Building Courage

Esa forced herself to look up when he spoke, seeing neither contempt nor accusation on his face. Instead, he seemed just as miserably apologetic as she was, trying to place the blame on himself. He slumped from exhaustion and she felt awful all over again. She wanted to tell him it was okay, that she would never blame him even if he had known the dangers beforehand. Deep within, she had known as well, but her curiosity and craving for adventure and company had overcome her sensibility. For a few moments longer, no words reached her lips. Instead she was stuck staring at him, realizing that maybe he wasn't angry after all... maybe he wouldn't hate her. "Neither of us could have seen that coming," she finally managed to say, then a smile cracked her lips, "It's amazing that we're both alive." She could feel herself bouncing back already, despite her aching muscles. The fresh air soothed her burning lungs, and the fact that he didn't blame her gave her hope. Maybe they could be friends after all of this.

When he asked her where she would go, she could see the concern from the way his ears perked. Her ears flicked uncomfortably. He seemed such a terribly caring wolf, and she wasn't quite sure she deserved it. "Well, I don't really know," she answered honestly, "I've never been here before, but... I left home some moons ago and I've been traveling ever since. I'm sure I'll be able to find something." There hadn't been a night that she'd gone unsheltered, and she knew despite her exhaustion she would find something if she had to. Before she could think more or comment further on her plans, he spoke his name. Esa's expression brightened visibly, a wide smile crossing her face. She had been waiting for him to offer it, and now that he had, she knew they could be friends. She just had to make sure she didn't do anything stupid from now on! "My name's Esarosa," she offered, her jet black tail waving behind her. Glancing at him shyly, she spoke in a low tone, "So, do you... have to be home now? You could help me find a place... I mean, you must know these lands well enough if you're not lost." She grinned at him, hoping he could find the energy to tag along with her just a while longer. Then she added quickly, "Uhm, that is, as long as you're home before dark, right?"

She silenced herself then, trying to give him a chance to answer before she found herself rambling on. She couldn't believe she was already thinking of exploring onward again when the both of them had just narrowly escaped the collapsed mine. But energy filled her paws at the thought exploring further with Miksa, yet she awaited his response, for he may not feel quite as energized as she was.