Blacktail Deer Plateau Command me to be well

-8C°, currently it is snowing heavily and set during sunset. Located in Kintla Flatlands, blacktail deer plateau | ooc notes: omg look who's not either challenging or sitting at the borders! :O | tagging: anyone

Everyone once in a while even he would like a change of scenery. The borders were rather uneventful as of late and so he excused himself from his usual position and allowed himself to wander through the pack's territory and make his way toward the edge of the plateau. Drifting to the snowy landscape, the polar man kept to himself as he traveled, thinking that he would be left alone as still a pseudo stranger to the pack - having little to no interactions with any of them, why would they approach him? Well, that's what he thought. 

As the skies darkened, his pace only quickened ever so slightly as he paced toward the decided destination. Despite the snow, it was a relatively clear sky and so the sunset should be splendid. The setting sun should paint a whole new sight while over the plateau than that on the perimeter's treeline.

There was really only one member who Rosalyn hadn't gotten to know yet.... though she'd heard his name, and his habits. Thus she was surprised, but not upset, to find him ranging further inside.  She wasn't sure if he was on business or not, but the instant she caught sight, she called out.  Rosencrantz, aye!  

She was back in the business of keeping a paw to the pulse of the thriving pack, and while he was stoic, he was a part of it.  She'd like to know his thoughts.

Rosalyn! ROSE SQUARED FINALLY

He was wrong, and it was starting to become some kind of pattern that he was wrong about others and what they might do or say. Perhaps he was just the worst at reading or understanding others in general and slowly he was coming to terms with it.

Rosalyn, of all individuals she was the only one above him that he had not challenged. The only one whom he had not bonded with over a fight - and was now out of his reach now that she held the position of Beta alongside her mate Erzulie. Pausing for a moment, he turned his head to greet her own good eye and with a tilt of his head, invited her to join him as he continued on his path.

There isn't much time. All would be explained very soon as they approached the cliff. The clearing exposed the woodlands below, and the skies were pained in a vibrant canvas of violet and pinks, all around was the gentle sway of falling snow. For now, he would soak in the sight before turning his attention to Rosalyn and why she reached out to him.

This was his reason for entering deeper into Rusalka lands.

She'd wondered if she'd be tested by him.  She'd half expected it now... but no, it wasn't to be.  She followed, a little puzzled by the cryptic urgency, but didn't say anything until they'd arrived.

She couldn't help but grin a little when the rush seemed to be towards a sunset.  A secret romantic, I wasn't expecting an escort,  she teased.  She'd lost most of her interest in those of his sex, but old habits died hard.  Ribald humor was a standby she'd likely never lose.  

I thought we should meet.  She'd heard some tell of him from Erzulie and others but liked to take her own measure.  He was large... in a way, a bit reminiscent of Vlad.  A man she hadn't thought of in a long while.

She followed without protesting his plead, and so, they were quick enough to make the short time-span in order to observe the scenery as it painted itself across the skies. Brilliant pinks and purples with a splash of bright orange along along the backdrop of blackened trees within the twilight. Stars were already twinkling in the distance - a sight that he could not completely enjoy at the borders, not like this, he could almost feel like he was a part of the painting itself while looking down from the plateau. 

Rosalyin was quick to tease, does this really make him a romantic? He didn't really have a response to the quip. Offering a glance to the russet woman's direction to acknowledge her then move back onto the scenery.

I thought so too for a while now. He simply didn't know how to or had a reason to approach the newly titled Beta, without a challenge of course. Naturally that was the first option of his. I suppose you have some questions?

I do.  she answered, with a smile. She kept her ruined face turned away, so that her single eye could remain on him.  It was funny, together they made a whole wolf, in a way.  She always felt more at ease speaking with wolves who shared her scars; they were less apt to hold pity.

What made you choose Rusalka?  Do you have ties to someone here?  It was her first question, but perhaps the most important.  She liked to know where wolves in her crew stood with one another as well as with her.  Unattached, they may wander.  Attached to firmly, and... well, the sisters demonstrated that point well.

As expected, Rosalyn admitted to have had more to this little visit than a random moment - she had questions, and so, he could only determin he was a target to her attention for a while now. Nothing but curiosity brought her forward and so he would answer whatever she drudged up. 

And of course the simplest of questions was first, and unfortunately for her, his answer was simple and curt. No. He answered the second part first for it was the easiest of the two. He had no one here keeping him chained to their ranks, it was nothing but a habit now, a routine keeping him patrolling the borders with nothing better to do. 

I can't answer something I do not know the answer to. He admitted, as dull of an answer that was, he really didn't have much of a reason why he chose Rusalka over all the other packs he could have encountered. I regret to admit that it was purely by chance. He paused, turning his attention from the sunset and onto Rosalyn, studying her expression as best as he could - thankfully her good side was facing him and was somewhat easier to read than a bunch of scars bunching up skin. 

He needed all the help he could get when it came to trying to read another being. 

Is that a problem? It was no challenge, but he was simply curious to know if it was wrong of him. His tone was cool, calm like a breeze on a still winter's day.

Rosalyn gave a small wry laugh when he pushed back against her question, but she took it good naturedly.  She didn't mind; it was not an unselfish request.

It isn't ideal, she replied, and took a step closer with a small smile.  I suppose you might wonder why I'm asking, but look at it from where I stand.  When a crew faces hardship, they need a reason to fight for it.  Your answer suggests nothing holds you here.  Rosalyn tipped her head, curious.  I wonder, then, how we might go about changing that?

The question might be rhetorical, but she hoped he might have some light to bring to it.  A wolf like Rosencrantz had undeniable value, and his loyalty she thought would be worthwhile.  If there was something he sought and wasn't offered here, she wished to know; perhaps it was a need she could fulfill.

"It isn't ideal" the words pushed back his ears, his mind already prepared for the worst. He wasn't welcome. Despite being loyal to the pack for the past six months, now they decided that his loyalty was shallow and problematic. As she continued he listened carefully - and he was cautious about answering. Was the truth something she wanted to hear?

Hm. The sound was quick, a vocalization to his thoughts as he pondered the question and answer. Moments passed before he finally decided on. Children. The truth. Though true, he hasn't made much effort in mingling with any females in the pack in order to obtain such a thing - it was the undeniable fact. Maybe Erzulie's previous comments had more of an effect on him than he realized, or maybe it was the age. Until then, you'll just have to have faith in me.

Would she believe him? Was it enough of an answer for Rosalyn.

The answer wasn't one she expected, and the surprise was visible in her face.  She remained silent for a moment, thoughtful.  It wasn't consideration on if she trusted him - she had no other choice, yes?  And it did not matter a lot.

No, it was the request.  It wasn't something she could promise, but it would be a lie to say she wasn't tempted. She'd decided a while ago she wouldn't try again, even if she could... but Reyes was a joy.  Should she throw away a chance at what more would bring?

Finally, she breathed out.  It might be that I've passed the ability to help with this, she said, with a slight smile.  She was growing old.  But if fate sees fit to give me another season.... perhaps I will seek you out.  If you are willing.  At this her gaze grew more suggestive, and the words teasing.  She had no idea if she was still appealing to men in such a way... she'd not looked to another but Erzulie in so long.  He himself was a fine specimen... any children he sired  would be strong.

Faith, in any event, is easy enough.

Oops. Once again his choice of words had put him on the spot. His skin grew hot as she spoke - believing that he was requesting for her to give him children personally. How could he even possibly request such a thing, to burden another with his desires. Rosencrantz like to think he wasn't the selfish type to impose on others in such a way.

It was her reply that drew his gaze, slow, relunctant, but he had to focus on the woman to be certain of her tone. This was no light conversation topic, nothing that could be easily brushed off or half thought in a distracted mindset. This was her body in question, and she questioned her ability to carry - and so, hers and the puppies lives as well. 

He searched her eye for the truth, studied her expression carefully - and with a tone reserved those he held with utmost respect I would be honored. Though the questions remain if he would be an outsider to his own children's lives, he truly believed it to be honourable if chosen in the end.

Is it? With a raised brow he teased in tone, surely Rosalyn didn't put her faith in just about anyone that easily.

It was odd, the emotions that filled her as she waited.  Fear... a part of her hoped he would say no.  It had been difficult, last time, and there was no promise another chance wouldn't end her.  She was older, not built for motherhood, and her self destructive path last season had almost lost them all.  All but one.

She didn't deserve another.  But the draw was irresistable.  Remembering how it felt, how much she'd loved the feel of Reyes at her side, watching him grow.  It didn't matter how far they drifted now, he was her heart, and like a moth to a flame she felt the spring drawing her towards it.

He would be honored.  She smiled, and smoothly dipped her head in a small nod.  Then when the time comes, I'll find you, she said, giving him another appreciative look.

Easy for me.  All I need to do is wait and expect.  You're the one who has to meet them, she said, finding that for some reason his company sat easier with her now.  Old habits.  Unless you have expectations of your own?

It was strange to plan such a thing out, like a schedule, a business rather than letting nature take its course. He lamented the thought of lacking a mate, providing a woman with a litter through him without the desire to build something together (not that he sees Rosalyn that way, no homewrecking for him) - but beggars couldn't be choosers he supposed. She kept on her end after his honest answer, and only time would tell if further concern would arise. 

He would leave it there for now with a slow thoughtful nod. 

No. Again, honest. He had very little expectation that what he already had. Life was boring most days, but it didn't displease him. Boring was good, boring was safe. They had some excitement every now and then, the death of Harps... a negative event that had him delighted to sit in a moment of dull pleasure. Hopefully I don't disappoint. 

Disappointment, he had done his fair share of that in recent times.

Selfishly, Rosalyn did not bring up the terms of the litter, nor his position in their lives should something occur.  It was a far flung thing and could be sorted out later; outright denial towards Firefly was likely part of what had inspired his departure, but she found herself drawn to Rosencrantz in a way she hadn't been to the other man.  His manner was stoic; comfortable, a respectful distance that drew her to prod into it rather than send her away.  She was intrigued.

So when he finished, she chuckled.  I'm sure you'll rise to the occasion, she said, then gave him a look that suggested a bit more.  But... if you are worried, I'm not opposed to a trial.  Her tone left little doubt what she was referring to... it had been so long since she had offered such to a man.  Yet she hoped he would take it.  She could use the distraction it would bring.

With her reassurance, the man couldn't help but smile. It was soft, genuine, and clearly he enjoyed the faith she had in him. It was soothing to hear, a weight off his shoulders that he shouldn't have to worry about it every waking second any longer - though he would anyway, habits and such. 

Trial? Even he could clue into her tone, in response, the man's eye squinted lightly. His gaze softened finally, pulling his gaze away from her for a moment as he pondered her suggestion. Is that... what you desire? He needed confirmation, her to take the lead. He would not impose himself on Rosalyn - even as a man with needs, desires, he was beyond his years of just going in for it. 

Unless of course he was lost in the moment, ahrem, Vespera again... but I guess we will just completely forget about that little misstep huh Rose.

we can do a fade here <3

He seemed hesitant.  Fortunately, she was able to take it as her own intimidating demeanor and not a comment on lack of desire, else she might have been offended.  If anything, the hesitance made the want stronger... now she truly wished to see him unraveled.

Aye, surprisingly.  It is. She confirmed, and his lack of outright refusal encouraged her to come in closer, drawing herself along him to lead him away to somewhere slightly more secluded.  Once there, she would attempt to stoke him, plying a skill that had for a long time been Erzulie's alone to experience.  The season was not with her yet, but spring spelled the start... perhaps that was why such longings awoke.

As she spoke, he could already feel his nerves melting away. A comfortable silence came over him as he took in the moment, starved for intimacy, his skin burned with her touch as she brushed past him. With a heavy, relaxing, sigh he followed her to wherever Rosalyn was leading them. 

She wasn't his alone, but for now, he'd enjoy her company. Every touch, every moment would go by savored. When was the last time he was given such an opportunity? It felt like a lifetime ago. For once, Aristos, Rhaella and her counterpart, even Tundra all melted away, not a single thought lingered on them as this was his to relish as a selfish man. He would let nothing distract him from this moment.

fade!!!