Falls of the Hinterlands anima

by reflex, she stiffens as he approaches, and forces herself to remain still, to allow him access to the soft fur along her cheek. her eyes close, and she rocks into it, breath slowing, heartbeat slowing.

without volition—but entirely willing—Avicus steps forward once, twice, then drapes her neck along his shoulders, chin tilted to rest along his back. 

in this moment(!), the fight leaves her. she doesn't know if it had ever done so before, at least fully.

she eases entirely into his embrace, and damned if it doesn't feel right.

alwayhh' been you, Avicus murmurs, voice muffled against his fur, which she begins to groom as well, tasting herbs and earth and wilderness.

no other has seen her at her very worst and her very best.