Hideaway Strath Synapses Snap Back in Blissful Anguish

For @Zitari Le <3

The man limped to the river’s edge, attendants hovering at his sides, steadying him with firm paws to keep him from slipping. He hesitated, dipping a tentative paw into the water to test the gentle current, before plunging his weary body into the river’s frigid embrace. The icy shock hit him immediately, stealing the breath from his lungs, but with it, the relentless ache that had gnawed at him seemed to ebb away, drawn out by the cold. It was an uncomfortable exchange, but one he welcomed.

The dog leaned back against the grassy bank, letting the water cradle him, his muscles loosening as the river did its work. Around him, his disciples moved in quietly. They combed through his tangled fur with gentle paws, untangling each knot and snarl with reverence, massaging the tension from his slender shoulders, his back, his aching limbs. The rhythmic motions lulled him into a state of half-consciousness, a deep sigh slipping from his lips as he surrendered to their care.

This—the simple luxury of being cared for by another—was something he hadn't realized he'd missed so keenly. The soft caress of the water, the devoted attention of his followers, the quiet moment away from The Abbot's overbearing attention. Here, in the river’s icy embrace, surrounded by the gentle hum of his disciples’ care, he would allow himself to sleep. Just for a while.