Ara was not used to feeling helpless. For some time, after she helped Novel back to her den, she would lay with her. She was content to listen to the gentle sound of her breathing, knowing she was safe here with her. How badly she wanted to keep her tucked away from harm forever, to keep her innocent and pure -- but all that had been taken from her. It was difficult to keep herself from pressing closer to Novel, wanting her to know that she would never hurt her, that she would protect her for as long as she possibly could, but she knew that Novel needed rest more than anything.
Hours would pass before she was able to pry herself from her friend's side. Elohim would remain here with her, and she would not venture far from Novel's den. Quietly she pulled herself to all fours, watching as Novel's companion replaced the spot she had placed herself in through the evening. A slow nod was offered to him as she slid from the den's entrance, her pawsteps quiet and precise, not wanting to wake Novel from the slumber she required so badly.
A gentle call would escape her lips, a hushed sound that was for Song -- or whoever else wanted to come to her. Though Novel had told her she couldn't tell anyone, she needed to, for not just her safety but for the well-being of the entire pack. After a short time she would wait, shuffling her paws uncertainly, feeling a strange tension building in her chest.
