damsel in distressin’

Redrum's eyes locked onto Elara, his breath still coming in ragged gasps as he tried to steady himself. His body was tense, muscles twitching from the aftermath of the fight. The sight of Elara's trembling form, the way she moved towards him, sent a new wave of emotions crashing over him. He could see the mix of horror and awe in her eyes, the way she seemed both repelled and drawn to him.

“E-elara,” He whispered, voice rough and choked with emotion. His massive paws moved to steady her as she approached, his touch surprisingly gentle despite the lingering adrenaline. The blood on his fur contrasted starkly with her delicate features, yet she showed no fear, no hesitation.

Her words hit him hard, a reminder of why he fought with such ferocity. He had saved her, protected her, and now she stood before him, alive and safe. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close, his muzzle nuzzling into her fur as if to reassure himself that she was real.

“Redrum had to.” He murmured, his voice trembling. “Couldn't let it take Elara from Redrum.” His golden eyes, filled with a mixture of relief and guilt, met hers as she buried her face in his chest. The warmth of her tears soaked into his fur, each drop a testament to the depth of her gratitude and the intensity of their bond.

Redrum's heart ached with the weight of his emotions, the sight of Elara's injuries fueling his self-reproach. “Redrum is sorry,” The vermillion brute whispered, his voice barely audible. “He should’ve been there sooner.” He held her tighter, as if the strength of his embrace could somehow erase the pain and fear they had both endured.

When she laughed, the sound filling the air with a bittersweet relief. He let out a shuddering breath, the tension in his body slowly dissipating. “Elara is okay,” He repeated, as much to reassure himself as to acknowledge her words. “Elara is fine?” Redrum nuzzled her again, his movements gentle, his touch tender despite the lingering violence that still thrummed through his veins. “Redrum will protect from now on. Forever.” The vermillion young brute brought his muzzle close to hers, before quickly pulling away as he recalled the blood encompassing his lips.

"Murder"