sentimentalscientia

[sentimentalscientia]

(Casually just spams a few replies as if I hadn't gone missing for two months. >.> )

[sentimentalscientia]

"If it were anyone else, maybe. But it would be impossible for Silas to ever get tired hearing about moi. He is too delighted by such theatrics and personality." It's definitely an exaggeration. But maybe not a particularly large one. After all, he was an exception to just about everything when it came to the demon. "That is where we differ, but don't you worry. I will keep my prying questions to myself when you are around. But when you aren't I do have a long list of things that need answering. And I am probably way too excited that Mel is finally gonna be able to answer some for me." There's another laugh as that list runs through his mind. Though quickly putting his attention back to the wonderful woman at his side. "Oh it is amazingly hot. But you do gotta be a little mindful. In the moment everyone's a fan. An hour after post orgasm bliss and you realize your favorite irreplaceable shirt is now just a bunch of rags. Which I have never really dealt with. Mel lost some precious cloths that way and she was a little devastated. So she'd naturally feel a lot of empathy and guilt about putting someone else through that. Then again as long as he makes it clear afterwards he enjoyed the experience more than he cared for the clothes...well I should probably add that as a note to tell him about her."

"Whatever you want to do. Personally, I think it might be a part of you still. But not really a big enough piece to make it something you like. But even if I am wrong, I'm ok as long as you are happy." Another stolen kiss off those lips he couldn't get enough of.

“Nah at this point it’s a have to. I mean I want too as well, but I’m compelled to compliment and admire you all. Just as much as I’m compelled to brag about getting to know and have you all.” He’s very happy to be exchanging brief little kisses. Enjoying the small affections. “Understandable. Not relatable because I genuinely couldn’t care less about my sisters hooking up with people. Well maybe Zen because she was so little when brought home I sometimes think of her as more my child than sister. Luckily she’s probably ace so I will rarely have to deal with that.” At the very least they were on the same page of getting the other two together in as comical a way as possible. Which was a fantastic viewpoint to share. “Good. She feels very bad ruining people’s clothes. But in the heat of the moment she does it a lot. I feel like he’d probably be into her ruining his outfits like that.” There’s another chuckle on his lips at that.

He moved to hug her. Holding the demon close and stroking her hair. “You only do what you are comfortable with. Anything that’s too much, we will find a way to get you out of it. I promise.”

[sentimentalscientia]

"Technically still worlds above most humans. Even those that interact with the supernatural often have no idea they have done so. Its part of the whole separation of worlds thing. We cant just blab about what we are to everyone. Things tend to end poorly when we do." Though there was a smile on her lips, there was a tinge of sadness in her gaze. All too familiar with what happened if the wrong person learned something.

“Not really. Think of it this way. Would you condemn a lion for killing? No. Because it’s a baser animal. It’s instinct is to hunt and kill. To protect its territory and eat. I’m guessing if someone killed to protect themselves you wouldn’t condemn them either. But betraying for money. Power. Taking advantage because they don’t have empathy? Those aren’t a beast trying to live its life. Those are bastards who could have made a better choice but instead opted into suffering. To you, monsters are like lions. We hunt and protect our territory. We do things as animals. So when our actions are bad, they have a more forgiving light.”

That hug might have gotten just a bit tighter. "I understand exactly what you mean. Just...Just as long as you can understand there are some situations where I need you to be protected. That I might be in harm's way and while it is terrible, its still better for both of us that I am in that position. My mind and body have healed from many many things. But my heart takes a much longer time to heal. And it never fully recovers. So you stay safe...for me please."

"Honestly even I don't have much experience when it comes to the whole Heaven and Hell inhabitants thing. I mean I probably have a weird amount of experience compared to many, but I'm still very much out of my depth on most things." She'd known several demons and angels. Different kinds with different origins. Heck she'd even been roommates with Lucifer at one point. But there was still so much to that side of life she hadn't been able to grasp.

"Small genuine circles are worth ten times as much as the largest unbonded grouping." Jinae seemed to finally be understanding what the wolves had been after. Opening herself up to hope and bonds, and smart enough to do it on a very case by case basis. "Not strange at all. Its a...well honestly thats a stereotypical human thought. You don't mean to, but a part of your mind equates humanity towards higher level thinking. Us beasts can be forgiven because sometimes we don't know better. Or we have a monstrous aspect that is just a part of us naturally. Humans aren't supposed to have that, so therefore they less deserving of forgiveness." She wrapped her in a protective hug. As if it were possible to shield her from the world. “No. Not on this. Id endure those things a thousand times to keep the rest of you safe. Especially you. I know you are tough and tenacious. But you are human. That makes you a bit more fragile. There were times the only reason I survived was because my body was designed to heal fast and tolerate a lot of pain. I don't want you ever having to go through something like that." Especially since there would be serious chances Jinae wouldn't survival the ordeal.

[sentimentalscientia]

"Oh I am hoping for it." The suggestive tone would be impossible to miss. As would be that last wink that just had to be thrown out. He was really looking forward to the stories he would be told later on.

There's a moment the wolf loses her focus. The way she was clinging tight and mentally preparing for the brief journey to come. When he offered that gentle kiss. An intimate yet familial affection that always made her heart flutter. Eyes widening as her group loosened for a fraction of a second. And then she felt that familiar cold of the magic starting. Her hold back to it's iron grip. Holding tight for the moment as they shifted from one space to the other. He didn't let her go when they arrived. Neither did she. Feeling comfort in his arms. Safe. Still hiding, she gave a nod. Without thinking she repeated a line from before. "You still smell really good." This time, though there was still a hidden blush on her cheeks, she didn't regret the words.

"You probably do. Kindred spirits my friend. Kindred spirits." The wolf chuckled. This whole thing was going just as expected. Better than expected really. The whole pack amused by the deep stare down until Saint had to reluctantly shuffle them all away. Chuckling again at the little protests. Throwing one last line at the demon. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do." Offered with a grin and a wink before they all disappeared. Leaving the two alone.

She's pleased that he's taken up her suggestion. The forest always calmed her spirits. Even with such nerves fluttering in her stomach. With a shy smile she took the outstretched hand. "Are we gonna do the teleporting thing? Because if so...." Her shyness abates just enough she manages to move close and throw her arm around him. Hiding her face against him. "It makes me kinda dizzy if I don't hold tight." A soft admittance before she clings a bit to him.

[sentimentalscientia]

His attention is shifting through so many things. The present situation, their surroundings, the ones that had been lost to this creature, and then he catches that look. No accusation or malice. Simply a thoughtful gleam in the eye as something processed. He could hazard a guess. "Agra, if you are worried..." His gaze flickered to the tiny form. Voice soft as he took a moment to pet the little one's hair in much the same manner as the vampire. "I've told you before, wolf blood always wins. There will be some piece. Some quirk that shall emerge. But at his very core he's a wolf."

There is still so much to figure out. Only able to offer those few brief moments before he had to go back towards investigation. Perhaps there was a piece of him that had an urge to scoff. He's sure the mother would have wanted to live, or to have one of her pack live to see to the pup. But, like many times, Rene was right. The ultimate goal had been to ensure her young's survival. They'd managed to get to that place. He offered a nod of acceptance. And then another question was tossed in his face.

"These creatures, they don't have strong sense of smell. Barely better than a human's. They have great sight and ears. But that doesn't do much in a place like this. There's a small stream nearby. A dozen birds' nests in the surrounding trees. Sounds of a tiny heart and breaths would be lost under everything else. The roots made a perfect cave. I only knew he was there because I started to pick up his scent. The thing would have been searching. Probably didn't know what packmate had taken the pup last. A stroke of luck, but it won't last." He readily agrees that this place was far too open. In the forest, massive wings would hinder it. But in this clear path, the monster would have advantage. He guided them towards the safety of the tree line. Wracking his brain to try and figure out what came next. Remember any weaknesses he had been taught. "Whatever you do Agra, please don't let him out of your sight. He has no one in this world now, we must protect him." In the distance he finally heard what he was expecting. Wind shifting as wings beat at the air. A strong sound, so either many wings or a single large set. Already plans formed. They would stay in the trees. Lure the creature where the wolf was advantaged. Louder beats and he moved towards the sound. Pausing to spare a glance back and whisper. "And stay in the forest. He can't fly at you as long as the trees protect the air. I need to take him by surprise. If we get lucky I can tear a wing off before he knows what happened." With that he moves quickly to the other side of the path. Near the bodies. Hidden by the large close together trunks. Watching the night sky as a tiny dot began to grow larger. Fangs and claws extended.

"It is. This pack, the rumors surrounding them are worrisome. Talks of heavy infighting. Battles raging in surrounding areas. Its outside the usual territory so they are not competing with us. Not infringing on our space. But these rumors....the reports I keep hearing don't sound like an army pack having its usual power struggles. It sounds like some outside creature is attacking this particular pack. I need to investigate."

He truly hated having to drag Rene into all of this. The vampire liked to be aloof from the world. Partaking in it only on his own terms. There is a soft sigh on his lips. Moving to wrap his arms around the other's torso. "I apologize agra. It is not wrong of you to dream of a pleasant quiet life. But the sad reality is that this is one wish I couldn't grant you. I am the pack elder. It's guardian. I am responsible for using my strength to keep them safe."

He nuzzled against the other's hair. Pressing a gentle kiss to the side of his head. "I can go alone. Let you relax here and then return after I've investigated. But I would rather have your company. It helps ground me but...well if I can't grant you a life of quiet leisure, I at least want to grant you as much time with me as possible."

[sentimentalscientia]

There’s perhaps a moment where Itsuki watches how the vampire reacts. The way he holds the tiny form so gently. A bit awkward but enough to sooth the little one. It was a nice reprieve from the surrounding horrors. Both outside and seeping into his mind. A mountain of emotions to process. All ebbing and flowing as they vied for a dominant spot. Fear of a creature that wrought such damage. Able to take down a pack. A small one comprised of mostly young wolves, but still it managed to best them with all without much obvious damage. Sorrow at the lives now gone, and a young pup left all alone in the world. Anger at the monstrosity that desecrated this area. He forced himself to focus. To lock away every trace of what burdened his heart. Everything but that anger. Now was not the time to mourn. It was a time for battle. And he would need the power such rage would provide.

While Rene tended their new ward, he furthered his investigation. Eyes locking on something on the ground nearby. A shadow darker than the rest. He moved towards it. Scooping up the object to properly examine. A sleek black feather. Large and smooth. It felt like silk. With tinges of sparkling red when the moonlight hit it right. As if someone had sprinkled ruby powder on it. Memories from so long ago emerged. A soft voice in the back of his mind. Guiding him to the answers being sought. His own voice low as he answered. "Exterminate."

Eyes remained fixated on that feather. A physical manifestation of nightmares. "It has been a long time Agra. Too long and I have forgotten their name. But I know this creature. My mother taught me about them. Told me stories...tales that would turn your stomach with disgust. They are foul creatures. Humanoid figures with large black wings and black claws. Their eyes gleaming purple with red pupils. They are the origin for many culture's demon tales. I...." He looked at the poor pup, hiding and clinging so tightly to the vampire. "I don't know how else to put it but the entire species is fucked up. They are unhinged monsters that spend their days collecting shiny trinkets and finding prey to terrorize. They are solitary creatures that outside a small window of parental care, are incapable of love or mercy. I learned males go through a heat like state. When they wish to sire young, they find a female of their kind. Their courtship is more like a battle. Most of the time though, they don't want young. Just to sate their urges. They pick whatever unfortunate species happens to be around. The victim usually doesn't survive. But on rare occasion...." There's a pause when he takes a calming breath. Trying to reign in his building rage. "These creatures are as prideful as they are mad. They will not stand for their precious bloodlines to be tainted. An unrelated one won't care to exert extra effort in a hunt. But a sire will go to great lengths to track down any resulting hybrids and destroy them."

His gaze shifted to the prone bodies. Clinging together even in death. "They were remarkably lucky. She'd managed to survive long enough for her pack to find her. Tend her wounds and protect her while she carried and gave birth. They somehow managed to evade it for at least a few years. Their luck ran out though." There's a moment of sadness flashing in his eyes. "Those rumors agra, it wasn't packs fighting each other. They were seeking allies against this bastard. Poor wolves that stood in it's way. Trying to give them time. I was the goal. Myself and our pack. The blood on the tree, it didn't belong to these three. It came from a wolf I knew long ago. She was fierce, but she was still relatively young. Wouldn't have been more than 60 at this point. She was trying to get these three to me so our pack could protect them. To an ancient that could be a match for this thing. They...they just didn't make it.

"It is. This pack, the rumors surrounding them are worrisome. Talks of heavy infighting. Battles raging in surrounding areas. Its outside the usual territory so they are not competing with us. Not infringing on our space. But these rumors....the reports I keep hearing don't sound like an army pack having its usual power struggles. It sounds like some outside creature is attacking this particular pack. I need to investigate."

He truly hated having to drag Rene into all of this. The vampire liked to be aloof from the world. Partaking in it only on his own terms. There is a soft sigh on his lips. Moving to wrap his arms around the other's torso. "I apologize agra. It is not wrong of you to dream of a pleasant quiet life. But the sad reality is that this is one wish I couldn't grant you. I am the pack elder. It's guardian. I am responsible for using my strength to keep them safe."

He nuzzled against the other's hair. Pressing a gentle kiss to the side of his head. "I can go alone. Let you relax here and then return after I've investigated. But I would rather have your company. It helps ground me but...well if I can't grant you a life of quiet leisure, I at least want to grant you as much time with me as possible."

[sentimentalscientia]

There's a protective urge welling in his chest. A need to care for this tiny pup. So obviously alone in the world. Gently patting his back. Offering soothing rocking motions. Rene's words prompt a momentary flash of surprise. His agra wasn't wrong. While not a weakling, the vampire was nowhere near the same level of fighter as himself. His movements are slow. Speaking softly as he hands the pup over. Telling him this was a friend. One to care for him. There is an instinctual reaction against vampires. Evidenced by the way tiny shoulders tensed at the scent. But it was an instinct that could be overwrought. The tiny pup looking to his new protector. Listening to those reassurances. As soon as he was in the vampire's arms, he clung to him. Hiding his face as further little sobs hit.

With the pup safe in other arms, Itsuki's attention shifted to the area again. Noting everything he could. Parsing out the myriad of scents in the air. The female and one of the males were born wolves. The other bitten, but his line of the same toxin. These were kin. Her scent was on the little one found. The mother. But.....there was something he couldn't get over. That dark scent was feint. But it was coming in two different waves. One was a pure but old strain. Present in the environment but fading. The other.....his head turned back towards the vampire. Moving closer, he leaned in to sniff at the pup. Eyes widening at the realization. He was an idiot. In a home of so many hybrids, he should have recognized that immediately. He switched to speak in Russian. For some reason feeling it wrong to say it in a way the little one would understand. "Agra, the creature that hunted them. It's the little one's father."

"It is. This pack, the rumors surrounding them are worrisome. Talks of heavy infighting. Battles raging in surrounding areas. Its outside the usual territory so they are not competing with us. Not infringing on our space. But these rumors....the reports I keep hearing don't sound like an army pack having its usual power struggles. It sounds like some outside creature is attacking this particular pack. I need to investigate."

He truly hated having to drag Rene into all of this. The vampire liked to be aloof from the world. Partaking in it only on his own terms. There is a soft sigh on his lips. Moving to wrap his arms around the other's torso. "I apologize agra. It is not wrong of you to dream of a pleasant quiet life. But the sad reality is that this is one wish I couldn't grant you. I am the pack elder. It's guardian. I am responsible for using my strength to keep them safe."

He nuzzled against the other's hair. Pressing a gentle kiss to the side of his head. "I can go alone. Let you relax here and then return after I've investigated. But I would rather have your company. It helps ground me but...well if I can't grant you a life of quiet leisure, I at least want to grant you as much time with me as possible."

[sentimentalscientia]

"Honestly even I don't have much experience when it comes to the whole Heaven and Hell inhabitants thing. I mean I probably have a weird amount of experience compared to many, but I'm still very much out of my depth on most things." She'd known several demons and angels. Different kinds with different origins. Heck she'd even been roommates with Lucifer at one point. But there was still so much to that side of life she hadn't been able to grasp.

"Small genuine circles are worth ten times as much as the largest unbonded grouping." Jinae seemed to finally be understanding what the wolves had been after. Opening herself up to hope and bonds, and smart enough to do it on a very case by case basis. "Not strange at all. Its a...well honestly thats a stereotypical human thought. You don't mean to, but a part of your mind equates humanity towards higher level thinking. Us beasts can be forgiven because sometimes we don't know better. Or we have a monstrous aspect that is just a part of us naturally. Humans aren't supposed to have that, so therefore they less deserving of forgiveness." She wrapped her in a protective hug. As if it were possible to shield her from the world. “No. Not on this. Id endure those things a thousand times to keep the rest of you safe. Especially you. I know you are tough and tenacious. But you are human. That makes you a bit more fragile. There were times the only reason I survived was because my body was designed to heal fast and tolerate a lot of pain. I don't want you ever having to go through something like that." Especially since there would be serious chances Jinae wouldn't survival the ordeal.

There’s an obvious note of surprise. “I know of demon inhabitants. But nope never heard of one part being an angel. Usually an angel and demon mix is just a fallen angel.”

She gives a smile and offers the other a gentle hand squeeze. “Sweetie no one is fond being around everyone. Even I don’t like everyone. And if I don’t get after Saint for being picky about company, I’m not going to mind you being like that too.” Her own smile fell. “It’s not strange. You’ve encountered nice but also cruel people. So far you’ve only encountered nice creatures. I’m glad and I hope it remains like that. Because they can be just as bad as humans.” A dark look flashed across her face as memories fought to push forward. All the times she’s experienced the worst parts of the supernatural. Thinking some of the worst things, she grabbed the other in a big. “I really hope you never see the bad parts.”

[sentimentalscientia]

"Honestly I'm just going to be super delighted with any information you can provide. My pup is even more inquisitive than I was and its becoming a bit of a worry if we will run out of things to teach her." There's a chuckle on her lips. That worry wasn't too pressing. After all there were several ancients in their circle with countless volumes of knowledge tucked away in their brains. But having another teacher was always nice. There's definitely some thought needed to work through why she would be exempted from offering a sacrifice. "Oh so its not that you need a sacrifice for a successful summons, you just want upfront payment for a job. And if I were to call upon you guys its a favor for a friend rather than a job."

The wolf brightened very much at this whole vein of conversation. The little ones would love getting to hang out with her, and Ritz in particular would love learning more about that part of the supernatural. "I'm not worried about the angels part. I have a friend that knows a lot about them and he shows up and lives with us at random times." She really did need to learn proper summoning techniques. There might come a day they needed help and she didn't want to do it in such a way it harmed them. "So simply call your true name while thinking of you? Wait why does my not being human mean I don't need to make a sacrifice?"

[sentimentalscientia]

"Sorry, curious nature here. Really hard to shut off." At least he's laughing about it. Amused by her questioning. "Hmm. That makes me wonder what is the more normal side? Some humans are nomads by nature and won't claim any home. Other's settle in spaces for generations. The same with creatures. He only vaguely remembers the place, but my dad still claims his birthplace as his original home. Over a thousand years and it still holds importance to him. A friend I had is even older. He wanders the world, but this is one of the first places he settled. Created a found family. No matter how far he wanders, he eventually comes back here. In their instances, I guess its more an origin thing. Something that draws them back. With you, I don't really sense this as being your home home. Like even if this is where you are from, it's not a place you have an attachment to. So a creature that wanders by nature. Or your personality just doesn't have the whole settling down part to it. Makes it a little harder to get a read on you."

“Oh I will.” She has a very bright smile on her lips. Very determined to see this through. With a bit of plans already formulated, her attention shifted elsewhere. Or rather specifically to the company she was in. “So, I kind of get the impression that this isn’t exactly your area. I mean you were born somewhere completely different. Or when you were born was so far in the past it’s technically not your own turf anymore. I’m kind of thinking maybe a couple hundred years or more.”

[sentimentalscientia]

"You probably do. Kindred spirits my friend. Kindred spirits." The wolf chuckled. This whole thing was going just as expected. Better than expected really. The whole pack amused by the deep stare down until Saint had to reluctantly shuffle them all away. Chuckling again at the little protests. Throwing one last line at the demon. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do." Offered with a grin and a wink before they all disappeared. Leaving the two alone.

She's pleased that he's taken up her suggestion. The forest always calmed her spirits. Even with such nerves fluttering in her stomach. With a shy smile she took the outstretched hand. "Are we gonna do the teleporting thing? Because if so...." Her shyness abates just enough she manages to move close and throw her arm around him. Hiding her face against him. "It makes me kinda dizzy if I don't hold tight." A soft admittance before she clings a bit to him.

“It’s because you know this household almost as well as you know me. I mean who do you think gave the pups this need to be so theatric?” He had that all too familiar grin on his lips. The beta just as invested as the pups when the she wolf was walked out. The little ones caught how long he stared. Beaming at such an obvious sign they did their jobs very well. Saint caught just how deep that look was.

There might be a blush on her cheeks. It had been so easy to be calm and happy. Amused by the whole set up. But now she had his eyes on her. A gaze so intense it felt as if he were searching through her soul. Or as Saint liked to joke, trying to see underneath her clothes. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. Feeling a little shyer. The little pups bursting out in cheers at the compliment.

“Ok I think mama mel and uncle Silas need to be heading out. And somebody promised you guys a movie night.” Another round of cheers as Saint gathered up the pups with the help of the older ones. Each one getting a kiss from Mel and waving towards Silas. Except one of the younger boys. The toddler looking at Silas and sticking out his tongue. Saying something to Mel in Gaelic before little Calli was guiding him away with the rest.

And then they were alone. The she wolf offering a bashful smile. “I’m really glad you decided to come. I was hoping we could spend more time together.” Her gaze dropped to the floor. “If you have anything you want to do I’m happy to join. But if you are ok with it, I was thinking we could go for a walk in the forest and explore….and then maybe go back to your house to hang out a little.” The blush on her cheeks got so much worse as those last words slipped out.

[sentimentalscientia]

In ordinary circumstances Itsuki would have been delighted to banter back. To tease his lover over the complaints. Perhaps even offer a small something to help ease the irritable mood. But this situation was far from ordinary. Other wolves skirting their turf. Packs fighting or infighting about territories and potential partners. Even typical predators lurking about. Those he would have been fine with. Would have simply presented himself to mediate or intimidate most creatures foolish enough to lurk here. Simple fixes to simple problems. That would not be what he was facing here. That scent burned his nose. Triggering alarm bells deep in his mind. Instincts blaring that something was very amiss. He doesn't even catch the other's words. So focused on the scents that linger on the bark. Drawn out only when something worse flitters by on the wind. More blood. More wolves.

His head twists in the direction. On silent feet he crosses the shadows. Careful to note that Rene was following. The scent on the wind was fresher than what was spilled on the trees. But that dark undertone was still very feint. Unlikely the owner would be on the other side of the tree line. But he didn't want to take chances. Such care as they stalked through the forest. Careful observations to ensure nothing would surprise them, and then he was stepping out of the trees. A small dirt trail that separated tree lines. Patches of damp earth surrounding three fallen bodies. It was with a heavy heart he investigated. Three of his kind. Two males, both around maybe Saint's age. His heart completely dropping at the third body. Female. Younger than his little Mel. They'd been fighting. Trying to protect each other. Trying to....protect something. A trio could have posed back to back. Kept eyes on all sides. Against a stronger predator that still might not be enough, but it would give them a better chance. Instead, it looked as if they were trying to keep whatever was there in a certain area. His breath caught in his throat. This scene. It was like when he'd discovered his mate had been butchered. Evidence of fighting surrounding a mangled corpse.

Buried memories resurfaced. They stung badly, but their presence was not unwelcome. They were not tormenting him. They were helping. Why did these ones not utilize the best tactics? Why did they not flee? Something had stopped it. The wind shifted. A light breeze tickling his skin as it carried his scent away. An ancient wolf's scent. A protector. A caretaker. Mere moments later, the sound reached his ears. Whimpering sobs. He rushed to the noise. A tangle of large roots that made a shallow cave. With the softest voice he coaxed the little shadow to move forward. A pup wandering out with shaky legs. Very young. A toddler. His cheeks covered in dirt and dried tears. With no hesitation, Itsuki picked him up. Cradled the little one against his chest. Whispering soothing words as the tiny form began crying in earnest. Sobbing against the ancient. Itsuki's gaze shifted to look at Rene. "Agra....Something is hunting him. We can't leave him unprotected."

"It is. This pack, the rumors surrounding them are worrisome. Talks of heavy infighting. Battles raging in surrounding areas. Its outside the usual territory so they are not competing with us. Not infringing on our space. But these rumors....the reports I keep hearing don't sound like an army pack having its usual power struggles. It sounds like some outside creature is attacking this particular pack. I need to investigate."

He truly hated having to drag Rene into all of this. The vampire liked to be aloof from the world. Partaking in it only on his own terms. There is a soft sigh on his lips. Moving to wrap his arms around the other's torso. "I apologize agra. It is not wrong of you to dream of a pleasant quiet life. But the sad reality is that this is one wish I couldn't grant you. I am the pack elder. It's guardian. I am responsible for using my strength to keep them safe."

He nuzzled against the other's hair. Pressing a gentle kiss to the side of his head. "I can go alone. Let you relax here and then return after I've investigated. But I would rather have your company. It helps ground me but...well if I can't grant you a life of quiet leisure, I at least want to grant you as much time with me as possible."

[sentimentalscientia]

"None at all really." There's perhaps a teasing lilt to his tone. Not to obvious. Subtle, like the smile he can just catch on those always enticing lips of the vampire. "Yes I can get turned around very easily in the woods." He's happy to lean in as well. Enjoy that point of connection. Such a subtle sign of affection. "I know it is not the same, but I do hope you take some heart in the knowledge my grandpups look to you as another grandfather. It may not be typical, or even what you really wanted, but they very much adore their grandpa rene." There's no teasing this time. Instead offering a moment of sympathy and hopefully a trace of comfort. There were no viable options even distantly on the horizon for Rene to turn. And even if there were potentials, him being so enmeshed in a pack of wolves would complicate it into a nightmare. He often felt bad about that. So often his agra had to leave every possible comfort zone. His life dictated not by his own preferences, but by the needs of the ancient wolf and his pack.

He tilted a little to steal a kiss. "You are perfect Agra." He whispered the words. Offering this gentle moment before they had to set off. The trek was long. Passing through rows of large houses. Twisting through parts of the city before finding their way into the woods. Venturing deeper into the shadows as the searched for the area they would need to investigate. He navigated by memory and scent. Occasionally catching a trace of something that gave him pause. It was familiar, yet not. Prompting a trace of dread like the night they had hunted the blood crazed vampire together. But the scent was not of vampiric origins. No it was somehow darker. At one point he stopped beside an ancient trunk. Sniffing at the bark. Just catching the small blood splashes decorating the surface. Wolf like him and that dark entity.

"It is. This pack, the rumors surrounding them are worrisome. Talks of heavy infighting. Battles raging in surrounding areas. Its outside the usual territory so they are not competing with us. Not infringing on our space. But these rumors....the reports I keep hearing don't sound like an army pack having its usual power struggles. It sounds like some outside creature is attacking this particular pack. I need to investigate."

He truly hated having to drag Rene into all of this. The vampire liked to be aloof from the world. Partaking in it only on his own terms. There is a soft sigh on his lips. Moving to wrap his arms around the other's torso. "I apologize agra. It is not wrong of you to dream of a pleasant quiet life. But the sad reality is that this is one wish I couldn't grant you. I am the pack elder. It's guardian. I am responsible for using my strength to keep them safe."

He nuzzled against the other's hair. Pressing a gentle kiss to the side of his head. "I can go alone. Let you relax here and then return after I've investigated. But I would rather have your company. It helps ground me but...well if I can't grant you a life of quiet leisure, I at least want to grant you as much time with me as possible."

[sentimentalscientia]

“Oh I will.” She has a very bright smile on her lips. Very determined to see this through. With a bit of plans already formulated, her attention shifted elsewhere. Or rather specifically to the company she was in. “So, I kind of get the impression that this isn’t exactly your area. I mean you were born somewhere completely different. Or when you were born was so far in the past it’s technically not your own turf anymore. I’m kind of thinking maybe a couple hundred years or more.”

“Sometimes you have to play by their rules. Sometimes you can go old school. If I ask nicely and he’s in a good mood, my friend might just throw money in and leave it at that. If they refuse or just start irritating him, there might end up being some threats of the making them eat their own intestines variety.” Technically it might not just be threats. But she’d do her best not to let that line be crossed. “I love this place too much to let it go easily. So I’m gonna be pulling out all the stops. As long as I breath, these food carts go nowhere.” Was it a little odd she was so impassioned by a food truck park? Probably. But that was probably still one of the more ‘normal’ parts of her.

[sentimentalscientia]

“Sometimes you have to play by their rules. Sometimes you can go old school. If I ask nicely and he’s in a good mood, my friend might just throw money in and leave it at that. If they refuse or just start irritating him, there might end up being some threats of the making them eat their own intestines variety.” Technically it might not just be threats. But she’d do her best not to let that line be crossed. “I love this place too much to let it go easily. So I’m gonna be pulling out all the stops. As long as I breath, these food carts go nowhere.” Was it a little odd she was so impassioned by a food truck park? Probably. But that was probably still one of the more ‘normal’ parts of her.

"No problem. I have a lot of times I don't have a lot of access to my phone either." There is still a lot of curiosity about the one in front of her. Wondering what exactly this being was. This was definitely going to require some in depth research time. Maybe going to check out that old library she'd randomly found. "Depending on how much resistance there is I'll see if I need the help. Though personally hoping my dad and friend can just traumatize a few people and be done with it."

[sentimentalscientia]

"A ridiculously big imagination. My mind comes up with some fucked up but also hilarious shit. I'm sure you will see what I mean in the coming days." Whatever ended up happening, he could very much see Rak just rolling with it all. "I would definitely rescue you. I mean unless my kids were in danger and I needed to rescue them first. But I'd get to you eventually." There was a lot of interesting things onboard. Saint learning about them bit by bit. Like how the captain had some crazy damn regeneration skills. "Holy fuck his just grew back? That's cool as fuck. I wish I had that. But sadly no." The wolf sighed deeply. "If my arm got ripped off it would heal and leave me with a stump. So please refrain from ripping my limbs off when we spar."

"He does sound like a pretty cool dude. Has rules to keep things from getting toxic but is chill with his crew. I think outside circumstances I would be down to be his friend and hang with him. But sadly past experience has burned me so badly I can't trust male authority figures on principle. My gramps and father in law get an exception. But even someone as cool as Nachim would be hard pressed to get me under his authority. Mel and Ruby will keep me in my place though, so I get some time to let my weariness about him fade."

"That's....huh I guess its normal to you, but that sounds kinda sad I guess. Something meant to be alone. To exist and die in solitude, with no one around to celebrate or mourn." That was a very heavy idea. One that had his mind circling to some very dark places. Spared by the sudden curious question. A fantastic distraction. "Oh they certainly can. Just depends on the form. We start off normal. But the fangs come out when we want." He pulled his lip back to show ordinary teeth. A moment later the enamel lengthening. Growing larger and ending in a very sharp point. Something that could piece most substances.

So this man….snake…man-snake? was really really on the literal side. A quirk he was going to probably be enjoying this entire trip. “Technically there are ways to get trapped. Like say some sort of magic field randomly surrounds it and you can’t get past a barrier that’s just off the shore. So space to fish but no way to actually swim out. Not sure who the fuck is powerful enough to make something like that happen. But we can’t say it isn’t actually possible. According to my father in law some gods used to play that bullshit when they were upset with someone…..it might actually have been the reason the captain had to rescue him a long time ago.” The memory of the story had hit him out of nowhere. Biting back a laugh at the reminder Itsuki’s life was a much too ridiculous adventure book sometimes. “Oh there certainly will be. I am required to vent my aggression and one really good way to blow of steam is to spar. You will probably kick my ass but it will be a fantastic work out. So I am definitely claiming you as one of my sparing partners. 

The coiling was hardly noticed. Saint still happily just petting the scales. Not oblivious to the movements. Just apathetic to them. “Obedient to a certain extent. I generally hate authority figures. I’d never have ended up on a ship like this on my own because I’d hate getting bossed around by the captain. Nothing personal against him. Just my own issues. But I will listen to him. Do whatever the fuck he orders, because my alpha told me to. And what she says goes. Hopefully he’s not gonna make fucked up decisions but I’m kinda optimistic that even if he makes bad calls its gonna end up in a funny story.” There wasn’t trust in Nachim. There couldn’t be. He didn’t know the guy at all. But Itsuki did. Had felt confident enough to put them on the ship under the guy. And Mel was confident enough to follow his lead. So the least Saint could do is obey directions and try not to be too much of an ass. “Nah. We wolves have very long lives. Like to the point I don’t know the actual life span but it can range into the thousands. But death will eventually come for me.” He might have secretly liked Rak calling him a baby. The moment pricelessly hilarious. “Fuck yeah that is young for an ancient creature. You are like half the age of my father in law. And like a tiny fraction of a percent as old as my chick’s first baby daddy.” Yet another amusing moment of the conversation. Once again being reminded that in the supernatural world, with immortal and long lived creatures, even things hundreds of years old could be babies in comparison. “Does it bother you that you’ve never met another of your kind? Wolves are social so being without another is kinda hell. Is it similar for you or are Naga more solitary creatures?”

[sentimentalscientia]

The wolf brightened very much at this whole vein of conversation. The little ones would love getting to hang out with her, and Ritz in particular would love learning more about that part of the supernatural. "I'm not worried about the angels part. I have a friend that knows a lot about them and he shows up and lives with us at random times." She really did need to learn proper summoning techniques. There might come a day they needed help and she didn't want to do it in such a way it harmed them. "So simply call your true name while thinking of you? Wait why does my not being human mean I don't need to make a sacrifice?"

“That will make her very happy. Anything to do with the supernatural, she’s very curious of. Especially things like angels and demons.” There might be a moment of confusion. Having to think of she’d ever been told. “I think…Silas said something about summoning. Something like we have to call you by your true name. Is that all there is or is more required?” She doesn’t want to summon if she can help it. Also remembering how Silas had mentioned if done at all wrong it would cause pain. She didn’t want to hurt her friends.