Simply put, Kuroki had been thinking a lot as of late and honestly he couldn't say he was a fan. Didn't suit him at all, that pensive stare that had him staying up late as he watched the waves roll in and out. He was certainly over thinking it all, making a mountain out of a molehill but it was like an itch he couldn't reach. No matter which way he twisted or turned it was just a little off, not quite right. He'd been content with his lot in life, was happy enough being the black sheep, didn't fight or push against the title. Just accepted it with his long and gangly limb spread wide in a welcoming embrace. But this...man it was starting to get annoying. It wasn't complicated, didn't need to be but... "Come on pussy." He hissed under his breath, not realising he had company.

Often, when Celeste needed to contemplate herself or get some alone time, she found herself lounging in the shade with the doves. Their soft cooing was relaxing in a way as they pecked across the sand for bugs. This one particular day, she had snuggled herself against some trees with her lengthened tail wrapped over her haunches. Winter had begun to dissipate but recent heavy rains kept a chill in the air. Nearly lulled into a sleeping state, she was pulled back into reality when the thud of paws brought her ears to attention.

Thankfully, her current position kept her well hidden from the dire boy that had her so googly-eyed all the time. Not that she really showed it. They were still young and she was content to build her reputation within Ashen while he did his own thing. Not really questioning why Kuroki was appearing so forlorn at first, Celeste was happy to spy on him from afar. That was until the hissing "come on pussy" caused her head to tilt slightly. What had gotten his knickers in a knot?

Brow slightly furrowed, the petite girl stood up and made her way over to him. "Need to get something off your chest?" There was a twinge of concern laced into her vocals as she slid up beside him. Not too close, just in case he was angry or something, but close enough that she had to turn her chin upward to see his melanistic gaze.

Celeste Akizora

Kuroki flinched like he'd been caught rifling through the food stores. His grin was a guilty one, ears flitting back as he decided to play dumb. Or dumber, he supposed. He turned to Cel and was quick to scoot over on his bum, closing the distance she'd placed between them for some reason. "Huh what? I have no idea what you're talking about." He shot her a look, the beginnings of a true smile tugging on his lips at the sight of her. She was real pretty, sue him, he couldn't help it! "Actually, heard you been making waves. Lead huntress or something?" He was glad his Mother had taken a liking to Cel, or saw her as useful. Either or.

It was to her surprise that Oki scooted over to her so quickly. Had he not been glum and calling himself a pussy not a few seconds ago? Either way, she enjoyed the closeness of his massive frame beside her. Even his feigned ignorance of her question was pushed aside as he returned her stare. One might think that eyes as black as coal wouldn't be attractive, but she would disagree. Being able to see all of him and the reflection of herself in them made it worth it.

A smile tickled on her lips as she batted her lashes at him. "Oh, you've heard, have you?" Cel teased before leaning her body against his leg. Curling her chin to look up at him better, she gave her own shoulders a gentle shrug. "Just been keeping busy since it's kind of boring here, but seems mommy dearest liked my efforts," her words were more teasing than anything. Other members seemed to be more scarce than anything these days so what else was she going to do?

Celeste Akizora