Thornhedge RP

Kilrune

Thavre was more than surprised to be offered to hold the child, expecting Ailani to be rather protective of her newborn. But she excitedly nodded and was careful with the small girl as she was handed over. “Navaela…what a wonderful name. I’m sure she and Nesfyre will get along as they grow as cousins.” She stroked a claw across her cheeks, feeling the very soft scales beneath. “She certainly has the most prominent features of both of you. Do you know what color eyes she has?” “I haven’t seen her open her eyes myself, so it’s still a mystery. Either gold or green though I imagine.” Thavre nodded, stroking a hand through the little wisps of raven hair atop the child’s head. It was so strange to see a newborn of any species other than dragonborn or catfolk, but not unpleasant. It was nice to see a new baby in their growing family. “Tarjinn will be happy to know she arrived safe I’m sure. I haven’t gotten any letters back, but rest assured I have kept them updated with everything thus far. Maybe they’ll arrive in Tarshious with a hoard of letters and will have to read them in order and be shocked one after the other.” She gave the young parents a teasing grin. “Tarjinn the most so. He was so adamant to keep you on the straight and narrow Rune, yet here you are defying all his orders.” “What can I say? You meet the love of your life and nothing else really fits anymore.” He kissed Ailanis’ cheek, pulling her to his side again. “He will eventually feel the same.”

David

As David continued showing affection to the young female, he noticed her discomfort each time he mentioned something of the more intimate nature, and decided to stay off the topic from then on until he had seen her grow used to it. “Don’t worry about it. Just know that regardless of the future, you’re still welcome into the castle halls. I know it can be lonely standing out from the crowd.” He sat down on the ground next to her, scratching her chest as her head was too high to reach. But he wasn’t sure when Maugrim and the healer would be back, so he made himself comfortable in the meantime. “At least for now, it means you have a lot more free time. I’ll always have someone here to visit! Or at least, an excuse to leave my study.” He grinned up at his friend. “So, do you have any siblings? Extended family in the pack that I may come across? Or just your parents?”

Reuben

Reuben wasn’t sure what to make of her question, and wasn’t sure how to answer. If he said yes, would she see him as inferior, intimidated by any enemy too tall for him? If he said no, would she think he was lying? Scratching the back of his head, he blushed slightly, being thrown left and right by his conflicting emotions through interacting with his queen, who was becoming more and more casual in conversation the longer they spent time together. Perhaps this was why the king found it so easy to love her. “It’s more of a, um, getting-used-to-it thing than a true fear,” he explained slowly. “I will take on any foe that goes against the crown and its values regardless of its size. It is just different when it is your own queen, who usually stands at your same height. It’s a little jarring, is all, your majesty. But again, don’t let me determine what form you take. I will adjust accordingly to anything you wish to be.” Having grabbed the books, he nodded as she requested the training to be private, “Of course, your majesty. If you determine a place you deem is private enough, I will join you and we can be alone. You’re not crazy for wishing to be away from judging eyes when I mentioned earlier that your guards do not trust you fully. They might get the wrong idea seeing you training rather than knowing that knowledge innately…not to mention my stance among my colleagues is not so highly regarded in the first place.” His queen then requested him to stand guard, and he nodded, taking a step back before he quickly cast a spell to surround the room. It would inform him of any door or window openings, so he could be aware of their exterior without him leaving her side. Though not the most protective of spells, it did allow him to stay with her and investigate anything out of the ordinary. “I would be pleased to escort you at sunset,” he replied, smiling slightly towards his ruler. “Don’t let me disturb your research. I’ll keep surveillance of the room so you can read in peace.”

The Other Side

The male heaved a sigh of relief alongside his pack to know he would be reunited with his offspring, alongside the young of the other members. Regardless of their situation, they would stay together and figure out how to escape as one - including the female who helped them. Though whipped and bruised, he could see the slight glint of light behind her eyes, the one ounce of soul keeping her alive through the cruel treatment of the queen. He just hoped he nor his family were ever brought to that point. After the queen made her purchase, the lupins were quickly yanked off stage, making way for the next group of slaves brought to the ‘slaughter’ as the auctioneer continued as normal, seemingly happy with the commission he would make from the sale of the pack. Staff of the event loaded the chained groups into wagons before beginning their drive to one of the empty enclosures. It was cramped and dark, and the males growled and murmured to one another, but none made attempts to escape. There was too much at risk. After a long while of standing and being thrown around in the back of the wagons, the pack were unloaded one by one into the enclosure, being removed of all chains excluding the collar that hung around their necks, a symbol that connected to the outside bars of the pasture. Even if a hole or door was open to them, trying to escape would provide a harmful consequence. The last to be thrown in was the female pet, given the same freedom from her chains before the door was shut and locked securely before it reignited with its magic. The dark alley ahead led to the wide expanse of the enclosure, a grassy acreage with various water troughs and a few old trees dotted to provide some escape from the shade. Connected to the outer of the entrance to the enclosure were the caves, deep and dark with sprinkled hay to provide some comfort against the cold concrete slabs of their interiors. Only one was given a more generous amount, to provide a sort of makeshift nursery despite the lack of anything else to accommodate the parents. The pack, though shaken and distressed, kept together as they quietly investigated the enclosure, ensuring its freedom of unspoken traps or tortures. Luckily, excluding the barrier, everything was safe. One of the family units, two females and three males, huddled into one of the caves and bunched together to keep warm, murmuring to one of the crying females to ensure her pups would return to her. Another bonded pair sat under one of the trees, nestling into the grass to ground themselves as they gave each other a look over to ensure any wounds were taken care of. Only the large black male had kept by the pet’s side, observing his pack with a solemn look on his face. “Thank you for defending us, even if your mistress keeps you tethered,” he muttered to her. “I know it is probably not easy to keep under her feet. But we will protect you with what we have. We have to stick together to make it out together.” He noticed the young male who lunged at the audience across the enclosure, trying to attack the barrier with no avail. His jaws snapped and his claws swung, but the barrier would, obviously, prevail from any beating. But the male kept going, using all his remaining strength to somehow break free. “Some of us are too blind by anger or sorrow to ground ourselves. There are times of fight, and times of retreat. This time, for us and for you, the time to back down was our wisest option. I know your life has been harsh to you thus far. But I know you have wisdom beyond your years. Your service to your mistress will serve us in the future…I have no doubt about that.”

Ailani Kilrune’s Phoenix

Seeing Thavre’s excitement made the new mother smile, she was so happy to be able to share these moments with her family, a family she didn’t have months prior. “I’m sure they will too, I can’t wait till they are both old enough to play together in the nursery.” she shared her joy for their futures together. Thavre still seemed surprised at the childs appearance and even inquired about her eyes, “I’m curious as well but so far, we haven’t been graced with her beautiful hues yet.” She further confirmed their lack of knowledge on her eye color. She watched as her friend and family admired the child, brushing her tiny raven locks and feeling her soft little scales with the gentles of touches. The dragonborn woman then mentioned Tarjinn and it made the new mother laugh, “I’m sure he will, I would love to be a fly on their wall when that time does come for them to read the letters. I just hope they are all alright, I thought we would have heard from them by now.” She expressed her concern for the group, though her and Tarjinn did get off on the wrong foot at first, she still cared for the man, he put a rough over their heads and trusted Kilrune as the knew head of the house hold. He had honestly done so much for them… She wouldn’t want him or Esme getting hurt or lost or worse. Kilrune’s kiss pulled her back into the joyous room, away from her worried thoughts. “I’m sure he will.” Ailani agreed a warm smile on her face as she waited for her child to be returned to her patiently.

Elmira/Maliha/Maugrim

Maugrim / Maliha / Elmira (Sirona / Roan & Akita )

Maliha listened to David, however, at the moment she wasn’t able to respond to him, his scratching was causing her to groan, a look of delight on her muzzle as her hind leg began to thump against the earth's floor. Humans had such wonderful hands to scratch with, before long David had sat down on the ground beside her, stretching her chest now. She wasn’t prepared for how great it felt and soon was on the ground with him rolled over on her back, belly up and her tongue starting to hang out of her muzzle. She had heard his words though, she was glad the king felt he could relate to her, how she probably felt deep inside. Her tail wagged as she laid there happy to have the attention and affection. He mentioned always having her available to him which made her smile, it was rather amusing looking from his point of view however, “Yes, I’ll always be close by.” she managed to say between happy whines. Her happiness began to fade a bit as he mentioned siblings and his scratching had slowed. “Yes, I have several older brothers.” She shared before rolling over and shaking her head free of any debris out of habit. “There are two of them still within the pack, however, the rest have left to find or follow their imprints, to make new lives for themselves.” she shared, “I’m the only girl my mothers ever had.” She shared before pawing at him playfully and gently nipping at his hands wanting more scratches, such affections were additive.

It wasn’t moments later that Maugrim and Sirona were rounding the corner to see the young female goofing around with David. “Has she cycled finally?” Sirona asked, “Or is she just being a big puppy?” She asked a grin on the elder face, “Mother please, leave her alone, let her be young while she can be.” Maugrim scolded his own mother before padding towards David and his niece, “I’ve returned, sorry we took so long. David, this is Sirona, my mother and our packs Elder.” He shared, “She is our healer until she takes on an apprentice and retires.” the words retire made the lupa laugh, “It’s wonderful to meet you King David. I apologize for not being present upon your arrival, I had some things to tend to that could not wait.” She shared her reason for lack of appearance. Upon noticing the Elder, Maliha shot to her paws and backed up from David, shaking her pelt free of debris as she did so. Sirona looked tha man up and down, as if looking him over, taking in who he was and possibly sizing him up as an alpha. “Well, now that we’ve met, as elder of this pack, and previous alphaess, I would like you to speak to my son’s pack, tell us why you’re here and about the alliance, please.” She spoke respectfully to him but held a seriousness about her, unlike the banter she played around with before with her son. With the Elders presence the rest of the pack had skirred off to their posts or made themself scares for the time being. Sirona wasn’t one to play around with gawking females, she’d put them in their place without a second thought. “When you are ready, King David Maugrim and I will call the pack in.” the old female shared before sitting down which helped Maliha relax a bit.

Fraeya

“I see,” She said as she noticed the blush to his cheeks, a small amused grin pulled at her lips. Fraeya refrained from commenting on it though, she got her grin to retract. Oh but the ways she could mess with him were endless, she missed the banter she had with David, Alyana, and the rest of the staff at the Folgarian kingdom. “You’ll have time to get used to it.” She told him, her hues looked up at him catching the dying light of the sun causing them to reflect and glow. “So, you wouldn’t mind if I became a dire wolf? Or even a dragon?” She asked with a teasing grin pulling at her feline lips, oh she wanted to mess with him so bad now. “Alright, then it’s settled, we will train in the old ballroom. It’s never used for anything anymore. We can train in there without peering eyes.” she told him as she sat up from the book for a moment, “Thank you.” She said before he stepped away, catching his smile, that was the first she’d noticed it, it was a nice smile. Laying back down she purred to herself content as she studied the materials before her.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet


Being shoved into the enclosure, she whirled around to snap at the one who pushed her so hard however they were already gone and the barrier was activated. A sigh left her, her back ached from the open wounds that were weeping still from the earlier abuse. Even with the pain she felt, the defeat of yet another day caged, she felt some pride in herself for being able to keep this pack together. Sitting down she tried to relax among the strangers, in normal circumstances she’d almost expect to be inspected by the other curious lupines but this wasn’t a normal day, they were all caged and frightened. She watched as the individual family units explored the cage hesitantly before trying to relax. As she watched the Lupins, the she-wolf was spoke to, she didn’t realize the alpha of the group was still there beside her. “You’re welcome.” She spoke more confidently now as she looked up at the male. “She normally keeps me chained beneath the castle floors in her own personal dungeons… I feel her intentions are not exactly a reward for good behavior.” She told him, “Thank you, I’ve learned from experience… doing what he’s doing won’t get you freedom.. It’ll only get you beat, bloodied, and bruised.” she looked back over her shoulder to examine her own wounds before looking back up at the older male, “I’ll tell you what I know from my life here… I hope that some of what I know will help us become free again.” the she-wolves' ears lowered as she continued to watch the male across the way, attacking the barrier over and over again. “My name is Keeva, I’m the daughter of Maugrim Nightfall, Alpha of the NightFall pack. You are?” She introduced herself, before tilting her head in curiosity to the Alpha’s name before her. She didn’t recognize him but he could know her father.

Ailani Kilrune’s Phoenix

Ailani sighed worriedly, “That is true… I just hope they arrive safely, we will hear from them soon I’m sure, but in the meantime we will all be watching news like hawks.” She chuckled before gently taking her daughter back as Thavre indicated she was ready to give the infant back. Taking her bundle into her arms she held her close, there was a certain motherly relief to have the infant back in her arms. Ailani trusted Thraver with all of her being; however, she supposed her motherly hormones were to blame. She was just glad she wasn’t crazy protective like the beastly side of her would be for once there was something small she could thank her demon of a father for. Looking to Thavre, after snuggling her daughter close to her she shook her head a little, “Yeah, I would like to know what that is reason is myself.” She shared a, chuckle leaving her, “I know, they didn’t have to keep up the facade… I’m curious if they actually decided to get married or if it’ll all end after they arrive in Tarshious.”  She mused over the topic, a giggle leaving her as she tried to keep her voice down for her little one's sake. Listening to Thavre speak about Tarjinn and his love for children, the hybrid felt reassured. The woman didn’t have to worry about Kilrune’s ‘father’ for all intents and purposes to snap again over the small life before them. Thinking back on their previous topic the cat-folk species have heat cycles, Ailani’s face began to burn as she had to muffled a laugh that wanted to escape her, “You know what you two, I just thought about something.” She giggled, “Esme never did go into a heat cycle here with you guys did she.” She smirked, “I bet with how long this journey has been for them it’s definitely happened.” Ailani had to keep herself from erupting into laughter, just imagine the religious pair bedding one another before their betrothal, their fake betrothal she might add. “Our little ones just may have a litter of play mates to play with in the future.” She mused, it had been a long time since she had seen a tiny cat-folk baby, she hoped they be blessed with such a sight before too long… She truly missed Esme and the ‘grandfather’ to her little Naveala.


 

Elmira/Maliha/Maugrim

Maugrim / Maliha / Elmira (Sirona / Roan & Akita )

With Sirona’s appearance, the two wolves didn’t even have to call forth the pack as they started to return to the denning sight, sitting around the group in a loose circle listening to the words being shared. They all understood common well enough and listened in on the conversation happening before them. The elder raised a brow as she studied David, listening intently to his words. He had similar viewpoints on training, they too, trained their young from a young age, they split them into the best suited ranks for their skills as did the King of Folagrio with his own kingdoms young. “Maugrim, you didn’t say he is one in the same.” She finally spoke, a sideways glance over at her son. The male allowed a bit of a grin to part his lips before turning to his pack, “Hear your Elder and Alpha,” his voice boomed over the whispers as he walked in a semi circle to face his pack and family. “King David, of Folgario is our brother in arms as is he our brother in mind. You will respect him, treat him as your kin, and above all else, your Alpha.” Maugrim spoke loud and clear, he had the attention of all of his pack members, excitement began to ring out among them, tails wagging, hopeful gazes and a victory filled future was in their reach, the pack knew it and accepted the Elder and their Alpha’s final word. Turning to David now, Maugrim looked at him, “Join us in our howl of Alliance, and our feast of new beginnings.” He beamed at the human man, though he didn’t express it often he was full of joy and pride at that moment. If only his late mate could be there to celebrate such a joyous occasion. Turning from David, Maugrim face his pack before letting out the loudest of howls, Sirona, Maliha following in the howl of alliance. Soon the entire pack joined in, Maliha gently bumped David encouraging him to let loose his best howl to seal the deal.

Fraeya

Fraeya couldn’t help but chuckle, “Most likely,” She said clearly amused, “I apologize, there is a lack of fun and entertainment in my castle, I’m not a cruel being I promise.” She shared as she tried to get her giggles under control. This was a first, since she’d arrived she rarely laughed, she probably had wrinkles starting from all the scowling she had been doing. Getting her amusement calmed down, the woman shifted into her elfself and smiled at Rueben as she sat there on the edge of the table. “Thank you, Reuben.” She thank him, though it was a bit unclear as to why she was thanking him. “I will do better and try harder.” She told him as she gathered her books and scrolls into her arms and slid off the table. There were quite a few, but she did her best to manage the stack. “Rueben, I wouldn’t blame you if you were terrified from such a sight. Dragons are not common to see, let alone known to even exist anymore… And though a Dire wolf is more possible, it would still be rather intimidating to have to face.” She shared as she moved to another table for better lighting. Placing her books down she pulled out a chair and sat down there before looking for a fire starter to light the tables candle. Just a little longer and she’d go back to her chamber, “Where's that darn striker.” She murmured as she looked for the small device, was it not left in the room? Looking back at the Knight she caught how red his face was. Was it from her teasing or was he coming down ill from the earlier cold? “Rueben, are you feeling well?” She asked before walking up to him out of habit from her months in Folgario and placed a hand upon his forehead. The interaction only lasted a moment before she pulled away, “You’re face is rather warm, you might be coming down with something.. I’ll gather my things to go, you’ll need rest if you’re to teach me self defense tomorrow.” She told him, she wasn’t a doctor by no means but she was concerned. He had the gull to talk back to her, to belittle her and make her feel much smaller then she was, it was humbling, he’d brought her back to a level she needed to remember… He would have fit in nicely at Folgario.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

It went on for a while, the young male fighting the barrier. Keeva herself had done the same a little over a year ago… Knowing what she knew now, watching the stranger made her realize just how pitiful she looked back then, how defeated. “I can’t blame him in all honesty, but his efforts are all for not.” She murmured to the older male, “He’s just making himself tired and more angry.” she sighed, her ears laying flat against her head as she watched, saddened by the scene before her. However, her sadness had lessoned as the alpha beside her had mentioned he knew the Nightfall pack. Standing to her feet Keeva looked at him, hope glimmering in her pale hues. “You- You know my fathers pack?” She said for the first time in what seemed ages her tail began to wag, it was a slow wag but clearly the female was happy. Yet, that happy wag faded as embarrassment took over, her ears falling to the sides “I… was tricked.” she kept it short, too embarrassed to share the full story at the moment. Perking her ears as he introduced himself, she was pulled from her shame and once again focused on the male. “It’s nice to meet you, Cloven.” she said politely before taking notice of his eyes, “I’ve never seen a Lupin with two different colored eyes, it’s a shame you have to keep them concealed” it was unique and she admired that about him. “That's an interesting way of naming your offspring and pack, I don’t believe there is any true rhyme or reason to my pack's naming, I think it’s just whatever the parents feel fits the pup.” She shared, “I like it though, it’s unique and admirable.” she told him. His offer to be apart of his pack until they were freed caused a small smile to form on the female's face, “Thank you, I’ve not been with other lupin’s in a year or more, so I’d enjoy the company.” she told him, her tail half way wagging as she accepted his offer.

The Other Side

Cloven observed the younger female, the shame that spread across her face as she reminisced on her life before the mistress. She quickly changed the subject to his appearance, and he smiled ever so slightly. “I agree - the glamor is not fun to maintain either. I much prefer my natural appearance, but for now, hiding is my best option. The names, however, are something we do not need to keep so hidden. Thank you for your appreciation.” The alpha stretched out his front paws, groaning quietly as a joint popped in his shoulder. He rolled it after, letting out a sigh of relief. “This male is really feeling his age nowadays. I apologize.” “Then let me step in.” Cloven glanced aside to see a younger red and cream male approach, tall like the alpha but less bulk to his body. “Father tends to forget he also needs rest. Go under one of the trees and take a nap.” “Don’t tell your old man what to do-” “It’s only a suggestion.” The alpha grunted, but considering that he was feeling the aches in his joints, he hoisted himself up and gave another smile to the female. “It was pleasant to greet you, Keeva. Welcome to the Trailwoods.” He tilted his head, “perhaps your callname could be Freedom.” Chuckling, he walked his way towards the tree where the mated pair lay and settled himself beside them, the two beginning to groom him affectionately. It left Keeva with the younger male, who sat in the place of his father. “Keeva, hello,” he said quietly, ears perked forward towards her. “I’m First, or Fir. I wanted to personally thank you for your help. I know this isn’t exactly what we were both hoping for, but it’s a step in the right direction.” He looked around the pack, and he heard a gate shift open somewhere. Before he could go investigate, he saw a large crate be pushed in before the gate closed. Whimpers from the crate had lupus rushing towards it, pulling out their puppies as families and bringing them back to the safety of the dens. He watched them silently, tail curled around his legs. “That, for example, is the first step to freedom. With clear minds, we can come up with a plan to leave safely altogether. My father was right, your wisdom of the mistress will help to understand all these collars can do, and the limits we can push. She will not kill us easily, so with that as an advantage, we have more time.” He paused, before his ears flicked back. “I apologize, I am likely just repeating what you have already been told. I simply wanted to thank you, and help you take care of those injuries.” He jutted his chin towards her pelt, before he leaned over and began to groom the dull, beaten fur of the female. It was so coarse compared to his pack members, only showing more of the torture she had been dragged through.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Nodding, she somewhat understood, “Magic can be pretty taxing.” she agreed with him, her tail had stopped wagging and her smile had faded, she was still happy though to have company, to be with other Lupin, even if she wasn’t entirely pure blooded like they were. It was reassuring to have been accepted by this pack's Alpha Cloven, she had to admit she had been concerned they’d want to tear her apart for being the Queen’s chosen pet… more like slave but the Queen didn’t use such a word with her surprisingly… however that didn’t change how badly she herself wanted to rip the woman's head from her shoulders. With her eyes back on the ranging male across the pasture, Keeva’s ears shot to Cloven as he groan and his joint popped. The Lupa had quickly jumped to her paws to assist him, however, that action just made her own body cry out with pain as the fresh wounds reopened and began to weep. Staying strong she didn’t yelp out or draw attention, but she did slow her movement. “No need to apologize. Are you alright?” She asked before flicking an ear back as another voice came towards them. Her pale blues landed on the young male as he approached, stepping to the side she allowed them some space to speak to Cloven, who seemed to be his father. Keeva stood silently, watching their interaction back and forth before Cloven finally gave up and stood to rest by the tree in the middle of the pasture. The old male’s stubbornness reminded her of her father causing a slight smile to pull at her lips. “Thank you. As it was to greet you, Alpha Cloven.” She said as she gingerly sat down, her body aching more now that she was reminded of the pain which was earlier inflicted upon it. A bit of surprise fell on her as the alpha suggested giving her the call name ‘Freedom’ she wasn’t sure if that was so accurate, they weren’t technically free yet… ‘Hope’ may have been a little better. Keeva wasn’t about to say otherwise though, for now, he was her alpha and she’d accept his callname if that was what he wished to call her. His chuckles made her smile before she turned her attention to the male stayed beside her in his place. “Hello,” She greeted him, a little surprised at first, her pale blues taking him in for a moment now that she was focused on him alone. “It’s nice to meet you, Fir.” She gave him a slight smile as they spoke softly to one another. “You’re welcome. No, it’s not but it’s better than being split up among the nobility used for Lupus knows what.” she admitted, it was hard for her to agree when all she wished for was to run free, truly free. Hearing the rattling of a gate opening, Keeva’s ears rotated towards the sound as she searched for the source with her eyes. Spotting the crate, the cries that rang out from within, she knew it was the pups. A pang of pain tugged at her chest, even though it was a joyous sight for the parents. Fir spoke again explaining how the pups return was the first step in the right direction. He was right, it was, “There’s no need to apologize, I’m sure most of the pack have the same thoughts… If I can have a short rest I’ll happily share what I know after. “ She kindly told him before noticing him getting closer, flinching as his tongue groomed her wounds and rough coat. She couldn’t help but grit her teeth from the pain, her body trembled when he reached the more sensitive wounds. Though it was painful, she didn’t tell the male to stop or move away from him, he was trying to help her and the comfort of having someone near was something she wanted for a long while. “Thank you…” Keeva managed to say as she slowly lowered herself to the ground to make the grooming processes a bit easier for, Fir.

The Other Side

Fir hated to be causing her pain, but the way her wounds were oozing was worrisome. They seemed to be on the edge of infection…but he was no healer. His medical knowledge lacked quite strongly, but he did want to help clean them enough to close them up once and for all. Without the chains and whip, they’d finally have space to breathe and settle. Keeva proceeded to lay down, the pain obviously traveling through, and he frowned, feeling guilty for causing such a spike. He proceeded to lay down next to her, his pelt against hers to provide some support as he worked on the worst wounds. “I’ll try to get as much of it as possible as quickly as I can. I just know these are hard to reach intentionally.” The rest of the pack had been too absorbed in their own distress to comfort her, and he couldn’t blame them. She was not eager to rush to any of his pack, rightfully so. They were all on new ground and neutral territory, and needed time to adjust. “Tell me about yourself. Something to distract. I’m sorry it can’t be gentler, but I have no pain herbs here. It’ll be over soon, I promise.” Seeing a flea crawl up towards her ear, he plucked it quickly with his teeth and snapped it apart, flinching at the bitter iron taste it gave. But none of her gave a great experience either. He just hoped it was worth it by the time he was finished. “Maybe about your family? Your time before all this?” He caught another flea, spitting its remains onto the grass. Filthy parasites.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Feeling his pelt against hers, Keeva felt comforted by the male. His attempts to be gentle with his grooming was admirable, he was kind which was nice given he didn’t know her. Laying her head down she turned it just enough to see Fir as he groomed her pelt and wounds. “Take your time… I’ve endured worse.” She told him as she closed her eyes, her ears pinning back at the worst of the pain. “Myself?...” She repeated as she laid there, trying to think of something to share. “It’s alright, I’d rather my wounds be cleaned, a little bit of pain isn’t too much to endure when it’ll mean they will heal a bit more easily.” opening her eyes she looked at the male, his fur was well kept, it’s color vibrant, from what she could feel it was soft too. “I was taken in by the NightFall pack back when I was only a pup… “ She started, it was hard to recall the good days, not because she missed them so much but more so because all her good memories had been clouded over by the misery she’d endured here. “I was raised by Maugrim and his mated imprint Orina.. They adopted me… “ She paused for a moment as she thought about her childhood, “I hope this isn’t off putting but I’m not exactly a pure breed, Fir.” she murmured to him, she knew not all packs like or accepted those of different species or mixed bloods in their pack, she didn’t know this pack well at all but she wanted to tell them now rather than hide it. “My Lupine form looks all that of a true Lupine, but my shifts are much different.” she shared softly, scanning his muzzle for any discomfort or displeased expressions she continued, “I remember as a pup, my father would take me to the river, he’d teach me to fish and swim while he had the free time.” She smiled, a warm look in her eyes as she was pulled back to the past. “I’d almost forgotten about the jokes he’d play on my aunts… or my first hunting trip.” She chuckled a bit before gritting her teeth at a spike of pain. “I- I- was learning the ways of the mage as soon as I was old enough… “ She tried to focus on stories about herself to drown out the pain in her back. “W-What about you?” She asked unable to continue thinking about her past due to the pain. As Keeva had asked, she noticed the male had plucked a flea off of her and then another one… oh how embarrassing.. The fleas were not something she could prevent though, the queen didn’t care about her condition, as long as, she was alive that’s what mattered to that woman.

The Other Side

The male continued to work on cleaning through the double coat of her fur, his cream muzzle beginning to redden the more he worked. There was more work than he initially thought, but the female was tough and allowed him to do what was needed. The pain now would pay off later, eventually. He had never seen wounds so horrific. But maybe this was a blessing, a preparation for what was to come if any of his packmates made a wrong move. Though hesitant at first, Keeva started to share more about herself, snippets of her upbringing and youth. The most surprising part was her bloodline however, and he paused only briefly to take in the information before he went back to mending as usual. He appreciated the knowledge, the small knowledge she trusted to share with him. She even asked of his own side, and he paused his cleaning to lick between her ears as a thank you, an acknowledgement of her trust. "I'm not bothered by your birth line. I know others here may be wary of it, but to be fair, you're not from our pack biologically, so your history is not ours to judge. You're as much a lupa in my eyes as anyone here. Nobody would dare to say otherwise, not with my father and I here anyways." He finished off the biggest wound quickly, removing it of any gross material and creating fresh tissue to help it grow back together. It may scar, but it was better than gaping open. He took the moment of pause to allow her to rest and have a break from his intensive cleaning, fetching fleas or simply grooming her fur as normal to ease some of the dirt and grime built up on her skin. "As you heard, Cloven is my father. He had me late into adulthood, as he struggled to have litters with my mothers. He thought he was infertile for a long time, as no matter the season, he was unable to have any children of his own. Eventually, by miracle, my siblings and I were born, and we are his first and only litter, hence my name, First. My sisters, Piece, Clarify, and Generate all followed. Piece was born quite a few minutes later compared to us first three, so she was considered the extra, surprise piece to our family. Clarify, or Clare, was born with pale eyes, but when she was a few months old she woke up with crystal clear green eyes, bright as the newest spring grass. Generate, or Gen, was known for generating a lot of noise, and still does." He grinned brightly at the explanation, chuckling softly. "But she was also the one most likely to carry on a new generation. She was very strong even when she was young, and was always protecting us, following our mother's shadow. She's actually one of the mothers now." He gestured with his nose to the dens, where a darker red female lay with her litter alongside two females and a male, all checking the pups and cleaning them from the barn. He could hear the puppies protesting squeaks from his position, and smiled softly to see his sister tending to them so carefully. "Because of my birthright though, I have been prepared to become the next alpha once my father passes. He could give the title at any point, but you understand older males and their stubborn behavior. Once they're set in their ways, it's hard to get them to change. I don't mind though, honestly. My approach to being alpha is far different from his, so I appreciate the time to hone not only my innate skills but also my relationship with the pack as a whole. I want them to be comfortable when I take my position, as though nothing will be changed." Content with his explanation, Fir began cleaning her fur again, focusing on the next biggest wound he could see. "That's about it, though. I spend most of my time observing and watching, and thinking. So my experiences are slim compared to those that actually go out and live life to the fullest. To be honest…having a quiet place like this enclosure isn't the worst thing for me. I get peace and quiet to think and absorb my surroundings without daily duties clouding my time. Like getting to greet and getting to know you instead of being pulled away in different directions."

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

What he told her was a relief, she was glad he and his father accepted her and wouldn’t allow any of those who didn’t agree with her being there to say anything against her. She was relieved and glad she decided to share that tidbit about herself early on rather than later. Laying there grateful for the male assistance, he licked her between the ears, appreciating her interest. Fir then continued to clean her wounds, she felt his grooming quicken in that most painful area, it was hard to not whine from that pain, her body trembled but as she had been, she endured it the best she could. Once he was finished with the largest wound, Keeva relaxed, breathing a bit heavy from the pain. She closed her eyes and listened to him as she tried to get her pain under control. “Three sisters? Did you enjoy growing up with them?” She asked with a forced smile through her pain, “I always wanted siblings but the closest I got was just other pups within the pack. My Mother was killed… My father never found a new mate.” She shared before opening her eyes and lifting her head a bit to look towards his sister that was a one of the mothers. Again, a pain hit her chest like a ton of rocks, she listened to the whimpers and the happy voices of the parents. Slowly, she pulled her head back around to face Fir. “She’s lucky to have them, I’m happy for her and her family.” she spoke softly. He then continued on to speak about his future as alpha, his fathers stubbornness and how his reign as alpha will be different from his old mans. “How so?” She asked with a curious tilt of her head, her pale blues on him once again. She was curious about what plans he had for his fathers pack, what he wanted to change and why, however, her short question was all she could manage as he had started to work on another painful area. “I- I understand that… There was never a moment's rest back at home. I’d sneak off just to get some peace and quiet.” she chuckle softly at the thought. His last statement however caused her to blush under her cheek fur, she knew he was just being kind and using her as an example, but she couldn’t help but feel nice from it. “I understand, I’m glad I got the chance to meet you.” she shared her appreciation, “Thank you for all your help, Fir.” She said as she nuzzled him under his chin, showing her thanks. The She-wolf knew he wasn’t done yet but she felt it was time to thank him given he was most likely most of the way done now.

The Other Side

First still hated to be causing her pain, but he could already see the progress forming from his work. It was a good sign that she was still speaking and responding to him - passing out from her pain would be a whole other issue to solve. But helping her was a comfort to him. “I’m sorry for your mother’s loss…though I have not experienced the same, I know it is looming over my family. It is never easy to lose a dear family member. But, the good thing about finding a mate down the road is you gain new siblings, a bigger family. You’ll find a suitable mate, or mates, one day and you’ll have those siblings you desire.” He smiled as she nuzzled under his chin, and his tail beat against the ground. “I did enjoy growing up with my sisters though, to answer your question. Sometimes they were more tolerable than others, but for the most part, I am thankful to have had them. They taught me many things that I would not have learned on my own. For example - don’t poke the bear when they’re already mad. You won’t get the payoff you’re wanting.” He laughed a bit, shaking his head. “I respect females far more now than I did as a pup.” His body shifted to curl more around her, providing extra support for her weakened body. The twitches and shivers from her open wounds would not end too quickly, but he wished to help her as best he could until she could be on her own and not depend on others. “I am always here to help, Kee. If nobody else is approachable, just know my side is always open.” He licked her ears a few times, simple comforting gestures. “Actually, most of my pack considers me lazy when I take time to think, and process. Having a female come and enjoy the peace with me may ease their judgments a bit.” Fir chuckled, leaning his head down to finish her other big wound before he stopped indefinitely for the time being, so she could get some longer rest but have fresher injuries to heal quicker. The male pressed his muzzle to her neck, saddened by the dullness in her coat, but did not mention it aloud as he laid his head on his paws. “You have that time to take in the quiet now, here in the enclosure. What will you do now that you have been parted from the mistress’ side?”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

As he continued to clean her open wounds, he shared his condolences. "It's been years now, but thank you. I don't think he ever plans to settle again. I don't blame him though, to have an imprint taken before their time… I can only imagine it's the worst kind of pain a Lupine can feel and endure." Watching her father go through such heartache had made the female uneasy about her future, the possibility of finding her own imprint and losing him was not one she was ever willing to go through. He spoke about her future, finding a mate and having her own pups. Instantly her ears pinned, her ears fell and a look of pain and possibly even fear had clouded them. "I… I guess so." She murmured as she pulled away a touch, unsettled by the topic. Laying there loosing her self in thought for a second, Fir answered her question about him and his siblings. What he shared made her gentle smile come back, removing the uncertainty from earlier and shadowing the pain and fear. "That's a lesson everyone should learn early on." She smiled a bit thinking about the scene unfolding between the male beside her and his sisters. Respect, that was a something ever male and female should know as well… it was lacking with those she had been forced to meet one on one before. Saying what he said, he shifted his weight and curled around her more, at first it startled the lupa but she settled actually allowing herself to rest against him, accepting the support he was offering. "I appreciate it." She told him, her eyes on the grass beneath them at first before moving up to meet his. He spoke of his pack’s relief seeing him alone with a female rather then on his own being ‘lazy’ in their eyes. “You haven’t had a female tag along before?” She was a bit surprised, he was the Alpha’s son and generally females flocked to such a rank. Looking at him, clearly, he was an adult or at least very close to it, was he also not interested in pairing up and settling down? Her curiosity feel as the pain intensified again, her perked ears lowered and her body tensed up. The pain didn’t last much longer though, the kind male finished his work before letting her rest which was a relief. Being able to fully relax, Keeva laid her head on her paws and closed her eyes for a moment just to simply catch her breath and allow the ache in her back to ease. “Thank you, I’m sure this freedom isn’t for long.” Keeva murmured to him as she opened her eyes and looked towards him, “She will call on me again… I’m sure of it. Either that or she will dispose of me now that she has true blooded Lupins I can’t be for sure. I’m not exactly a beloved pet. I was more of a tool for her… ” the female answered, unsure of what her future held.

The Other Side

Once the two lay side by side in the warmth of the grass, Fir let out a soft sigh as his body sagged to relax. Her question caught him off guard, and he raised a brow, but he didn’t mind it. “I mean, they’ve tried. As the heir I’m very prized, but my interests tend to…not suit theirs. Sitting and thinking all day isn’t like the males that hunt, or patrol their territory, or, well, be the tough strong male they expect.” He shrugged, chuckling a bit in embarrassment. “I’m very boring to be around. So even the females that stick around for a while eventually find some other male that fits their needs more.” His ears flicked as they listened to the sounds of his pack, the settling that everyone was doing. Though they had been through a lot that day, having a safe place to hide from their enemies wasn’t the worst thing to have. “I want to have a family one day like any lupa would. But I’d much rather have a female at my side that I don’t have to change for, you know? I want to love my female more than tolerate her.” He gave her a soft grin. “Doesn’t really sound like a fairy tale romance if you ask me.” He watched her settle down more beside him, finally accepting more of his support as her body weight leaned against his. It was comforting to have a female, or really anyone, spending time with him in a time of quiet. However when she spoke of the mistress and her control, he frowned and thought about her warning. Would she allow him to ask about her time? There was no way to know until he asked… “May…may I ask what type of tool? What did she make you do to keep you around for so long?”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Keeva couldn’t help but chuckle, “I should have known, most females are rather attracted to such skills, rather than the actual Lupin. Honestly, I shouldn’t pin it all on us females, males can be rather similar.” She giggled again from the subject. “At least two of us have our priorities straight.” she shared, her back was already feeling better, the trembling had eased off tremendously given she was now able to relax her body. As her amusement faded she could tell he was embarrassed, “You’re embarrassed?” She said as she raised her head, “You shouldn’t be embarrassed for being yourself. If they don’t want you for you then you don’t need to give them the time of day.” She told him, her ears forward as she looked over at him. When he answered her next questions she. “That would be the dream, wouldn’t it.” she murmured, “Watching my pack that’s all I ever saw was toleration in the mated units. The only true love I saw were those who imprinted.” She slightly rolled her eyes, a small grin on her muzzle as she began watching the pack again. “No, toleration is never a fairy tale ending. I believe my Aunt has shown that time and time again with her three mates.” she chuckled at the memories however, her joy had fallen as Fir asked his next question. Her ears fell back and she turned her face away from him. “I… I’d rather not talk about it.” she told him an audible whine left her as her tail tucked unearth her. She couldn’t tell him, she couldn’t share it with anyone… She just wasn’t ready to recall it, it had taken this long to suppress the trauma. "I just can't... " she muttered, the cries of the pups pierced her ears again causing the female to jump up to get further away. She moved as quickly as she could, which wasn't more then a fast walk given the pain that was still rolling over her back. Once at the farthest end of the enclosure she dropped in the grass covering her face with her paws as her emotions began to get the better of her.

The Other Side

The male was content with their conversation, enjoying seeing her respond to him and even understand his point of view. It was the first time in a while that he had been able to have an actually nice discussion between him and a female. Most wanted more of what he mentioned, the tales of hunts or feats of bravery. Not the systems he wanted to instill or the fascinating discoveries he had made from his own epiphanies. He had been worried that Keeva wouldn’t be receptive either, given that she was a scared female among new people, but it was pleasant to converse with her. At least, until he touched a tender nerve, and the sound of a puppy’s cry sent her fleeing from his side to further in the yard. His head shot up as he watched her, unsure of why it had caused such a reaction. But to see the fear completely shatter her… He stood to his feet and walked over slowly, walking up to her side and pressing his nose to her pelt. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have asked,” he murmured. “Let’s go to the other side of the enclosure. You won’t hear them there.” Touching his nose to her ear, he trotted ahead towards the other side of the enclosure, where none of his pack had gone. With the wide acreage allowed to them, not much larger than their den site at home, there was enough space to allow a distance between the dens and the relatively barren other end. Two dens sat vacant, the usual trees and troughs of water available. The rest of the Trialwoods wanted to stay close in case things changed, and though he knew he should be with the rest of them as well, he wanted Keeva to be comfortable, especially with the triggers he was discovering. There was nothing worse than being tormented, even beyond the physical tortures. “The dens should be deep enough if you want to crawl to the back. I’ll make sure nobody comes close,” he called to her. “I’m sorry.” Ears against his head, he sat in the grass and waited to see if she would follow. Maybe after such a thing she wanted to be truly alone, the memories too haunting to jump back into a regular conversation. He wouldn’t bother her if such a thing were true. But he did feel great pity for the female so abused by her captor. None of them truly knew what she had gone through, and he couldn’t expect to understand it fully. Some creatures had burdens too heavy for others to carry. “Please, I won’t bring it up again. You don’t have to say anything at all. But I don’t want you hurting yourself in fear. You’ve been through enough, Kee.”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Keeping her face hidden, Keeva tried to muffle her whining cry, she hated being weak but the trauma she endured and the loss she experiences over and over again was too much to bear. There was no stopping the tears once they started to fall, with all the things she’d endured, the beatings, the forced challenges, the training, all of it… Nothing compared to that, the one thing she dreaded and prayed to lupus to never experience again… Of course, those prayers were never answered. Laying there trying to clam herself down, she eventually heard paw steps arriving behind her, the males familiar scent hitting her nose. For a moment she laid there silently, sniffling as needed, it was only when his nose pressed against her pelt that she glanced over at him, “You- You didn’t know.” She murmured softly, her voice broken but auditable attempting to mend. With the gentle touch of his nose to her ear she stood, without another word, Keeva followed him. This enclosure had expanded since her last time here, the queen must have needed more space for Lupin, either that or she was preparing the future back then. Arriving at the dens she was surprised he had taken notice of these, then again he was the type to investigate rather than hang in one area. “Thank you… I’d rather stay in the light though.” She spoke softly before continuing in the direction of the dens. “Like I said… You needn't be sorry. You’ve done nothing wrong, you couldn’t have known.” she told him her tail still tucked her ears against her head. He was worried about her, scared she was going to hurt her already delicate condition. He once again called her Kee, a nickname he decided to provide her with. First was such a kind male, his pack females were dumb for not wanting such a caring, respectful, male around, that for once was different from the rest. Once they arrived, Keeva laid down, her back protected by some rocks. Laying her head down on her paws she struggled to look at him, it wasn’t his fault and she knew her inability to look at him was going to make him feel worse… it was just hard. There were so many things working against her right now. Closing her pale blue hues she sighed softly as she tried to relax and rest once more. Maybe… maybe one day she could she her history with him… if it didn’t surface before.

The Other Side

Watching the female walk over and settle down brought some relief to the male. The sudden hit from her past would take time to let pass again, but at least she was receptive to his company and suggestions. That much he could be thankful for. Once she had laid down to rest, he waited a moment to be sure she was truly settled before he licked her forehead and laid down close to her, not close enough to touch or bother her sunlight but also enough that if she needed him, she needn’t but whisper. He laid perpendicular to her as he gazed around the enclosure, seeing his pack from far away and listening to just the wind passing by. It took a few minutes for him to know what to do, as he wasn’t sure what she needed best at this moment. His thoughts began to run away with him as they normally did as he ended up flopped on his side, seemingly sunbathing in the mild heat of the sun as he delved into the wandering trails of his mind. There wasn’t much to delve into concerning Keeva, but he did try to piece together her experiences with his and the future that was held in their enslavement. For now, there didn’t seem to be any specific needs for him or his pack, but that could change, and he wondered what that could bring. First just hoped that when those needs arose, Keeva could properly prepare them, or at least offer some insight so they would know how to handle it all properly. Any of his pack ending up dead from missteps was the most important thing to avoid in such a situation like this.

After a long while of laying down, and Fir eventually falling asleep, he was awoken by sudden prodding in his side, and he shot up to see his sister Clarify peering down at him, a rabbit in her jaws. She dropped it to the ground, silent in her actions. She had been silent enough to get up to his side without notice, which was always an impressive feat for him. “Don’t startle me, Keeva is resting,” he whispered in a snap, and she huffed as she glanced over to the female. Both were unsure if she was asleep. “I came to offer her some food. You didn’t seem too keen on waking up to fetch her some yourself.” “It’s been a long day Clare, you can’t exactly blame me for wanting to sleep.” The female rolled her eyes, but not seeing any strict rejection from her brother, she picked up the rabbit again and walked around him just enough to set the meat down before the female and step back a good distance to give her the personal space she needed. Clare determined that Fir would be the closest any member could get to her right now, and she didn’t want to infringe on her bubble she probably kept tight to herself. Sitting down, she gave a few licks to her cream chest, the tans and light rust colors of her coat brighter in the sunlight upon her back. “Hello Keeva,” she said quietly. “I’m First’s sister, Clarify. I brought you some food, to hopefully help. They didn’t bring us much now, but I assume they will realize we need more. I figured you would like a snack though.” Her ears were up and directed towards her, their dark brown color stark against the rest of her coat. “My brother was too far asleep to realize that food was delivered. Normally he’s the first one to the pile, so I apologize for his lack of hospitality.”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

After some time, laying in silence the sound of the wind singing through the blades of grass, it lulled the exhausted female to sleep. Though the conditions were wonderful for sweet dreams full of hope and happiness, that didn’t guarantee her anything. At first she dreamt of home, her father and pack mates, Maliha talking about Rubra and groaning over Roan’s attempts to woah her. Yet, that happy dream shifted, a figure appeared, his voice drawing her in. Like a dumb teen she followed, the dream continued to go down hill from there… her body sturred, her feet flinched at times her hair would raise and a snarl would leave her resting figure… The worst of it all was about to come when suddenly she was woken up, her chest was heaving, but her breath was quiet as she got her fear under control. Was Fir still there with her? Before she could manage to move she heard paw steps against the grass filled earth. Laying there silently she waited to see who it was before letting them know she was awake. It was kind of amusing how upset her brother got when she’d startled him awake. He cared so much, it was kind of adorable, if half the males in the world acted like him a lot more females would actually be happy with their life long choices. It was about then they mentioned the rabbit, she hadn’t caught it’s scent yet being upwind from the meal she hadn’t noticed it’s presence. Moving her head enough to where she could see the two of them she listened to them go back and forth, before raising her head and Clare greeting her. “Hello, it’s nice to meet you Clare. Oh, thank you…” She spoke before looking at the rabbit. They brought them rabbit… “How much did they bring?” She asked the female. Standing to her paws she looked towards the pack and the gates. Her fur was beginning to raise on end, the woman was already starting her crap wasn’t she… “How many have already been eaten…” Keeva was starting to growl before she grabbed up the rabbit and began shaking it like a rag doll. Eventually she’d ripped its hide off exposing its innards which had a subtle scent of herbs. Dropping it Keeva looked at Clare, “Make sure no one eats the ones that smell like that.” she warned, she knew she shouldn’t have gotten comfortable, Jez was always thinking ahead and of course there was no rest for the wicked.

The Other Side

Clare was expecting the female to rip apart the rabbit, but moreso to eat than to expose its hidden center…getting a whiff of the meat, her eyes widened and she exchanged a glance with Fir. “I-I don’t know, but I’ll go make sure nothing else is eaten…” Racing off, her heart began to pound with worry, she herself had already eaten one of the offerings…what was going to happen to her? Swallowing the bile that threatened to rise, she rushed into camp and quickly explained what Keeva had said, her father Cloven immediately getting up to separate the food from its pile to put into a corner and collect those who had ingested any to put aside. Meanwhile, First looked to Keeva, now on high alert, a large difference from the lax and tired male before. He stepped forward and took an enveloping scent of the rabbit, taking in its full smell. “What does this mean? What must we do? Is it fatal?” Surely it wouldn’t be, not with their ‘owner’ paying such a price, but he couldn’t tell. He watched her carefully, eyes set solely on hers. “We must keep everyone safe. What is she already starting to do to us?!” Just when he thought they’d be safe…figures they would get payback for letting their guard down even just for a moment. He was a foolish, foolish heir to allow his pack and himself to rest, and he growled at himself in protest. He should have been with his pack.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

She watched as Clare raced off before looking at Fir, “It’s not fatal, its the first steps towards bringing all the females into heat… Jezebeth wants more Lupins she won't wait for nature to take it’s course.” She told him, there was anger in her voice, and that same look of fear and pain from earlier. “As far as I know it won't hurt the pups.” She told him a bit more softly, her eyes shifting away. Her shaking had started up again, but before it could set in as deeply as it did before she motioned for him to come along and started towards the pack. Once up front, Keeva watched as Clare and Cloven worked to separate the meat. It was about that time she heard a noise at the gate, Turning around to see what it was, it was yet another load of freshly harvested meat… The guard delivering it smirked, muttering eat up as he shut the gate and left. Again, Keeva’s fur raised on end, it was taking everything in her to not act like the young male from before, she knew attacking the barrier would get her know where. Being helpless was horrible… They all had to eat something, eventually. Walking up to Clare and Cloven now, she tried to calm herself before saying what she had to, “Most if the meal has been pumped full of an herbal tonic that will bring every female here into season… It has a similar effect on males too… It’s not fatal and I’m not sure how it will affect the pups… I think our best course of action will be to sort the meats, what doesn’t smell of the herbs we can eat. “ She told them, “Also, if you’re ever separated off from your pack to eat somewhere else… never eat what's offered, generally that is a fatal sentence.” she warned them, she did her best not to allow her fears to surface in front of everyone it was bad enough Fir probably knew, it filled her with shame and more forms of pain then she could ever verbally explain.

The Other Side

Of course it had to be that way. Fir growled loudly, unable to keep it within his chest. They already had pups to raise, but now? Forcing them all into a ravenous heat? His fears for his family were thrown into his chest like rocks in the ocean and he had to steady himself to avoid losing his grip altogether. The pack followed Keeva's direction without his commands however, sorting the meat best they could. The few scraps remaining that weren't tainted were first given to the mothers and to Cloven, with the last offering being placed before Keeva by one of the lesser females. Everyone was in panic once more, and Cloven had to work to keep everyone quiet and under control. The ones who had already eaten the herbed meat were separating themselves intentionally, including Clare, who was cowering in shame as she heard the lupins bark and growl towards those who had jumped at the food before investigating it. It wasn't until the pack had grown loud enough to be barking over each other that Cloven let out a loud alpha snarl, snapping his teeth at the accusers and stepping in front of the victims to protect them from further vindication. "Enough! We've been starved for days, anyone would have gone for that meat if we weren't all so tired. All of us would have been affected. This isn't the end of the world. This will be sorted." Huffing, he raised his head and scanned his pack, everyone silent in fear. "Those who ate the tainted meat step forward. We will keep tally and everyone will understand the predicament we will be in soon. Regardless of this, we will likely be expecting more mouths to feed…but we are guaranteed to keep our puppies with us. That is a blessing thanks to Keeva." He nodded towards the female, a question behind his eyes that he didn't ask before looking back to his pack. "I cannot lie and say I know a solution though. Family units will simply have to be prepared for anything, especially for those who will not step forward in admission." The elder male sighed out, flicking his paw to dismiss the crowd as they rose in speculation and worry again. With his sore joints, he ate the small meal provided before he walked over to Keeva and First, his son looking both furious and lost in thought, so he addressed the female first. "I'm sorry for the reason you know this to be true," he murmured quietly to her, a solemn look on his face. "But I thank you for warning us. Do you know how long it takes to go into effect? Is it any quantity or just a full carcass worth? Is there anything that you know? Or do we have to wait and see?" He had seen his daughter in the mix of victims…though she had been through her heat before, she had never chosen a mate, and he worried that eventually her instincts would run her straight to a male unsuited for her. It may not be a choice now, and she may have no escape. "Did either of you eat any of it?" First did not answer, his deep brown and gold core eyes distant with his claws dug deep into the earth. Only a hard shove would dislodge him from his place.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

With her words being heard, the female watched as everyone began sorting the meat provided, she had intended to help but her heart was racing, her breathing speeding up as the not so distant passed was flooding back to her. “Calm down, calm down.” She murmured to herself, closing her eyes, she had to get her own emotions under control. Between Fir’s growls of anger and soon the pack’s outrage… she couldn’t calm down and once the food was sorted it only got worse. Keeva watched as everyone lept into a frenzy of panic, victims being accused and the accusers barking down their throats, shaming them, the cruelty was endless. Just as she had had enough, the lupa was ready to put an end to the crazed verbal attacks. However, before she could say anything Cloven had already put his paw down, silencing the pack with his snarling command. As Cloven calmed his pack, he delivered a look to the female, a knowing look if she’d ever saw one. Her eyes shifted down and to the side, unable to bring them to his gaze, she was a fool for thinking Jezabeth would spare them the treatment she’d endured. Once the Alpha was finished speaking everyone calmed as much as they could giving the circumstances and ate what little food was edible. Looking down at the meat that was given to her, she couldn’t eat it… it made her stomach churn, it would be fine she had already ate that day, someone else could eat it that needed it more then she did. About to pick it up to give to another, Keeva noticed the Alpha approaching her. Lifting her head from the meal before her, she had a feeling she knew what he was going to say to her given the look in his old eyes. His words brought water to her eyes causing her to close them and look away, Keeva managed to listen though… Cloven thanked her before asking about the tonic and what they needed to expect. Swallowing, the she-wolf sighed softly, still unable to look at the male, instead her eyes rested on their paws as she spoke. “It takes a week to fully enter the body, to start showing what it’s made to do.” closing her eyes once more as she paused briefly. “I’m not exactly sure of the quantity… I do know however, that she will alternate the tainted meat with meat that hasn’t been touched, however that won't be until the end of the first week. If one does consume too much nauseous does set in but it’s not fatal.” Keeva glanced over at First, before looking back to Cloven, “Neither of us had eaten any.” She spoke for Fir, he was too distraught to answer, angry for his pack and worried for his family.

The Other Side

Cloven took Keeva's words to heart, nodding as he gazed around at his distraught pack. They were going to all be on edge now…and he would have to mediate appropriately. He was however thankful that his son nor their new packmate were not affected. "Understood. We will all go hungry until the second week - only those who have already eaten the tainted will be able to eat their fill. But it may cause more to grow desperate and eat it anyways. My pack has more females than males, and those who are too young may think they are immune. This will be a new scenario to handle." Ears back, he looked at his son, who was paralyzed with anger. "Well, at the very least, First may finally have some females interested in him." He smiled, before sighing and shaking his head with a huff. "Ah, not a good joke, I'm sorry. Fir wouldn't give anyone the time of day regardless. I'm too old to be messing with this sort of thing. My mates haven't produced pups since my first litter, First and his siblings. I am wholly unprepared for this." He sat by Keeva's side, letting out a soft grunt as he kept an eye on the separating pack, snapping his teeth at anyone who got too testy. The alpha was too old to keep up with his mostly younger pack, and his control was beginning to slip. Why couldn't his son understand the importance of becoming the strong alpha their pack was depending on him to be? He watched as those who ate the tainted meat began moving themselves to the other side of the enclosure, providing some separation despite the small space they all had. "Fir, come on, this isn't completely uncontrollable." "Yes it is!" Fir snapped out of his daze and growled at his father, his hackles standing on end. "Our pack will either be in a frenzy or starving to death. They'll use our puppies as soon as they are weaned and we will go through this again and again. We should have known this would happen!" "Fir, not everything is known to us. We are all together, and that is what matters." "What about Clare, or Piece? Or Gen, who already has a litter? Will she be pushed into heat again so soon, forcing her mates to raise two litters, three, four at once?" "First!" Cloven stood to his paws again and faced his son, growling loudly. "You need to calm down. This mistress will not threaten our livelihood. You already know that fact. Killing any of us won't give her any payout. The ones we need to worry about are our teenagers who have not experienced a heat. If any of them ate the carcasses we need to prepare them and avoid any contact so they do not mate. Your sisters can handle themselves and have support. Worry about those you can help most. You can help Keeva, and you can help the teens. I will take care of our pack and the food." The younger red male snarled, facing up against his father as the two locked eyes. They stayed put for a long moment before Fir finally relented, laying down to submit to his father and alpha. Cloven bowed his head to accept the submission before he turned to walk toward the 'outcasts' and tell them his plans for these new events. Fir stayed on the ground, wrought with many sudden emotions he could not control. So he did what he did best, and thought about his actions. "I'm sorry. I should have stayed calm," he told Keeva. "I just…I can't imagine my sisters going through what you've gone through. Or any of my pack. There's nothing I can do about it, and it…it scares me. We have never faced such things before now. I want to keep everyone from further harm, including you. But I imagine this will not be the first time our guard will be broken."

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Looking to Cloven as he said they’d all go hungry Keeva shook her head, “The mothers can’t go hungry, the pups will starve.” She warned before looking at him finally, “Food will be brought to use every day for a week if not every day it will at least be every other day… Not all the meat will be tainted, make sure the mothers get to eat what’s not tainted, for their pups sake.” She told him before looking up at the sky, “If we are lucky… we will have outside prey wander into the enclosure… Just because we can’t get out doesn’t mean outside creatures can’t get in.” She informed him. Without the collars, it was a normal enclosure, one that could be broken if they were only found by outside Lupins… she was sure of it. “Those who have not gone through their first Cycle are definitely not immune.” she murmured her ears falling back. “We can’t lose our heads over this however…” She sighed before looking back at First, he was still paralyzed with anger. She wanted to get him to wake up, but she knew right now that was too much to ask of him. If it took much longer she would step up to the plate and help the kind alpha who gave her his protection. In time Cloven attempted to make a joke, catching the she-wolf off guard by his poor joke, however, she did managed to smirk ever so slightly. “Yes, it’s not really the best time to make such a joke.” the she-wolf agreed with him but she appreciated the attempt to lighten the tension. “I’m not so sure how well it works on elder wolves, the Queen hasn’t had her hands on many older Lupins than myself.” she shared. Turning her attention back to the pack, they were beginning to get out of control again, Cloven couldn’t keep up with them forever, he was old and needed help. Needing his sons help Cloven had turned to him pulling him from his daze resulting in an out right aggressive argument between them. Sighing softly, the female watched the scene unfold, weighing whether or not she needed to step in, if she had to she would step in. His Father was right, everything he said was the right way to deal with this situation. “Your father is right, treat this similarly to a hard winter where prey is not available to the pack, or at least very little.” she told him. “In the meantime, we can separate all the teens, males can stay here with the rest of the pack, the females I’ll take to the other end.” She made a suggestion. Before focusing on his words, again she sighed softly lowering her ears, “At least they know the males in the pack…. “ she murmured to him. “It's hard to stay calm in these situations.. I was similar to you when I was first captured… I was the only Lupin at first which is why Jezebeth claimed me as her ‘Pet’... I was consumed by my emotions and expressed my anger and pain often.” She paused before giving him a comforting nuzzle, “I don’t blame you for losing control of your emtoins.” she told him softly. “What we can do is protect those that haven't cycled, so they don’t experience what I have and others since me have.” she told him before licking his forehead, showing him she forgave him for his previous actions and for further comfort. “Come on, help me round up the teens, you get the boys and I’ll get the girls.” wanted to get him away from his thoughts for the time being.

The Other Side

First wished he could just lay there for hours, pause time and fix everything once the world began spinning again. But that was never the case. Things would go on before he was ready, and life would change around him out of his control. No wonder his pack didn't trust him, not when he couldn't be prepared for anything and think on the fly like his father. Laying in misery and anger, he heard Keeva approach and she began to speak to him softly, nuzzling his neck fur to help comfort him. It didn't do much, but he did appreciate the gesture, and he lifted his head to listen to her finish. She licked this forehead next, and he closed his eyes when she did so, letting out a breath and relaxing his shoulders. "You're right," he said quietly. "You and my father both are." He shifted to his paws, shaking off grass and dirt. His ears and tail were still down, but he followed Keeva towards the nervous group of consumers. They were all talking amongst themselves, and he lifted his head to try and give the impression of a strong and confident heir. "Keeva and I will be taking care of you. Keeva will take the females to the other side of the enclosure, and I will take the males to a separate den. Because this will be the first time for many of you, and it is not something you should be experiencing now, we need to keep you separate until the herbs and…heat have left your systems." Swallowing, he stepped forward and began to nudge them apart, separating by male and female. Some protested, especially bonded pairs, but he bared his teeth and kept them apart. Eventually the group was split in two, and he stepped in front of the males. "Keeva and your alpha Cloven will make sure you are taken care of, females. But you must obey your alpha and our newest member. We know it is scary, but it is important that we don't let it overwhelm us. We want you to wait until your natural time. Same to you, males." He turned to them with narrowed eyes. "Any attempts to union will be met with teeth and claw, understand? Once this all blows past, we can revisit bonds and units." His eyes went to Keeva's, bowing his head before he nudged the males away to their separated den.
"You really think this is going to work? We should all eat it and get it over with," the young adult from earlier grumbled, limping on a singed paw. "Ander, no. We have to keep this safe for everyone." "It doesn't even matter! We all have to eat, don't we? You really think we aren't going to starve just eating the scraps left behind? Let the females go into heat, we have bigger problems like getting out of this hellhole!" First lunged and grabbed the young male's ear, the male squeaking under his grasp as the heir yanked before letting go. Blood trickled down his fur, and Fir spit before snapping at him to keep moving. "You're an insolent fool. Get your rear into the den before my father finds a more suitable place for you."

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Keeva listened to First as he admitted they were right, it took him a moment to pull himself to his feet but soon enough the male was up and ready to stand before his future pack… though, he didn’t look too confident from her perspective. He was doubting himself, his capabilities, she may not know how he specifically felt but she’d been told off by her own father for making poor decisions, endangering the pack even, she could imagine it felt similar. Stepping in front of him, she made sure they didn’t see his posture at first before greeting them with a low tail wag, she didn’t speak however because First had found the will to look the part he needed to take on. He spoke to the wolves who had ate the infected meat, he shared with them how they were going to take care of this, and what they had to do to prevent any unnatural seasons and unwanted pregnancies thereafter. Beginning to separate the wolves by gender, Keeva assisted him and directed the females where to stand until everyone was sorted. Listening to First as he made his speech, she was proud of him and was ready to push the girls to the other end when her ears caught the voice of the young male from earlier… the one attacking the barrier. What he had to say caused her fur to raise. “Go on to the dens ladies,” She spoke over her shoulder to them before facing Fir’s group. Walking towards the group of males Keeva looked the ignorant male in the eyes, “Do you want to breed with me Ander?” She asked him a brow raised, “Or even that young female over there.” She gestured to one of the young teens. “Oh, or even the elder females over there that are your alpha’s chosen mates” she pointed out, “You’re mind will be in a haze that you can not control. And ‘getting it over with’ isn’t a thing this will happen again in just a couple of months after the first litters are born. The females won’t even be healed yet, her pups still very dependent on her.” she snarled at him her tail high, she should have known there would be one insolent fool in the bunch. “You come past that tree a week from now and I’ll make sure you can’t reproduce.” She snapped her teeth as a warning, she wasn’t about to let any of the females endure what she went through because of some ignorant male who’d rather breed then starve. First, had the male by the ear when she had snapped, she watched as he put the young male named Ander in his place before threatening to get the Alpha involved. Keeva huffed, still holding her ground, she was so ready to rip him a new one she couldn’t stand males that were so pig headed.

The Other Side

Ander had braced against Keeva and her attack, but he growled as soon as the alpha heir let him go, tail high in dominance as he faced her. "So what? We are going to have to pick our bonds eventually. You've done this before, and since we will have to deal with it for months, might as well rip the wound now instead of making everyone terrified of each other." He snarled, baring his teeth at the female. "As if you aren't going to end up mating with First by the end of it." First had enough of the male and grabbed him by the neck, pinning him to the ground with a deafening growl as his sharp teeth dug into the young male's skin. Ander flailed underneath but the heir refused to budge. He held on for a long moment before he snapped his jaws down, leaving a substantial bite before he stood from his packmate. Ander still jumped to his feet, blood pooling down his neck and leg as he growled between the two, bracing himself in the grass. He rose to challenge First, but the male eyed Keeva and he bit his ear again, shoving the male straight into the female to do as she wished and teach him a lesson. He felt some pity, knowing the male was entirely stressed out, but he could not go on and risk the health and lives of his packmates. Ander would not be prepared for Keeva's sharp revengeful teeth.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

“Pick your bonds… You think you get to choose?” she asked him shaking her head in disbelief of this fool. “Did I not make it clear already, you don’t get a choice!” She growled. What the male said next caused her to lung ready to pin him to the earth; however, First beat her to it. He pinned Ander to the ground, biting the male, the scent of iron filled the air before she could see the damage, First, had made. With her tail held high and her teeth bared she was ready to sink her own teeth into the fool. Though her body was scarred, wounded, and her pelt dual, that didn’t mean she was some delicate flower. As Fir looked at her, he grabbed the male and swung Ander in her direction. Rounding the fool of a male, she grabbed him by his neck, her muscles flexing as she slammed his body into the soil. Standing over him, Keeva positioned her body where she was over the top of him, a hind foot crushing his pelvis to make a point. She stood steady and strong over him, she wasn’t going to budge, keeping the young male on the ground. “I have no intentions of breeding with anyone, I don’t intend to take a mate or an imprint… Do you understand me? I have no intentions of ever being a mother again.” she clarified, “And if I’m EVER touched by a male in that way again you can bet their testicals are coming off!” she warned as she stood over the male, Snapping her teeth infront of his face “I will not stand by and allow any of the females here to be r*ped over and over again by any male that takes a notion. Preventing the females from going into heat, separating everyone out is a small sacrifice. And if you think you’re going to die from living on scraps you’re not, you’re more likely to die by my teeth than that.” She warned him, “It’s a small price to pay, you ignorant fool!” she snarled down at him, her white fang inches for his throat. She wanted to rip him apart but she knew today had been a stressful day, he was young, and dumb and she was wiser beyond her years. But still, he needed to learn a lesson and judging from what he already showed her, he wasn’t about to listen to her… Grabbing ahold of his already injured ear she sunk her teeth in began ripping back and forth swiftly before finally it came off. Spitting it to the side she watched as it bled, “You’ve been warned.” She snarled down at him, his blood dripping off her lips. Before she finally stepped away from him, releasing his man hood from under her hind paw and licking the blood off her face as she walked towards where she was to guard the females. She wasn’t letting her guard down either, she had her ears flicked back to hear him coming if he did decide to risk another attack.

The Other Side

The silence that followed Keeva's attack was deafening as every creature in the enclosure hushed. The only sound was Ander's heaving breaths, his ear bleeding out down his face and blinding him, mixing with his salted tears as he trembled on the grass. Most had left the scene by then, especially the males who had winced and retreated as soon as they saw Keeva's nails pierce their packmate's manhood. Only First was left, his face construed with a thousand thoughts as he gazed at Keeva, watching her leave and clean herself off. Nobody would ever mess with her after that - and he started to fear his own interactions with her. Why had she not shown her teeth towards him when he approached her first? He was a fool for thinking she was going to accept anything more from him, not after seeing Ander's behavior. Once she was out of sight, he looked down to the young adult male, stepping forward to nudge him up. Ander roared as he stood to his paws, eyes wide with pain as he bared his teeth at his heir. "F**k you! F**k all of you!" he screamed, rushing off towards the enclosure door on stumbling, bloody steps before slamming his body against it and slipping down to the grass, burying his head into his paws and sobbing. There was nothing anyone could do for him, and First knew there was no getting him to follow anyone's commands anymore. The male had spent the entire time trying to escape and hating his fate, and now he had a bloody stump of an ear and a broken ego. First picked up the ripped ear with the edge of his teeth and tossed it onto the tainted meat as a warning to the others before he followed the younger males to their den, sorting out the words to reinforce the display they had just watched.

An hour later, a knight rushed into the throne room, kneeling at her dais. "Queen Jezebeth, your denmaster wishes to speak with you." Entering the throne room escorted by two enclosure guards, the denmaster smirked as he watched the queen, bowing when he had reached her dais. "An interesting turn of events, your majesty. Ive just been informed by your enclosure caretakers that a young male has just been kicked out of his pack, the pack you just purchased. I can't imagine he will be good breeding stock now that hes been attacked and shunned…but I do have a suggestion to keep him useful." He lifted a hand that held a dart, filled with a very familiar liquid to the queen. "We train him for our slave capture teams…and he can find you more lupin packs to bring in, no purchase required. All it takes is a simple spell, and he will be loyal to us and our commands. What do you say, your majesty?" He grinned broadly, wiggling the dart in emphasis. "I can have him ready by the end of this week."

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Keeva kept her ears pinned, parts of her felt she had gone too far… However, the other part was confident in her actions, knowing good and well she was in the right for doing as she did. As she was walking away she looked back to see the male pick himself up crying as he took off, blood dripping from his numb of an ear once he was gone her eyes fell on First. She’d probably terrified him as she’d done the other males, it was painful to think about… being alone again, but it was better that way. Lowering her ears she continued on to the females taking her post just beyond the midline tree. She didn’t want to fall in love, this was good to be away from the male who had catered to her the entire day… What she needed to do was protect the females and if that meant she had to rip off a few ears, so be it.

“He does, does he?” The Queen said as she looked up from the scroll she’d been reading, a brow raised as she sat the parchment down. “Speak..” She motioned for the man to rise and explain what business he had with her. The denmaster explained the situation, “Oh has he? Which male was it? Surely not the angry fellow… I was looking forward to getting some puppies out of him. I guess I could still use him for such things just it’ll have to be a little more forceful I suppose.” she weighed her options on that subject before the man mentioned the serum. “Oh, please, do tell.” She grinned, liking where this was going. He explained what they could do with the injured male. “Take me to see him tomorrow morning, I want to be the judge of his position before I make my final decision.” she shared, “That and I need to pay a visit to my darling, Keeva.” she chuckled as she picked up a nearby box from her husbands throne. Lifting the lid off she laughed, “Oh they turned out perfect… Keeva will love to see them again.” she grinned and an evil laugh filled the room.

The Other Side

The denmaster escorted his queen with a few knights, smirking proudly in his tailored blue uniform as they walked up a flight of stairs to a platform looking over the enclosure and its territory. Placing a hand on the rail, he gazed down at the lupin pack and pointed towards the sullied male at the front door to the enclosure, cloaked in darkness. "That would be the male, your majesty. One of the members ripped off his ear in what can be assumed a fit of rage, and he's cowered against the door ever since." He chuckled, "The caretakers have to push against him to get anything inside. He hasn't eaten since yesterday's meal and won't let any lupa approach him. I know you wished for him to produce some puppies, but I fear he may have more than his ear ripped off if we keep him with his original pack. His rage could provide a very good intimidation for our capture teams however, as his loyalty and pent up anger would make him pursue any target we place on him. They'd come to us dragged by the ear if necessary." The man looked to his queen, raising a dark brow and a grin. "Besides. We capture a young female and drug both of them? Puppies galore, with the same drive."

First had spent the day guarding the young males, keeping his body laid across the den they stayed in between meals and breaks for water. Most of them tussled, paced back and forth, or slept the day away, and without Ander in the way there were no more outbursts or temptations to cross the enclosure. The only thing that hurt was the separation from Keeva. He had genuinely wanted to help her settle in, to clean her wounds and bring her in as an official member of the pack, but nobody outside the females dared to approach her after the incident. Not even him, who had curled against her side so bravely and licked her pelt like she wasn't a lupa looking for revenge against her mistress. Laying his head on his paws, he watched across the enclosure from the minimal view he had, but after a time he went back to staring into the grass, lost in thought. Even if he wanted to approach her, what if he accidentally ate the tainted meat? What if he was thrown into a frenzy and pursued her? It was best to keep his distance, to prevent hurting her. Hopefully the young females would be willing to help tend to her wounds in his absence, with her show of protection.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Walking up the flight of stairs in a dark gown accented with animal furs, the queen was eager to see her wolves from the platform. She fanned herself with a lacy black fan, decorated with fox fur along the edges. “I see, the poor thing…” She murmured a smirk on her lips as she eyed him, “Well, we can’t have that can we…” She said a chuckle leaving her. “Yes, very well. Remove him from the enclosure since he’s no longer a part of their pack he doesn’t matter to their alpha.” Standing there the queen raised a brow noticing the pack seemed to be divided in half across the pasture. For now, she would assume it was a coincidence. “And how is my Keeva, my pet?” She asked a grin on her face as she continued to fan herself. Though it was winter outside of the enclosure it was rather warm.

Tending to the females, bringing them meat that was toxin free, Keeva made sure they were all taken care off, that no one dared to pass the border. “Cloven, I’m going to take my shift by the tree now… If you need anything just howl.” she told him before turning to go to the tree. The hunger pains were starting to set in but, she still refused to eat, she could handle it… this wasn’t her first time being starved or starving herself. Sitting down at the tree after leaving Cloven and the females she rested under the tree, watching for any males to try to sneak over. As she sat there, she noticed First, lost in thought as usual. He hadn’t spoke to her since the incident, he really was afraid of her now. For a moment, he ears had lowered but she quickly perked them back up. Looking to the gate, Ander was still laying there, he hadn’t moved… if his spirit hadn’t been broken before it was now. Letting out a sigh she looked elsewhere, it was fine, this was good, how it should be for her sake.

The Other Side

The denmaster, Elijah, grinned brighter as the queen gave her approval to separate the male and begin his transition to slave work. "Wonderful choice, my queen." He gave a hand signal, and an arrow flew through the enclosure and hit the young male in his flank. The lupa yelped, jumping to his feet and snapping at the arrow. It fell off after a quick moment, the attached dart now empty as the serum made its way through his system. Elijah proceeded to take a pendant out of his coat pocket and spoke words as it glowed, imbuing it with the control spell that linked itself to the creature. The pack below became frantic, all communicating with each other in their lupin language as they watched their packmate growl and snap. Once the spell was complete though, and the pendant settled back to its normal appearance excluding its new colored central gem, the male had become still. With another hand signal, a caretaker pried open the door and hooked a chain lead to Ander's collar, walking him out with ease. He was brought around to the queen, the male peering at her with narrowed but inquisitive eyes. "He will do us well for your team. Have him sent to my training center and begin basic commands. I will be there later today to start the real work." Elijah tossed the pendant to the caretaker to hand to his highest trainer, watching the two walk away before his gaze went back to the now active pack below. "Your female has been rather interesting. A male was with her most of the day yesterday, one of the strongest adults of the pack. They even slept side by side for a portion of the afternoon. Unfortunately, the uproar with your little misfit has caused a rift, and today she has spent her time with only the females, excluding who I am assuming is the alpha himself. No union is expected between them however. He's too old to get the same frenzied affect from your herbs, but he does command them all and has a couple mates we can hopefully expect some litters from soon." His gaze went to his queen. "What do you think? Are you ready for your first batch of purebred lupins?"

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Watching the male squirm made the woman giggle, “Oh, how fun!” She exclaimed rather enjoying the scene before her. The panic that ran through all the Lupines was an even more enjoyable sight to see. Before long the wolf was brought out, his large wolf body not fighting even an ounce. “Hello my darling, welcome to slavery.” She spoke as she bent towards his muzzle gazing into his eyes, happy to see him so compliant. She hoped on the inside he was overwhelmed with terror, but she’d never know just how it felt to be under this spell, for all she knew, it could be like going to sleep which wasn’t very fun at all. “Do you know who did the damage to him?” She asked as she examined him from where she stood and took a gander at the rest of him as he walked away. At least he wasn’t ruined for breeding… maybe she’d get lucky and he’d find a perfect female to breed with while working. Still, she was slightly disappointed still in the unfortunate outcome. “Oh really? Keeva never allows males near her, or well, she never did in the dungeon. I wonder if she’s coming into heat on her own…” she grinned rather evilly before giving a rather share glare to Eljiah, “That little miss fit is more useful then you will ever understand… If her genetics carry over to her pups, them being mostly Lupin with her unique attributes we’ll have yet another advantage in this war.” She told him as she slammed her fan shut on her fur glove. “Give them an extra helping of the herb free meat, I want to make sure she’s eating.” She told him before bringing back her smile, “Yes, I’m ready for them. Make sure you have plenty of that serum when the time comes.” She told him before turning to go down the stairs and over to the enclosures ‘fence’.

What was happening? Shooting to her paws, Keeva looked at the male she’d ripped the ear from the day before. He was yelping, growling and suddenly just stood there… Starting towards him she paused as she caught the scent of Jezebeth and the denmaster nearby, “N-No…” She whined before backing up “Ander!” She barked “Ander fight it!” She barked at him it was to late though, Running towards him as the gate opened, the she-wolf snarled and snapped just as the Knight had removed the male from the enclosure… she was to late, she should have hesitated, standing there she snarled and paced the gate, the barrier preventing her from seeing outside all too well. Seeing her little pet, Jeze was pleased, “Oh and there she is, trying to save the day as always.” she giggled, “Oh how are you doing my darling pet?” She asked only receiving wild snarls from Keeva. “Oh that’s no way to treat your master.” She chuckled, “Where are you taking him?!” Keeva snapped in common, “You promised not to harm the pack!” she shouted at her. A laugh erupted from the women, “You needn't worry, he won't be injured any more than he already is.” with that being said Jeze turned to leave, a look over her shoulder flashing the fur wrist warmers she had, “tata my darling pet.” Keeva froze, where those… her stomach churned, “You’re a monster.” the pain that welled up in the female caused her to back away from the gate.

The Other Side

“It’s unknown who did the damage…my caretakers only arrived after the commotion had died down and the male rushed off with his injury. We may pry the answer out of him though, if you so wish.” Elijah bowed at her command for the serum, noting to prepare a supply for the queen whenever she called on it. He proceeded to follow her to the gate, watching the interaction between Jezebeth and her lupin pet. She was already looking better out in the sun he noticed, with some of her wounds and scabs more fresh and open than the day before. Either she or maybe that male helped in that. He smirked with his hands behind his back as he watched, before the queen had taken her leave. “You know what the queen expects of you there, pet. Would you like the same fate as that male? You can raise your pups in peace with males of your choice…or be dragged along to bring more of you to her side. Your decision.” He grinned with pearl white teeth before he turned and escorted his queen away with her knights, snickering beneath his breath. This would be an enjoyable week.

Though First had seen what had happened with Ander, the fury on Keeva’s face, he did not leave the pack front. It was too much at once, too quick to make any rash decisions or even help the male before he was taken from the enclosure. He lay with his head up as he kept the young males from leaving. “We have discovered the punishment of the outcast,” he spoke to them, sorrow dragging him deeper into himself as he watched the mistress and her posse leave. They were a bigger threat than initially thought, and now nobody was safe. His pack was doomed, and there was no way to save them. They just had to keep faith that an opening would appear, that something would change. They had to find freedom somewhere…they had to. He lifted a paw to his collar, feeling the cold metal and its magic tang against his fur. If one of them could release the collar, maybe they could escape and find help, or even open the gate and allow them free. But the collars were bound tightly, with no opening for even a key. There wasn’t any clear way to win, but it meant they were dealing with a ruler of great power, and great desperation. They wouldn’t be so tightly bound to her side if she knew she had much to lose in her fight. The Trailwoods had to come up with a plan… No, he had to come up with a plan. Pushing back his own desperation, he lay his head down again, body trembling as his teeth ground together.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Listening to the man she waved him off, "No, its not important, he only lost an ear. Its not like his reproductive organs were harmed." She told him before speaking with her pet and later leaving the lupin with Elijah following behind. "Is there anything we have to speed up the healing process on that boy and my darling Keeva?" She asked, she didn't want the wounds working against her plans for the female.

Keeva snarled at the denmaster before turning away, he was right she had two choices… at least that was all she had for now. Glancing around, no one else attempted to help not even First. She knew where things were now, the happy little fair tale she'd managed to have a taste of was no more. Walking back to her post she looked to the females and Cloven. Everyone was still in their groups terrified and simply surviving. And she?... she was struggling to find the answers they all wanted, needed even. Sitting by the tree she lifted her head to the sky as if looking for her own answers. Sitting there for hours, watching both groups, Keeva racked her brain, thinking of everything she knew about the enclosure, their collars, and the Queen, her subjects… they couldn't escape out the front gate, their collars wouldn't allow them to exit, so bum rushing the door during food deliveries wasn't a viable plan. All plans that relied on them leaving through the front gate was not possible with these collars on. They were tight, but not so tight that a stick couldn't be wedged under them… could they be pulled off? It was probably not a viable plan but she could test it but it would have to wait till after nightfall, she didn't want the den keepers realizing what she was attempting to do. For probably the 100th time that day she looked to First. She wanted to talk to him, but if he had wanted to be near her he would have already checked in on her. Lowering her ears she padded down the hill across the pasture to Cloven, "I need a short rest." She told him before finding a shaded spot away from the group to rest her eyes, to think, and to sleep for a short moment.

The Other Side

Elijah smiled at his queen and waved off the question as though it was no big deal. "There's a couple caretakers that can use their spells to cure any wounds or illnesses, but I only use them when necessary. I'll have one of them see if they can get close enough to cast something on Keeva to heal up those wounds and make her more well, attractive to the males, especially that one she was with yesterday. He seems a very nice stud for any of the females, but especially yours. And our newest little recruit? I'll heal him with my own hands. His ear cannot be regrown unfortunately, but I can clean him up good as new now that he won't be complaining. You never have to worry about anything getting too out of hand, your majesty. I would never let your slaves die under my careful watch."

Clare hated to see everyone so distant and apart. Though it was a very sudden shift from the ear tearing to Ander being pulled from the enclosure, they all should have known that this was never a retreat nor a safe place to be. They had to question everything and be on alert for every change. Her family was completely broken, their pack left without solid alphas. With them miserable, everyone else had no one to turn to, including Keeva, who was the biggest outlier of all of them. Having transferred with the teen females to help them when the end of the week arrived, she watched as the female took her leave and padded away to isolation from the rest of the pack. Though she knew it was hard on her, she was very bothered by the fact that the pack was almost shunning her so soon after an inevitable situation. She stood and began to walk towards her, Cloven almost stopping her but realizing it was futile and allowing her to pass. She walked up to Keeva and lay by her, still about a foot distance but close enough to speak without eavesdropping. "I'm sorry about everything, Keeva," she murmured to the female. "All of this is not your fault. Ever since we got captured, Ander has fought and bled against his chains and has held nothing but rage in his heart. His parents were killed in the capture by accident and he hasn't been allowed a moment's peace to grieve - he was bound to lash out at someone and sadly it was you. One of us was going to do something to him soon, and you just happened to be the one he targeted. That's not your fault." She edged slightly closer. "You have already done so much for us that we can't thank you enough for. But we are all in a new place, and something is happening to us every hour it seems that shifts our perspective and our safety. None of us know what to do or what to think. Including Cloven and First." She let out a sigh, licking her front paws a few times to think of more words to say. "We aren't the kindest pack and for that I apologize further. None of us came to your aid except our alphas and we should have surrounded you with support, knowing you have been through the worst that none of us can fathom. You have suffered the worst and we cannot blame you for any of your actions. You've already helped save us from a possible disaster." Inching closer again, Clare leaned out and licked her jaw, a sign of submission towards the female to hopefully give her some sign that she didn't want any trouble nor any ill will between the two of them. "We all want to be free, and we want you to be freed the most. Even if we all stayed and you were let go, we would allow it. I hope you know that."

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Jezebeth glanced back at Elijah, “Just do as I’ve asked...” she said as she flipped her hair from her shoulder. “I want Keeva looking her best within the next few days… That reminds me, has she been eating the special meat at all?” she asked as she tapped her fan in the palm of her hand while she walked back to her carriage to return to her castle.

Laying beneath a bush, a few boulders behind her, Keeva was about to curl herself into a ball to sleep when she heard pawsteps coming towards her. Her head shot up hopefully, yet the face she saw wasn't the one she had sort of hoped to see. She watched as the female laid down about a foot away from her. Keeva was about to ask what she needed, but instead Clare had parted her lips to deliver an apology. She tried to reassure the female that this wasn't all her fault that the young male had it coming whether it was her who had done it or not someone else would have soon. Lowering her head back to her paws the she-wolf couldn't help but still feel in the wrong. "I took it too far though… I shouldn't have ripped his ear off. I should have left him with my sharp words and been done." She spoke softly, "No one has even tried to approach me after that, not even your brother." She told her as she lowered her ears. The one friend she had managed to find in this Lupus forsaken place and she pushed them away with her rage. Clare inches closer, Keeva’s ears stayed pinned, not in aggression but from regret for her actions. Clare explained everyone's feelings, and apologized again for her pack not surrounding, welcoming her upon her arrival to the pack and giving her the aid she needed. "I… I didn't expect anyone to flock to me, it's okay." She murmured before bringing her eyes back to Clare. She was now much closer, having slowly inched her way to her. With nothing but a couple inches between them, Clare leaned towards her, licking her jaw submissively and to show there was no ill will between them. Feeling her canine eyes burn with tears, Keeva leaned forward nuzzling Clare, showing her she meant no harm. "Clare, I'd rather die than leave all of you behind to save myself." She told her, "but, I appreciate the sentiment." The female's tail wagged just slightly, causing the bush behind her to shake briefly. Looking towards the midline tree, Keeva whined softly before laying her head back down on her paws. "I've done put the fear of Lupus in all the males, including, First.. I don't think he will ever want to come near me again…" She murmured to his sister clearly feeling alone and wishing for their conversations to be filling their time again.

The Other Side

The denmaster shrugged at his queen’s question, hands tucked behind his back. “It’s uncertain, as most of them have somehow picked up on the trick and they don’t seem to eat the tainted meat. I can’t say whether your female has eaten any before they started separating the meals. We are trying to trick them, but it is difficult when they have a good sense of smell. We may have to start being more…subtle with our tactics.” He chuckled, lifting his chin up high. “I’ve been wondering if there is a spell to hide the herb scent from them, but haven’t discovered anything thus far. Once I do though, it’ll be litters galore and no more being one-upped by some creatures.”

Clare was more than thankful when Keeva nuzzled her and accepted her apology, in the best way she could currently. She was worried that the female would be quick to her teeth, but it didn’t seem that way.
Rather, she was remorseful for her actions. Clare’s ears pinned down as she moved to lay next to her, hoping to provide some physical comfort in her isolation now that she allowed her presence. It did make her smile a bit though to hear about Keeva missing First. If this wasn’t so serious, First may have rushed to her side instantly to hear it himself. But the male was pushing himself away as easily as the others. “Well, you did make a show that if any male touches you the wrong way, they’re getting ripped apart, quite literally.” She smirked slightly, amusement dancing in her eyes. “My brother is…not very well versed in female language. Because he’s never had a mate nor ever pursued a female in her season, he doesn’t know what is right or wrong when it comes to romantic gestures or intentionality. I think you’ve scared him, thinking that he’s going to mistake one gesture for another and he will get teeth in his face.” She nuzzled her shoulder, something to ease her tension. “First has absolutely no intention of hurting you, and has hardly eaten to make sure he eats no herbs whatsoever. He’s terrified of bringing up your trauma. Trust me, he’s a very kind male. If you approach him yourself, and you just communicate what makes you uncomfortable, he will be more than happy to accommodate and join your side again.” Clare couldn’t help but laugh softly, shaking her head as she glanced across the clearing. Her brother was still off in his own world, completely oblivious to the female’s longing beside her. “I think he misses your company too; I’ve never seen him so solemn. So dramatic, that boy. All you have to do is talk to him. He literally licked your wounds clean just yesterday morning, and you didn’t kill him for that nor for snuggling up next to you. He’s just very worried about accidentally pursuing you because he has no idea what pursuit even is.” The female grinned. “It’s not as deep as you think it is.”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Sighing the Queen rolled her eyes out of annoyance, of course they were… it was probably no thanks to Keeva. She should have held her in the castle for the first week, only letting her out after the first week. "I cant agree more, do you have any… suggestions?" She asked as she stopped in front of her carriage. Her coachman quickly opened the door before she put a foot up on the step that was placed before her. "That would be quite the advantage!" She said eager for such a spell to be discovered. "Widen your search, if you need more resources I'll provide them." She told him a smile on her deep red lips. "I must be going now, but find me when you've found the solution, immediately."

With Clare laying closer, comforting the outcast, Keeva was relieved that at least someone wasn’t terrified of her or displeased. After stating her wistful feelings, Clare teased her reminding the female of her sharp words from earlier. “I did, didn't I …” She chuckled a bit embarrassed, “Well, I didn’t exactly mean just touching me… I meant unwanted, um… sensual contact.” She told her a bit of a meek look on her muzzle. “I should have been a bit more clear I guess.” Keeva sighed, disappointed in herself for pushing a friend away. Plopping her head down on her paws she exhaled again before lowering her ears, once again trying to figure out solutions for everything all at once. The somber expression on the Lupa was slightly lifted as Clare continued to speak about First however. “He did mention that… I just didn’t think he wouldn’t understand me or what I meant by what I said… I really should have been more clear.” Keeva’s ears had perked slightly but went back to their droopy state not long after speaking to Clare. However, the lupa was quick to comfort her by nuzzling her shoulder, she returned the gesture with a lick to the kind soul's snout, her tail wagging ever so slightly. “I know he doesn’t, and I can see why he’d be terrified of doing such a thing even without my threat. First, is the one male, since my life here, that has not taken advantage of me, my body. It’s hard to trust males but I’m managing to think better of them, I’m reminding myself not every male is vicious and cruel and they are not all lust driven, clearly.” She motion towards the males across the way, a bit of a chuckle leaving her. “I know he’s kind, I’m just afraid if I do try to speak to him he’s gonna get up and walk away, whether out of fear or hate for my cruel actions towards a pack member… being accepted just twenty fours ago and then being made an outcast by your only friend doesn’t exactly feel that great… “ her ears stayed flat against her head as she worried about the outcome of going to talk to Fir. His sister did know him best, she was probably right, but there was that bit of fear Keeva couldn’t quite shake. CLare’s next comment caused her to look from First’s sister to him with a questioning gaze, her heart starting to race as she thought about the “what ifs”, Clare’s words ringing in her ears as she ran over the situation and the possible scenarios. “Okay okay… I’ll go talk to him, but if this goes wrong you’re gonna never hear the end of it.” She told her clearly not meaning a word of it. Standing up, Keeva shook her pelt free of any debris and looked at Clare one more time, “I really hope you’re right” She murmured with anxiety filling her voice. Padding towards the tree, the young female paused as she arrived next to it, her eyes on First for a moment before once again looking back at Clare. Swallowing her nerves, the Lupa began to pad towards Fir, a look in her eyes of determination with just as much concern judging from her expression. Arriving rather close to him, the male was still lost in the clouds, “First?” She spoke softly, her ears down her tail low. When he didn’t respond she laid down on her belly and crawled the rest of the way over to him, “First, please talk to me.” she asked

The Other Side

“Suggestions, your majesty?” Elijah couldn’t help but grin as he helped her step up into the royal carriage. “I have a few tricks I’m willing to try, all without hurting them. I’ll see if any are successful today. If I do find the easy route spell though, I will tell you the instant I do, and not a moment later.” He allowed her to enter and sit fully before he closed the door. “Thank you for coming out today with me. It was a pleasure, my queen.” He stepped back and gave a deep bow, before the coachman clicked the reins and quickly jogged off with the carriage back towards the castle.

Clare smiled softly towards the female, glad to see her opening up a bit more after their time together. Keeva was a nice lupa and though she did attack one of her pack members, she only did it when necessary and to prove a very valuable point. None of the pack could truly disrespect or shun her after what had occurred. Not even her father Cloven had shown disdain for her. “Sometimes it just takes a bit of Clarity to truly understand,” she said with a teasing grin, knowing the pun she half-intentionally made. “I understand feeling threatened by males though after an experience like yours. Nobody is judging you for what you did - if anything, it just proved how serious this should all be taken. It’s not a vacation nor a time to relax. Any one of us could have the same happen to us if we aren’t careful. I’m not saying that to make light of your situation either…I never want you to be used again like you were. None of my pack would dare to make an attempt to be with you after your past, especially not First.” She nudged the female, and luckily her words had spurred Keeva enough to get up and talk to the male. She lifted her head with a wag of her tail, smiling at her hopefully-new-friend. “I don’t expect to,” she teased softly, watching Keeva all the way across the enclosure.

He must be so lonely that he was even hearing her voice in his head. Tucking a paw over his muzzle, he tried to drown out the sound, hating to be reminded, when a shadow was cast briefly across his figure. First blinked open an eye and lowered his paw, seeing none other than Keeva crawling towards him in the most submissive position he had ever seen her in. His heart beat wildly in his chest, and he thought about retreating back into the den with the other males, but…she was approaching him herself. It was of her own volition. Therefore, it wasn’t a threat to him. He managed to lift his head slowly, whining at her voice. She really wanted to talk to him. “Kee,” he murmured softly, the tip of his tail wagging just a touch. “You want to talk to me? Is everything alright?”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

“Good, as long as they don’t harm my pack.” She told him, grinning back at him, “Wonderful, make sure to send a courier my way to inform me of any changes, I’ll hurry here the first chance I get if anything is successful.” She told him, eager to see the results of their hard work and labors. WIth the Denmasters kind assistance, Keeva stepped up into her carriage.”No, Thank you, Elijah.” she said with a delighted look in her eyes, there were great things planned for their future and she just could not wait for them to unfold. Soon the coachman shut the carriage door and quickly got the Queen back to her castle.

He hadn’t heard her or he was ignoring her.. “First…” She spoke out again, it was useless… he wasn’t going to speak to her. Thinking back on what his sister said she inhaled before booping his neck and shoulder area with her nose, hoping that would shake him from his day dreaming. “First, please.. Speak to me, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you off. I should have been more clear with my words then what I was and I’m afraid it’s led to a mighty misunderstanding.” She was not entirely sure if he was listening, her eyes had shifted to her paws after she’d booped him, too nervous to look at him for the moment. However, she found the will power at what seemed to be the worst time… He was looking right at her and seemed terrified to see her so close. Everything in her told her to get up and walk or rather run away… but she had to do this she had to clear things up it was eating at her and would continue if she didn’t clear the air now. Experiencing the worst of internal wars, Kee nearly jumped out of her skin as he spoke to her, the sight of his wagging tail immediately caused hers to wag, there was hope for their friendship. “Y-yes, I wanted to clear something up with you. I feel like you may have misunderstood me, with my earlier rage towards Ander… I didn’t mean that I didn’t want you around or near me or touching me. I enjoy your company, your support and friendly affections, those things don’t bring up my past trauma. It’s sensual things, actions, that make me uncomfortable… they dig up memories of my not so distant past, I’m not sure if I’ll ever feel comfortable with such t things again in my life but, I don’t want to lose a friend over a mist understanding.” She was wordy with her response due to her nervousness but she tried to make it as clear as she possibly could at that moment. Now that everyone knew something happened to her, she’d attempt to explain what was fine and what was not with First since he was always near her.

The Other Side

Though there was some initial hesitation, the tension was quickly eased with Keeva wagging her tail and lifting her eyes to him, a much more accepting position towards him. He could relax more, knowing he hadn’t done anything wrong towards her thus far. It lifted a burden from his shoulders. He was even more glad to know she considered him a friend, and his tail wagged more freely. “I-I see…I’m glad that I haven’t done anything to harm you. I’m…I’m not used to mating season or how mates interact so I was worried I would misstep and cause you to turn away. That was never my intention.” He crawled closer to her, licking her chin the same way his sister did earlier. “I still want you to be my friend, I just am so scared to hurt you. Intimacy is unknown to me. But…if I somehow do something that makes you uncomfortable, just tell me and I’ll never do it again. I’d understand much faster than Ander, I-I promise.” His ears pinned back, but he smiled, his tail still shifting against the grass. “I’m glad you came to talk to me, Kee. It’s easier to be on the same side than separated by the enclosure.”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Watching the him relax, Keeva felt a world of anxiety starting to life. That only increased as she watched his tail begin to thump the ground behind him. Thank goodness, his sister was right, it was because of a misunderstanding more so than anger and only fear because of the uncertainty she’d managed to cause him. “I would have let you know in some way, I wouldn’t of bit your head off right away, not with how kind you’ve been to me.. You’ve given me no reason to fear you thus far, and I don’t think you ever will, at least not willingly.” She told him, her tail wagging wildly behind her, “I trust you, First.” she told him a bit of a shy look taking over her muzzle as he crawled towards her licking her chin, she whined happily at his gesture. “I’ll do my best to tell you, I’ll never bare my teeth at you unless it’s necessary, like if I’ve told you know and you continue to push your luck.” she smiled at him before playfully nipping at his cheek, her butt now in the air but only briefly as she didn’t want to make anyone upset that they were conversing and everyone else couldn’t. “I was afraid you didn’t want to have anything to do with me anymore… I would have come over sooner if I hadn’t gotten into my own head about everything.” She told him her ears down with a bit of embarrassment but her tail was still beating the grass winning its war against the bright green blades. “I agree, I don’t like being alone.” she murmured to him as she booped his nose with hers. For a moment, she’d forgotten they were trapped and just wanted to goof off with First, like a normal pack mate would like to do after a heartfelt conversation.

The Other Side

The male beamed at her trust, even moreso to see her starting to play and interact with him more, even compared with the day prior. He laughed softly to see it, pawing at her with a little growl as she continued and bopped her nose against his. What an interesting turn of behavior for her - he liked it. “I trust you too, Kee. I’d never press my luck on you. If I do somehow get those herbs mixed in though, and you know the behaviors associated, you’re more than welcome to make sure I’m knocked out of it. I’ve been very careful though, I assure you. I would have come to you myself too, I just, I really didn’t want to make a wrong impression on you, thinking that all us males have the same mindset as him. That’s definitely not the case.” Raising his rear, inviting her to play, he bounced diagonally from the cave and wagged his tail, snapping his teeth playfully towards her. “I don’t want you to be alone ever again.” He pawed at her again, nudging her shoulder before he bounded off a few feet, grinning over his shoulder. The young adults and teens would be fine temporarily - no seasons had truly started, and Cloven was keeping a close eye at the treeline. They had time to kill, if she wished to participate and run off their earlier misunderstanding. The adrenaline was still kicking, and he wanted to bond with Keeva just a bit more before they had to go back to their protective duties.

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Trying to calm her excitement, Kee laid back down on her belly, her tail still wagging through the grass behind her. He returned her trust, before giving her the permission to knock some sense into him if he ever managed to eat her tonic soaked meats. “I know not all males are the same, it’s hard to remind myself of that given how long I’ve been… going through everything.” she lowered her ears a bit, her tail slowing before noticing First’s rear up in the air, inviting her to romp with him. With her ears perked up, Kee too threw her butt in the air and playfully pawed at him, nipping at him from time to time as well, however is diagonal bouncing was making landing a nip somewhat difficult. He nudged her shoulder before taking off grinning over his shoulder at her as he made his speedy getaway “Hey!” She laughed before jumping up on her paws and taking off after him, her heart pounded in her ears as she thought about what he said, how he never wanted her to be alone again, First, was truly too kind.

The Other Side

First grinned even brighter to see Keeva continue their play, watching her chase after him as he sped through the enclosure, It got the attention of some of the pack, and they watched the two laugh and play in the grass to forget transgressions and their capture for a while. It was a nice reprieve, and First was thankful to have a friend again even with their short time apart.
After a day of play and care of the pack, the heir was finally winding down for the evening when a large helping of untainted meat was put into the enclosure, It was a surprise to everyone, and even with multiple lupins checking its scent, nobody could pick up any hint of the herbs. Some murmuring happened between Cloven and his mates, but after much deliberation the meat was assumed to be safe after the meager meals they were able to eat before. But the heir wanted their wisest member to officiate the meat before anyone made a wrong decision - it was she who knew all the tricks, after all, if any were present here. Picking out one of the bigger pieces of meat, First walked over to Keeva with the young females and set it at her paws with a wag of his tail. “The caretakers must have made a mistake, we have fully clean meat tonight,” he said with a smile. “No taste or smell of the herbs at all! We can finally eat our fill.” He nudged the carcass further, seeing the females behind her begin to murmur and talk excitedly about finally getting some more meat than usual. “We double checked with multiple lupins in our pack and it all checks out. My father said that it may be the last time they make such a mistake, but…I figured you should check it yourself before anyone did anything further. You would know if something was amiss. If you say it’s clean though, we can start giving everyone a good meal tonight. And…maybe we could spend the night under the Border Tree, to guard the two caves evenly. You still have some wounds to clean, and I’d like to keep working on them, if that’s alright.”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Keeva for the first time in a long time cut loose, laughing and ignoring the mild pain in her back as she goofed off with First. When she got close she playfully snapped her teeth at him, grabbing his cheek fur when she finally managed to catch up to him. Growling playfully she gently yanked on him, slowing when and if he would to try not to lose her grip. However, her attempt was all for not when she stepped in a small hole causing her to fall on her face. Falling in the grass, rolling down a small hill she couldn’t help but laugh, sure it wasn’t that great feeling on her wounds but the adrenaline from running helped aid the pain in the moment. When she finally stopped rolling, the female laid on her back in the tall grass, chuckling, before looking up towards the direction of First from where she laid. That day was the most fun she’d had in the past couple of years she’d been there.. These last two days were full of so many firsts for her. Before long the two were worn out and enjoying the end of the day when a large delivery of meat was brought to the enclosure. Laying at the tree Keeva watched as the food was examined, she figured it would have been the same as the rest of their meals, but this time it was different. There was confusion amongst the pack before finally First returned to her side to drop a kill in front of her. It was the largest one out of the bunch, it caused her cheeks to heat up at first but she quickly shook that feeling away knowing it wasn’t to mean what it usually did. He explained the situation, excitement seemed to fill the male’s body but the she-wolf was skeptical. Sniffing the meat heavily, even ripping into its tissues she still couldn’t smell anything beyond the normal scent of such an animal, she even tasted the meat, nothing just like First had said. “There is nothing.. I’m surprised this is very unusual.” She told First before standing to her paws to check the rest of the meet. The Lupa checked nearly all the meat, sniffing it. “Y-Yes, it’s clean.” She told everyone astonished at what she’s found, she hoped it was a simple mistake from the caretakers and not a trick she didn’t know about, she would be devastated if she misled them all. Returning to First’s side she listened to him speak about the meat and what they could do that evening. It sounded like he was asking her on a courtship but she knew he was a friend and it was just a friendly gesture. “I wouldn’t mind that at all.” She told him happy to have company. Laying down by their meal she began to tear chunks eating them rather quickly due to how hungry she’d grown, thankful for the mistake made.

The Other Side

Keeva was quick to be skeptical of the meat, as First assumed, as she began to sniff and tear the carcass to shreds to ensure there were no tricks hidden in the deep crevices. She did her due diligence and inspected nearly every individual slice of meat before she deemed it safe, surprised as the rest of the pack. It caused a roar of excitement however as lupins rushed to get their meal, hungry for a real meal. First could see that his sister was the most relieved, having five pups to feed alongside herself and the lack of meat was taking a toll on her. Now she could rest, at least for a single night. Grabbing his own share, a moderately sized carcass, he brought it back to the tree and lay next to Keeva to start eating his own, going slower than her as she tore happily into her meal. It brought a smile to his face, seeing her so happy to have a more filling dinner. It may be the last time it happened - or a trick to ease them of their worries before throwing in nothing but herbs. There was really no telling to the mistress or her antics. Once finished with his small rabbit and tossing the remaining scraps into the designated corner, he watched Keeva finish and wagged his tail when she was. The pack, now satisfied, began to settle down for the evening as the sun was setting off in the distance, meaning the young females and males would be settling as well. First leaned over and licked her ear, then her muzzle to take care of the splash of blood on her fur. “I’m glad you got enough,” he mused with a smile. “Thank you for taking care of us. We wouldn’t have come this far without your help.”

Keeva,The Queen’s Pet

Eating the meat quickly, Keeva hadn’t noticed Fir looking at her as she scarfed down her food, beating her tail happily behind her as she tore more meat away from the carcass. Licking her lips she had lifted her head for a brief moment, glancing at the male she noticed he was eating rather slowly… maybe she should eat slower too. Feeling bashful from her ravenous eating, the Lupa licked her lips a final time and finished off her meal with less speed this time around. With their stomachs full, Keeva felt exhausted for the first time in two days from a full belly, “I can’t eat another bite.” She chuckled as she laid her head on her paws ready to relax for the rest of the evening. With First’s lick to her ear she smiled up at him before she stretched out, him licking the blood from her muzzle as she did. “I haven’t been this full in a long while.” She chuckled as she laid on her side for a moment to get some relief from her food filled stomach. “Sorry, I got a little messy with that meal.” she admitted again becoming meek once more, however, it would fade rather quickly as they laid enjoying one another's presence. “Did you?” She asked him sitting up alert as she did, had she eaten too much preventing him from having his fill? About to stand up she told him, “Here I’ll go get you some more. It looks like there is still some available, they gave us so much.” she told him as she was now on her paws ready to go get him another small carcass. Hearing his thanks Keeva looked back at him, a paw up ready to step away, “You’re welcome, I couldn’t have sit by and done nothing. I’d hope other Lupin’s would do the same.” she told him before sitting down partially, “Now, are you still hungry?” She asked him.

Niniane watched the Lupins check out the meat and soon devour it after inspecting it. “They are truly fascinating, are they not, Uncle Elijah.” the young adult woman said as she watched the beasts rip chunks of meat apart devouring it. “It looks like the female that the queen’s so keen on is back to hanging around that other male lupin. When are you going to try to mend her wounds, Did you say the Queen requested them mended?” the 19 year old had quite a few questions for her Uncle. This was her first time on the enclosure sight, she was training to be a new caretaker for the Lupins after one of their staff members simply disappeared. The young woman assumed they did something wrong in the Queens eyes but she wasn’t about to dig around for answers. Turning to the table up on the balcony that over looked the enclosure, Niniane seen what her Uncle was trying to research, “Odor concealers? Are you trying to hide the smell of herb’s in their usual food?” She asked one more question as she look through the pages of the old book.