sometimes the world leaves you behind

Ashmedai had been searching for Cascade, but wasn't doing a great job at finding her. His mentor and good friend (and crush?) had hidden away, but he didn't know why. He bet it had to do with Rhythm. With a small pout, Ash pushed on, treading through the lands. A scent hit his nose, carried by the air. Was that... Cascade? Why did she smell different? Worried, Ashmedai drew closer, his voice hushed, "Cas...? Caaaas?" He pushed through the brush. His stance was low and wary, his ears drawn back and his tail low, "Cas, where ya been? I was worried, but I mean I was kinda gone too, but you weren't at your usual den and so I was worried and... does this have to do with Rhythm?" he rambled quietly. She seemed... different. Distant maybe, "You know, uh, you smell kinda odd... are you, you know, feelin' okay?" He edged a little closer, but not too close, still very put-off by the strange scent that loomed around her, though concern was clear on his face.