Twice the speed of light

Alder · 02-21-2011, 12:28 PM

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Oak Smile

The male closed the door to his mother's room slowly.

It was not the one he had spent his early life in down on the first floor of the Manor. It was the one she had owned before he had come into the world. His blue eyes had looked at the pieces of furniture, the small things that she owned. He had sat on the bed beside her, had listened to the stories of the storm, how Mati had gone missing and they had both cried lightly with a sorrowful emotion. She was ill, recovering slowly as the temperature and her age made it hard for her to get well with speed. Alder held her hand and told her of the birth of Haven's pups, and their personalities and how they grew so quickly. He told her of the horses and the happiness that he found with them and the language that they were teaching him. She looked at him with the same gaze that she gave Haven, sadness mixed with pride. A look she had never given to him before.

His black fingers touched the necklace she had placed around his neck as he stood in front of the lightly closed door. The sun pendent was a reminder of how she loved him with the same consistency as the Sun's pattern, with the same vibrancy, and with the same warmth. The male smiled, pushing the dark mane from his eyes and began to walk down the hallway and towards that stairs. He wished to see Mati, to hear of how she was stuck in the caves as Anu had told him and to tell her of the pup's growth.

He knew that Haven wished for the Dreamers to know of their progression but the father could not leave them now. The journey was too time consuming and even Alder had had trouble with the traveling. But the Manor was warm inside, comforting and welcoming just as he always remember it.

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Oak · 03-03-2011, 01:34 AM

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Oak stepped into the Manor and shook his fur, softly spraying the threshold with tiny plumes of powdery snow. The Manor was much warmer than the wintry outside, although the most recent fire had perished some hours ago and was now little more than dimly glowing black embers in the hearth. From the fireplace his cerulean gaze swept around the room, toward the stairs, and he jumped slightly in surprise of who he saw there. Alder. he spoke to his brother with a smile, taking a few steps closer to him. It had been some weeks since he had last seen the masked wolf, and Oak was pleased that he had come for a visit.

Do you need something? Someone? the boy asked in a light tone. He suspected that the other had come to visit Anu, and he was prepared to help him look for her if that was what he wanted. Oak had never been deeply troubled by his mother's special attention toward Alder, for she had always made him feel loved enough too. And there was something in Alder's quiet demeanor that Oak had seen from day one, something that he liked and that he missed. He thought of his largest brother every day, wondering about his new life in Cour des Miracles and if he was happy enough. The rust-furred boy was startled that the quietest and seemingly meekest of the trio was the first to leave home and begin his own life, but at the same time, he was very impressed with his brother for taking such a big step. Some day soon he would follow the same path — for months now he had thought of what it would be like to be on his own.

Although he had many questions and curiosities, he held his tongue for the moment. Oak was not going to ask his brother to spend time with him, but he still hoped that he would want to.

Alder · 03-06-2011, 03:32 PM

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Alder stood at the top of the grand staircase, eyes still lingering at the pendent. They moved to catch the first step, and it was then that he heard the voice of someone familiar. It held a note deeper then he could remember, and when he looked for its maker he was not disappointed. Alder took the step quickly before striding over to his brother. Oak He spoke in greeting, warmth in his tone and a genuine smile on his face. He shook his masked face, I was just visiting mother. He replied, with eyes looking at their match. The two wolves did not look very similar, his own coat holding no red hues and Oak’s owning no blacks. But they both held the same eyes their mother did, it was all then needed to bind them.

How have you been? Mother said that things haven’t been good. He was sad to find out that the storm had trapped some, and damaged the manor. Of course he had felt for the Marino family, and the time that one of their young female’s had been sleeping and unable to be woken. But the hard times seemed to be changing, like winter was about to finally thaw and spring brought back to life. The boy did not take unhappy news well and he hoped that his brick hued brother would still be the happy wolf he had always been.

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Oak · 03-29-2011, 12:30 AM

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punch me in the face for this wait. :/ 300+

Oak stepped back from the staircase and toward the couch, leaning against the back of it and looking up at his brother with curious, but slightly shy eyes. They trailed to the pendant that rested against Alder's chest, remaining there as he studied it. It glittered in the golden light from the window, making it seem even more like the sun that was carved into the metal. Depicting the image of the sun, Oak knew that only Mother could have given the necklace to Alder. It made sense, since she was no longer able to see and encourage him on a regular basis.

Oak's dark eyes left the necklace and met with their mirror image, a grin lengthening his lips. So you saw her already, he spoke with a laugh, feeling silly — Alder had come from the direction of Mother's room, and yet the brick-furred boy assumed he had not yet spoken to her. Perhaps she had just given Alder the necklace.

The red wolf looked at the wall a moment as his hands absently played with the fabric upholstery of the couch. There had been a lot of pain this winter, especially for the elders of the pack. He was not as deeply wounded by the chaos in the same way that they had been, but their unhappiness had invaded him to some extent nonetheless. He thought that it was probably impossible to avoid that among pack wolves so connected to one another. Yeah, it was bad for a while, but it's been better, the boy explained. I can't believe someone killed Denali. Awful, he spoke lowly, still remembering the murder in that woman's eyes. Fortunately he had only looked at her a few times, but each glance had been blood-chilling. And he could not forget the hours he had spent playing with her victim. The boy had been his friend.

And, heheh, I fell out of a tree, he finished in a more lighthearted tone, indicating the healing scab in his forehead with a gesture of his hand, snickering mischievously. Alder would remember his fascination with climbing trees and he hoped his brother would find his literal downfall a little ironic. Oak laughed at it every time he thought of it, though it had been demeaning and traumatizing at first.

Alder · 04-02-2011, 11:32 AM

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In a moment such as this Alder wished for the time when they were pups. Puphood was simpler, easier and their communication was easier and simpler too. Though they had so much connecting them, Alder felt as if he had drifted away from his family so immensely. He tried to think of the things that he had done that would make up for his empty feeling, the ranks that he had gained, the Cours members that he had met. It was more then he ever thought he would do, and yet it didn't make up for the fact that he was no longer a Crimson Dreamer.

He listened to his brother, leaning against the banister and trying to relax. All he gave to the comment was a nod, hoping that no one would find it odd that she had given him the necklace. It was nothing really, but he would wear it always.

Killed Made the boys eyes close, his body cringing slightly at the thought. It saddened Alder to think that there had been a murderer among them, well... his family's pack. And that Denali's life had been taken before his time was up. Anu had explained it to him, easing his woes and tears of a small pup, with calm and soothing words. Despite the fact that he needed to be an adult, Alder could not take realities such as this one. Its very unfortunate. He spoke, repeating words Anu had just told him.

But the air around them turned, becoming weightless once more. Blue eyes looked up at his brother's face, and he crossed the distance between them to take a good look at the mark. You think it will scar? Alder had thought him foolish for trying that as a small pup, but now with everything else that the world brought on them maybe tree climbing was nothing to worry about. That might be cool. He added, some thought scars made them look tough.

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Oak · 04-17-2011, 05:47 PM

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Haven had not been lying to him when he said that things would change when he grew up. He understood more, but much of what he knew and felt was not pleasant. It was as if part of him had died, what had been alive in him when he was a pup, and there was no way to salvage it. He saw much more of the world, but it was an entirely different view than before. Beauty was harder to find, and it took much more effort to experience fun to the extent that he had when he was younger.

The faces of his family were even different to him, because he was able to see more of them. That part was not entirely bad, but as he gazed at his oldest littermate a sadness swept over him like a frigid wave. Nothing between them would ever be the same as when they had been carefree, playful pups. Oak felt as if he had to get to know his brothers all over again, so much were they all changing.

Oak nodded grimly at Alder's soft response, for it perfectly depicted what had happened to their childhood friend. There was something especially horrendous about the death of someone with many years of life ahead, and it still shocked Oak whenever he thought about it.

They did not have to speak of it anymore. The tragedy had passed, and it would do no good to let its memory fester. Oak stood still as Alder studied his healing headwound, brow furrowing with interest at his brother's words. I never thought about it, he said honestly. He had not considered gaining a scar from the fall, but it was possible. The wound had bled profusely, cut into his flesh deeply, so a scar was definitely possible. Maybe. It would be cool. The young wolf loved the idea of having a scar because it would make him a bit more unique, and of course because he would look tougher. Although, there was nothing tough about falling out of a tree.

How've you been? he asked casually, but with intense curiosity in his dark eyes. He doubted Alder would give him too many details about his new life, and Oak was not really after that. He simply wished to know what it was like for his brother now.

Alder · 04-22-2011, 10:08 AM

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Alder had never really had as carefree life as other puppies, simply due to his more timid and cautious personality. He had watched the world carefully, and still did. None of that died in him, and he had not gained much more confident. Not at least that he could feel and see. But, the masked male had gathered more bravery then he had ever known as a clumsy puppy, but his membership and rank in Cours was not enough for him to validate being proud of himself. Pride was a bit of a mystery to him.

He didn't even see it in his brother, as he spoke of the cut being more then just that but a true scar. A story, and something for others to look at and stir curiosity. He didn't know what it was, excitement perhaps, though Alder didn't try to examine his brother's emotions and only smiled and nodded.

There was a pause after Oak's question, thinking about the answer. "Cours is different." He admitted, but then followed with a positive, "I like being with the horses they have there. Living with Haven, Princess and the pups is fun." Life had been hard without Oak and Cypress and of course their mother. But he needed to find himself, and felt that he was on the way to becoming who he was meant to be without the support that his family could give him. That support had been his only he had to lean on. Now he was standing on his own. "I hope you come to visit, I can show you around the stables." It was the place he knew best, and felt the most comfortable.

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Oak · 04-27-2011, 09:54 PM

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Oak's life had dulled as he grew older. As a child he had been thrilled by the idea of growing up and being able to do whatever he wanted in the world, to live his dreams. Instead, he found little to even entertain him, and he had no idea what he wanted to do with his life. His days consisted of wandering around Crimson Dreams, occasionally speaking with Mother or the Sadira-Marino siblings, and although he loved them all, he could not deny that it had become a drab existence. He longed for something exciting, something truly happy, to happen and set his world in motion again.

Oak listened raptly, his ears lifted high and his expression alight with curiosity. Alder had many of the things that Oak longed for, among them the friendship he shared with Haven and his family — and being with horses. The masked wolf said that Cour des Miracles was different, which was just what Oak desired as well. Something fresh, and new. When he looked at Alder he saw a face that was experienced, somehow matured beyond the point Oak had reached so far. And Oak knew it.

It sounds... great, said Oak with an arch of his brow, still slightly mystified and lost in thoughts of possibility for himself. But he was also sincerely happy that his brother had found a niche that he was comfortable with. Glad you found a good place to stay, he spoke seriously.

Alder's invitation had sparked a flame of excitement, for visiting Cour des Miracles again would at least bring about a slight change in scenery, and it would give the reddish boy something to look forward to. When can I come?

Alder · 04-29-2011, 12:47 PM

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In place of simply living with what he had been born with, Alder had gone beyond the parameters of his personality. He had need the push in order not loose himself in the shyness that had become to overwhelm him. Of course the boy was still timid when meeting others and he only really ventured through this territory and that of the Court, but he was not hidden in the shadow of Anu. Oak had never faced that, he had been beyond the comforting reach of their mother since he had been able to crawl. His life in the Dreaming lands was limitless, for he had never settled down with a crutch.

Alder nodded, not truly understanding that the interest his rusty hued brother was deeper then just curiosity. He couldn’t help but smile though, happy with the idea that his family was happy for him. Even now their support was still appreciated. But with the question Alder’s thoughts slowed, a thinker and practical he was not one to rush things. Summer, probably. He said, it was not too far off. Mother and the pack will not need you then. She said there is lots to do, to bring the pack back to peace and calm. He used the dam’s exact words when he spoke, thinking as thoroughly as Anu had.

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Oak · 05-07-2011, 11:25 PM

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Oak had done just the opposite of his brother, remaining within the confines of what felt comfortable. Though the pull to fly free was stronger than he had ever felt it, he was not yet ready to venture on his own path. He knew that he was needed here, that Crimson Dreams needed as much support as it could get in its time of hardship. How he could possibly be of any real use, he did not know. But he would stay, until he and his family were ready for him to leave.

He was glad to see Alder smile at the words he had given him, and his eyes flashed briefly with true unspoken admiration and pride. Oak had not been given the chance to congratulate his brother until now, to pass on his own encouragement for whatever it was worth. He was far beyond the envy he had once felt. Alder spoke again, this time with thoughtfulness, and Oak felt the gentle urge for patience. He wondered if his brother had mistaken that Oak meant to come and stay, which was not his intention. Great — just for a visit, he added, just in case. I would not leave Mother in the middle of this. A moment of silence followed and he longed to confide. Slowly the words slipped away, softly and hestitantly. I hope I can help them.

Alder · 05-27-2011, 11:10 AM

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Oak's words brought him guilt. It seeped into his skin, slowly weighing his muscles and then touching his heart. He couldn't help the Dreamers, not when he had duties in his own pack. He was part of the court, and if he had to choose, it was the court that he would have to side with. Alder didn't like to think of that, choosing sides when he heart was so deeply committed to both. Of course if the time ever came and she asked, Alder would always do as Anu said. Oak would not leave, he would stay and help. He would fulfill his responsibility to their mother.

There were slow forming words, and Alder could see that Oak wished to say something else. He waited, and then felt his ears falter and fall slightly. He didn't have the answer for him. For he wouldn't know what to himself. To think that his braver brother was lost in his duty made him uneasy to say the least. The taller wolf fought to gather the words, You can. Your very capable. He spoke, awkward as always. Maybe just try to hunt. That always helps. No one was unhappy to be fed. Alder shrugged, he was out of ideas.

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Oak · 06-19-2011, 02:52 PM

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Want to close this? Smile

The brick-hued youth looked up to his larger sibling, more than he could share openly. He could see from the slight shift in the position of Alder's ears that the other was trying to find some word of advice, and when he spoke Oak gazed up at him calmly and expectantly, the slight uncertainty in Alder's voice going unnoticed. Rather, the crimson boy felt a surge of hope for his worth to Crimson Dreams, and in response a small grin formed across his lips. Yeah, I'll do that, he spoke with confidence, his tail giving a short, swift wag, thumping dully against the worn couch. Oak had always loved to run and chase, and he was good at taking life. Alder's advice brought him cheer, for hunting truly was something he could do for the pack with skill and relative ease.

Although he was aware that Alder would probably wish to depart soon, his smile remained. His brother had done him a big favor in coming here and visiting with him even for these short moments. His sullen mood had lifted and disappeared, leaving in its place the truth that there was much to look forward to in the future and much good to do in the present. Nice to see you, Alder.

Alder · 06-20-2011, 01:05 PM

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They would all find what they were good at. Alder was growing more content in the idea that horses were what he was skilled in. Low speech was another thing he enjoyed, and he was close to knowing the calls of the common birds, as well as the horses in the Court's stables. Oak had always been the sort to enjoy running and chasing, having wanted to chase Alder during their puphood.

Alder rose at the last thing his brother said. He wished that they hadn't grown distant, but his personality hadn't made it easy for them to be very close to begin with. Perhaps this was the best relationship for them at the moment, just a passing visit. The tall male nodded, a smile and he spoke sincerely, Good to see you too Oak. He wished he could see Cypress too, but figured that it was time to return to Haven's cabin among the Court's lands.

He turned, and headed for the door, the Sun pendent a light weight on his chest. Once in the cold air he took the stairs quickly and shifted to his four legged form and ran through the setting light.

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