Reconnaissance

Caedes felt Mariah's determination hit him like a physical blow. Her words, refusing to abandon him, rang through his head with conviction. She stepped forward with purpose, closing the distance between them, her eyes blazing with a fire that mirrored the blaze within her. Her challenge sent a wave of conflicting emotions crashing over him. Her defiance, her resolve – qualities he had always admired – now filled him with a deep, unsettling fear. He took a menacing step closer, towering over her, his presence almost overwhelming.

“Mariah.” The dire beast growled, frustration and power dripping from his voice. “You do not understand the danger you are in. If you stay here, if they find you-…” His eyes flashed with a volatile mix of anger and desperation. Without another word, he grabbed her by the scruff, his grip firm but not harsh. His movements were rough despite his care, his massive form easily dragging her into the ruined den. He deposited her onto the floor, his skull whipping back to the entrance as he yanked the curtain furs closed.

“Get inside.” He ordered, his tone brooking no argument. “If you are going to be stubborn, at least fucking stay out of sight.” His heart pounded as he stood there, the anger and desperation giving way to a deep, aching vulnerability. He glanced back at her, his eyes softening momentarily. The sight of her, so determined and relentless, brought a mix of emotions that he struggled to process. He couldn't bear the thought of losing her, not after everything he had already endured.

Inside the den now, surrounded by the remnants of his past, Caedes felt the weight of his grief and guilt pressing down on him. He glanced around, his eyes lingering on the bloodstains, the broken remnants of his life. Of his mental fortitude. His eyes dimmed, his body fell still, his breath became shallow, and his fur bristled as his breath caught in his throat. “Fuck…”