No Matter How Far

Priscilla didn’t think, didn’t pause for one moment to consider just how much taller and bulkier she was than the male. When they collided, Osiris went down far too easily, though, had he tried to move it may have saved him some bruises later. ‘Cilla had been unable to help herself though. Happiness welled up inside her as she nuzzled his cheek and neck, relief in finding him unscathed after they were separated. The eruption had been terrifying, animals fleeing away from the volcano’s influence. It was as herd animals had come crashing through the territory they had been in that the two had faced being parted. They could hardly wait and try to find each other with the danger from smoke, ash, and other creatures that could trample them looming… thank goodness though he was alright.

She continued to stand over him, nuzzling and nosing gently, until she was satisfied he truly was unharmed. She knew Osiris was a healer, could tend hurts… but could he tend to his own if something happened? She shifted back, giving him room to stand as she breathed out the breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding for so long.

“I was worried.” She confessed, ears lowered some. “I didn’t want to think badly but… there was so much chaos the night the volcano erupted. I couldn’t see you or Cottontail when all those herd animals started charging by…” She gave a soft whine. “The thought of never seeing you again… if you had been hurt or worse… It…” She faltered and shook her head. It took a second but she reigned in the fears and doubts.

“No, those thoughts don’t matter because they didn’t happen. We’re both safe.” She let out a small breath.

Osiris asked of her pack and though she wished she had better news to tell him it wasn’t the worst that could have been presented. “Not quite… but it could have been worse.” She glanced towards the lands behind her. “I’m sure that our lands didn’t suffer as much as those closer to the volcano but ash still coats the ground. I’m not sure it’s safe for us to come home just yet.” She frowned deeply. “My uncle has temporarily moved the pack to an island but I fear the resources are not enough to sustain us. We have his pups, one of which has narcolepsy, that are not quite a year yet… and elders too. We can’t risk staying there and letting those resources drain completely or we’ll lose them.” She looked back to Osiris as her tail began to wag a bit behind her.

“I thought I’d check out this way too for a temporary home. I’ve already found one place and though it’s not the most ideal it may not be the worst option for a season. Hopefully by then we can come home to our true lands.” Her gaze softened.

“Hey Osiris? Promise me something, will you?” She paused for a moment. “Make sure you always come back, okay? And I’ll do the same…” She couldn’t help but feel her face heat at the words. “I care about you a lot… I can’t lose you.” They had been side by side for quite some time, traveling, learning together… they slept side by side when it was cold and saw so much. It was hard to think she had been without him at all… and it made Priscilla realize just how much her heart ached at his absence. She had to know that somehow, no matter the distance, they would always find each other again.