice the waking of the unknown she-wolf, Gomati. Instead, Miakoda remains the subject of his interest, with the female gaining the occasional glance from the dark wolf as he continues to assist, pulling his weight only when the animal's shoulder catches on a root. It isn't a lengthy process though and before long, Brutal gives up his hold on the slender leg to allow Miakoda to finish manipulating the fresh corpse however and where ever she'd like. He does however, offer her a warm smile and a brief dip of his head in another show of thanks before turning back to Althaea, who the sight of promptly brings back a frown of concern. At this time, he takes notice of Gomati's wakefulness, her voiced greeting gaining a small nod of acknowledgment from the burly male, along with a bit of a wary stare. Adverting his attention back to Althaea, he returns to her side, his tongue darting out to carefully dab at a ear, asif any touch might cause her discomfort, "So are you going to tell me what happened and who your friend is? Or am I going to have to interrogate you?"
Gomati can not help but giggle at Brutal's comment about the interrogation to Althaea. Her eyes gaze upon both of them then responds to the enquiry. "I have been better Althaea. I could be worse though. How are you doing?" The she-wolf then slowly forces herself back up wincing in pain and is trying her best to hide it.
Back turned, Althaea misses the awkward sight of how the deer is carried in her direction. Likely for the best too as laughing, as hard as it is not to do, hurts. Forgetting her own condition for the time being, she settles to her haunches giving Gomati yet another look over. The rogue it lucky its just a gouge but considering her thin stature and size, Goma's wound makes hers look a scuff. Throwing her attention back toward the two wolves behind her as the sound of their efforts grows louder upon approach, she gives a few moments of watching before adverting her gaze back toward her injured friend. Side pain evident in her posture, Althaea is grateful Brutal shows up when he does, leaning into his frame for support. Gomati's reponse brings a short lived smile to her face saying, "I've been worse." Being unconscious for the first near death experience made things easier, but since she's awake then time around, its the worse feeling ever. Flick her dabbed at ear, the she-wolf looks up toward Brutal. Mildly scared of what may happen if she chooses interrogation, she goes with the latter. "This of Gomati. I met her a few nights ago." Her voice holding in a bout of pain. "She and I were attacked by a bear while hunting." Seperate occasions of course.
In most cases, a session of interrogation by Brutal would no doubt consist of many unpleasant possibilities, but in this instance, the worst Althaea would have to fear from the brute is a vigorous bout of wound cleaning. But then, she'll likely get that no matter what, regardless of any protest or fight she might put up. For the moment though, since the she-wolf willingly gives up the information, the massive wolf will refrain from this administration. Right now, his attention returns to the scrap of a wolf, who now has a name. This doesn't keep Brutal from looking her over with a assessing eye and lingering hint of wariness. Who's to say she isn't some kind of spy sent ahead by his brother? Brutal knows it a silly concern that is heavily steeped in paranoia, but he isn't willing to just dismiss the possibilities. Still, this doesn't mean that he won't offer the female a amicable greeting nevertheless. "Gomati." he repeats, ears perking forward, "An unusual name." He would have been inclined to venture from where the she-wolf's origins lay, except that mention of a bear attack quickly captures his attention. Thick brows furrow and his eyes narrow a touch, gaze sweeping over to Althaea, "A bear?" he says in disbelief, his demeanor suddenly becoming more tense as he glances around the area, clearly this news putting him on edge. Looking back to Althaea and Gomati, a renewed concern for the two of them is glimpsed upon his visage, "What provoked the attack?" His choice of words is precise, for surely the creature would have had some reason, or so he hopes. Because to have a bear attack a wolf for no reason at all...well..that means both Althaea and Gomati might have more to worry about than the wounds they carry. Brutal has seen the deadly curse of a rabid animal before and he'd happily go the rest of his life without ever seeing it again. A fear that is glimpsed in his eyes as he waits for Althaea to explain further.
Gomati fixes her attention on Brutal this time. "I am not sure what provoked the attack. I found Althaea floating in the river and she was not moving. So I jumped in to bring her to shore even though we just met. I did not want anything to happen to her. She told me that it was a bear. We ate a hare." She pauses for a moment then adds. "I was still hungry and went hunting trying to get some food for both of us. I saw the bear and started to run away because it was chasing me. I was tired and resting thinking the bear has given up chasing me. But it was still around and the last thing I knew the bear caught me off guard and got me and Althaea saved my life. That is all I can say. I do not know exactly what happened to Althaea though unfortunately." Then waits to hear what else is going to be said.
In truth, Althaea had no idea what sparked such ferocity in the bear. She was out hunting when she came upon it, or rather it came upon her. Everything was fine up to the point where... Then its hit her- the hare. Ears perked she waits for Gomati to finish her part of the incident then says, "It was the hare." Her tone soft and sure of itself. "First a deer, then a hare." She looks down the way to where she had seen the deer carcass not two days ago. "Hare are to fast for it and the deer wasn't enough. So he waited. My catching one was a coincidence.. an opportunity. He hadn't seen that I'd given it up, attacking." She ends there looking back to the two. "Gomati had caught one too when she was chased."
Brutal's concern remains evident up until Althaea provides a plausible explanation for the bear's attack, which does help to alleviate some of his fear, but tendrils still linger, told as he voices a few words of caution. "Be that as it may, probably best to avoid hunting alone. At least until winter." He exhales a sigh, giving his head a small rueful shake as he now looks to Althaea, "I know I already said it, but I am truly sorry I wasn't there." For a moment, his gaze adverts to the ground, his jaw setting as the massive wolf falls into the silence of his thoughts as he mutters a low, "Seems to be a common fault of mine." It doesn't last long though before Brutal gives it up, mostly because the presence of Gomati keeps him from saying more on it. Instead, he just focuses on what needs to be done now that he IS here. Turning his head, he gently noses at Althaea's neck, nuzzling up toward the base of her ear as he releases another dejected exhale, "How about you and Gomati go ahead and tear into that deer. I'm going to go see if I can find something for your wounds." His tongue flicks forward to draw along the edge of the she-wolf ear, "I won't be far. Or long." he assures, just before taking a step back to access Althaea's injuries again. Sigh. Without further adieu, the massive male turns to set out in his search for some herbal remedies and hoping that he can remember which ones, least he end up poisoning both of the them. Now wouldn't that be just like him? Never able to do anything right and instead, making things worse rather than better.
Gomati keeps her attention on Brutal as she listens to him. "Thank you." She says simply. Then eats some of the deer before yawning and laying back down. "I am going to try and get some sleep." The female wolf says and falls fast asleep.
Summarizing the events of that day was easy, but what wasn't was witnessing the acts of hunger. A bear who chose to steal from another rather than find his own, it was selfish and lazy. Ears drooping as she listens to Brutal ring caution over the group and Althaea sighs herself. Winter was a season of opportunity, one she couldn't wait for yet was uncertain about aswell. Looking up at Brute she smiles just at the very thought of winter. That smile soon fades however as she is apologized to. Such a think was never needed when it came to him and her yet he seemed it necessary each time she got hurt. Dropping her muzzle below his, she gives a lick. "Dont be so hard on yourself, hon." It made her sad seeing him put so much blame upon himself. Things might of been different had he been around, but its not something he should feel shame over. "You are here now." Pushing herself from the burly wolf, Althaea looks to the deer that was brought. They really should eat that huh. Taking Brutal's offer to heart, she stands slowly taking a step to the side. "Watch your back." She calls out as the wolf begins his search. To the deer she makes then rest.