The Dawn of New

Laughter crept from the heart of living darkness, stilling the air for the sound to carry and command the ears of all to receive. A creature of life might have heard the foreboding chords as the song of coming death in the wake of insolence. But to the ears of the female, this frightened thing that care for not his appearance but his approval, heard his voice as an assuring echo that no- he was not wholly disappointed in her. But found no reason in her hesitation. No cause for her to resist. It was the suggestion that the very idea of her fear was as foolish as what could be conceived by a pup grown in a world of ignorance. But in hearing this, did she also feel the subtle pang of sadness work into her chest. What was wrong that none would not seek him as a mate? Or he, any other? Was he simply incapable? …had the thought never crossed his might at all? “…but your line-“ In a single breath she began her thought then silenced it before it grew to life. She did not wish to speak on it now, nor let her thoughts stray away from the matter at hand. He reminded her with the inky smile on his muzzle that she needn’t let her mind surrender to fear. “…I know this,” she replied, having allowed her moment of doubt to slip away as she stepped forward with renewing confidence to again take the side of her shadow. She lowered her head respectfully, though boldly lifted her muzzle to touch beneath his blind, scarred eye. She hummed to him softly, always reminding him that she was near even when out of his sight. Though she would have done well to remember this truth herself. “A light cannot stand without its shadow,” she recited softly. Gently she licked his cheek. “Nor can a shadow be cast without its light. It is an existence that no force can cast away. I apologize. I should not have allowed myself to forget this.” Her ears fell back as her voice fell to sorrow. “…even for a moment.”