[m] Chapter ONE: Washed Out

Andr · January 07, 2024, 12:10 AM

Andr did not need thanks. Did he naturally expect a thank you to be uttered following a kind deed? Yes. But would he have been offended if he went without one? No. The gratification he felt from providing for others was enough. Filling him with a sense of purpose... he lacked without it.

Humble fulfillment was far from needed in this instance. For from the moment the fish left his mouth he was showered with praise. First, her body became ablaze. Redness filled her cheeks, connected by a great smile, and her paws danced as though they were over joyous hot coals.

The thanks that left her lips were also plentiful, but to watch her eat and be satiated is what filled his chest with pride. Along with the bliss that erupted from her in laughter.

If not for her drenched coat and empty stomach one would be unable to guess she had risen from the seashore but minutes ago. Had her journey with the tides been less formidable than one would expect? Her spirit certainly made it seem as though it was possible. Like an expert making the most challenging look like child's play.

"Your offer is appreciated but not necessary. I need only eat when you are full. And if you would allow me to be so bold, I would wager it will take more than one fish to meet that threshold." It was rare that Andr allowed himself to go hungry, especially when he'd only been hunting for one in recent times.

He looked off into the distance, contemplating viable locations they could take shelter from the elements and allow her to dry. Only one came into view. And it made his insides turn over. A hint of anger festered within him for even thinking it, and a sour taste stayed in his mouth when it became the only reasonable option.

Those trees ablaze and the night sky female within it, an image he may never be able to forget.

"There is a forest to the East they call The Sentinels... The trees should allow us refuge for a short time before we press on further." he stated trying to proceed as though his mind were not elsewhere.