Hey Beautiful [Private]

[Oki]

((OoC: This is a private topic between Rely and I))

The evening sun was starting to caress the horizon far off in the west. The sun's light passed through the atmophere and changed the appearance of the sky and sun. The eastern part of the sky remained its usual blue, although it began to recede and darken as the sun sank into the Earth. Meanwhile, the western half of the sky rippled purlples, pinks and oranges while the sun was a beautiful searing red-orange, a circular fire that belonged to the heavens. It would be a while until dusk, but Drexyll didn't care about the time at the moment. He opened his eyes from a quiet afternoons meditation. Sitting, Drexyll has learned to sit up without his forepaws on the ground and hold them about chest level one above the other, paw pads facing each other without moving. Only the movements of his chest as he breathed gentle but deep breaths as he meditated. Blue orbs cast up to the sky and the colors caught his attention. White fluffy clouds spotted along the canvas and the colors of the sky leaked onto them, causing them to have differently colored linings. Though, one especially he focused on. It was long and snake-like, fluffy and had what looked like legs. The underside of the cloud was lined with just pink and it reminded him of a certain someone. His ears twitched as they flushed.

Slowly drifting down, a reflection of the sky, horizon and sun could be seen in the lake. A very distant rumble of water flowing could be heard from the Koukon River emptying into the lake. Eyelids half closed as he continued to look at the clear reflection, as if it were a different reality that mirrored his own, he seemed to study it. Soft waves lapped at the sandy beach.

Deciding that he would end his static meditation there, Drexyll's forepaws still stayed off the ground as he fluidly stood on his rear paws. Though struggling a little and requiring effort to stand up and stay up, Drexyll kept his balance. Shuffling a paw forward, it pushed along in the sand as he didn't have enough confidence to take a full step just yet. Forepaws flattened and relaxed and he held one out in front of him and the other more tucked towards his body. Twisting his body down and to the side a little, he inhaled and exhaled slowly. Grasping the source of his magic, Drexyll twisted his body back around the other way as he pulled upwards with his paws. He made slow and deliberate movements as his fore legs began to make circular motions after he had raised them above his head. With a couple rotations, a sphere of water began to rise out of the calm water. Like a bubble, it fluctuated as it left the water. Bringing his forepaws back in front of him, the water sphere hovered about chest level. Spreading his arms apart so his torso made a 'T', the water spread like a string.

Now came the tricky part; a part that gets him every time. Concentrating as hard as he could, the male torqued his body to the right and allowed his hind paw to lift up a little. The string of water followed with him and just as he was about to bring the water to wrap around him, when his paw set back down, it slipped and broke his concentration. The water broke and drew a line in the sand as it soaked in. Huffing, Drexyll relaxed and un-tensed himself, plopping his rump onto the warm sand, staring at the line of water. Lifting his forepaws once more, he extracted the water and put it back into the lake, making it look as if nothing happened.

"Hmmf, guess even Druins can't stay on two legs for too long..." Drexyll sat there and looked over at the sun once more. Situating himself into his meditative stance once more, he kept his eyes open for a little while before he would close them.

[Relairah]

She had spent much of the day within the Kareno Forest, training, honing skills, hunting, pondering. She had not eaten but a rabbit in the morning which would hardly suffice one of her size. She was hungry and was on the prowl for deer. She knew there were often quite a few down by the river around this time, since many of the Druins were not for some reason or another, and she stalked closer, hoping to catch one for a nice fat meal. As the trees thinned, the bank became clear and the rustling of the water danced by her long ears. It was soft enough, almost a soothing sound and it was clear sundown neared.

What met her gaze was hardly what she expected however, at the sight of a Druin, rising to his hinds and seeming to practice something. It was not so far off of some of her own training in the past and she was silent as she observed, glad to be downwind of him. Oh yes, she recognized the other with the blue to his fur. She found herself somewhat fascinated as she watched, baited, wondering where this was going and what would happen and then came his collapse. She caught her breath to suppress a giggle and she caught his words. He didn't seem so upset... perhaps because he didn't know he had had an audience.

He seemed to resume his composure and she debated all the different ways she could approach. There was the nonchalant wandering up, saying something sarcastic or even a mundane greeting. There was the sneaking to the other bank and dipping her head to drink, looking up just in time to bat her eyes and give a flirty smile. And of course the mimicking of someone's voice to make him suspect it was not her but someone frightening or even obnoxious who was near. Oh, she was quite good at that. Her specialty, in fact. Or even perhaps she could pounce up, scaring the crap out of him, so focused and tease him of his clumsiness.

None of these would suffice. It was amazing to her how the possibilities were endless. And what was even more astonishing was the fact she even considered these things so fully. But somehow, this Druin had made an impression on her, more and different from all the rest. And she felt herself drawn to it, curious to learn more of him, to see how he would truly feel of her once he knew her more as well. Oh yes, she was feeling those giddy feelings toward him. But she focused herself. Yes... how to approach.

"I suppose that's because we're not human," she said as she closed the distance easily, dipping her head to drink at the water and then raise it again, holding herself proudly though her head dipped slightly, showing she was entirely relaxed. She briefly recounted the first time they had met... well that was the last time she had seen him as well, she supposed. He certainly hadn't gotten to see the normal her. Only the diplomatic territorial her.

She gazed at him in full, her bi-colored eyes alight. One was a deep blue while the other was a bright red. "And of course, only very practiced Druins could pull off human behavior..." she teased with a grin.

[Oki]

Eyes began to close slowly, reaching the halfway point. they looked at the pristine surface of the lake, staring at himself in his reflection and the sky above him, then the world around him. Drexyll began to zone out some, eyes glazing over as he allowed them to unfocus. His breathing was calm and soft as it came in and out through his nose. Peace was starting to fall upon him, realizing he needed to meditate more to conquer standing on two legs.

Just as he was about to settle into his mind and sink into his subconscious, a voice came from behind him. Normally, it wouldn't have awoken him as he has trained himself to block out noise, even voices. Not this voice, however. Oh no, it was very familiar and one that seemed to ring in his ears softly, smooth like milk and honey; a females voice. Her voice aroused his senses and shot him back into reality, his heart jumping and hitting against the inside of his chest. "Oooh, god. She's here...what do I do?", he asked himself, excitement, slight embarrassment and nervousness washing over him. His body getting warm with the sudden increase of blood flow, Drexyll's tail twirled to keep himself from losing balance from sitting straight up. Without breaking his stance, he looked over as she dipped her head to take a drink of water, using the reflection to look at her.

She did have a point though and he figured so, being the most obvious reason. Of course they weren't human, though he did want to learn how to stand on two legs. By learning as much as he did, he opened a new door to a ton of possibilities and now he has potential to become stronger. He has been training quite a bit recently after unlocking this new potential and he wanted to harness this power. With the Princess interrupting, he didn't know that if he would ever reach that level yet, especially wit his feelings towards her. He liked her company, but she's always going to appear at these kinds of times, he didn't know if he could focus enough with her around to train.

After she lifted her head from getting a drink from the lake, he saw her look over at him. Hesitant, he slowly turned his head to look over at her. Heart fluttering, he bit his lip and mustered the courage to look back at her. Though, there was something that he didn't notice before. He didn't know she was heterochromia. One was blue, darker than his own and the other a blood red. Her smile at him made him flush. Though, by the sound of it, it seemed as if she had confidence in him...either than, or she was just teasing him. Either way, he was surprised that she was so laid back with him. Thoughts like 'Why does the Princess want to hang out with me?', came to mind. A feeling of slight inferiority to her wandered across him, which went as quickly as it came.

Masca's eyes mesmerized him shortly, not wanting to look away. He dipped his head slightly, "W-well, I'm trying to become one of those Druins, Princess...", he spoke softly, trying to sound as confident as he could, "...I'm trying to become stronger; stronger than my siblings...Fighting against enemies and defending Giaku...It'll be the only proof of my life." His tone of confidence grew at the end of his statement, telling her his goal in life. Finding it hard to keep anymore focus on his meditation, he broke his stance and put his forepaws back onto the sand. It was warm. His tail preceded to wrap around his one side as he turned a little more to face her. "May I ask what her Highness is doing by the lake?", he inquired, wondering if she just happened upon him or if she had sought him out. Reasons of the latter started to come up and some made his heard skip. Drexyll also referred her in the third person and with the honorific, as she was, in fact, the Princess of Giaku and The Empress' sister. He felt it would be wrong to speak with her on an overly casual level.

[Relairah]

She turned her gaze from him and sat back. She raised a paw, seeming to observe its features, and then lowered it once more. "Well, I suppose I might commend you for your efforts. There are few who reach such a goal." She paused, glancing at him once more from the corner of her eye. "I do hope you reach your goal. To be proud of something - an accomplishment - is good. Much better than always dreaming of something and never achieving it, anyway." It was as much to him as a side comment almost to herself that he probably wouldn't catch. In any case, it didn't matter that much.

The only proof of his life. Was that what he wanted? To be remembered? Wasn't that what they all wanted...? She wondered if he would consider her petty if he knew that her only goal was to be looked up to and respected. Of course, she supposed in that light she would also be remembered. So perhaps it all came back to the same thing.

"Is that your only goal, Druin?" she asked. It wasn't that she didn't remember his name. She only wanted to see his response. "I wonder if I should be glad you are so loyal to Giaku. My sister would most certainly commend you. Even reward you should you do something great in the future for the pack." She thought briefly of her own thoughts of leaving the pack some time before. Of course... it had had to do with her father but still. If others knew she might have been outcast. She pushed the thought aside. She was loyal to Giaku. She would fight to defend it and was dedicated. But at the same time, she didn't really feel anything but suspicion from her subjects and as a result, it made it difficult for her to think of herself dying for them.

She thought of her own training. Endless time spent honing skills, developing battle senses. Putting so much effort into making her the best Druin she could be. Above the others in the pack. Worthy of her title, not just by birth. She was strong, practiced, and capable. While growing up, she had relied on Lacrimosa for all the jeering she had received. But now that she was older and had grown her own independence, she somewhat resented the fact she wasn't treated better. Which brought her thoughts back around to Drexyll once more. He was the first one she had met in a very long time who treated her with respect. Who actually spoke to her like he valued her. Her thoughts drifted to their first encounter, when he had so readily jumped to harm anyone who might treat her otherwise or harm her. Such care from a subject was somewhat foreign to her. And she was thus craving more. And also... curious. Curious as to why he didn't seem to have the same suspicions, the same judgements about her as so many others. Sure, she knew not everyone in the pack treated her that harsh way. But much of it did.

She rolled over on her back, sticking her paws up in the air. She did hope no one else came along to see her like this. But she felt so comfortable and at ease around this one. She knew she didn't need to fear him or worry about him doing anything to her. Sure, most would see it as if she was submitting to him or something. Exposing herself in such a manner. But she wanted to be comfortable and currently this was the position she wanted to be in, she told herself stubbornly. She turned her face toward Drexyll once more, looking up at him in full and ears turning toward him as he asked her what she was doing here. She tilted her head back and laughed when he asked such. The sound was full, neither high-pitched nor low but just true.

"May I not go where I please, then? I suppose you expect me to be in the Hatsuhi Towers dealing with all sorts of political business." She focused her gaze on the sky above. "I came here looking for food. Happening upon you was coincidence. Not that I mind. You're probably the only company I could tolerate right now anyway." Her eyes shifted toward him once more and she grinned. "My, Druins sure look huge from down here. I'm surprised other wolves aren't scared senseless." She would usually be careful what she said around who, considering they were in a time of peace with the Shinkou Alliance right now. But right now, she hardly thought it really mattered. "Hmph! Puny wolves... thinking they could ever challenge ones such as ourselves," she thought out loud. She certainly was proud of her race, that was for certain. Although, she supposed any wolf of rank, no matter what size, would have such pride in their position.

"So, Drexyll, I'm just dying to know. Why is it that you don't judge me or look down on me? Why aren't you suspicious of who I might become, hmm?" She looked at him, her gaze sincere and waited for his answer expectantly.

[Oki]

It wasn't too often that he would just tell someone his goals like that, especially that confidently. Drexyll wasn't very confident in himself, never really thinking anyone had any confidence in him to begin with. He was always afraid of someone rejecting it and spitting upon it, laughing at him. Though, he was surprised to hear her say that she not only commended him on his goal, but hoping that he does one day reach it. Did she really mean it, or was she just saying it? He couldn't remember anyone saying that they hoped he would achieve his dream, thinking of him rather than themselves. He felt his ears flatten then raise as they flushed, "T-true...I want to be recognized by someone...even if its just one. I'm willing to do anything to achieve that goal." He was young and probably had years upon years to reach that dream, and he knew it was a possibility of him lasting that long until he did finally become recognized. However, he was hoping that he could progress further than just that, like become famous throughout all of Giaku and would do as much as he could before he died.

One could say that was his only goal, but it was such a broad goal. He believed that he had many goals that would help him achieve his main goal in life. His first one getting stronger and becoming more mature...though the latter will come in due time. When she asked her question, he wondered if she had forgotten his name. It saddened him a little that she didn't, but then again, she was the Princess and she probably had an unimaginable amount of names to memorize. He convinced himself that his wasn't of much importance as the others were. "It's not my only goal, but my main goal...I believe that my main goal is divided into smaller goals that all work together to help me achieve my main goal in life...I see it as an endless goal, once I achieve a part of it, another opens and I can only progress from there on...", it was hard for him to explain his goal to her, especially this much and in detail. He himself never really gave it this much thought; he just knew subconsciously what he was doing and what he had to do to get there. However, since she had asked, he felt that it was a little easier to explain than what he initially thought. "I want others to know that I am Drexyll Beyovulf!", a smile smile creeped its way onto his lips, feeling good to finally tell someone else his dream, sparking some confidence. He just hoped that she wasn't asking him these questions just to jeer at him later on. But that thought left as soon as it came, not really considering it now; he was too happy.

Just as his flush from embarrassment from earlier was receding, if he had no fur on his face, Masca would see his skin turn a deep beet red as he noticed her roll onto her back. It took him completely off-guard and he was left staring with lustful eyes, unable to look away. He knew he shouldn't stare, especially her, but the fact by what she just did took the cake. He couldn't help at awe at the fact she would do such a thing around him; he didn't know if she was submitting to him or what. Swallowing, Drexyll finally caught himself and stopped running his eyes up and down her form. Finally inhaling, he realized he didn't breathe the whole time his eyes were locked on her. The male felt like his body was overheating and tried to cool himself down.

Her laugh brought him back to reality, though it didn't help much. It was just as smooth as her voice and it was something he wanted to hear again, it was so pretty. He shook his head, almost over-exaggeratedly at her initial question, not saying anything in the fear of embarrassing himself if his voice were to hitch. Though she happened upon him by chance, her following statement told him otherwise. The more she spoke, the more he became to believe that he had made an impression on her in their previous encounter. It was something that he couldn't bring himself to believe the first time, but...it was starting to become more real. Clearing his throat, he asked, "...Really?", as she said he was the only she could really tolerate at the moment.

Drexyll looked down at himself when she commented on how big Druins were. He never really considered it. "...You think so?...It is surprising though...Perhaps their courage is underestimated?", he spoke softly, "I'm sure if they're brave enough, they'll challenge anything to gain glory, even if it is ones like ourselves." He then spoke about her comment about wolves challenging Druins. Though he did have to agree with her; he was proud of his legacy.

The female's last question had him asking to say 'what?' because he wasn't so sure as to what she was talking about. Tilting his head to the side a little, his face looked a little puzzled. "Not at all Princess...I would never judge someone I don't know enough about to even judge them by. Sure, I've heard nasty rumors, accusations and lewd comments, but that's not my opinion. The only time I would give an opinion about someone is when I've seen it with my own eyes...If I see someone lie, I know they're a liar and thus can call them such. If I see someone who is friendly and nice, then I know they are friendly and nice...", he glanced over at Masca when he said his last statement, "...I never judge someone by their legacy, but by their own actions. Only then, I am able to judge who they are and what kind of a person they are to me...I-I mean, to me you're-you're...you're..." Drexyll became to flustered to finish his statement, his head falling as he stared at his forepaws. He bit his lip, feeling as if he said too much.

[Relairah]

She looked at him in earnest as he spoke, trying to explain his goals to her and how the flowed together as part of an overhanging main goal, as he called it. She then turned her gaze toward the sky, giving a brief nod to show she understood. "You don't have to explain any further. I think I get what you mean. Kind of like, on a journey you must take the first step. Each smaller goal is a step checked off on your to-do list before the end of your journey here." She paused. "Right?"

When he said he just wanted to be known as Drexyll Beovulf, she smiled, looking at him once more, and let out a light laugh once again, not at him, no. "Perhaps someday you will be."

Her eyes were again in the clouds so she didn't really noticed his flustering as he took in her form over and over again. Well, not as much as he might have thought, anyway. She glanced at him, raising a wolfish brow. "My goodness, Drexyll, you certainly seem to fluster a lot." She briefly recounted the last time with the loners when they had met. He had flustered then too, some. "You should calm down and relax more. Believe me, it will help you in the long run to do so."

She gave a brief nod at his question. Yes, he was the only one she could stand to be around right now. Her mother was still bent on somehow getting back with her father and her sister was all silly over her pups as well as busy with Empire business. She hardly wanted to be a nuisance, nor did she feel like listening to garble or being told now was not the time for play. In truth, Masca had matured much more than some might give her credit for. But to relax was hardly an issue, she thought. In any case, she had things to ponder and purposes to achieve. Still, the way she was acting toward Drexyll. It reminded her of how some of her conversations with her sister had gone before. Either that or she was teasing and mimicking in some fashion.

He was responding about other wolves and how perhaps they have glorious intentions and courage. Well. Perhaps some of them. She had yet to meet any who challenged herself or a member of her family for good intentions. That is, good being for the better of others. She did not think of their actions as heroic. "Courage? I would call it pride. Foolish pride, at that." She shook her head, pushing it aside.

It was well enough as he began explaining why he did not judge her as some others did. She found herself staring at him, and looked away. "You have a sincere heart, then." He continued, his last words incomplete. She wanted to know what he really thought of her. But then, she already knew somewhat. Still, there was much about her he didn't know. She wondered if he'd still be so nice about it to her if he did. Bah.

She turned over, lying half-way on her stomach. "I'm what?" she demanded, wanting him to finish. She was quite curious to where he was going with it. Besides, then she'd have something to go on if it ever changed...

[Oki]

Drexyll did hope she was understanding him as he explained his goals. Words always seemed to fail him whenever he tried to make another understand what exactly his thoughts were. As he finished, she reiterated what he pretty much said and he nodded in affirmative, "Exactly; I'm glad you understood that", he modestly spoke, smiling shortly. Her light laugh made him smile as she said that perhaps one day that he will have the recognition that he wants. Again, a part of him wanted to take her statement lightly as he assumed that no one would have confidence in him, but he reminded himself that she had this sincere tone whenever she told him things like this.

It was hard controlling his overwhelming flood of feelings as she turned over onto her back. Parts of his body started to respond in a way they never have before and sensations crawled along his form. So new and yet he was curious and wanted more. His eyes were hard to tear away. Once they finally did though, his body felt shivery and hot, as if he had a fever. Along with all the other emotions flooding his mind and sensory organs, a pang of embarrassment came as she noticed how much he was flustering. He locked eyes with her as she spoke. "I-I-I can't help it...", he found himself kneading at the ground with his paws, digging up some dirt as he did so, "You're the one who's making me flustered", he spoke within his mind, not that he could ever tell her that in a million years anyways.

How was it that he was the only one that she could only stand to be around? Did she not have any friends back at the palace? He presumed that perhaps others were too politically involved for her to have any fun with the others there. She's the first Royal that he ever saw roaming outside the palace or the towers. Maybe Masca didn't like it there as much as he initially thought...

Wolves were similar and yet different from his own race. He believed that Druins were more evolved and developed, but he never really looked down upon wolves as an inferior race. Though he didn't look at them as equal either, "Perhaps...I've just haven't encountered enough yet...but from that one time", he was referring back to when they first met with the three loners, "I would have to agree with you."

Words came difficultly as Drexyll explained his belief in others and their personalities and legacies. He bit on his lip, feeling that he would divulge too much about his feelings about Masca. He felt it was too soon and he really didn't know for sure yet if she would cast him away after he spilled his heart to her. Uncertainty came over him as he stumbled over words and left his statement incomplete. His head jerked upright as she asked what she was, wanting him to continue his sentence. Looking at her, he opened his mouth to speak and after a few seconds, he blinked and found his way to speak aloud, "...You're unlike those bad things I hear about you...you're kind, knowledgeable, compassionate...beautiful...", boy it sure was hard saying that last word, but somehow he managed it. He didn't want to say that much, but she did ask and a little bit of relief came over him. It felt good to get it off his chest, but it was a gamble saying it. A breeze wafted over the water, cool and it swept through both of their furs. She was very fluffy and it was tantalizing to watch the fur wave over her form, tail and face.

[Relairah]

Mascamora raised a wolfish brow toward him, saying he couldn't help it. Perhaps. Maybe it was just who he was. He was so very different from all the other druins she had ever met. Well... male druins anyway. All the others had been blood related, sure. Proud, powerful. Not that Drexyll wasn't, per say, just that he seemed so... uncertain, perhaps. Aside from the wanting to reach his goals, wanting to gain more strength, she wasn't sure why he would be so. He intrigued her curiosity. Perhaps that was another reason she wanted to hang around him at that point.

She was comfortable lying on her belly, but she moved to sit up. She noticed she was significantly shorter than he was, but she carried herself proudly. She had not always done so, used to cowering behind her sister, hiding from the words of others. But she was no longer that way. No, she was sure of herself and her destiny. Sure of her strength, and certain of her worth. Now her goal was to prove it to everyone else. Prove their judgements wrong. Their judgements based only on her resemblance to her father.

She turned her face toward him, ears alert upon her head. It wasn't that she saw Druins as superior, per say, to other races. It was more to say that in her experience, other wolves challenged individuals of her race for their individual reasons. The age when the others attacked to protect, to save - in other words for 'good' was past. Even if it was peaceful now, she knew underlying resentment remained in some hearts. Or suspected it. That was just her perspective... her opinion. Her words were meant to say she felt Druins had been put down and pushed aside, made to see as weak and even lesser in the eyes of other sorely mistaken wolves. Wolves who if they ever challenged her, she wouldn't hesitate to prove their misguidance wrong.

In any case, he was answering her question and she was somewhat surprised, at least to a certain extent. And in another light not as much. She smiled, the light reaching her bi-colored eyes, even wagged her long tail a bit, which perhaps looked a little strange on a druin. "Do you think so?" she murmured. "Well thank you, Drexyll." As the breeze came over them, she grew excited, lifting her head and closing her eyes, breathing it in and enjoying it. Oh, this was bliss, certainly.

Suddenly, she opened her eyes once more, standing on all fours. "C'mon... let's go do something." As she said this, her stomach growled and she remembered why she had even come here in the first place. She had been hunting deer. "I do believe you have a proposition to fill anyway," she teased, turning and bounding off into the trees. She hoped he remembered... he owed her a fresh kill, after all.

As she made her way easily, her form sliding around trees skillfully, her senses became alert, her instincts alive.

[Oki]

Tail switching sides, it twitched and thumped against the ground as she sat up. He just noticed that ever since she arrived, he didn't move much, except moving from his meditative position to sitting up. He supposed he was just used to sitting still. Even though Mascamora was a couple feet shorter than he, she appeared more regal than he could ever be. His ears hid behind his spikes as they stood erect when she sat up. He almost envied her elegance, though on the other hand, that trait she held is one of the reasons why she caught his eye and continues to keep his attention on her.

Drexyll's family holds nothing special, so he never really held much regard for himself. He tries to carry himself at least to where he looks like a male, having some pride and dignity. Just a resonating vibe of uncertainty and lack of self-confidence carries through his body and that keeps him from doing certain things and being around others for long periods of time. He himself doesn't know really where this comes from; perhaps it will go away soon enough if he continues to reach for his dream.

On the same note, he figured that Mascamora was opposite to him in that way. Proud in herself, her race, her position, and her power. She didn't falter like he did. Even now, she seemed to help him in his confidence, though Drexyll didn't quite notice that yet.

Heart pounding against the inside of his chest, Drexyll was nervous of how the Princess would respond. Swallowing, there was a short silence between them. Studying her closely, she looked a little surprised; he hoped it was the good way of being surprised. Finally, she looked back at him and he could see the setting sun's light reflecting off of them. One seemed to be flickering like a hot flame and the other had waves of glittering ice. Intriguing and wondrous to watch, he thought. He wondered if she noticed. The smile she gave and a wag of her tail relaxed him some. "Very much so", he murmured back to her initial question, giving a few soft nods with his head, "No need to thank the truth, Princess. That's how I truly see you."

Falling quiet once more, her eyes closed and Drexyll looked up at the sky. It felt as if he's been sitting there with the Princess for an eternity and yet the sky really hasn't changed one bit. Zoning out for a moment, Masca spoke back up, full of energy all of a sudden. Blinking, he looked at her as she proposed that they should go do something and that he had a proposition that he needed to fill. Thinking for a moment, he remembered when they first met he would hunt for her since the loners took her meal time from her. Eyes and face lighting up, he smiled, "Ohh, yes. I said I would hunt for you...speaking of, I haven't eaten all day. I suppose we should get going before dusk", he suggested. Slowly rising to all fours, he stretched, as he was sitting for most of the day. Lowering his front end, he left his rump in the air and reached as far as he could out in front of him, his tail curling and twisting. Then, pulling himself up, he dipped his hind end down to the ground, feeling his underside brush against the grass. Letting out a grunt, he was satisfied and felt a little more loose and in better shape to go hunt.

Yawning and rubbing his tongue against the roof of his mouth, he felt as if he just woke up from a nap. A little more alert now, his body has prepared itself to hunt, though it was already aroused...in a different way, however. Looking over at Mascamora, he followed her off into the woods. Stopping after a little while, he waited until she was stopped as well. Sniffing at the air, he hoped his skills that he has developed with his sister as he hunted with her in the past numerous times, showed. "Tonight's menu we have rabbit, deer, elk and groundhog. I would suggest the groundhog; it's quite the delacasy", he smiled, hoping she caught on.

[Relairah]

He studied her, his eyes seeming to try and get her in as much as possible. What did he think he'd never be with her like this again? She found it curious, intriguing, that when their eyes met she felt butterflies all in her stomach and her heart raced slightly. What was this? She had never experienced this before. Though she did have some idea. Well, she didn't know him that well yet. She shouldn't get ahead of herself. She smiled slightly when he seemed so enthusiastic to praise her. She was glad someone saw her in such a good light.

She eyed him as he stretched, eyes straying over his form briefly. He was a handsome one. Strong, probably. She briefly remembered their last encounter and how he had almost engaged in combat for her sake. She was slightly curious again, wondering just how strong he really was. But the true test of strength would be on another Druin, probably. Or even one bigger, stronger. But now would not be that opportunity. Besides, she wasn't going to judge him based on his strength. No.

Now he was dashing after her, remembering his commitment. Good. She glanced at him when he spoke of their options and couldn't help a shake of her head. "Groundhog is much too small. Especially for two of us." Besides the fact if he was hinting at something she missed it entirely. "Perhaps Elk... a nice big one." She licked her chops at the thought and was on the hunt, nose keen for any scent. Her muscles flexed beneath her skin and she was moving with ease.

She expected Drexyll to fulfill his bargain, but that didn't mean she couldn't enjoy the hunt. Although, to herself, she wanted to see him in action. See just how he handled it. So she would step lightly and let him initiate. Soon, their prey would be tangible to their senses. Oh, she was ready..

[Oki]

Drexyll couldn't help but stare; yes, it was rare to see the Princess, let alone speak with her. He sure knew that this might be the only chance he will have to be with her like this. Despite his shy nature, he wanted to see how long he could keep this moment with her before it would pass and never happen again. At least, that's how he thought it would go.

In the midst of his stretching, he almost wanted the Princess to stare, though that wasn't his first thoughts or initial reason to stretch. He wanted to her get a good look at him like how he did her. Not knowing if she was concious of that if he did, but he had a feeling she would at least give his body a glance or two. His form was much more lean than most other Druins, especially his fur. Most male Druins had excess fur that made them appear twice as big than what they really were. It would seem that Drexyll was born more modest, best fitting his nature and personality.

---

Off in the forest, he had offered Groundhog. He knew it was much too small for either of them, but the meat tasted very good and was probably some of the best meat on an animal to him and that's why he suggested it. "Perhaps for desert then?", he felt his brows wiggle a bit as he said it. Elk could work for the main course, he thought.

Nonetheless, it has been decided and they took off towards the hunt. Venturing more and more into the forest, more scents filled his nostrils. He was getting hungrier and hungrier by the minute. Entering a different state of mind from earlier, he has learned to become more selective with his senses and to focus the ones that he needed. He would run, then trot, sniff the air, then pick back up the pace, "This way", he would whisper to Masca every now and then. Not even noticing it, he has taken lead with this hunt. Finally, they came upon a small gathering of elk. Hunkering himself down, he wanted to remain low. "You take that side and scare them a bit and I'll go this way", he whispered to Masca, having them go on opposite sides of the small herd. One of the elk looked up from its grazing, trying to notice the thing it heard. Peering from behind a tree, he waited until he could see the Princess. Getting her to look at him, he motioned for them to begin.

Lunging from behind some brush, Drexyll's big form came close to his prey. Landing and preparing a pounce, the male elk reared and dashed off. Grinning, Drexyll didn't want to get his meal so easily. No, he liked a little bit of chase. Swiping a paw, he just missed it and took off after it. Quick turns were the advantage of the elk as Druins were bigger and weren't as agile. However, Drexyll's form was irregular and he could keep up a little better with the sharp turns. Swiping his paw again, he managed to claw at the bucks rump and trip it up. Realizing such, he pushed ahead with a jump and opened his maw with a hungry snarl. Catching his prey with his forepaws, his claws hooked into the sinew and they both fell to the forest floor, skidding to a stop. Trying to wretch itself free, Drexyll wouldn't allow such and quickly took a hold of it's neck. Holding down the body, he swung his head to a side and a loud pop was heard and the elk fell limp.

Pushing himself up onto all fours, his tongue lolled out of his mouth as he panted. Looking around, he wanted to see where the Princess was. Once he found her, he would then pick up his kill by the neck and carry it over to her. [/size]

[Relairah]

Mascamora had often let others lead her for most of her life. In recent times, she had developed her own independence and sense of self. Even accomplishing something which not many knew about yet - and she had a feeling she might be banished as a traitor if anyone found out. Or perhaps if the wrong wolves found out. In any case, she was content to let Drexyll do the leading now. She wanted to see just how he performed and thus she went along, following when he gave this instruction or that direction. Finally, they came upon the herd and she did as she was told. The elk he went after suddenly dashed off and she altered her course.

Just as she saw Drexyll closing in, she burst out of the bushes, the elk frozen in surprise... to his downfall. She smirked as Drexyll took down his kill with powerful and fluid movements. Well, he had performed quite well, she thought. A true hunter. Skilled and capable.

Soon, he was bringing the elk to her and she dipped her head slightly in gratitude. "Thank you, Drexyll." With that she would sink her teeth in, savoring the flavor. "You are welcome to join me. Celebrate your victory," she teased and with that she would not stop until she had her part. When she was done, she raised her head, pink tongue swiping around her mouth to clean it. That was one bad thing about hunting. It always got her all filthy with the blood. Oh well. A perfect excuse to jump in the river later. She sat back slightly, turning her bi-colored gaze upon Drexyll once again.

"So... still wanting that groundhog?" she asked him with a grin.

[Oki]

Heart pounding against the inside of his rib-cage, Drexyll's blood was pumping and adrenaline fueling his instincts, hunting abilities and the Druin within him. Muzzle slightly bloody from killing the large elk, he licked at it as he set it down between him and Masca. A great sense of pride and victory swept over him, feeling like a true male. This was the first time he had provided for anyone else besides his family. Even then, it was usually his sister or even his parents that did the hunting. He could only think of one or two occasions where he killed an animal himself and brought it home.

A confident smile curled his muzzle a little, thinking and wondering perhaps if Masca recognized what he thought about himself. He really wanted her to see him as him and felt almost desperate at this point, using everything as a chance to get Masca to recognize him while still trying to not seem desperate to her, remaining subtle.

This...crush he suddenly got for her took him by surprise and didn't know how to deal with it initially. Now however, Drexyll was slowly figuring out things along the way, though it was agonizing of how much he liked her. He just...liked her and didn't know why exactly. Yes, she was beautiful beyond comprehension to him and she carried herself well and was independent and...and he felt she was everything that a true female should be in his mind.

Watching her lower herself and bite into the meal he provided, he hesitated and wondered if he should join or not as he did intend it for it to be hers. "You're welcome, Princess", he dipped his head in response, smiling. Her next words triggered something in his mind...something he couldn't hold back....

"You are welcome to join me...", Masca spoke to Drexyll. He had found himself standing on a cloud, weightless. The sky was a bright blue and pink, like a early morning sky, the sun just rising. Across his way, Masca lay on her side on the same cloud, foreleg propping up her head while her hind leg lifted up, exposing her underside to him, her scales the same shade of pink as the sky. His eyes widened and his mouth gaped. Acting like she didn't mind or that she didn't noticed, Masca continued, "...Celebrate your victory." She punctuated her sentence with a snap of her teeth. Her voice was sensual, licking at her lips as she spoke. However, his eyes followed her free forepaw that trailed up and down her side, as if she wanted him to keep staring. He took a step forward...

At that moment, his fantasy ended, only lasting an instant in reality, though forever in his mind. Blinking, he felt that his face flushed. Clearing his throat before he answered, Drexyll tried to calm himself in the meantime, "Of course", he brushed off his previous thoughts with a slight chuckle before lowering himself down across from Masca. Eating, it tasted good and warm in his mouth and down his throat. Satisfying, he found himself eating his fill in no time and soon after she had lifted her head, he did so as well. Doing as she did, he licked away the grease, fat and blood off his muzzle. Continuing to watch, he realized she had missed a good bit, but he was sure he did as well as neither of them could reach it with their own tongues. Without thinking and out of reflex, he shifted forward, craning his neck towards her, "Princess, you missed a...spot..., he felt himself slow down, his nose just millimeters from the base of her muzzle. Realizing of what he just put himself into, Drexyll could feel his heartbeat in his ears and even moreso in his chest; he felt like he was going to explode. Finally, his eyes looked upwards from where the nose was pointing to where her eyes were. He was curious if she would look back. Though, he stopped, he couldn't back down now and retreat. He's this close to her and if he didn't exploit it, he would regret it for possibly for the rest of his life. Drexyll just hoped nothing bad were to happen...

Filling the gap between his nose and her muzzle, his warm nose pressed against her tainted fur. Poking his tongue out, he began to lick at the fur, cleaning it. Feeling like it was clean, he removed his lips from her and pulled away, almost marveling of how clean that spot was. Though not too far as he held his muzzle next to hers. Remaining silent, he couldn't stop wondering what she would think or say; he watched her face, but mainly her eyes. All the while, he couldn't stop thinking of her scent and her taste.

---

After all that had been ironed out, he realized he still has yet to answer her question. If Masca were to be still up for hunting for groundhog, Drexyll would nod and smile return, becoming eager to hunt some more, "Now where are the buggers...?"



((Good God, I couldn't stop writing c_c I had to stop myself. And that vision he has, made me laugh so hard and I just had to go with it. xD))

[Relairah]

OoC: L..O...L!!!!! *dies laughing* Wowwww... XD *GIGGLESNARK*

iC:

Mascamora hardly noticed Drexyll zone out for a moment. But that was just because she thought he was waiting to be polite before digging in. Besides, he began eating eventually so that was good enough. Soon, the elk was pretty much devoured... except, yes the parts that were somewhat inaccessible to them at that moment and angle. Suddenly, he was moving very very close and pointing out the fact. She blinked and glanced at him, surprised to see his eyes staring back at her. She felt her heart skip a bit and she gasped, just as he suddenly licked her! And then.. continued licking her.

She drew back, surprised. And for the first time in a long time feeling uncertain. It was different than the times she had felt uncertain in the past. It was something new. She couldn't help keeping her eyes on him though, though she pretended it was to make sure he didn't try anything else. "Drexyll!" she said, sounding much more shocked than stern... which the latter was what she had been going for. She wasn't sure how to respond, and was glad no one else was around. This was not very princess-like of her, perhaps. Then again, what the hell? Who was anyone else to judge her or tell her what to do? She was the Princess of Giaku! She could do as she wished.

If she were human, her cheeks would be a rosy red.. but even as a Druin her heart was pounding. "Eh... what was that?" she asked more softly, once she had regained herself. A stupid question since the answer was obvious. But she wasn't sure what else to say.

She glanced off, feeling a strange urge to lick him back all of a sudden. Then he was referring to the groundhogs... yea... good idea. Perfect distraction. She grinned, ears perking up and eyes staring into the trees with purpose. "I guess we'll just have to hunt for them," she said with a giggle, bounding off again.

[Oki]

Things were beginning to heat up between the Druins. Drexyll had taken it upon himself to help clean the Princess by his own means, and that meant grooming her himself with his own tongue. It was a perfect excuse to get that close to her and even get a chance to lick her. After he had pulled away, one thing kept repeating in his mind, "I have no regrets!...I have no regrets!...I have no regrets!...", completely unknowing of how she would respond and considered the best and worst possibilities. He didn't want to seem too straightforward, yet not too distant from her and that's why he took the risk of what he just did. Tongue inside his mouth and lips curled inward, he awaited her response, swearing if he bit down any harder, he would have given himself a pierced lip.

Masca's response was shorter than what he anticipated, to say at the least. His ears flattened when she called out his name like that, not being able to help it. Drexyll then looked at her with big eyes, something he always did when his mother scolded him just like how she did; he did it instinctively by this time in age. He wasn't sure if he should say anything at this point, wondering if she would say anything more. It became silent for an instant as they looked at each other, his heart pounding against his chest, trying his best not to let his breathing hitch from the intense nervousness and even sexual tension that was between them.

Then, her voice came again, though this time much softer, even sounding a little nervous herself. 'What was it?', he repeated to himself. An odd question to ask, but he supposed it hasn't sunk in with her yet. Opening his mouth, he continued to look at her as he spoke softly, "Uh...I saw that you missed some a-and I wanted to help...y-you have to keep your...your beautiful coat clean", that was partially true, but the part that he didn't tell her was that he exploited that excuse to get close and even place his lips upon her. He awaited her response.

Drexyll glanced downward as her eyes looked elsewhere; he curled his toes and flexed them. They were also a little dirty and bloody...he needed a bath.

After he had mentioned the groundhogs, she proposed they hunt for them, though with a little ring in her voice, as if she had something else to say or something she was planning. Turning his head up, he would agree, but he was a little wary about his assumption about the way she said it. Though with a giggle, she was off, "H-Hey! Wait up!", he called out to her as she bounded off. Rising to all fours, he shook out his coat and hopped after her, leaving their kill behind for any scavengers.

Still unsure about the Princess, Drexyll seemed to take a while to catch up to her, twisting and turning around trees and hopping over small streams or low spots inside the forest. Soon enough, he came up beside her, a few meters apart. Looking over, he could see her between the trees. Distracted from the path in front of him, Drexyll felt the ground beneath him cease to exist and he fell. With a yelp, he fell just a few feet into a pool of water with a large splash. Surfacing, he found that it was a calm part of a large stream, the water only a few feet deep at most. It was moderately warm. Standing, he shook himself out and his fur poofed. Meanwhile, he was sure that Masca would notice and come to see what was wrong.