*Navigation - Mile-High Woods*

She was in heat. Of all the things to happen lately, of course it had to come off with a bang and she was in bloody heat. She grumbled as she walked through the thick woods, her bells ringing out with every step. Her scarf was wound tightly around her neck, there was a chill in the air that was most likely snow on its way to the north. Since the meeting that Xephyris had held she had slipped off and hadn't really been around since. There was something about that brown woman that didn't sit right with her, and she didn't want the drama that seemed to already be circling Vyper. So she did what she did best, setting off to explore the great white north. These woods were proving to be very interesting though, they were leaning up on each other and had really low hanging branches. There was no doubt that she would be able to climb them, but whether or not she should was a whole other question. But who was she kidding? Of course she was going to try. With a sly smirk on her maw she walked up to a thicker oak, standing up on her hind legs and bouncing her weight on it. It seemed sturdy enough, so she hopped on it and looked at the next lowest branch. It was rather humorous to think of how her silver knight would react to see her accident prone self climbing a tree. It wasn't enough to stop her, not until she was about four branches up. She could hear it moan under her weight, and the bell-clad woman gingerly stepped a little bit further. Testing it, she shuffled a few more steps until she heard a loud snap. Jaelle froze, standing stock still as she looked down at the soft bark below her paws. She couldn't see a split, it must have been internal. But knowing her, it was going to break and she would bounce off every tree limb on the way down. At least she wasn't too far up. Deciding that this was enough for now, she backed up before very gingerly laid down, hugging it with her front limbs. Her blue and brown eyes glanced around, but it was hard to see anything through the brittle leaves of the trees around her. No matter how hard she squinted, nothing was catching her eye. Huffing, she kicked her back legs around which made the bells on her tail ring out softly. Humming along with their unique tone, she looked down and wondered if anyone would happen across her. She was feeling a little lonely, but the fact that it was her season made her a touch nervous. Anything could happen, and she was far from ready to settle down with little whelps running around. With a sigh, she rested her gray head on the branch, not stopping her little song. "SPEAK"

Xephyris had settled well into his new home, and he was proud of what he'd achieved. He'd set to work establishing strong borders, and kept up with his new routine. He'd seen some of the other wolves in passing, but the season had changed since the last time he'd seen Jaelle. He'd known from the start that she wouldn't be around often, that she was a wanderer at heart, but he supposed he'd hoped to see her a little more. With everything else that was going on around him, she was a presence he'd come to depend on - not only that, but he worried for her somewhat, even though he knew she could take care of herself just fine. Still, he knew she was not to be chained in one place, and he would never ask that of her; he would have to learn to deal with it. However, as he explored the lands beyond his home, he came across a scent he'd been anticipating hopefully - the whimsical gypsy was around here somewhere. And the man did not fail to notice that her scent was laced with the perfume of her season. Oh, well this was quite the discovery. For a moment, the new Alpha paused. With all that had happened, was it really wise to seek Jaelle now when she would be vulnerable, at the mercy of her hormones, while his own thoughts would become impaired by the overdose of pheromones? With a huff, he seated himself, looking out the uniquely wooded land. He mulled over his options, trying to reason with himself - he had many reasons that he ought to just turn around and go home for today. Nodding to himself, he began to rise to his paws, turning his body to go back from where he'd come. Just then, he heard the sound of her bells echoing throughout the forest and at once, his head whipped around as his heart thrummed in his chest. He couldn't force himself to leave now that he knew she was so close he could hear her. Besides, what if he left her here alone, and someone else found her? Not that... he had any claim over her, but not all wolves were gentle and polite - what if some foul brute discovered her? That was more than enough for him to reconsider, deciding he would go to her after all. He continued to follow her scent, his blue-flecked silver eyes scanning the forest as he moved slowly, trying to calm his breath before he found her. And he found her not where he expected, and although he felt alarmed seeing her so high up, her forepaws wrapped around a precarious-looking branch in a strange tree, he supposed he ought to be less surprised. He came to the trunk of the tree, placing his paws upon it as his nails dug into the bark slightly, tilting his head to look up at her. "Jaelle... are you alright?" he asked, half-wondering if she was stuck up there, "Aren't you worried you might fall?" He knew he shouldn't have bothered to ask the second question, for it seemed she was a rather fearless woman, and she was probably quite pleased with herself up in her tree. "Talk" "You" Think

She was quite pleased, actually. Usually something would have gone wrong already, but she was still laying on the branch so casually. Her ears flickered on the top of her head when she heard her name being called, turning her head to look down at Xephyris. A wide grin stretched over her maw, even though they hadn't really talked since that meeting and the time with Soleil. "If I worry constantly about hurting myself, I would never have fun now would I?" she retorted with ease. Her gray tail wagged behind her, spreading the sound of her bells as well as her heat smell. She hardly thought about it though, it was just a lot of fun to be all the way up here in a tree. She felt like a nimble cat, except she wasn't so good at landing on her paws. Wanting to show off, she pushed herself to her paws with a low woof. Her head was held high as she stood stalk still on the branch, until it once again cracked. Oh shi- The branch broke from under her, and she fell down a few feet until she landed on another branch. Almost bouncing off, she scrambled for a hold with her front legs, her bottom half dangling in mid-air. Kicking her back legs as they suspended there, she tried to pull herself up on the thick limb, but failed. Knowing that she had no other option she slid off, realizing that the forest floor was only about a foot below her. Her nails had almost been scratching at the earth, and she looked over to the silver man with a sheepish grin on her lips. The monochrome woman had probably looked rather foolish, dangling there when she could have just dropped down. Oops, oh well. Shaking out her fur, she stayed standing where she was. The woman was very aware of her scent all of the sudden, her face taking on a more serious note as her blue and brown eyes studied the man in front of her. Out of everything that they had been through together, she wondered what he thought of her. He had made it know that he was protective of her when they were on the beach, but just how many other woman did he want to protect. Casting her gaze away, her ears pinned against her head as she sniffled indistinctly. This was not a time to be thinking of crap like that, not when she was already feeling overly emotional. Jaelle's fur stood on end slightly, the bell-clad wolf could almost feel a pull towards Xephyis. After all this years she hadn't actually been with anyone in... that manner. It had come close with the games that she liked to play, but she knew just how dangerous this hand could be. Slowly her eyes made their way back to his face, studying it with a fierce intensity. "How do you feel about me, Xephyris?" The question was sudden, and she could hardly believe that it left her mouth. This was not what she wanted to be talking about, she had come here to inspect the thick woods. Sucking in a deep breath, she turned around and took a few steps away. They could walk and talk, it seemed to be a specialty of theirs. With her scarf tightly woven around her neck she looked at anything but him, taking interest in the trunk of one gnarly tree. It's branches were far thicker than on the one she had climbed. Pouting, she realized that she should have kept looking before she jumped up on the closest oak tree. Her tail flickered behind her, the canopy above them was so thick that only small dapples of sunlight shone on her coat. It glimmered off the bangles on her front legs, spotting her coat with lighter shades. Jaelle paused and looked upwards, easily seeing the few holes that the sin streamed through. It was rather pretty here... but she had company. She knew that she couldn't avoid him forever, so she looked over her shoulder at him. The spots of light lit up her features, a hopeful look colouring her face. "SPEAK"

Art by Pimsri

Xephyris was glad to see the grin that spread across her face, a usual remark leaving her lips, as though nothing was different - no tension, no awkwardness from the translated conversation with Soleil, no hard feelings over everything that had happened. Just her fun-loving self. Plus this enchanting new aroma she wore, which she carelessly waved around as her bells called out with each movement of her tail. It seemed like a blissful moment - until she stood up on the branch. Moments later, a loud cracking sound filled the air, and a wave of uneasiness washed over him as he stood there helplessly watching. In  split second, the branch snapped and Jaelle went crashing down, hitting a branch a few feet above the ground. In her panic it seemed she hadn't realized the branch she clung to now was low enough for her to safely drop down from. Stunned into silence, Xephyris watched her as she finally came to the ground on all fours, and his silver eyes quickly went to work scanning her over for broken bones or blood. Seeing nothing, he sighed in relief. That feeling of relief, and his earlier feeling that this chance meeting was going to be all sunshine and playful banter was quickly dashed when she gave him a look that he hadn't thought possible from the cheery gypsy. He should have known. After all, they were due to have a serious talk, as she had wanted to speak with him after the meeting. He hadn't seen her afterwards, though. Perhaps she had taken off when the changing season had sprung this hormonal change onto her. Now, staring at her face-to-face, he could see the intensity in her eyes, and the way her mottled fur stood on end. Maybe he should have just left her alone... no, they needed to talk. "How do you feel about me, Xephyris?" He continued to stare, his eyes widening slightly. He hadn't expected her to get to the point so quickly and he wasn't sure he was ready for that question; but then again, how did one prepare for such a thing? Suddenly, Jaelle turned away from him, beginning to walk away. Had he been standing there too long already without a word to her? She had asked him a serious question, and he was just standing there like an idiot. Now what, did he run after her, or was she ready to just walk away from him? He took a tentative step toward her, not knowing what to do, or what to say. The situation was precarious - her scent clouded his thinking and his judgement, stirring desires within him that perhaps would make him do something he might regret. But... would he really regret it? When she paused to look over her shoulder at him, the sunlight dappling her coat and gleaming off of her bangles in a way he found most extraordinary, he found himself lured by her beauty and that irresistible aroma. It set him into motion, his paws carrying him toward her. "Wait," he called out gently as he rushed to come to her side, his heart pounding as an endless array of conflicting emotions swirled within him. He didn't know why she was suddenly asking him how he felt about her. Did she have feelings for him that went beyond their friendship? Was she expecting a commitment? Or was she merely asking... was she influenced by the hormones that flowed through her during this time? "I..." he was about to speak, and suddenly he felt choked. If he said anything to her now, would he be sealing a deal? If he established how he felt about her, would that mean his other interests would come to a screeching halt? But, that wouldn't be so bad, would it? Except for the fact that he would crush Soleil, yet again, and the sweet, devoted girl didn't deserve that. Yet, Jaelle did not deserve to be cast aside, either, for all the times they'd shared together and the things that the gypsy had done for him. How was he to determine who deserved this or that any more than the other? But here she was, right in front of him waiting for an answer. If he gave her no answer, brushed all of the feelings under the rug, then surely she would waste no more time with him. He couldn't just stand here in silence, but was he supposed to say the "L" word? Is that what she was looking for? He had never said it, not to anyone, and he wasn't sure if he could say it now... he couldn't even be sure what it felt like, so would it even be right to say it now, or would it be a lie? "Jaelle, I really care about you," he began, his voice a low rumble as he tried to speak honestly, "I... I'm not good with feelings, though. I don't know what to say... I'm always happy when I'm with you. You make me feel so at ease, like there's no place else I should be." Was that any semblance of the answer she'd been looking for? He didn't feel it was nearly enough, and he knew he'd have to come up with something better than that, and fast. His eyes shifted back and forth as he tried to unearth the emotions buried within, tried to put a label to them, and find a way to express it all. How could he find the words in the scant seconds he had to try and figure it all out? He wanted to make her feel special, like she really meant something to him, but he felt like he was failing. "Talk" "You" Think

Jaelle had regretted the words as soon as they left her mouth. She didn't want to complicate anything with Xephyris, she really enjoyed his company and didn't want things to be awkward between them. It would be a lie to say that her feelings took a pause at friendship, but just how far things went was something that she couldn't really express. It was all her damn heat's fault, it was bringing up emotions that she didn't want to deal with. She wasn't known to be tied down to anything, a mate wasn't something she was setting out to look for. Sex? Perhaps. It was like a burning need in her gut, making her feel ragged and not quite herself. She hadn't even meant to put him in the position that he currently was, and in her paused position she shifted slightly. When she walked away it was because she wanted to keep her paws moving to stop herself from doing something she would regret. Getting close to him would do things to her, she knew that. Jae really didn't want to crash their already sinking ship, he meant too much to her for that. The female wished she could take back her words, but as she spun towards him he finally broke his silence. Her ears pinned tightly against her head and she swallowed hard to stop the whine from slipping free. He stuttered on his words and she quickly shook her head back and forth. "No Xeph, stop... It's okay I... I shouldn't have said anything," she said, leaning over to brush her nose against her cheek. She was startled at the shock that ran through her body, and the monochrome woman reeled backwards. Her breath came out in a sharp gasp, her blue and brown eyes shifting over to met his blue flecked ones. She was so close to him, a warm blush heating up her cheeks. She was thrown off by just how much more she wanted to touch him, her stomach twitching into a tight knot. Clearing her throat, she slowly and forcefully pulled herself away from him. Her mouth opened like she was going to say something, but instead she snapped it shut and turned her head back to the trees. A longing sigh passed through her mouth, and she made her way to the base of an oak that was leaning heavily against another. Some of their branches had merged together, twisting around each other to become one single limb. Raising up on her hind legs, she peered up at the branch and rested her front paws on the bark of the tree. Finally she allowed herself to look at Xeph, lifting a single paw off the oak as she looked over her shoulder at him. Her lifted leg bent, the sunbeams dappling her gray coat. Blinking slowly, a small, tender smile spread across her lips. "You'll always be my silver knight. I will forever be thankful to you for what you did, risking yourself getting ill just to save me. I'm so grateful to have you as a companion, even if you are a huge pain in the ass you grumpy butt," Jaelle let out a soft laugh, lowering herself from the merged trees to take a few steps towards the gray man. "I'm just a little uhh... emotional you could say," her breath came out a little faster as she stepped towards him, and she longed to bury her head in his coat. But would she be ready with what would come if that were to ever happen? She would be lying to say she didn't want it, that she didn't want him. Emotions were just a very... fickle thing to the gypsy. Her whole troupe had gone and vanished, and she had to be okay with being alone. And now the idea of being with someone in that way was unappealing, as much fun as that moment would be. But it was different with Xephyris, HE was different. It was growing harder and harder for her to keep a single train of thought going. She gave up and sat in a flourish, every bell that adorned her body singing out in reply. She gave up on trying to sort through things, so she just slowly shook her head. Jaelle didn't know where to go from here, or if she wanted to keep exploring these woods. Being here with him was enough, but when they were through would be go back to someone else? As much as she hated thinking of a ball and chain, she wasn't too fond with the idea of sharing. Why would she waste so much time and effort on someone if they just went to find another to warm their bed? She was unsure... usually something like this would be right up her alley. But love? No, kinship perhaps. Friendship with a curiosity for more. But that was always the problem with her, wasn't it? She was far too curious for her own good. "SPEAK"

Art by Pimsri

He couldn't have stopped the words spilling from his mouth even if he had wanted. She had asked something of him, and he felt like he owed it to her to speak of such things, challenging as it was. But when she leaned in to brush her nose against his cheek, he felt like the words weren't needed. He felt a warm sensation spread through his skin from the area she'd touched. She seemed to jump back with a sharp intake of breath, as though she'd been shocked, her eyes meeting his at close proximity. He stared back into the depths of her duo-toned gaze, his breath increasing as though he were sprinting, wanting nothing more in that second to close the distance between them. He felt magnetized toward her, as though a force beyond himself was pulling him in. But his paws felt like stone, cementing him to the ground as he held back from getting any closer to her. He wasn't sure if he'd be able to control himself if he moved toward her. When she tore her gaze away from his and pulled back, he took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. It was probably a good thing that she had moved away first. He chided himself for the foul things running through his mind, although as she turned away from him, her scent made him shudder and the carnal desire for her burned stronger. He waited a few moments, catching his breath in a way, before he followed slowly after her to where she had lifted her forepaws to touch the bark of an oak. He heard the soft sighs escaping her, and wondered what troubled her. When she turned to look at him, the sunlight marking her coat exquisitely, and small but tender smile offered his way, his ears folded back, tail waving from side to side as he smiled back at her. If looks could kill... well, right now he would just melt into a puddle under her gaze. His legs quivered as she spoke, her words striking him a little more strongly than he'd expected, causing his heart to pound rapidly against his ribcage. Did she really think so highly of him, having so much gratitude for him? He felt that he was more grateful for her than he could really express, but he had to at least try, right? When her forepaws left the tree, and she stepped toward him, he felt his breath increase again instantly. She tried to explain that she was feeling a little emotional, and he nodded slightly. "Me too, I think," he said somewhat breathlessly, "I just, you... you've been so good... a good, a constant in my life. If anything, I'm the grateful one, for you.." He had to stop, realizing his tongue was tying up, the words barely coming out sensibly as he gazed longingly at her. He couldn't take his eyes off of her; everything about her was captivating, and the scent surrounding her simply made it impossible for him to think clearly. How was he supposed to know what the right thing to do was, when all he wanted was her right now? Without thinking, he stepped toward her when she sat down, appearing flustered and uncertain. Slowly, cautiously, he would try to enter her personal space, something that had formerly felt so easy and uncomplicated, but right now he felt like he must do so with the painstaking care as to not upset her - and also to prevent himself moving too quickly and doing something he shouldn't. If she would allow it, he would try to press the front of his chest against the side of her shoulder, his head moving upward as he tried to wrap his neck over top of hers in an embrace meant to comfort. "It's okay, you can say anything," he murmured, inhaling her scent greedily, exhaling slowly in a ragged outward breath, "I just want..." His body trembled, wanting her suddenly with such intense desire he thought he might lose his mind. He tried to swallow, his throat feeling tight. He had to focus his eyes on something in the distance as he pried himself away from her. He couldn't let these desires control him. He needed to show her that he wanted to be here with her, not just because she was in season, but because time spent with her was always worthwhile. "Uhmm... how 'bout we walk?" he suggested, almost feeling a little bit dizzy. Maybe he'd be able to catch his breath and feel in control of himself again. Oh, how he wanted her, but he felt like he owed her more respect than just pushing his needs upon her. If it wasn't what she wanted, he couldn't pressure her - he just wanted to spend this time with her, no matter what happened. "Talk" "You" Think

In all honesty she felt like she was in a dream. Things felt too strange for her to put her paw on, almost like she wasn't in control of her own body. Her emotions for Xephyris were on high alert with her heat sending her into overdrive, and all she wanted was him. It wasn't hard to see that the silver man had been effected by the same spell, his breath coming out like he had just sprinted a mile. Hearing him like that did nothing to calm her fit, it only made her desire for him grow stronger. She was glad that she had pried herself away, because it would have been far too easy for her to just lean into him. Jaelle was afraid that if he touched her then that would be it, there would be no more holding back. Her bells called out as she moved towards the tree, her blue and brown eyes desperate to look at anything but him. There was something that had always confused her though, she was well known for pretty things. Xeph was a pretty average looking wolf, there wasn't much that stood out on him except his blue flecked eyes. But it hadn't been his appearance that first drove her towards him, but the fact that he put himself in danger to help her when she had been a perfect stranger. And then she had fallen for him as who he was, not his outward appearance. It was all very non-shallow of her, it was his personality that she cared for the most. His grumpy attitude and general stiff backed thing just made her want to tease him more and see who was under all that hard exterior. It had been a game at first, but now she knew the real Xephyris. It all made her mind drift towards Aki, the large man who had interested her with his looks first before his fun loving personality. He had played her games just right with her, and talking to him had been so easy and fresh. The tusked man was handsome indeed, and her body shook as she thought about both men. They were so different, but even after one meeting with Aki she felt like she knew more about him that the man before her. Xeph had always been a bit of a closed book, but she had a feeling that she was the only wolf who tried to see what was behind those rocky walls. Blinking out of her thoughts, Jaelle took in a sharp breath as she felt his chest push against her shoulder. Her whole body lit up with currents of electricity flowing from the contact, and then his head wrapped around hers. The monochrome woman's heart beat with an intensity that she had never known, she felt like a love-struck teenager all over again. It wasn't like she hadn't been around the opposite sex while she was in heat, but this was just... different. He was different, and she wanted him all for herself. A pang of guilt hit her in the heart, she knew that Soleil cared for him in the same manner, if not more. But here she was, wanting to very much take advantage of her heightened feelings. Physical contact was just that much more intense, and with him standing over here like this... He started to speak but she hardly heard him passed the pounding in her ears. Not thinking she leaned into his touch, her skin feeling as if it were on fire. Her muzzle tipped towards him as her jaws parted, nipping the man's chest right by his shoulder. She sniffed in his scent like the sweetest of perfume, her gray head sinking into his similarly hued fur. His voice cut through her pumping blood, hardly making sense at all. Slowly pulling her head back she looked up to try and meet his gaze, trying to understand what he was trying to get at. A sweet, tender smile pulled on her lips as she tried to touch her nose to his, sucking in air as she did so. "I care about you too, Xephyris. Perhaps..." perhaps too much to be falling into this trap set up by her heat. As much as she felt like this was right, she didn't want to ruin anything that they had with each other. Jaelle didn't want to be just another notch in her belt, not when this would be her first time. Just how many woman had he been with in his lifespan? It wasn't a secret that he was promiscuous, and while she talked the talk she hadn't ever walked the walk. It kept getting harder and harder to focus, her usually sharp mind dulled with the need to feel. He said that she was able to say whatever she wanted, and Jae was tempted to tell her that she had never been with anyone in the direction they were heading. But he spoke again, saying that he wanted... what? Her? She blinked up at him with yearning eyes, but the moment was over sharply as he withdrew himself from her side. She actually gasped as the cold air rushed into the space where he had been, shocking her back to a reality that she wanted no part in. He said that they should walk, and she nodded her head in a dull fashion. Yes, walking. Pulling herself to her shaky limbs, she followed him and kept her eye on the woods around them. It was quite odd, how tightly knit the trees had become with one another. She wondered what had pushed them in that direction when the woods were young. Had they all been competing for the small amount of sun that they got up in the north? She didn't know, and it was far too much effort to think about something like that. Her tail swept behind her as she peeked over at her silver knight, her flanks quivering as she tried to push out what had just happened out of her mind. But she couldn't, and her body demanded to have what it so desperately craved. "Xeph..." she started, trotting to him until she paused in front of him, her left side facing his head. She wasn't quite sure what she wanted to say, her eyes searching his features. "Are we crazy?" Jaelle asked in a breathless manner, taking a very hesitant side step towards him. Her compulsion was a dangerous one, but she longed to have him pressed into her in the most intimate fashion. Shaking her head sharply, a garbled laugh left her lips. They were crazy for sure, but she almost didn't care. She was so close to tossing everything she felt into the wind and giving into the most cardinal of her feelings. The hesitation in her motions came from his own before, it was pretty apparent that he was trying to hold himself back. Part of her wanted to ask why, while another was touched that he seemed to be thinking hard about it. Everyone always said that men thought with their... well, parts. But Xeph was using the right head, apparently. And here she was sashaying her hips as she took another sidelong step towards him, tempting him with the scent of her season. While she liked to play the game, she never really felt like a temptress. But now? She would be lying if she said she didn't want him. She could just toss their friendship out the window right now for a night of fun. How foolish was she, though? Poor Xephyris, trying to hold strong while she kept circling back to it. "SPEAK"

Art by Pimsri

"I care about you too, Xephyris. Perhaps..." Perhaps what? Her sentence trailed off, but her words had still reached him, a dopey smile forming upon his face. He wanted to stay right where he was, her intoxicating perfume egging him on, magnetizing him closer to her. He could have just given in to primal instinct; after all, it was obvious that she wanted it, too, but somewhere in his rational brain, he knew he needed to behave better than that. Logic screamed at him to hold back, to make a choice that wouldn't make his situation worse than it already was. Besides, what would become of the dear friendship they'd developed if he acted so carelessly? The attraction and the sparks between them in this moment were undeniable, but both of them were easily ruled by hormones at this delicate time. What they did today would affect the future, not  merely their own, but many others as well. That thought alone held weight to it, yet the primal beast within was clawing its way desperately to the surface, longing to take hold. How long would he be able to fight it off? The way she leaned into him, nipping at his chest and smiling up at him, such a sweet and tender expression, drove him mad, and made his task of peeling himself from her all the more difficult. And with every moment, his body demanded to close the distance again. He was losing willpower, and fast. If he'd wanted an outcome he could control, he should have just ran. He should have never tracked her down. His suggestion of a walk was a futile attempt to keep them from doing something they might regret. Her gasp tugged at his heartstrings when he pulled himself away from her. Obviously she wanted this as much as he did, perhaps more, even if it was only driven by her heat. She seemed surprised, perhaps even a little distressed by the way he removed himself from her so suddenly. Had she expected things to play out differently? Silver eyes wandered to the woods around them, although he found little interest in it. All his mind could think of was the mottled, gray gypsy at his side. Suddenly her voice cut through the strained silence between them. She spoke his name, and moved quickly to block his path. He had tried, but there was nothing he could do to stop this. His breath quickened again when she asked if they were crazy, his heart thudding rapidly within his chest. "We must be," he replied, his voice heavy with desire. His paws carried him toward her, closing the distance between them once more as she swayed her hips toward him. He lowered his head, pressing into her left flank, breathing in her scent hungrily. He then ran his head up alongside her rib cage toward her shoulder, his mouth reaching for her neck. He inhaled her scent again before he began to nip lightly at the side of her neck, moving his body so that his right side pressed against her left. His nose reached toward the base of her ear, nuzzling into her soft fur. "Jaelle, just tell me what you really want," he murmured, his body quivering beside her, "And I'll give you everything." His tail lay at ease by his hocks, his ears pressed back as he leaned in to her, craving her with every ounce of his being. What happened after this was a mystery to him, but in this very moment, all he wanted was her, and he would pay any price, regardless of what happened after. "Talk" "You" Think

Everything was happening way too fast, it was too quick for her to try to wrap her head around it. All of herself that she knew, the strong willed woman with a quick tongue, wasn't there. This was her stripped down to the very basic needs, her body taking control of her mind. Hormones flooded her system, making it nearly impossible to stop everything that was unfolding before her. He had pulled away, and the coldness that rushed into that space had shocked her. But now, now she wanted more. That was why she stopped him, standing in front of him like she was blocking him from leaving. Her breathless words hardly made sense to her own ears, the blood pounding in the small veins so viciously. She kept trying to ask herself what this would do to their friendship, and what would become of the two of them if they did it. One night, just one night. Was that worth everything that they had shared? The stories and the side glances? She swallowed hard when he walked over to her, the breath hitching in her throat as his nose pulled in her scent. Jaelle's limbs quivered, the bells on her front legs calling out at an alarming pitch. But not even that was enough to rouse her from this stupor, her blue and brown eyes glued to him as his head passed over her fur. Her hackles raised as every touch brought a shock of electricity to her frame, making her insides quiver as the need for him grew. There was no rational thought left in her head, no argument to try and stop this for happening. He nipped at her neck, rewarding him with a gentle grasp. Even when he pulled away she still felt the phantom kiss at the nape of her neck, her head snapping around to press fiercely into the fur of his chest. Xephyris' aroma surrounded her, intoxicating her with its earth and manly musk. Greedily her jaws parted as her tongue flicked out, tasting the flesh at the base of his throat, right where the left side of his jaws met. A needy whine passed through her lips before she could stop it, her ear flicking as he whispered soft words to her. What did she want? She wanted him, but there was more to it. She knew it, and he knew it as well. There was still hesitation in the way she moved, her mind battling to gain even a little bit of control. She was being crazy, this was insane. It took a moment for her to say anything, her eyes closing shut tightly as he shook against her. Her knees nearly gave out at that feeling, knowing that he was as wired as she was. "I..." she started, her voice coming out in a garbled mess. It was hard to focus on one thing when he was offering himself to her, saying she could have what she so desperately wanted. "I want you... all the time. Not just another one of your side females, but just you..." she whispered, pulling back from him ever so slightly. Her eyes flashed open to meet his blue flecked ones, searching his needy gaze as she struggled against the need to just shut up and take it. Here he was on a sparkling platter and she wanted a commitment. But did she? She didn't want to be tied down either, not stuck in some pack for the rest of her days. She needed to travel, to see the world. Wishing she could take back what she had said, her head shook back and forth. "No.. I know you can't do that. I can't do that... promise to be here every morning," Jae's brows pulled together, her words almost slurring together through her hazy mind. It was a miracle she was making sense at all. "But I... I can't lose you. Not because of this. If this happens..." oh gods she wanted it to happen... "then I need you to be here. To keep our bonds and not let things get... well..." Weird was the word she was looking for, but couldn't find it at the moment. Groaning, she dropped her forehead gently against his own, still peering into those stunning eyes of his. She was captured by him, completely enthralled with the man who sought to protect her from harm. But she thought of Soleil, of Limno. There were other woman in his life that cared for him so much, but she wasn't out here looking for a mate. She just needed this pressure released from her gut, even though she knew that she had been attracted to Xeph since the day they first met. Pulling back, Jaelle's entire body quaked as she tried to come up with something to say, but nothing came to her at all. Instead her bell wrapped tail waved behind her, looking the gray man up and down with fire in her eyes. She pushed away everything that screamed no at her, not even caring at all anymore. He was here, and he wanted her. She needed to be wanted, to feel like she was cared for in this moment. Seeking to close the small gap she created, another whine vibrated in her throat as her chest sought to brush roughly against his. She didn't want to talk anymore, no matter how foolish it may be. They would discuss this later, when both their minds had cleared. But she knew no matter what happened, she wouldn't be letting him go. A rumble of a growl sounded as her nose tipped up, her teeth nipping softly at his cheek. She tugged slightly, a playful look in her tempting eyes. The sunlight still dappled her spotted coat, her tail rocking slowly to further spread her scent. At the moment she didn't care how dirty she was playing, because she wanted him now. Forever? Maybe, if forever can be done from a distance. In this moment, that was all that she wanted to do -- be in the moment. Jaelle had always been a spontanous girl, and she didn't care how this ended up. She clearly wasn't thinking of the consequences, of what all could become of this. Just Xephyris and Jaelle, that was all that was on her mind. She craved to feel his teeth tease her skin, for those electric pulses to rock her muscles. Him him him, nothing else. Them, together at last. No matter how corny it sounded, it was exactly what she wanted. "I can be all ours, even if just for the moment," she whispered dangerously in his ear, her right leg raising so that she could twist her nails on the short fur on his left leg, putting light pressure on his skin there. She had never done this before, but that didn't mean that she didn't know how to work with what she was given. Her breath hissed out of her clenched teeth as she pulled back, a carnal need to devour him whole. Would she beg and plead with him, maybe. But that is when she realized that she wasn't giving him space to think of his own answers, and she didn't want to force this on him. The thought was like a cold rain as it washed over her skin, making her shiver as she quickly took a few steps back. Jaelle panted heavily, eying him as her head lowered slightly. Nothing else would come out of her mouth for now, the distance an open invitation for him to turn her away. She wouldn't hate him, she was pretty sure that she could never hate her silver knight. He had saved her once, and now she was repaying the favor. Another step back was taken, even though it felt like she was ripping out her own heart. Her desires pulsed darkly under her skin, threatening to regain control of her body. But she pressed back, her eyes slightly wide as she stood in wait. It was now or never for Xephyris, an opportunity to salvage what was left of their heated fire, or to walk away and revisit this when her body wasn't a raging ball of hormones. She hadn't the first clue of how to turn her back on him and just strut on out of her, so the monochrome woman was putting the ball in his court. He was the one with experience, the one who knew what to do and exactly what to say. He also was familiar with what came afterwards, knowledge that she hadn't picked up on her travels. Of course she knew where puppies came from, she wasn't daft. It was the whole relationship aspect that was sticky. Jae wasn't asking for him to take her as his one and only, even though she knew that's what she wanted. But was it? Fighting against her constantly battling thoughts, she shook her head and shut it all out. Silence spread between the two as she waited, her breaths still uneven as her body stood stock still. "SPEAK"

Art by Pimsri

He could hear her bells chiming as she shook against his touch. He shuddered, exhaling in a slow and uneven breath. Knowing that she wanted him just as much as he wanted her was exhilarating. When her head lowered and pressed against the front of his chest he felt a jolt, and a powerful sensation came over him, his body craving to close any distances between them. He craned his neck so that he could drape his chin over the back of her neck, pulling her in closer for a moment. Temptation begged him to take her at that moment, but there were still words to be shared, and he had enough blood left in his brain to use it. He tilted his head back as her jaws reached gently for his throat, her tongue flicking out against his vulnerable flesh. When he heard the needy whine escape her, a pleased groan rumbled in his throat. Was she going to answer him, or leave him guessing? He wasn't sure he could hold back much longer, but he wanted to be absolutely positive that she wanted this as much as he did. He would hate to ruin the friendship they had grown, that he valued so dearly, even if it felt that could never happen. Doing this wouldn't break them apart, would it? Yet, somewhere in the back of his mind, he knew that something would change if they went through with this. Finally she spoke, and though he felt he'd known it in the back of his mind, he still felt shocked by her desire, by what she was asking of him. She wanted him. Just him. She didn't want to be another of his side females. His claws grasped the ground to hold himself steady as she pulled away just enough to look at him, to meet his gaze. His silvery, blue-flecked eyes searched her duo-toned gaze, even as she pressed her forehead against his, staring into his eyes. Was that what she really wanted? Xephyris could not deny her. He would not. Even as she flip-flopped between the idea of being his one and only, and being herself, the traveler that she was, he knew what he would need to do. She was asking him to never let their bonds go, no matter what happened. For him to quit his amorous ways, and ensure that he never cast her aside in favor of another. "You won't lose me," he murmured, kissing the side of her muzzle gently, "I won't let that happen. You've always held a special place in my heart, Jaelle. I'd do everything in my power to make sure you never hurt." His words came to halt, and he was glad he'd said all he needed to say. Now he was watching her looking him up and down, her bell-clad tail singing as it swung back and forth, her heat scent permeating the air around him. He was already drunk on her scent, but if it was possible, he felt even more intoxicated by her perfume as she stared at him. If he'd had any sensibilities left within him, it was gone to the wind now. A sharp inhale of breath was taken when Jaelle pressed the front of her chest against his with vigor, a shudder taking hold of his body. He smirked, closing his eyes as he felt her intensity grow while she growled and nipped at his cheek roughly, and he once again took in her inviting scent. She was doing it on purpose now, he knew for certain. There was no way he could or would fight it at this point. He had given in to the inevitable. He wanted her wholeheartedly, although whether he was just being greedy or not was yet to be determined. He knew he had always desired her, always found her undeniably beautiful, attractive beyond comprehension. Everything about her drew him to her, and now that she was before him, offering herself, he felt himself losing his mind, losing all control; yet it didn't feel wrong in any way. Perhaps he'd had his doubts in the beginning... but he knew this was right, and this was what he wanted. The gypsy spoke one more time into his ear, and he growled in anticipation as the nails of her forepaw dug into the short hair of his foreleg. His eyes were still closed as he began to lean into her, and he stumbled somewhat as she backed away suddenly, taking several steps from him. Why had she moved? His ragged breath came rapidly as his eyes flared open, staring at her. Had she changed her mind at the last minute? Please no... His body shook as he stood back, watching her for a moment. No, she hadn't changed her mind... she was trying to grasp what little control she had left, to ensure that the decision they made now was not something either of them would regret. He knew he could not regret this. He moved toward her swiftly, closing the distance between them once more. He pressed his cheek against hers, before moving to shove the front of his chest against hers, his head turning so that his teeth could graze the nape of her neck, nipping and kissing her affectionately. "I want you so badly," he mumbled gruffly into her scruff, "I always have. I promise it will be for more than just this moment." Then his jaws would part, and seek to take hold of her scruff, while his body pivoted so that his chest could press against the side of her shoulder, his forepaws raising off the ground as he aimed to press his weight against her, hoping to gently bring her to the ground with him. He hoped to hear her charming bells cry out as he did so, and he looked to her face, hoping she would give in. He had no desire to pass the time too quickly, to just be done and over with this - he favored spending this time with her, taking things slow and easing her into it. "Just lay back and relax, beautiful," he murmured gently to her, "I'll take care of everything." His silver eyes, half-lidded, would wander over her face, his mind lost to all thoughts other than her. She was all he could focus on, and all that he wanted to think of. He wanted to feel every inch of her body, and he wanted to know that she felt the same electricity at each touch that he did - it would give him the ultimate thrill to make her feel that way; so patiently, slowly, he waited for her response as his weight pressed in to her. ~What could I do when she said, "I want you."~ "Talk" "You" Think

His sounds of need mixed with hers, making it even harder to keep a stream of contentious thought. She wanted so desperately give into her feelings and just let him take her as she was, but there was a fear that was holding her back. Would this be it? Would they do this and then never talk about it, or just go back to how they used to be? She swallowed hard against everything rising up in her, trying to retain even a little piece of her sanctity. She needed to make sure that this wasn't make or break for them, that she wouldn't lose the only wolf that she had let so close to her heart. Jaelle felt like she was sleepwalking, a dream like trace that was impossible to pull out of. There was only the two of them, her thoughts of exploring the tall forest had completely left her mind. Xephyris took up her whole space of thinking, occupying every corner of her mind. Her breaths were growing ragged, rattling in her throat with every gasp. She was so tempted to toss talking to the wind and just get on with it, down to the good stuff. Her body screamed for some sort of release from her endless cycle of need. He promised that she wouldn't lose him, and she clung to his words with what sanity was left within her. His tender words made her heart swell even more, if it was at all possible. She didn't just physically want him now, but her heart ached to make him hers. A needy whine left her lips again, not even caring at the moment. Her lust was growing to the point where she didn't even want the rational thoughts that tried to awaken her sense. Just him, only him. And then it was done, any words that she had left vanished right off her tongue as their chests collides. A burning passion that she had never felt before consumed her very soul, tingles shooting across her entire body at the feel of him against her. Since the day he had helped save her from the sickness, Jaelle knew that Xephyris was special. He may not be the most eye catching wolf, and it was pretty apparent that she liked pretty things. It was his mannerisms and how much fun she had at poking at his grumpy butt. But now, she saw nothing but a handsome, well muscled male before her who wanted her as much as she wanted him. A groan made her throat vibrate, his growls making her knees wobble below her. A mist seemed to cloak her mind, only pure instinct and prurience running her body. She had an itch that needed to be scratched, and there was no other wolf that she wanted more than the one before her. But she backed away when she realized that she didn't know where to go, this was a dance she didn't know all the steps to. Her base desires only took her so far, and there was only so much fumbling that the woman could put up with. So she eyed him with a burning passion alight in her blue and brown pools, egging him on by stirring her scent into the air. She may be one to flirt often, but being a seductress was not one of the metaphoric hats that she wore. He told her that he wanted her, and bad. The words made her form quiver with delight, her heart soaring in her chest. Lids closed halfway over her eyes, hooding them as she blinked slowly. She wanted him too, oh so badly. "Then come get me," she cooed, her gravely voice sounding unlike it normally did. This was a whole new Jaelle, galvanized by her season. Jae watched carefully as he quickly closed the distance again, gasping as he made their chests meet once more. The heat was was rolling off of him was otherworldly, his teeth biting into her neck. Her head rose as her toes curled into the earth, her jaws parting as a soft moan left her maw. Her entire body was coated in little sparks of fire, shiver after shiver racing down her spine. Her breaths were uneven and shaky, a growl rumbling in her throat as she leaned down to nip at his ear and head, whatever skin she could gently pinch between her teeth. Her tongue reached out to caress the underside of his jaw, lapping at that and the side of his inky lips. When he rose himself up and pushed against her shoulder, she froze and supported herself, unsure of what he was doing. But then he told her to relax, softly guiding her to the ground below. Jaelle's right legs bent as she gently placed herself on the earth, flipping on her back so that she could gaze up at him. Her bells called out loudly as she did so, a contrast to their heated whispers. Jaelle nearly flinched as they sang out again as she turned to catch his eye, her bangles clamoring down her legs. She was met by his dapper face looking at her, and it nearly sucked the air right out of her lungs. Leaning towards him, she aimed to lightly touch her nose to his own, her forelegs stretching up to grasp around his neck. Her front paws tried to lock around each other so that she was holding him above her, wanting to feel the entirety of his body on hers. A back foot lifted up to tease her claws around his manhood, another growl bubbling up from deep within her. She was so taken by him, that a herd of caribou could stomp through now and she wouldn't tear her gaze from his. She searched his seemingly bottomless blue-flecked eyes, lost in the world that they were creating together. She wanted him now, but didn't want to rush the moment. Jaelle wanted to taste all of him, to feel everything about him. Her heart thumped against her rib cage, her rump wiggling where it rested. She could sit forever in this occasion, but at the same time craved the sweet release of their bodies clashing together as one. "SPEAK"

Art by Pimsri

"Then come get me." Her voice cooed to him, in a tone that made him shiver; he'd never heard her sound this way, so different from the usual, cheerful banter that danced with the sounds of her bells. The words brought a grin of stupor to his face, an excited thrill coursing through him like a bolt of lightning at the thought of going after her. Oh, he would get her. He didn't need to be told twice. He would chase her to the ends of the earth if need be, but lucky for both of them, that simply wouldn't be necessary. They wanted it, here and now, the both of them drawn by a powerful force of desire and attraction, a fiery lust that begged to be extinguished. The gray-coated man could feel the heat between them as he closed the distance once and for all. His breath came ragged and uneven, an excited groan rumbling in his throat as he heard the pure and raw sounds of pleasure that passed Jaelle's lips. He froze for a moment as her teeth grazed over his head and ear, and then her tongue ran along the bottom of his jaw and along the edge of his lip. However, her gentle caresses spurred him into action, as he then raised up and pressed his weight against her, and much to his delight, she softly lowered to the ground. His chest pressed against her shoulder, his nose nuzzling into the soft fur of her neck, until his forepaws found the ground and he gave her the space she needed to roll onto her back. The sound of her bells calling out made him smile giddily, his eyes searching for her blue and brown gaze as she got comfortable. A light but hearty chuckle escaped him when she pressed her nose against his, before he felt yet another shudder throughout his body as her forelegs reached up to wrap around his neck. He drew in a sharp breath, placing his forepaws on the ground on either side of her neck. His nose moved under her jawline, kissing her sensually as he slowly progressed down her neck, nuzzling into her chest for a moment. His muscles trembled when he felt her foot reach up gently between his legs, his head tilting back as he felt the throb of his racing pulse, the heat between his legs becoming nearly unbearable, yet in every way enjoyable. A carnal groan escaped him, his claws digging into the ground. His head then dropped toward her belly, heading south as his nose traced along her fur, moving to ever so gently nibbling at the insides of her thighs. The scent of her was irresistible, even as he ran his muzzle back up toward her chest. At this point, he couldn't take it anymore. He had to have her now; a desperate, undeniable longing to press his body into hers caused him to bring his chest against hers, his face pressing into her neck. He gently dropped his weight against her, his hips lowering towards hers eagerly. He took care to be gentle with her, understanding her hesitation. He wanted to be certain that she felt every bit as satisfied as he would. At last, they could have the release they both craved so strongly. His mind was a blur, a hazy, pleasurable spell cast over him as he made the final move, a careful but confident rhythm overcoming him. Finally, the two became one, the energy surrounding them simply immeasurable. -fade- "Talk" "You" Think

Xeph gently guided her to the ground and gave her room to turn. Her breathing was erratic as she turned slowly to face him, the sound of her bells making her jump slightly. Carefully her ears slid back, an ache settling in her chest as she struggled to catch a deep breath. Brown and blue eyes were wide as they drank in the sight of Xeph above her, her eyes roving quickly to fit him all in. His well muscled body was dappled in the soft sunlight, lighting up his silver coat into almost an iridescent sheen. He took her breath away, his musk choking out any other woodland smell. But there could be a fire right beside them and she wouldn't even feel it, the heat and friction between them tangible and thick. She choked on the little air that made it's way into her body, everything about the moment was so overpowering. Her worries and fears melted away as she focused solely on the man above her. Her front limbs reached out for him, a desperate need to feel him pressed fully against her. She closed around his neck, the fur on his belly brushing against her own. Even the smallest contact sent electric pulses through her, she felt like she was going to explode with all of the built up pressure she felt. It only got worse when the silver man pushed under her chin, leaving a trail of tender kisses that made her shiver. She was putty under his touch, he could mold her at will. She reached up and brushed against him, her breath catching in her throat as he tipped back his head in pleasure. Jaelle felt an odd sense of satisfaction and power flood her system, seeing just what her simple touches were doing to him. Something woke up within her, a low growl vibrating in her throat. Her bell-clad tail reached up next, gingerly dragging across the expansion of his belly and underside, flicking tenderly over his warmth. His groan excited her, panting breaths leaving her now as she reached her head up to place sweet, needy kisses all over his features. She could tell that their final move was coming, craving it with a need she hadn't expressed before. His head dropped down and she unhooked her front legs, watching him with wide eyes as he wrapped down her exposed stomach. He nipped at the inside of her thigh and a gasp rattled out of her jaws, a violent shudder making her shake. He came back up and she let out a small moan, brushing her nose against his cheek. His rib cage met her own, her eyes locking on his as he lowered himself towards her. Jae's head tipped back against the earth as they finally met, her world fading into immeasurable pleasure. She forgot her own name as she felt like the ground started to shake, her whole world flipping upside down. -fade- She panted as she laid there, her legs quivering as she looked at Xephyris. Her two-toned eyes were lidded, she was struggling to even stay awake in this moment. Her whole form trembled as she flopped to her left side, her bells singing out softly. There were no words that she could even imagine saying right now, wrapped up in pure bliss. Jaelle was feeling completely satisfied, the majority of her needs sated. She was thirsty as hell now, her tongue flicking over her lips. It was hard to tear her gaze away from him though, a goofy grin on her maw as she rested her head on the earth. She didn't care what happened anymore, feeling so utterly on top of the world. "SPEAK"

Art by Pimsri