Phantom Hollow feels like I am falling down a rabbit hole;; falling for forever

@Lennon @Korei Julia hope this works!

It had been a couple days since his last proper meal-- scraps here and there when he could scavenge them, and the berries he now thought of as Guilty Berries. The boy was weaker for it, and he was already small, so he shouldn't have been as surprised as he was when he fell.

Alarian wasn't so weak yet that he should have fallen if he was acting normal, but he wouldn't be caught dead doing that. He had spent the day climbing trees, hopping from one to another when two branches were close enough-- and sometimes when they weren't. Athletic as he was, his limbs felt heavy and tired, contrasting his stomach's airy emptiness; an overestimation of his own ability had sent him tumbling to the forest floor, dropping hard into the snow. He wheezed, the wind knocked from him, and decided if he didn't die then and there (not that he was close-- just dramatic) he would get up and find himself a fat squirrel.

Set after directly this thread

Lennon was warming up to the young girl he so kindly (in his opinion) decided to aid in finding direction in her new, up and coming life. She wasn’t as outward as he was, but he was able to deal with the silence well. He really wanted to have everything work out in the best possible outcome, though chances weren’t always so high.

It had recently begun to snow, tiny ivory dots poked from his dark coat, doing the opposite on Korei and blending in seamlessly. At this point in their journey, he was muttering to himself a song. ”What would you think if I sang out of tune? Would you stand up and -“ His caroling was abruptly terminated with the sudden thump. Then, strangely enough, he was facing another young wolf that seem to have fallen from the sky. Lennon paused a moment, waiting for him to recover, after seeing little movement, the dusky wolf barked with urgency. Bounding over, yet still managing to keep a water-like stride. ”You alright there, mate?” He questioned, still puzzled with the boys coming from.

Korei followed along by Lennon, and she listened carefully as he began to sing. She hadn't heard him sing yet. She eyed him curiously, until she too heard the thump. Korei followed Lennon's gaze to find a young wolf like themselves, on the ground. She was worried about them, yet still moved slightly behind Lennon. Until he moved away  to the fallen wolf, leaving her there.

Alarian groaned softly, rolling over and wincing as another wolf approached. Nothing seemed terribly out of place, though he knew he would be sore for some time. Never been better. He mumbled cheerfully, snorting and shaking his head in an attempt to clear the dizziness. The boy still hadn't really looked at the other, and upon realizing it his eyes were drawn upwards.
Creators, he was cute.

Flaming gayness aside, Alarian was glad to see a friendly face for once. He sat up a little too quickly, attempting to wag his tail and look friendly but failing utterly when he tipped to one side and was lost in a coughing fit for a few seconds. The boy corrected himself in short order, and promptly went to acting as if nothing had happened. Then he noticed the other wolf.
Oh, there's two of you! He was suddenly a little nervous despite himself. Ali had never been one for a lot of company-- not since... well, it was best not to think of that now. The boy tilted his head, gaze going from the pale girl-child to the darker male. He wasn't sure what else to say; his head was spinning from the fall, and his chest felt weirdly fluttery when he looked at the male.

Lennon’s time with Korei was no doubt delightful, but he couldn’t deny his excitement to see another cheery wolf like himself. He mirrored the strangers animation slightly more dramatically, his tail wagging and crooked smile splayed out clear against his maw. ”Gave us a fright, kid.” kid, little did Lennon know the young wolf was older than himself. It took him a moment to register what the new acquaintance’s gender was, not like he cared much though. Did it truly matter?

His bright energy ceased with the sudden coughing, he lowered his ears and took a step closer, clear fret in his mahogany eyes. ”You sure you’re alright?” At the mention of his ivory coated traveling companion, he turned his attention back to her, shooting her a quick smile. ”Ah, yes that’s Korei.” His attention returned to the recently fallen boy, and he cocked his head and grinned just as bright as earlier. ”And I’m Lennon.” Something about this newcomer greatly interested him, perhaps it was his nonbinary physique or strange upbeat feel even when he was too stunned to speak clearly.

Korei tipped her head slightly. Was this wolf hurt? And just how hurt? There was one thing she thought of when it came to those that were hurt and seeing someone hurt touched her tender heart. She went off for a moment, to find exactly what could help after Lennon introduced her.

By the time she came back, not sure how much time had passed since leaving, she had leaves in her mouth and put htem before the wolf. "Rasberry leaves....they help with pain....are you in pain?" she asked, slightly worried for the other wolf. Korei thought he was in pain. She momentarily forgot about the bitter taste the give.

Alarian couldn't help but smile back at Lennon, feeling a bit less nervous, though he realized then that the other wolf had run off. Just as he was about to say something, she returned carrying leaves and dropped them in front of him.
I'm Alarian. He offered, tail beginning to wag again. These wolves were so friendly. I'll be okay. It only hurts a little-- but thank you for the help.
The boy bent and chewed the leaves, trying to ignore the bitter taste and vaguely hoping the girl knew what she was talking about. He didn't feel like barfing after that fall.
When he finished, he turned his attention back to the two in front of him, grinning happily at them. I'm glad you two showed up when you did! Do you live 'round here?

Lennon was put at much more ease when Alarian seemed to be able to function normally, his eyes squinted as he continued to observe the feminine male. His smile never ceased, and the kind action of Korei lifted his opinion of her even higher, despite it already being high. he didn’t know she dabbled in any sort of medicine, the two really needed to get to know each other a bit more. She was kinder than he’d thought, and deserved more appreciation for it. 

Alarian’s question couldn’t help but make the wolf chuckle a bit, shaking his head in response. ”Neither of us got a home,” He then gestured to the girl with his muzzle, ”That’s just what we’re trying to find her though.” 

He tilted his head again as an idea began to form. ”No chance you’ve got one in mind?” It would be interesting to travel with the cheerful wolf as well. Company was never looked down upon, and mostly encouraged by Lennon - the more the merrier.

She watched as he ate, still not remembering about the bitter taste it held. She nodded, with a shy look about her as Lennon spoke of how they were trying to find her a home. "I left my home..." she murmured.

Alarian paused at the offer, then started to reject it immediately.
I've always been more of a wanderer... He trailed off, gaze drifting back over to Korei as he suddenly realized that these wolves had been kinder to him than any had in a long time. After a moment of pause, he took a different direction. But it'd be nice to have company. I'll travel with you!

Eager to assure them of his usefulness, he added with a wag of his tail: I can hunt! It used to be my role when I... lived among others.
He couldn't have called his small, dysfunctional family a pack, but it was worth mentioning. It had, in truth, been his only experience living with others.

Lennon’s face brightened with the thought of the small group traveling together, he too wasn’t much of a pack wolf, and preferred the nomadic lifestyle that got him here. Though, if any wolves touched him enough he would be quick to stay. Right now, his intention was only to escort Korei safely to her new beginnings with a new family. Whether he’d be joining was debatable, but the simple thought of never communicating again after their travels upset him - he wouldn’t dwell on it now, fate would be deciding all that. 

Instead, he got to focus on more company. One that he already thoroughly enjoyed. It was only then was Lennon reminded of his begging stomach, which he often was able to ignore. He had bigger priorities, but the mentioning of food only brought its focus back in place. ”That’ll definitely come in handy.” He admitted, attempting to ignore his growls once more. 

”How long have you been without a pack?” The question was somewhat abrupt, but Lennon didn’t hold back his inquiries often. It had been well over a few months since he had one himself, but little complaint came with that. Only that he was often without company.

Korei Julia had been up to helping the wolf, but for another joining them? She was not sure how she felt about that. It took a bit for Korei to trust Lennon, or rather just being saved by him was enough. 

She frowned at Lennon when she heard growls, not realizing it was his stomach, and was about to comment about it. Until her own did, and she felt her face heat up, and a look of embarassment.

The boy shot the two a teasing half-smile in response to their stomach noises. Your bellies are telling me to get to work! He commented cheerfully, dropping into a stretching position.
Alarian hadn't hunted in awhile, purely for lack of motivation; he found more motivation in feeding others than himself, so instead he had wandered aimlessly without thought for his needs. But now he could feel his body warming and loosening in response to the stretch, and tingles of repressed energy surged through him at the thought of hunting.
He did enjoy it-- not the killing part, he hated that, but the chase... yes, he lived for that part. The adrenaline and thoughtlessness of the moment, the way instinct took over and for once he could let it (Alarian knew he was a strange boy, but he would have been far stranger without self-control). It was a powerful feeling.
The anticipation of the hunt almost caused him to miss Lennon's question, but thankfully he caught the second half of the question and inferred the first half.
Oh, a long time! Alarian finished his stretch and turned away so the other wolf wouldn't see the darkness in his eyes. His tone had not changed from its usual perkiness, but now it was a bit of an effort on his part. At least a year. Do either of you want to hunt with me?

Lennon watched as the boy readied his muscled for the soon hunt, and admittedly grew very confused. He was addled by the vixen’s physique, so much so he had to look a way for a moment and process his thoughts. At Alarian’s offer, he turned his attention to Korei - still somewhat bewildered. ”Only if she plans to come, I don’t feel comfortable leaving her alone.” He admitted, it was obvious the fae didn’t have much experience on being alone and surviving in such harsh conditions. To leave, even for a short time, was something Lennon simply could not do. ”Do you know how to hunt?” At this point Lennon learned to ask instead of talk, for what she did and did not know was all a game of chance.

She was a bit unsure of how to answer. She had done that hunt with Wraen, but that was only just one hunt. "I, um...you go on without me" she said with a small smile. "I'll...I'll be fine here" she said as she went over to a spot where she could lay down. Then she gestured for the boys to go off, and hunt.

Alarian turned to look at the two when they spoke to him, tilting his head a bit at the conflicting answers. He could understand Lennon's reluctance to leave the smaller girl behind, but he didn't want to argue against her wishes.
I can catch enough for all of us. The boy always spoke softly (which didn't help his already feminine, slightly musical voice), and this time it was almost quiet enough to miss.
But it might take me longer. He admitted as an afterthought, but this wasn't an inconvenience for him-- he just didn't want to leave his companions waiting.

Lennon was caught in a rut, unsure if he should aid Alarian in the hunt or stay by Korei’s side. He stood somewhat awkwardly, his face mirroring his stance as he tried to decide on what to do. One ear was lowered as he contemplated before giving in to his choice and turning to his alabaster friend and giving her a quick nudge with his nose. ”Don’t move, this won’t take long.” He insisted, before shifting is attention to Alarian. 

He now looked much much more enthused, and leapt towards his hunting partner with glee. ”C’mon then!” Lennon stood much higher now, thrilled to be having a meal in the near future.

Korei shyed her face away as Lennon nudged her cheek, but she couldn't help smiling warmly. Her tail tucked around her, she lay there as she waited for them to return. She watched as they left, then remained there, thinking about things.

Last post from Korei till they return

The shift in Lennon's attitude inspired a rush of excitement in the boy-- he was too often surrounded by melancholy and seriousness (ew).The seriously too attractive man's presence was a welcome change. Alarian smiled, unable to help a tiny roo and a hop in place before he took off running in the other direction.

The forest was too quiet, too still in many places; Alarian knew there wouldn't be much prey in those parts, having spent the better part of the day observing it from above, so he led the other wolf to a more lively area. He ran fluidly, body close to the ground, strangely graceful in his movements-- it was almost elegant, until he came to a complete, sudden halt.
The boy skidded first, then hit a bush and tumbled over the top of it, flipping end over end and kicking up snow until he lost momentum. He sat up with a delighted giggle, snow covering him, and grinned at Lennon.

With the sudden sprint by his companion, Lennon had the urge to send Korei one last smile and nod, before copying Alarian’s action. A burst sent snow flying up in the air as he dashed after the feminine silhouette. Every stride was long and flowing, similar to his friends. His movements were comparable to a ballet number. Although, they differed in clumsiness - Lennon never stumbles, but his pier had proven himself otherwise. 

Lennon’s hault was cautious and evenly timed, slowing to a complete stop next to his snow blanketed companion. A lively laugh echoed off the trees as the dark male joyed in the maladroit happening. ”Can’t catch any hares if you hunt like that, mate.” His comment was all in good fun, not caring for the meal and much preferring a well needed chuckle. ”I know why you fell from the sky, now.”

The boy couldn't help feeling a bit embarrassed at the comment, fluffing up as he felt a heated flush under his fur.
I wasn't hunting yet! He informed Lennon, but his tone was only playfully indignant.

Alarian shook his coat out, shooting the larger wolf a mischievous glance. The next moment, he had kicked up a small amount of snow at the other, then he bolted again. This time the boy only ran a short distance before turning back to look, ears pricked, completely still. It was an invitation for the other to play with him-- he was hungry, yes, but play was definitely a higher priority. He chuffed at the other wolf and gave a couple wags of his tail, then stilled again, waiting.

The clump of snow landed on his nose, going cross eyed as he attempted to look at it. The snow  forced him to sneeze, his entire head shaking violently. The after affect leaving him dizzy - at least the snow was off. With the sudden offer to play, Lennon’s initial worries of Korei completely vanished - another flaw of his, he could be quite irresponsible when he was given the option of fun. He let out a crisp bark in response, before darting in the direction of Alarian. 

I’ll show you how to hunt!” He quipped, deciding to play a good game of catch.

minor pp here? let me know if this needs to be changed at all tho :)

It was no small joy for Alarian when Lennon barked and began to chase him, and for a couple minutes the boy was content playing into the chasing game. He jumped around more like a feline than a wolf, avoiding the other at first but staying almost within his reach.
Then he decided to turn the tables, spinning around mid-run to tackle Lennon. His extended paws hit the other wolf's shoulders, and he reached out to bite him (gently, though; Ali had no intentions of hurting him) on the neck, attempting to push him to the ground despite being significantly smaller.

No problem with it! I actually sorta love it, haha

Lennon underestimated the boys nimbleness, his smaller frame proving an advantage - especially since he knew how to use it. It certainly caught him off guard to be the prey while Alarian be the hunter, and his sharp turn was in no situation expected. This shock allowed his pier the perfect opportunity to pin him to the ground, and Lennon’s perplexity was obvious. His eyes wide, ears perked and maw crooked - this was in no way anticipated. It took him a few seconds to decide how to feel about the situation, and his puzzlement was replaced with a sultry smirk. ”Seems I need to be shown to hunt.” 

He was... proud? Was that the right word? Or is it impressed, awed, dazzled? It was a strange and unfamiliar, but he wasn’t agaisnt this. Of course, there was no way he could allow Alarian to be the only winner, so he attempted to shift the smaller wolf over and instead be the one over him.

ooh I'm glad ^-^ these two are super fun to write together!

Alarian was triumphant to see the shock and confusion written on the other wolf's face, but it only lasted a second. The smile caused a flustered heat to grow in his cheeks, and he was caught off guard for a moment; long enough that when Lennon moved to flip him, he offered little resistance.
The boy was as surprised as the other had been to suddenly find himself on his back-- but for some reason he felt little inclination to fight back anymore. There was a strange fluffy feeling floating inside of him, like he was full of feathers and warmth. He smiled and brushed his nose softly just under Lennon's ear.
You win. He murmured blithely, not moving for a moment. But then he was embarrassed and he didn't know why, so he slid gently from under the other wolf and tried not to look rattled by the unidentifiable feeling. We should uhh--
Alarian paused to clear his throat, giving Lennon another shy but friendly smile. We should get to hunting.