--Hoist the Colors High [MB]

Number of posts : 1161 Registration date : 2009-01-12

Calypso

Calypso was shocked and relieved that Jacq found a hide so quickly and she had to suppress a giggle when her job of gathering moss was taken over so quickly. She sighed a grateful sigh and opened her jaws to speak. "Thank you Jacq. We should have enough moss now. I have another task to send you on if you are up to it?" Sapphire eyes looked to the pile of moss that had grown tenfold since Jacq lent his jaws. She smiled at the young bru. He looked so much like his father. It had made it so hard on Lita. "Could you take this hide and soak it in the sea and then hang it somewhere to dry?" Her words to Jacq reminded Calypso of her mother's own words to herself when she was Jacq's age. Her mother taught her the trick of washing the hide in the sea first before using it for it washed the blood off and when allowed to dry it kind of cured it partially. At least it kept the flys and maggots away and allowed for a soft bed for newborn whelps. The moss it'self was for catching the fluids that came from the birth. Out the moss would go and then in with the hide.

Then before Jacq could run off she asked softly. "Jacq could you also find Jack for me? It is going to be a bit but I want him close." She cast him a soft knowing smile and then she sighed. How ironic that Calypso had been there for Jacq's birth and now he was her for the birthing of her first litter. Bending her neck she took a mouthfull of moss and took her ripe body back down into the darkness of the den only to come back up and repeat the ritual several times. When all the moss was gone she felt the clench of another contraction, she gasped and froze until the pain passed. Motherhood was not adventure for the faint of heart. She knew that she would have to pull Liar away from Khalon sooner than she would have liked. But it was important to have a healer, at least nearby just incase. Plus Liar needed a birthing under her belt, it was important as healer. Calypso's mother had insisted on her attending and Calypso wasn't even a healer, but it sure was coming in handy for knowing what to expect.

Number of posts : 724 Registration date : 2009-01-10

--Hoist the Colors High [MB] - Page 7 Jaques

Jacq smirked as Calypso revealed in her expression that she was surprised with his efficiency in getting what she wanted. He was working quickly for he could tell this was urgent, in the way she spoke and moved, even though she was hurting. As she requested that he bring the hide to the sea and rinse it, he nodded vigorously, though at the moment he did not look forward to seeing the violent waves once more. Still, he could not let her down. He took the hide in his jaws and was about to take off, when Calypso made yet another request - she wished for Jack at her side. Jacq could not say no. "I will find him as soon as I can Calypso," he promised, dipping his head to her and setting off. Before he left the den area, he noticed two wolves talking together at another den's entrance. He'd never met them, but surely they knew Jack. His tail flicked up in the air before flowing out behind him as he rushed over to them.

"Hi, I'm Jacques," he introduced himself briefly, hide still between his teeth, "If you see Jack anywhere, please let him know Calypso wants him to join her immediately." He had nothing else to say, so he tilted his head to Yana and Will, then shot off in his continuous urgent pace. He would still keep a lookout for Jack, for it didn't seem anyone really knew where he was. He tripped over the hide a couple of times, so he crumpled it back up like before and sprinted until he could hear water hitting shore. He slowed to catch his breath, but only slightly. When he reached the water's edge, he unfolded the hide and placed it on the surface of the water. Quickly the fur filled with water and became soaked, sinking underneath. He let it soak for several moments. Calypso hadn't said how long to keep it there. He pulled it out again and looked at the fleshy side, seeing that a lot of the flesh and fat had fallen away or disintegrated in the salty waters.

He tugged the now heavy hide out, dragging it up the shore on the flesh side. He didn't want gritty sand getting in the fur to make it itchy or bothersome for Calypso or her coming newborns. He dragged it until he came to the more grassy forest floor, and folded it back up. It was much heavier this time, and he knew that he couldn't make the run all the way back after all his work done for her. But he would still try. He kept up a steady pace, and he could feel his weight pulling down on him at every pawstep, as well as the hide putting a strain on his neck. He was breathing very heavily by the time he returned to the main area, and time was drawing onward. He still needed to find a good place to hang this to dry, and then try to find Jack. He sat down, looking around frantically for a tree that looked climbable. Sighing, he spotted the lowest branch he could see nearby, but he would need to make a mighty leap to get up there. At least with the hide draped he wouldn't have to jump a second time to get it down.

Moving closer to the tree, he sized it up, then made a run at it and clawed his way up the trunk. He pushed off, feeling he couldn't make it. He tried several more times but didn't make it, and realized was impossible for him to do alone. Blue-green orbs looked around somewhat helplessly, feeling he would let down Calypso if he couldn't do this. He couldn't ask her to help him though, it would be too dangerous. So who else was around? The two he'd spoken to earlier didn't appear to be doing much, but he wondered if they'd noticed him acting in such a bizarre way; it just wasn't normal for a wolf to try to climb a tree. He had to hang this up somehow though.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Fri Oct 09, 2009 12:16 pm

Yana had finished his last sentence and a few moments later, and unfamiliar wolf was about to run past them with a hide clenched in his teeth, but stopped upon seeing them. Jacques, he had introduced himself, wanted to find Jack. Before he could respond, the other ran off again, as if he was doing something very important. His eyes narrowed in thought, watching the figure disappear, but decided he was just a wolf he hadn't seen yet for some reason, for this Jacque sseemed to know both Jack and Calypso, both of whom were already the alphas when he came to these packlands.

Looking at Will, his experssion seemed to be silently asking him if he knew what had just happened was about. Still, he didn't expect the other to know, either, but maybe he'd at least seen the wolf before?

He was still wandering, looking up at the trees, trying to find that one tree... He'd go for most fruits, but he knew that tree was in the vicinity, although he wasn't sure how many of the trees grew in these lands. Until then, he'd continue coming to this particular area. Ironically, his kind aren't as good of a climber as a gray wolf, whose breed didn't need to get food from trees. Red sighed, and continued walking, but then he stopped, seeing the familiar red fruit. Transfixed, he walked up to the tree, and recognized it was the same tree he had obtained fruit from.

He'd heard a noise from the general area moments before but now... it had stopped; the silence broke him from his prize, just after he'd placed both front paws on the trunck of the tree. Red pushed his forelegs off the tree to stand on the ground again and glanced about, wondering who, or what it had been, and if it was still in the area. Then he saw a wolf he hadn't seen before and took one step back. There was a wet hide in his jaws, but wasn't sure what the other was doing to make so much noise. He looked at the tree and noticed scratch marks and wondered if this wolf had made them. Now curious, he stepped forward a few steps, knowing that by now the other would notice him. Still, he took glances back at the tree which contained the fruit and felt it would be weird trying to obtain one with this wolf around, especially one he didn't know.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 12, 2009 3:17 pm

-J.a.c.k S.p.a.r.r.o.w -

Having walked for some time to clear his head he was back on track towards the main lands. Calypso would need him and he hoped that he had not needlessly made her distraught. There were some serious thinking he had to do after the recent encounter and he wondered if he should have taken another path of choices. He also was concerned for how Lennox was doing. As he walked his ears flicked at a strange scratching noise. Knowing he had to investigate anything suspicious on his land he stalked towards it.

Then he saw a strange wolf but the harder he looked the more familiar the hessian looked. He seemed to be trying to climb a tree. "Jacques?" He said a little questioningly. He had not seen him in a long while and wondered what he was doing now. Was that a hide in his mouth. "Is everything alright?" Perhaps he was trying to be like the famed jungle cats who hid their meals in the trees. Then again he could have gone mad...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 14, 2009 7:01 pm

It seemed he'd been waiting only moments when attention was drawn to him; a rather tall-looking wolf was approaching him with a curious look on his face. Jacq wouldn't doubt that he wondered what all the racket was about, and why the the tree next to him was adourned in claw marks. But regardless, he put down the wet hide momentarily and, wagging his tail, he bounced a few steps towards the tall stranger, then motioned for him to come closer. "You must be able to help me!" he exclaimed, marching back to the tree, "Calypso wants me to hang up the hide so it will be dry in time for her newborns." He hoped that this wolf was already a part of the pack and not just some stranger that happened to have waltz in at the right moment. If he was part of the Pearl, he would know of Calypso, and hopefully would be willing to help him, even if he seemed crazy.

Then Jack came along, a suspcious look in his eyes at first, and Jacques felt a little afraid that he might be preyed upon as an intruder; relief flooded him as recognition filled the other brute's eyes, and he spoke Jacq's name. However, he stilled seemed puzzled over the younger wolf's actions. Chuckling a little, Jacques woofed playfully at Jack, wishing he had time to spend with the Alpha, but there were important things to do. "Hi Jack," he said, his tone friendly as always, "Sorry there's no time to talk, but Calypso wants you with her right now." He stated his words with urgency, so that Jack would understand and go immediately. Their litter was coming soon, and she wanted him by her side when it happened. Now he looked back at the other wolf, beckoning him over to the tree.

"Here, I'll stand by the tree," he said, pressing his flank right against the trunk, "You climb up on me and get up there." His tail pointed to the thick branch that was too many feet above his head for him to reach alone. "The hide needs to be spread out and hung in the wind so its dry when the Alphaess needs it," he explained, hoping the other would cooperate. Jacq was a burly wolf, and did not want to risk hurting the narrower wolf by climbing on his back. Besides, those long legs would make it a lot easier for him to get up, at least, he hoped.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Oct 15, 2009 10:46 am

The other wolf had noticed him, and was clearly part of the pack. He walked closer, then Jack appeared, at first looking wary before recognition. Jacques was obviously his name, which was further proof of being a pack member. Then the attention was turned back to him, and looked from the hide to the tree. Looking back behind him, he muttered, "I guess I'll have to get it later..." then turned frontward again, commenting, "And here I thought no one else in this pack would climb a tree... at least I won't feel too weird climbing in front of your eyes." He looked at the wet hide, which would be quite heavier from the water. Normally, he'd be able to get up by himself just fine, but perhaps he would need that lift in this case. But, since Jacques was offering the boost...

Red reached the hide that was on the ground. As he lowered his head to pick it up, he said, "Call me Red," and then grasped the skin, making sure he had a firm grip before lightly getting on the other's back. He stopped moving automatically, and started to think about his foot placement and pressure for the first time in a long time. He knew he was probably relatively light, but he didn't want to push off too hard and leave a sore spot. He quickly scanned the trunk, and gently pushed off, just enough so that his paws were able to dig into small indents. He kept himself moving, else the weight of the hide would pull him down again. He wasn't as graceful as some of the more climbing adept wolves would be, but he managed to pull himself up to the branch Jacques pointed out. He balanced himself before taking a few steps on the branch before he lowered the hide down, fur-side up so the bark from the tree wouldn't dirty it.

When he had positioned the fur, Red backed up a bit, looking at the ground below him, making sure nothing, or anyone, was there. He jumped off when it was clear, and landed on the ground in a way to absorb most of the shock. Straightening, he said, "I just want to get something first, but tell me if the hide's positioned ok." He walked to the tree he was looking at earlier, just a few meters away before pushing off the ground again, acting instinctively again. When he was close to one of the ripe fruits, he pushed off the trunk, turning his body so he grabbed one of the red fruits between his teeth, ripping it from the tree before landing on the ground again. He turned and walked back towards Jacques, crunching on the fruit, acting like eating anything other than meat wasn't odd.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Oct 15, 2009 6:47 pm

Liar took Khalon's silence as a testing matter and she turned away in slight frustration. She saw Will up and out of the den and she went over and arrived with a big smile. "Well! You're up, and from the look in your eyes, you look good" She smiled, from where she stood she looked over his wounds. None of them seemed to open, he just seemed well off. She looked at Yana and added a nod to the bru. "Thank you for all your help today" She said softly, looking at him with warm eyes. "Does anyone kn--" she was going to ask where Jack was but it was broken by a wolf coming and going quickly. "Where's Calypso..." she said swiftly. Her eyes filled with panic, she had let her mother out of her sight when she was so close. There was no need to hear them answer, she sucked her breath in and darted off. She didn't wait for Khalon or anything she just took the strongest strides ever.

The princess that was adopted to the king and queen made her own broken course through the woods and she found Calypso. Jack and the stranger were already there and she came up protectivly, even over Jack, and stoof next to her mother. "I don't know why I paniced like that. But I did" She sighed and brought her rump under her and sat down. Her head hung. She couldn't stop thinking about Khalon, and why he was so distant now. But she couldn't let it bug her, she wouldn't let it bother her, not now. Calypso was due soon, and you...if you had any mind, would be able to smell the coming of whelps...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Fri Oct 16, 2009 7:22 pm

Calypso

In the darkness that was her den the moss felt cool she sighed and felt another contraction coming. She clentched her teeth until it passed. Soon...Calypso thought to herself...Soon, it will start. The real labor. These contractions were just the pre-cursor to the main event. She came out of the den and rested her haunches on the sandy soil. She closed her sapphire eyes for a moment and then her ears flicked forward at the sound of approach. Her eyes opened and there was Liar. Funny how Calypso had just thought of her daughter and then Liar appeared and rested next to her. Her cupped thorns caught Liar's worry and Calypso cocked her head and wondered where Khalon was. "It's alright love. She said softly and leaned over giving her daughter a kiss on the cheek."Jacq has returned. I don't know if you remember him or not. He was my best friend, Lita's son. I sent him for Jack."

Calypso's breathing was a steady pace. She was preparing. Her mother told her that birthing wasn't an easy journey but it was one that was well worth it. The first time is the hardest because you don't know what to expect. Calypso looked at her daughter, the one who she felt was of her loins but was not. She felt she should be there to witness not only as a healer but as her daughter. She needed to know what to expect, but she couldn't help but feel at this moment that Liar was distracted. "Liar? Dearheart? Is everything okay?" she asked her voice soft and loving. It was probably because of her heat and Khalon. Did they have a fight? Did he try to push her too far? Calypso didn't think he was of the sort. She worried of her daughter and then a hard contraction hit unexpectedly and Calypso gasped.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Sat Oct 17, 2009 12:39 am

Jacq smirked as Red made a little comment about climbing trees, wondering what he could mean. Did he climb trees regularly? He was relieved when the wolf agreed to help him and took the hide in his mouth. He braced himself as Red climbed up, grunting as he pushed off to make the leap to the branch. He then stood back to watch him setting it out, and nodded when he was finished. He kept well out of the way as he saw Red looking for a way down, and watched him come plunging down, landing with expertise that showed he had done this more than once before. As he went off to a nearby tree, Jacq watched him as he went climbing right up another tree. Confusion ran through him, but he continued examining the wolf's movements. Most bewildering of it all was at the end when he snapped up a big, red plant-thing.

Then he came back over, crunching on the sweet-smelling thing like it was food. Jacq tilted his head, giving Red an inquisitive look. "You eat herbs?" he asked, having never heard of fruit in his life. All he knew was that healers used plants in their work, and to him, it appeared as though Red was eating a herb. But suddenly his curiousity was interfered with as a young female came rushing by, with an intoxicating scent wafting from her. He found that his nose was tilted to the air without him even commanding it to do so. Surprised by his sudden, uncontrolled behaviour, he turned away form her, and looked back to Red. He was still curious as to why the brute would eat herbs, unless he was sick and that big red plant-thing had been the cure.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Sat Oct 17, 2009 6:46 pm

He swallowed the last of the fruit and saw Liar rushing through, and waited until she passed. He looked thoughtful to Jacques' question and slowly replied, "What I just ate isn't quite an herb, but you can think of it as one." He tilted his head, wondering how to explain it before continuing, "It is a plant, true, but as far as I know, it has no healing properties. My mother used to tell me that unlike other wolves, my breed can't just live off deer and other meat... I don't really remember why, though- just that it'd be better if I did. Naturally, I listened to her, although I heard that others who tried to eat plants as food said it was gross."

Smiling at his last sentence, he said, "I haven't seen you around when I came here. Are you one of those wolves who like to travel or just a friend?"

Yana looked at Liar when she approached them, and smiled in return before she ran off again. It was busy, but luckily not any sort of dire situation. He looked up at the sky, wondering where a certain wolf was now... He'd only seen him in one of the dark packs before he left to find a suitable pack to reside with. He didn't find being in a neutral pack surprising, though. Things would get.... problematic in any other pack affinity, which was probably the case with most of the other neutral wolves. He pulled himself out of his thoughts and back to reality. He was patient, and it wasn't bad here. Everyone was likable, even for his standards.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 19, 2009 12:06 am

--Hoist the Colors High [MB] - Page 7 Lennox10

Will too was a bit baffled by Liar's coming and going, though he kept it to himself. He barely managed a reassuring nod and smile before she took off. It wasn't his business to pry. She had been right though, and he felt better by the minute. He gave a nod to the open air, seeing as Red and Yana had gone off on their own business as well. His slender pillars took him around, as he became reacquainted with the territory after his rest. There seemed to be a welcome visitor, and he was glad to not be the center of attention, though it seemed he hadn't been for a while.

Calypso was out of sight, but not for long. He had an inkling that something was going on with her, that perhaps her labor was just starting. Once again, he felt it best that he left it alone. But Jack had returned, and was around with the newcomer, Jacques. He couldn't help but approach. He seemed quite the interesting type. As he moved at a brisk and happy trot, an old chanty came to mind.
'Come all you bold young thoughtless men, a warning take by me, and never leave your happy homes to sail the raging sea...'This bru seemed to maybe fit the type, though he couldn't be certain from first glance. He came up alongside Jack, quickly adopting his stiff and disciplined manner around the alphen, though it was nowhere near the degree it had been upon his arrival. He passed a casual nod to Jacques, knowing at least the smallest bit of courtesy was necessary, whether a guest like him was in the company of the king or otherwise. "Lo, friend. Just a moment; I'll be rather brief."

"Jack, if you'll excuse my interruption, I'd like to just speak briefly. Thank you... for earlier. I feel a fool to not be able to defend myself against the likes of Matthew, but I must put it aside. I truely appreciate your captainship and handling of his intrusion." He couldn't help a nervous scratch to his ear before continuing. "And just as well, I would consider it an honor to be a part of your pack, if you'll have me. I find this place to have quite a nice fit. for me after so long by myself." The bru took note that though he may have felt fine, he probably looked a mess while awaiting Jack's response, covered in poultices and various other healer's prescriptions.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 19, 2009 7:10 pm

She snuggled up close to him, her tantalizing scent just beneath his nose, and yet all he wanted to do was to stay like this forever. Complete trust. With a small sigh of relief, he heard that everything was fine, and knew that all was well with the pack. He had not realized how much it meant to him that every member, even a wolf whom he had never met, was going to be okay. Her next statement, however, was a little harder to respond to. He still felt guilty, though her glad welcome of him had released a bit of this emotion.

As he was trying to form a response, he felt her pull away, and looked down to see an expression of frustration cross her features. He watched her go, first walking, then running, with bewilderment. He should have responded, but with her scent so close, and the colliding natures within him, no response had been ready in time. With a sigh he turned; he would explain later. Looking around, feeling somewhat useless, he sat down near a large tree, content to wait until needed.

ooc: lol, taking him out. sorry guys, I just haven't had much time lately XP but I will bring him in when he is needed! =D

Kiandra, Keanu, & Khalon

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Oct 20, 2009 12:43 pm

Liar's fluffy auds perked up to her mother and she gave her a soft smile. "Everything is fine. I had a slight panic attack when I turned around and you weren't there. Being so close and all. I'm going to go get you some water. You're going to need it" She smiled again, licking her mom, and then turning to Jack and licking him too on the cheek. She turned her body in the direction she came and stalked off. Something was off about her, she could tell, even in herself. Maybe it was this...first season talk. She didn't like it, and instinctivly she felt her tassle drop down between her leg and hug as tight as she could make it. Why was she so afraid, was it because of what Calypso said? No. It couldn't have been. She needed a little time. Slowly her head came up and she told herself the first wolf she'd see would be the one she'd leave a message with. But she didn't know the bru, or, he looked familiar but he wasn't by name. She knew Red though, and slowly she came over with a smile on her face. "Red. Hello dear friend" she kept the smile and dropped her head softly in a slight bow before coming up again and finishing. "If word of Calypso's birth begins will you call me. I'm going to fetch water, and bathe before bringing any back to her. Just a howl will do, if you don't mind"

It wasn't a hard task, and she knew any wolf would do it. Announce the birthing of an alpha's kin into the pack. She wouldn't miss it, even if Red didn't feel like calling her. Her blu eyes watched him and she nodded again before turning towards the strange wolf sitting with him. "Hello. I'm Liar, I'd stay longer to chat, but...well, you probably already know" she was speaking of the scent coming from her, it bothered her. It made her feel dirty in a way. She turned, giving a last smile to Red and then she stalked off again, hunched in a way, tail still tucked between her legs as tight as she could make it.

It took a big longer, walking this way, to come to the waters edge. Khalon and her had played here not that long ago. She stepped in the water, and felt the coolness rush along the fine hairs on her legs. With a leap she bounded into the deeper part and suck her whole self into the waves of The Black Pearl. It felt good, and when she came up for air the scent the leaked from her body wasn't there. It was now diluted in the water's salt and she felt herself becoming clean again. She hoped this little, season thing, would go faster then it came. Her wish and hope wouldn't be answered though, she knew this wasn't going to happen. She sighed and took a deep breath sinking herself into the water again, floating on top. If someone were to see her, they'd think she was dead, no, she just felt weightless. She came up for air, and did the same thing again. It felt nice...she felt older. And her mind went to think about the two years ago, when Jack had...'saved' her...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Oct 20, 2009 1:13 pm

Calypso

Calypso clentched her teeth through the pain of the current contraction and then sighed heavily when it was over. She was already feeling worn and this was just begining. "I had to prepare a den dearheart." she said softly and smiled as her daughter mentioned water and kissed her cheek. "Be careful." she called after her. She looked over and found herself suddenly surrounded by wolves. They were her family but she was begining to feel crowded. It set her on edge a bit. She looked over at Jacq and Red and licked her nose. "Jacq." she called softly. She worried after Liar and Khalon was no where to be seen. She stood and walked stiffly over to him, her swollen belly making it a bit difficult right now. "Jacq. Will you help Liar fetch some water? She is my daughter and I worry after her. Please?" she asked Jacq softly knowing that Liar would be safe around him.

She stopped breathing for a moment and turned to Red, only to start breathing after her contraction. "Red" she asked "Would you please hunt something small for Jack and I when he gets here?" she asked knowing she would need blood to replace blood when it was all done. Then she turned away from Red and another contraction hit her. She gasped with the pain and clentched her teeth. They were getting stronger. Calypso wondered how long labor would last. It too passed and she decided it would be best to go and lie in the cool of the den and rest while she could.

Padding over slowly she sunk into the den's welcoming darkness. She seemed hyper sensitive right now and the dark seemed to calm her further. The moss she had lain down was plush and she lay down awkwardly with her swollen belly. She wished Jack was there, without him she felt adrift at sea.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 21, 2009 1:57 pm

Red saw Liar approach and smiled at her and said, "Hey, Liar," when she greeted him. He listened to her request and nodded, "If I'm able to remain around here, I shall." Sometimes pregnant wolves didn't like too many others to be around during this time, and he figured Calypso wasn't the kind to drive her concerned and excited pack away, but hormomes do weird things.

Calypso had gotten up and was addressing some of the pack. First was Jacques. Then she turned to him. He almost stepped forward in concern when she paused, but restrained himself, mentally telling himself it was natural and was of no harm. When she reqested him to hunt, he nodded, and said, "I'll tell Yana not to linger here too long if he decides to stop by if you wish." He turned first in the direction where he deemed likely to be small game. Perhaps he could find a young wild boar, or ambush a rabbit or two, depending on their size. Anything Jack and Calypso wouldn't eat, he was sure others in the pack would, anyways.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Oct 22, 2009 1:47 am

Jacq's tail tip twitched with interested as he listened to Red explain his reasons for eating the 'fruit'. He had never heard the word before, but it was good to learn new things - perhaps one day if he was hungry, he might try one of those big red things. It sounded crunchy like a bone when Red had eaten it, but he could smell sweetness flowing from its inner juices. He was unsure if he would like it, considering even Red admitted that most would not approve of its taste, but it was still a thing to try if it wasn't harmful.

Then Red changed subjects, and asked of his whereabouts. Jacq shrugged and sat down momentarily, allowing himself to rest as he explained himself. Several wolves must wonder where he'd come from while he seemed to know the Alpha pair quite well. "I don't travel anymore," he clarified, "I've just been by the sea all summer long. I won't bore you with the details as to why... but the reason you've likely not seen me around is because of what happened when I was a boy." He hadn't told this to anyone before, because everyone else he'd known had already been aware of it.

"I was born here to my mother Lita..." he bit his lip momentarily, for speaking of her made him grieve anew every single time; he wish he knew where she and his sisters went, and why they hadn't searched for him. "Uhm, well she was Calypso's best friend at the time, so she was there at the time of my birth," he continued, "And Jack was the Beta at the time. So of course they knew me. Anyways... when I was like, I guess four moons old, I thought it would be fun to go adventuring on my own. I got lost and I just never found my way back. I was raised by strangers, whom I'd rather not mention by name, and it was not until I was grown enough to strike out on my own that I finally found my way back here. That was just this spring."

His story was finished, for what he was willing to tell. He didn't feel the need to mention the bits about what he had done when he had met with two other wolves; he was young back then, he'd had no other choice. He had needed their companionship and guidance, regardless of their dark natures and ill intentions to the innocent. He still strived not to be like them, though he knew there would be times when he might revert into those things he had learned, and be drawn into situations he'd experienced guiltily before. Shaking his head, he realized that most of the pack was gathering, many of them contributing in some way to the preparation of Calypso's litter. He noticed a wolf he'd seen earlier with Yana, and nodded to him when he gave a nod and spoke shortly.

Then Calypso called upon him again, and he was fully alert, perking his greyish auds toward her. He wished he could do something about her pain, and it seemed everyone's thoughts were the same, but this was the natural process, as unfair as it was. As she requested that he accompany Liar, he nodded acknowledgement to her, despite his aching limbs. If she could still think and move under the influence of her own pain, then he could suck it up and keep going with tired muscles. He nodded his brief farewells to Red, and took off after Liar. Though she was ahead of him, her scent was not hard to follow, and his body did so without complaint; in fact, he seemed to have found a renewed energy in her scent.

For a moment he wondered after Calypso's words. This was her daughter? How come he'd never known about her before? Surely she couldn't be much older than he was, and certainly not of Calypso's own blood; this litter she was about to deliver was her first, she had said so herself. Shrugging it off, his thoughts had made him feel less uncomfortable. He just hoped he wouldn't let his second mother down. His padfalls were heavy and noticeable as he came up to the water's edge where Liar had emersed herself. He noticed that she was rinsing her scent away, as though she knew it was there; did it bother her? He felt himself disappointed with its sudden absence, yet slightly relieved. Something had welled up inside of him as the toxins of her heat entered his nares, and yet he was unaware of what it was. It frightened him, the way he could react without thought.

So, he stepped up to the water now, looking to her as she came up to the surface for a second time. "Liar!" he called, not knowing if she really knew who he was. She might have heard his name, but he needed to make sure. "You probly figured already, but my name's Jacques," he said, coming belly deep into the water where she was nearly submerged. He smiled at her, a friendly smile, hoping he did not intimidate her in any way. Her actions seemed funny, the way she tucked her tail when she ran, and seemed unwilling to socialize. Did this all have to do with her scent? "Anyways, how do we bring back water?" He didn't get that bit. How could you carry water? Surely she didn't want a drink straight from his own maw? Maybe Liar knew better, so he waited for her answer, feeling slightly more controlled with her scent strongly diluted.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Sun Oct 25, 2009 12:47 am

It felt nice, to bring her head up from the water and not smell anything that wasn't normal to her. She liked the ability to be a female, though she hadn't used the 'known' powers to her advantage, she didn't have to, she had Kal. That thought struck a chord and she felt her heart sink. 'Had' Kal. She didn't know what had come over him, but she didn't like it and she wouldn't dwell on it she couldn't, with the emotions going on with the pack through her mother's birth, she wouldn't hold anything in her mind for too long.

Her mind was so deep somewhere else she didn't hear her name being called, nor did she hear anyone enter the water, it was when the deep voice broke her mind did she quickly turn her head to look at the unfamiliar but named wolf now. Jacques. So this was the name of the dark wolf she had seen around now with her mother and with Red. It was nice to now put a face to a name and she smiled towards him inviting him closer into the water. Though it was cold it did have a nice feeling to it. A weightless feeling that would keep her feeling as if she didn't mark the lands with anything unusual. "Now that we know names..." she said, giving him a soft wink and turning towards the trees. "Bark. It soaks the water, line it with tree leaves and it stays atop the bark and keeps it firm so when you carry it, it doesn't break"

Her voice was high pitched, it was actually nice to have someone offer the care to know her knowledge. "See. I'll show you" She walked towards the shore, stopping once she got to the shore line she shook her pelt roughly and her own scent came back. She wondered if it was different for the males. For her, it mades it rather hard to resist the urge to push herself on someone, which made her scared. Calypso had told her of the thing males felt when they could smell it, but she didn't know the want she would feel, that she felt now, not even towards Kal but towards anyone, even towards Red when she had went around him. Her ears pressed back for a second and then they went forward again as she walked towards the trees.

"We mark, and so, you mark a big patch to make bark loose. I say do it till you get a nice chunk of the stuff, then lay it down" She did as she said, and there was a pile of of the trees protective layer laying infront of her mitts. She pushed the peices around till she found the two she wanted and picked them both up. "Next step, gather the leaves you can think would hold the best amount of water. Like..." She paused, looking around. There were smaller once near the water on the bushes, but she wanted those on the trees, not the thicker trees but the skinnier ones. She walked over, picking a few, the few she could reach and then looked back at Jacques and nodded for him to come over. "If you can reach those up there, that'd work perfectly. The greener the better the stronger they are" She gave a weird grin as she walked back towards him, green leaves in her mouth. She layed them out on the bark, pushing them with her nose till she felt they were right where she wanted them and then walked back towards the water. "I don't want to give her ocean water. So we're going to get the stream water" She nodded and picked up her bark bowl and walked just into the woods a little. "You scoop it in your mouth, and drop it in till it's full!" she yelled back to him, trying to see him over the bushes a bit. "We don't need the cleanest of water, but not that salty or the dirty stuff!" She wagged her tail, forgetting as of the moment about her little issue...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 26, 2009 3:46 pm

-J.a.c.k S.p.a.r.r.o.w -

Having seen what Jacq was trying to get up in the tree it dawned on him that often mothers used a hide like that when they were about to give birth. Oh...OH! Just as that thought came about Jacq further confirmed it with is message to go to Calypso's side. Just as he was about to turn and find her pausing only to nod in thanks to Jacq and acknowledge Red suddenly Lennox was before him and he paused seeing the hessian up. He had taken quite a beating before and wonder how he fared though much more pressing matters weighed on his mind....

While Jack was usually an attentive leader he could not give his whole mind to Lennox at the moment, eyes darting off to where his mate would be. The overwhemling need to be near her and protect her was rising in his gullet and he pushed it down though his mind was screaming at him. Males! Everywhere! Get to her, hide her! "Yes, yes its quite alright Lennox, it was a pleasure. Of course you can stay..." His gaze again not on the brute. "Excuse we have to speak later..." Jack was vaugely aware that he was being rude but perhaps Lennox would understand once he understood the situation. Brushing past him not unkindly he made his way into the forest so that he could be at her side.

He was agitated, instinct was taking over, this his pack should understand and know. When ones mate was birthing there were certain..protocols to follow around the pair. Pads hit the earth faster, it almost as if he can smell it already happening. His heart clenched with fear as new thoughts entered his mind...what if he lost her in the process? No. Nothing so simple as a birthing would take my mate. He inwardly growled, beratting himself.

Then there she was in the shallow den. He saw Liar turning to leave giving him a lick on the cheek as she went. She was guarding her mother and he could not help but smile. But his attention was soon driven to Calypso's rounded form and he could see the strain her body was in.

Coming to her side he did not sit but did lean down and lick her face eagerly. "I'm sorry I was gone, I had to check some things. How are you? Is it near? Does everything feel alright?" He knew he sounded like a fretful mother. Standing was not completely comfortable but this was no time for sitting...with all those males out there. A small shake of his crania to get his more malevolent thoughts out.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 26, 2009 4:16 pm

Calypso

Calypso sighed with relief as Jack's form appeared in the den. She could see the tension written all over him. His kiss made her smile and she could have cried with happiness that he was here. "It's okay love. You are here now." she said softly and kissed his mug. "It will be soon. Probably at moonrise, if not before. We have time." She licked her swollen belly as if that would help ease the pain. "I sent Jacq for a hide, told Red to hunt, Liar is fetching water...Jacq must have found you. I told him to get you after the hide. I should have had it all prepared before now." She sighed frustrated with herself that she didn't have her ducks in a row so to speak. She kissed Jack again and watched as he shook his head. A crease of worry furrowed her brow and her black lips parted. "My love, are you alright?"

She wondered if something else was happening within the pack...more intruders perhaps? She stretched out and another contraction took her. This one wasn't as painful. Her body seemed to be setting a rhythm now that she was relaxed and in a dark place. All the others around were putting her on edge too, Liar being an exception. That is why she sent them on tasks. She felt choked with so many standing there. And very protective of what lie within her womb. It was only nature. Wolves birthed away from males of the pack, pups had been killed before. "Things seem to be progressing okay my love. I have seen other labors and I think everything is fine. It feels right so far...only ..."Calypso paused. "Maybe you can send the others away for now...except Liar. Send them to guard the borders..." She left the words off ...to protect our young. Calypso really didn't think that any of their pack would hurt her whelps...it was just nature and Jack looked like he did when she was in season. Protecitve.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 26, 2009 6:02 pm

It was not long before Kal's paws were itching to move, to do anything other than sit and wait. He knew what the fuss was about, and was keen on staying out of the way of both Jack and Calypso, but surely there was something he could do? Perhaps a border check, though it seemed that the other pack members had this covered. Meanwhile, here he was, doing absolutely nothing.

With a sigh, he looked around, wondering where in the world his siblings had run off to. He had not seen a sign of them since they had departed a while ago.... probably out hunting somewhere, or fulfilling some duty. He had no idea why he was so restless, for he had not felt his way in a looong time, and never to this extent. Something was under his skin, wanting out, and he shifted, suddenly irritable.

And where had Liar run off to? He had wanted to give her a little time to herself, since that seemed to be the procedure to follow when a fem was upset, but.... Suddenly, he realized what it was, and instantly rose to his paws. Liar, that was what was bothering him so. That scent, and so many brus... he had been naive to the feeling a moment ago, since it was a new experience, but now, an intense paranoia ran through him at the thought of her alone at such a time. He looked around, golden eyes worried. Where was she?

Lifting his muzzle, he tested the breeze, but the winds had shifted, and her scent was too faint now to be followed. Even that slightest hint, however, only made him more anxious to find her. What if.... he did not finish the thought, instead choosing a random direction and following it. He would find her, and then everything would be better.

Walking, he noted that he was drawing nearer the dens, and instead of preceding, he turned to shift direction, following an arcing path that sloped widely around the space. He did not want to draw near, not now. Jack was not a wolf to be near, not at this time, and not so close to Calypso. He couldn't help but feel a stab of excitement, though. Pups!! Thinking affectionately of the future little fuzballs that would soon be rolling around the territory, some of his earlier anxiety left him. He trusted Liar. He trusted his packmates. But still the doubt was there, because even the slightest chance of someone taking advantage of her now made his fur rise.

Finally he reached the lake's edge, and caught sight of a familiar shape near the water. Instantly his ears perked up happily, and a smile lit up his visage. Then he saw Jacq, and a low growl started. Surprised at this sudden instinct, he quickly bit it off, ashamed at his anger. He was helping, and she was fine. Should he interrupt? Unsure, he stood back, suddenly awkward. Was she still upset at him?

ooc: okay, can't take him out o.o...... he is my Kal!

Kiandra, Keanu, & Khalon

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 26, 2009 8:35 pm

Yana noticed Jack rushing past him, towards Calypso, who was in the opposite direction Yana himself was walking in now. He decided to be considerate to the almost-new parents, since he'd probably be driven away, anyways. There was simply no purpose to is presence there, and there was the fact that being near a mother giving birth wasn't very comfortable in his mind, nor was the idea of newborn pup, either. Perhaps it's be best for him to stay off for a day, near enough so the pack knew he was in the lands, though. He didn't want them to be more suspicious of him than they are already, although he doubted he'd ever have any bad intentions for this pack.

A snarl came forth from his throat as his footsteps clashed with the leaves and dirt upon the earth. Red was currently in pursuit of an agile rabbit, but it was the only one he'd seem wandering around, and he was sure he'd be able to catch it. The land sloped upward, but wasn't too worried. Perhap's he'd quit the chase if his prey was a deer, but his legs were longer, and for the short term, he could add a boost of speed until the slope tired him out.

He darted forward and after a while was able to correctly predict what direction the rabbit would veer off into, so he was able to lunge forward and snag it by the back of the neck. When the fading life finally left, he put it on the ground, looking at it. It was a good sized rabbit, which probably explained why it was fequently changing directions more than using its speed. This should be enough, but he, or someone else, would always be able to hunt another. He paused, to catch his breath. He wasn't quite in top condition as time passed. His young days were long over, although he could hardly consider himself old. Still, he'd gained at least the wisdom to know when to slow down, which was why he decided to take a breather before returning to Calypso, although he figured it would be nicer to go back soon.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Mon Oct 26, 2009 11:49 pm

Jacques was glad to see her smile as Liar looked up at him, and took her invitation to move closer in the water. The water was chilly, but he shook it off, focusing on her as she spoke. Was that a little tease she offered with that wink? He smirked, his water-tipped tassel dripping lightly as it waved to and fro. He nodded as she explained how to use bark to carry water. "Heh, wonder why I didn't think of that," he said sheepishly, following her to the shore. His anxiety around her and that scent had dwindled, until she shook the water from her pelt. Her sweet aroma sifted through the air, teasing his nares and drawing him closer to her, long legs making quick strides after her as she went to show him how to strip the bark. She seemed troubled by something for a moment, and he almost wanted to ask what bothered her, but she was over it the next instant. He shook his head, and followed it with a thorough shaking of his pelt, feeling silly for his suddenly scattered mind.

Trying ever so hard to concentrate, he followed her instructions for making useful-sized chunks of bark, not too small but not so big it would break with too much water. Once he'd gotten a piece of bark for himself that seemed reliable, he looked to her again, ocean-hued orbs traversing her form quickly before finding her face. Leaves. They needed the leaves of the trees. He followed her to her choice of trees, for she had the right knowledge for this while he knew nothing. He stood close enough that he could feel the heat of her pelt and breathe in her strong, attractive scent. It made him shudder. I was so young my first time... maybe it wouldn't be so wrong now though... he thought, uncontrolled. No one had taught him of these things. He knew only of the instinct that pulled him to her now, something programmed in him now that forced rationale from his mind and made his loins pulse.

He was motionless for several moments, until he realized she'd asked a favour of him. Giving his head another shake, he reared up on his hind legs, coming to his full and towering height, easily reaching 7' with his maw. He snapped up as many leaves as he could reach at once, not sure how may were needed. For a moment he stayed planted where he was, his forepaws against the trunk of the tree. It was not long ago he had tried to climb a tree, and here he was against another. But under these circumstances, he felt afraid to come back down while he stood on his hinds. He was afraid of what his body might do without his permission. Though right now he wanted nothing more than to throw himself on top of Liar, and he had no given knowledge of these things, he just felt it couldn't be right. He couldn't just force himself on her, do something to her that she had not invited. You just didn't do that, even he knew it, in spite of those who had raised him. He waited there until she had moved away with bark and leaves in her maw, before he dismounted, paws thudding heavily to the ground. He could have her under him no problem, and there would be nothing she could do about it. He grunted, willing his thoughts away.

He gathered several leaves and tried to imitate what he had seen her trot off with. Once satisfied, he picked up the bark and leaf combination, about to follow in the direction Liar had gone when he spotted an unfamiliar wolf. He had been so utterly enthralled by Liar and her mesmerizing scent that he had noticed him any earlier. Hadn't noticed the smile, nor heard the growl. His ears flicked back, suddenly aware of his surroundings and how oblivious he had been. An earthquake could have struck and a fire ripped through their lands and he would not have noticed if everyone had died. He felt ashamed, and yet, he still could not bring himself out of the trance that had come over him. He felt threatened by the other male's presence, not friendly and inviting like he would usually be, and he hurried away, slinking off. His head was even with his shoulders, and his tail low and stiff, that was, until he spotted Liar again. His dark, bushy gray tail whipped into the air and padded up to her, glancing around momentarily to spot the stream she'd mentioned.

He raced over to it to test the bark contraption she'd designed, and found that it worked relatively well. He lifted his head and looked for clearer water, and found it was best farther into the depths, where the silt ran closer to the streambed. He dipped in the bark again and came to dry land, setting it down and looking at her. "You're mighty clever," he said, giving her a sly look, "It holds water great... hey Liar... do we need to get back right away?" He was staring at her hungrily, and it would be obvious why he had asked. But why oh WHY did he have to say it? Couldn't he show even the slightest bit of restraint and keep his mind on his duties? Calypso meant a lot to him, and this was her daughter. There' s nothing wrong with that, the longing side of him tried to convince himself. His brow furrowed, and he gave her a half-apologetic, half-confused look. "Well I mean.. yea we should.. right?" he asked less confidently, gulping, feeling foolish.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Oct 27, 2009 1:10 am

Liar watched as he copied her actions with the water. She smiled, glad to know someone was actually interested in what she had to offer to the pack. Of course her mother was, and now Will...Lennox...having saved his life, and Yana having watched her do so. It was nice to be appreciated. She wagged her tail when he complimented her and she smiled sidewards at him. "Clever...wait till you see what I'll do when someone asks for my help and I don't want to save them" She winked and then felt her gut tremble. Her eyes grew wide a little with the thought she had just said.

When she didn't want to save them. She was in a lighter pack, and she just made a thret on someone's life who hadn't even asked for her assistance yet. That was the side of her uncle, the dark lord of Jabbar. Her shoulders shook a little and she made it look like she shook her pelt out of more water when in reality she had gotten the chills. Her eyes landed on Jacques again and she cocked her head a little at his question. Did they? She wasn't too sure. She knew Calypso wasn't ready to give birth, but it was close, anyone could smell it, it was a strange smell, just like her own, but not as... scary.

The thought of pups made her tail raised and she smiled. "I'm excited." she said softly, her eyes held a twinkle in them, a big soft excitment crossed her features. "Calypso is going to be a real mom. No more of the adopted pups like me who are grown and just a little more independent, she gets to raise pups with someone she...loves. Oh. I'm so excited" She felt her body shake with that excitment and she laughed a little. "No. We don't have to go back yet. She wont need any water till about half way through. I think maybe we'll leave the water here. I'd like to go for a sprint, a fast race. You up for it?" She growled and snapped at the air.

What...was she doing. She wasn't asking herself this, but she was doing it without knowledge. It was playful, it was taunting and teasing and it felt so natural. She'd probably have done this with Kal too but he wasn't around. As she looked at Jacques she wondered where Kal had gone. She left him back in the meadow. She had grown slightly peeved at him, and she knew it was the fear and emotions as her mother had explained but she hadn't actually been mad at him, she was worried about Calypso, it was her first birth. She herself had NO idea what that was like, but it was scary to wonder how Calypso would do. She knew of the problems that came with birthing whelps, or that could come, and she felt Calypso would be fine.

"Jack is with her probably, they're both ansy, you can feel it, you can feel the excitment in the water, and in the roots of the tallest trees" she felt her own claws extend and scratch at the ground like a tiger. Her legs trembled and she jumped forward at Jacques touching him with her nose on the shoulder. "You're..." She started to dart off. "IT!" She laughed and jumped around in the water splashing the stream all around. "I haven't played tag since I was little with Kal and his siblings! I feel old...yuk" She barked and growled biting at the water before she darted off. Of course he could keep up, she was fast but she was more slim for agility not for such high speed. She wasn't a fighter but she was a healer.

The trees appeared before her and she weaved around them quickly. They ran along her pelt catching her very scent of herself and this heat. She was in that point where it was perfect for breeding. This would last a day or two before the season would die within her and she'd be fine. But she pressed herself towards him, and she felt him press towards her, though she wasn't sure of it, her body was. She felt the tree bark catch her fur and she knew it would drive him nuts as he began the chase. It was a cat and mouse game, only...she hadn't known there was a bigger more dominant cat lurking near by, watching her. He would know what was going on, and he would get mad...if he reacted...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Tue Oct 27, 2009 10:52 pm

As he watched, Khalon grew more and more anxious, and it grew harder to remain in the shadows. Yet he couldn't move. Each movement Jacq made was magnified in the bru's eyes, and every one seemed to fall in Liar's direction. A low snarl started in the back of his throat as they moved together, than apart, playfully interactiong. Jealosy lent a terrible anger to his chest, one that both scared and empowered the normally gentle bru. He held back, however, knowing that Liar would not go along with anything.... could not....

Yet she did. It was unfair to say that he saw any sort of betrayal by her, they could have been friends playing, nothing more. Yet still he felt betrayed, as though he had had his heart flung back in his face. Now anger and jealousy roiled in a choking dance with disappointment and heartache. He should have interrupted then and there, put his worries at ease, but still he did not trust himself, knowing that to approach Jacq now would be to open himself to doing something he would regret later. Perhaps he did not fully trust Liar, but at that moment, he trusted himself less. Almost changing his mind, he took a single step out of his cover... only to whirl and plunge back into the trees.

Stupid, stupid, stupid... he berated himself, flying back in the direction from whence he had come. If he had not already lost her, surely now he was losing his chance. Maybe there was something between them... he had been an idiot to assume that Liar was his. Nothing had openly been said between them, and though he had thought she meant to be his, perhaps he had been mistaken. Now, however, he would not know, and he would be left to wonder.

Kiandra, Keanu, & Khalon

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Wed Oct 28, 2009 2:27 pm

She was running. She wasn't sure if Jacques was going to chase her and she turned around quickily and ran back towards him in a big loop. She was running so fast, this little bit of energy and excitment. She darted through the trees running back in Jacques direction a little. She closed her eyes as an open area came before her and as she ran a thick scent caught her nares and addes more excitment to her game with herself. As she opened her eyes there was the master of that wonderful smell and she gasped as she realised how close he was. "Khalon!" she screamed, and she turned to miss him before she could run into him. He threw off the ability of her moving and she smacked into a tree rather hard. She yelped and stepped back a little, holding her paw up licking it, some blood trickled down her foot she had injured it. "Ow! ouch ouch ouch!" she whimpered and licked her paw between her few words and she looked at Kal with some kind of accusation.

Her eyes were locked on him and she had an angry look. "Look!" she lifted her paw and lopped over to him "Look what I did! Just like when I was little!" she felt her smile behind her face and she tried to hide it a little "Always making me fall down don't you!" she smirked and then really looked at him and choked back. "Khal...are you okay?" she asked. Her mind was blank and for some reason she felt scared of him... "I'm sorry, for leaving you back there. I was worried about Calypso. I didn't want her to go wandering off to do anything and she did and... I'm sorry if I upset you" She was looking up at him and she felt small. Her ears were pulled back a little and worry was etched around her face. Her mind went backwards and she felt her worry grow. "Why didn't you join us... Jacques and I, in our game of tag? You were standing right there. I smelled you when I ran back this way to scare him..." She paused and felt sick for some reason. Was he mad... at her? Or at her playing with someone else. "Khalon..." she said his name but it was more of a question.

The tables had turned, for once she wanted him to talk to her. She had always opened up to him and now she wanted the same. She wanted to stand a little closer to him because she felt cold. And as he was there she felt so much smaller. He was taller, and stacked more then her in every size. Her mind went towards a naughty thought and she gulped back trying to think about it. What was wrong with her! She had thought this about Jacques too in a smaller way. And as Khalon stood before her she felt emense... it wasn't even guilt. She didn't know if he'd turn away from her or if he'd stay. She wasn't sure right now, he looked so...dead and she wanted to just smile and make him smile. She knew it would work. It had to, it always did... Did...was everything in the past. She wanted to rip her stomach out because she felt sick to her stomach...

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Oct 29, 2009 1:00 am

Jacq perked his auds to her, watching with a little smirk as she made a comment about being clever. It was a devilish thing to say, and the mysterious darkness that held her in that moment sent a shiver up his spine, though he wasn't quite sure what that meant. She winked at him, and his grin widened. She seemed to quickly want off of that subject, and started talking about Calypso and her coming litter. He wagged his tail, and nodded his agreement. "I'm excited too," he said, his eyes narrowing sincerely, "She knew me as a newborn, and now I shall know her little ones. It'll be like having a family again." His tail sank momentarily, remembering his mother and his two sisters, who were long gone from the Pearl and there whereabouts unknown.

His eyes flashed with amusement, and his tail lifted as she said they needn't go back right now, and she wanted to go for a sprint. He bounced on his paws a bit as he watched her get all riled up, then suddenly, she jumped forward and pressed her nose to his shoulder, yelling that he was 'It'. He smiled and laughed and dashed after her, splashing through the shallows as she bit at the water. He weaved through the trees after her. He was tall with long legs, and he was quick, but his mass made it harder to move quickly through the woods like she did. She left bits and pieces of her hair on the twigs and undergrowth, and her scent was all around him as he chased her. He wondered if she was teasing him purposely, or if she just wanted to play. Either way, it drove him on, and he yipped excitedly, almost desperately as he ran around, following her for through the forest.

Suddenly she darted around and was heading back the same way, and he heard her call out a name from up ahead. Khalon? Who was that? Could it possibly be the wolf he'd seen briefly from earlier? His ears flicked back and he felt a twinge of anxiety; Liar obviously knew the male, and he trotted up just as she stubbed her foot harshly on a tree, breaking a nail. He watched with dismay as it bled, and she focused her attention on this 'Khalon' male. She showed genuine emotional concern for him, and seemed to be apologizing for disincluding him in their fun. Put out, Jacq sighed and held his head down. He didn't quite come up to the pair, standing slightly behind and to the side of Liar. Her scent was tantilizing, and it forced strong feelings to rush through him. He couldn't look at Khalon without a strange pulse of anger running through him, and he had to force his hackles to stay down. He wished he wouldn't feel that; he wished he would just be normal and introduce himself, and agree with Liar and invite him into their game. But he just couldn't right now.

Subject: Re: --Hoist the Colors High [MB] Thu Oct 29, 2009 4:22 pm

She followed him. He could not say that he was not pleased, but this certainly hadn't given him time to prepare himself for her questions. For a moment, he considered continuing on, not turning around... but then she darted in front of him, forcing him to pull up quickly. Where had she come from? Heart racing from the startle which he had recieved, he turned to see her staring at her paw, which she had presumably stubbed against a tree. Just as he was about to go over, see if she was alright, she looked at him, accusation clear in her gaze. He dropped his ears guiltily... he should have been watching...

It wasn't until he saw the smile about to shine through that he realized she was jesting him, and he gave a small smile of humor in answer. She must have noticed his lack of response, for soon she was bombarding him with questions, blaming herself. This was why he had wanted time! This was his problem, really.... he had no idea what had gotten into him. She needn't worry! Suck it up, Kal, he berated himself. "It's nothing, Liar, really. I'm fine." He chose not to respond to her question about the tag game, for to follow that chain of thought would be to bring back the anger. Even now, his scent on her threatened, and he felt his hackles rise slightly in response. Taking a deep breath, he kept the reaction slight, so as not to be noticed, but it made his blood boil just thinking about it. Mine. The possessiveness which overcame him scared him slighlty, and also went against his normal chivalrous instincts. Perhaps not. It is her choice. Still, that carnal bru, the dragga within, snarled. Mine.

He really did need to explain, however, and the look in her eyes implored him to reveal his thoughts. She had done so for him, and he had found it comforting. Perhaps it would be the same for her. He opened his maw to speak, then shut it just as abruptly. Jacques had followed, and there was an air of hostility about him that made an answering reaction rise within Khal. He couldn't stop the glare that came, nor the hair at the back of his neck rising. He did not like the way Jacq was challenging his time with Liar. He had never had a male to explain to him the expected reactions of testosterone and females, and as thus had no way of knowing that what he felt was extremely natural. All he knew was that something in him hated any bru near Liar at the time, and Jacq happened to fill that quota.

Kiandra, Keanu, & Khalon