Step One: Meeting

Ocean blue eyes watch the woman’s posture and her timid demeanor as she approaches. Worry tugs at the back of Keahi’s mind as she remembers the task that has been laid out for her but, for now, she pushes that away. A gentle, friendly smile is on her lips as she speaks with Adelina, noting the way she seems wary of… everything. A nod is given to the slave’s answer and she makes sure to keep her tone light and soft as she speaks, “I am glad. It is always important to know what is expected of us.” Eyes search the woman, trying to judge her reaction.

Adelina seems afraid and Keahi yearns to understand that more. Standing, she motions for the slave to follow her and begins to slowly lead her out toward the beach. The tropical born wolf makes sure that the woman is walking beside her so that can speak in comfort with her having to crane her neck backward. As they walk, she begins to tell a story, “I was not born here. I come from an island far across the ocean. It is… a paradise. The weather is always warm and the flowers there… well is nothing like them. My home is called Hawai’i… and I miss it.” The story is told slowly as the emotions behind her arrival here are still raw.

Sand soon crunches underneath their paws and Keahi pulls them to a stop. She keeps them where the mountains still buffet the wind but they can see the crashing waves. A wistful sigh passes her lips as she remembers sailing across the water; trusting the stars and currents to guide her. But that seems like another lifetime now. A faraway look rests in her blue eyes for a moment before she gives another, melancholy-filled sigh. Her gaze slides over to Adelina as she offers a sad smile, saying, “We all come from different places and different walks of life. Where do you come from Adelina?” That seems as good a place as any to start.


"Keahi Mogotsi"