Broken Antler Fen my demeanor tends to disappoint

Still trembling, Liora did as she was told. A first on many counts. Craning her neck for a better angle, she grasped at the thick fur shrouding the man’s neck. Teeth and fur tangled together until she could feel the warmth of his flesh just out of reach. She didn’t want to hurt him, not after helping her, but would her teeth even puncture the man’s weathered hide? She doubted it. Mumbling an affirmative through a full mouth, Tahoe started the painful process of removing herself. 

Slow, he had said, but each movement felt like Gaia trying to pull her in. She wondered if that had been Zyraena’s fate. Would her sister’s corpse never be found, lost to the silt and clay of the bog? Liora hoped not. If anyone deserves such a death it was certainly not her dear sister. She wanted to give up. It hurt, and her muscles screamed in protest at the exertion they rarely felt. She was tired and alone and the gods had fallen silent. The image of her and Zyraena just yesterday lounging by the pools of their home nearly brought her to tears. Zyraena couldn’t survive without her, she was weak. Too kind and accepting for the world to not abuse. Liora couldn’t give up, for if she did it would guarantee her sister’s demise. 

Heaving a final time, their combined efforts dislodged Liora from the muck. She collapsed into a sad heap at the man’s feet, body trembling with exhaustion. Jaws releasing their hold, she spat out the small clump of hair she had taken with her. Though she loathed to be seen in such a state, Liora whispered a soft thanks without meeting the other’s eyes. 

The gods will shine brightly on you for your help.