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Alpha and Omega (SilverDreamer x JacksAreWild)

JacksAreWild

JacksAreWild

Super-Earth
Joined
Nov 18, 2013
Location
USA
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“Sasha. You’re late.”

Those were the first words out of the Captain of the Guard’s mouth as Sasha timidly peeked her head into his office. Those were usually always the first words that were out of his mouth whenever Sasha was present. The young guard knew she was late, and she knew that being late was bad. But time was just such an abstract concept whose intricacies always eluded this young wolf’s grasp and so she steeled herself for the tongue-lashing that was sure to follow. “Come on, come in.” The older werewolf said gruffly and then motioned to the chair across from his desk so that he could talk to the only female guard under his command. “I bet you’ve heard that the Alpha’s daughter will be getting married soon, yes?”

“Yessir.” Sasha quietly slipped into the chair, sitting up nice and tall and trying her best not to look nervous.

“And I bet you know that he wishes for his daughter to meet her betrothed in Dacia and their union will be held there, yes?”

Sasha nodded, by now she was curious where this line of questioning was going!

“The Alpha has asked that I send a guard to escort his daughter there. You are going to be that guard.”

“But…huh? No… I-I… I mean…maybe you should send Alex? Maybe Ulric? Zev?” Sasha’s brow furrowed in thought as she ran through the names and faces of her comrades; a little bit of panic in her voice as she tried to weasel her way out of this assignment. She’d just screw it up somehow! Just like all the other ones…like that time one of the ladies she had been guarding had been kidnapped right under Sasha’s nose. She’d gotten the girl back…but she had been really unhappy about the whole situation. Surely Zev should work on an assignment of this importance! He was the strongest. Or maybe Ulric…he was the most cunning. And Alex was known as ‘Shadow’, he was always so quiet, most of the people he guarded never even noticed that he was there; he’d be perfect for sneaking around in the woods!

“I cannot send one of them! We have to keep Azura’s, erhm – innocence, intact. So I will be sending you. The journey will take you about a month. You are to get her to Dacia three days before the solstice moon.”

“T-the…winter solstice s-sir?” Sasha paled slightly at the mention of the accursed solstice. For most wolves, it was a time of rejoicing with large feasts and grand dances. But for Sasha, it was a time of hiding in her hut and avoiding everyone and everything.

“That’s not a problem for you, is it Sasha? Will getting there BEFORE the winter solstice be a problem for you?!” The Captain of the Guard growled.

“N-no sir…” Sasha shrank down in her seat, wishing that she could just melt into a puddle and then evaporate into nothingness.

“Good. The Alpha’s daughter is expecting you in TWO hours. That should be more than enough time for you to pack your things and load your horses. Do NOT be late. Understand?” After Sasha nodded, the older wolf continued on. “You are dismissed.” He got up to see Sasha off to the door and right before opening it, the old werewolf hesitated a moment before letting his face soften. He reached out, gently placing his hand on the girl’s shoulder. “Be very careful my darling pup.”

“I will, father.” Sasha attempted to offer her father a brave smiled and then stood up on tiptoe to wrap her arms around his neck and give him a hug, then slipped out the door so that she could get ready for her journey.

---

Two hours is NOT enough time to pack up your gear, load your horse, and then run all the way back to the alpha’s home to introduce yourself and pick her up for the long journey ahead. She should have ridden her horse over, but Destry needed new horseshoes for the long journey so Sasha had had to drop the mare off at the blacksmith and now she was late. Late. Late. Late! Always late!

As much of a bumbling, tardy fool that the young wolf appeared to be, Sasha truly did come from excellent stock. She was a wonderful fighter, graceful and precise with a blade; her breeding was impeccable, and she was descended from a long line of warriors. She just…she didn’t want to be a warrior. In fact, the only reason she was a guard at all was her father’s doing! Sasha had wanted to apprentice as a healer, but her father had forced her into all this guarding nonsense. …In all fairness, she couldn’t blame him for sticking her with this job…nothing had really been the same since her mother had died. He probably hadn’t known what else to do with her other than treat her like the son he never had while still keeping close tabs on her like a good, overprotective, overbearing father would.

The young brunette was a mess by the time she had sprinted across the village and to the Alpha’s gorgeous home. Her cheeks were flushed bright red, she was out of breath, and her long brown hair was an out of control wild mane of fluff ontop of her head. Her guard’s uniform was slightly askew and untucked from all the running, and despite her best efforts to tidy herself up before knocking on the front door of the Alpha’s house, she still looked like a miniature disaster.

"So much for first impressions…"
 
Azura stared at her father as if he had just declared that the moon had always been cheese and she was about to eat it.

"Sasha? The daughter of the Captain who can barely keep her hair tied up Sasha?"

Her father stared at her from across his desk as if she was ten years old again and being an insolent cub. "Yes, that Sasha Azura."

"She is the one to guide, protect and make sure I get to Dacia all in one piece?" Her father did not answer her this time but simply watched her as she let the knowledge sink in. Her father had waited a long time to have pups but when he had them, he had them thick and fast. Azura was the only daughter out of five sons all born within five years. Regrettably at times Azura had been the first born and her father had always been the strictest, coldest and most demanding with his daughter. Even now with his hair had changed from pure raven to a variety of shades of grays had nestled at the temples and his broad shoulders had shrank slightly he could make her nervous with a simple look.

"Yet she is the one when..."

"I am aware." Her father looked down at his desk as his steel grey eyes scanned the paper work before him. " She also was the one that..." "I am aware of that also Azura. Yet she is the only female guard we have and your innocence is to remain intact and unquestionable when you get to Dacia. None of the male guards are going to escort you as far as our boundary gates let alone for a month alone."

Azura sighed quietly as she tilted her head back before she simply nodded her head slightly to her father and rose to her feet. "When is the Lady of the guard to arrive father?" She was suddenly very much aware that this would be the last time she saw her father for at least a year and yet his cold manner remained as frozen as ever. She remained on the other side of the desk as she waited his answer. "She will arrive in two hours time. I am certain by then you shall have said your farewells to your brothers and your mother and be packed ready to go on time."

"Of course father." She said firmly and quietly as she bowed her head to him and then left him to his paperwork. It was only once the door was closed did he glance upwards and to the solid door that sealed him in his office as he wondered where the last two decades had gone.

-------

Two hours had passed and now Azura was stood in the hallway of the large building. Her foot impatiently tapped the wooden flooring. Her few bags had already been packed and her personal items had been put into a small pouch for her to carry at her waist. She was already dressed in traveling clothes and a warm cloak.

Her mother had said her farewells and gone to a friends house to mourn the departure of her daughter and the understanding she would be in a house with five males alone.

Her brothers of nineteen, eighteen, seventeen and sixteen had been the ones to show most emotion in her departure. They teased her about the fact it was "Clumsy Sasha" who was going to take her to Darcia and likely get them lost along the way. It was them that gave her gifts of small but significant emotional care and it was them that answered the door to Sasha, four sets of male eyes locked onto the female wolf and burst into laughter before they ran past her and out into the late autumn night.

Azura, paled at the sound of the laughter and approached the door with dread in her heart as her gaze locked on the female guard who looked more like she had just escaped a run in with a violent hedge. In comparison Azura looked as if she had been carefully crafted. Her dark hair had been pinned up and out of the way along the nape of her neck. Everything was in place from her cloak to her winter boots.

"You will have to excuse my brothers. They are a little excited to see me leave and the emotions of gone to their heads." Azura for the hundredth time questioned her fathers choice. If the woman could not even take care of herself, how was she going to keep her safe.

"Do you need some more time to prepare Lady of the guard?"
 
Confused blue eyes blinked several times as four teenage boys answered the door and immediately burst into laughter. She recognized them immediately as the Alpha's sons of course, but Sasha did not understand what on earth was so funny. Her eyes trailed down to her uniform which was a little askew, yeah, but it wasn't like she had any stains on it or anything. Slender digits reached up and she lightly ran her fingers over her face, wondering if perhaps it had gotten dirty and that was why the boys had been laughing, but she could detect no such grime with her sensitive touch. So they must have been laughing at her just because she was who she was: 'Sasha the Screw Up', 'Clumsy Sasha', the list of unwanted nicknames went on and on; she had had twenty winters to accrue them, so she had a lot.

When she heard footsteps that definitely belonged to a female, Sasha immediately dropped her hands to her sides and tried to stand up straight and tall like a good soldier ready to be inspected (though if she really was submitting herself to inspection, she probably would have failed it, as usual; her boots were never shined enough for her father's taste). She knew it must be one of the ladies of the house coming, and sure enough, it was Azura. Azura who was absolutely stunning. Azura who was a powerful alpha with dazzling eyes and an amazing smile. Azura who…who Sasha had had a major crush on ever since they had been pups and she had laid eyes on the young maiden for the first time.

"I ah…n-no…erm…" Sasha's tongue felt entirely too large for her mouth as she clumsily tried to indicated that she didn't need anymore time. Well she did need a little more time, but not really, just time enough to go get her horse, that was all. And yet words were rapidly failing her, her brain had somehow turned to soup, and now all she wanted to do was crawl back to her father with her tail between her legs and beg him to send someone else, anyone else on this mission. Part of her knew that she couldn't do that to him… She knew that her father was the laughing stock of the town. As amazing as he was as the Captain of the Guard, some of his achievements managed to become overshadowed by his daughter's long list of blunders. Like that time she had been charged with escorting a shipment of weapons to a neighboring town. Sasha had gone off to scout ahead and make sure the way was safe. She'd found a bunch of bandits laying in wait on the main road and had chased them off into the forest, but somehow she had gotten lost when she tried to get back to the road. The caravan had gotten to the next town safely, just Sasha had gotten herself so horribly lost in the woods and it had taken a week for the search party to find her. And the worst part was, no one believed her when she said she had chased away six bandits all by herself, they just made fun of her for losing her way in the forest.

She didn't even think her father had believed her when she told him the tale...

Sasha had to complete this mission correctly. She couldn't bring anymore shame to her family. It was bad enough that she was a klutz. It was even worse that she wasn't suitable for marriage and a burden on her father. Well she was suitable…sort of…not really. It wasn't like wolves with her condition didn't exist: werewolves that walked in one gender and then transformed into another during a full moon. It was supposed to be a good thing, a blessing; it meant that she had something to give that was so important that she could mate with either gender to pass those genes on….

Or something like that…that's what her mother used to say anyways.

But Sasha was already a bumbling screw-up, she didn't need to be a freak ontop of that, it was so shameful for her father, to their entire bloodline. So she steeled herself, silently vowing to get Azura to Dacia before the full moon, so that no one would question the alpha's innocence when they got there. So that her father would be proud of her (well he always said he was proud of her. But he had to, he was her dad, fathers have to say that nice stuff to their children. Sasha wanted him to say it and actually mean it.) She took a deep breath and then tried to speak once again, this time without the stutter.

"I don't need anymore time, Alpha. I just need to get my horse from the blacksmith, but that is by the city gates and on our way out." Sasha offered Azura an apologetic smile and then motioned towards the Alpha's stables. "But we can get going right now if you're ready. I'll ah…help you onto your horse and walk beside you, run beside you, if you prefer." Even weighed down by fifty pounds of armor and weaponry, Sasha was still pretty fast and light on her feet.

"Oh and...ah...you don't have to call me by any sort of title...Sasha is fine."
 
Azura's silvery gaze settled on Sasha's blue ones in a similar gaze to her fathers own. Her gaze was unblinking and seemed to look for any potential vulnerability and seemingly saw them all. The silence between the pair at her question seemed to grow only longer until the poor woman answered in a way that did not full Azura with confidence. "Are you certain Lady..." She hesitated at the title at Sasha's request."Sasha? " She spoke softly and in a tone that barely carried on the gentle breeze that began to blow. Sasha was more than attractive Azura was aware of more than a few of the males of the pack that spoke highly of her but the fact he father was the Captain of the Guard scared them off approaching her and the others were too proud to be involved with someone that seemed to be unable to at times simply get through the day without disaster striking.

Yet it was at that moment Azura recalled seeing Sasha when she dueled in practice. When the young wolf seemed to forget eyes were on her and she seemed so intent on what she was doing that had seemed to leave behind the haphazard wolf she was the rest of the time. Azura could remember how smoothly her body had moved, how fluidly, how she had used her weapon with certainly, almost perfect aim and had if she recalled rightly nearly one. Had she not of dripped over a stone or something. The crowd had been entranced and then fell into laughter as she had fallen and hit the ground with a thud. It had not helped that a plume of dust rose up around he and stained her out fit and skin in a thick layer of dirt. Perhaps her father had been right to select her... if they did not run into the way of a rock at least.

"If I am to call you Sasha I am certain it would only be agreeable if you for the time being at least called me by my name rather than my title to be. Azura will be fine and if you are certain you do not need more time you can ride my horse with me." Her brothers laughter still in her ears the last thing either woman needed was Sasha stumbling or running into a tree while running alongside Azura's horse. "We have also been requested to pause a moment at Miss Esme's home."

Miss Esme was one of the oldest females in the pack. A well respected female who could read the weather and see changes coming before they did. She also had helped deliver most of the cubs in the pack and believed in lucky charms and tokens of fortune. "I hope that shall not cause you any concerns. My bags are ready." She spoke softly and turned to reach down just on the inside of the doorway to pick up the three bags that she had packed. Hesitating a moment she looked back in the house and smiled faintly before she stepped out of the building and closed the door firmly behind her. "Is there anything you wish to discuss before we get on?"
 
"I'm ready… Azura…" Sasha tried out the name with a good deal of hesitance. Of course she'd said it before, but never to the Alpha's face. Well…to her face once, when they were kids, and then Sasha had been reprimanded for speaking so boldly that she had not said the name since. It was so strange how the years had passed, how children were allowed to be friends but then drifted apart into adulthood. Not that Azura and her were ever friends, but they had at least been acquaintances. She remembered seeing the beautiful Alpha all the time when they were younger, laughing and running about with the other children and being allowed to play. Azura was so serious now… Sasha wondered if the other woman ever smiled anymore.

But…maybe this was just a sad time for her and there were no smiles to be had right now. The realization that Azura was leaving for good made Sasha's heart twitch with sympathy. It must be hard for Azura to pick up and leave everything she had known behind. Dacia was so far away…she'd probably only get to rarely see her family from this point on. Sasha couldn't imagine being parted from her family and friends like that.

"Oh… ah…no…that's fine." The young wolf nodded eagerly to show that she wouldn't mind making the little detour. Miss Esme could be a little bit of a windbag sometimes, but Sasha was sure they could make up whatever time they would miss. Besides, it might be good to ask the old woman what sort of weather was in store for them. Of course they'd probably encounter a snowstorm or two, autumn was rapidly turning into winter after all. But Sasha hoped that it would stay relatively mild for most of their journey. Maybe Miss Esme would give them a blessing to make it so.

"No I don't have anything--…well…kinda…I-- Oh wait, here, let me take those for you." Her speech was just as scatterbrained as she was it seemed. But at least the young wolf was very polite. Sasha was strong despite her slight form and didn't think that the Alpha should be burdened with bags when it was Sasha that was the lowly guard that was supposed to be escorting them. So Sasha gently pried the bags from Azura's hands as carefully as she could, because if one managed to burst open she'd probably die of embarrassment and lose any and all bravery that she was currently in possession of. "There, much better…come on." Pouty lips curled into a reassuring smile as she headed over towards the stables with the bags.

"I know that you're probably nervous about traveling with me…because I have a very ah…interesting reputation…" Sasha's voice trailed off a little bit at the end as they walked along. 'Interesting' was a very kind way of putting it, but she didn't want to make Azura even more apprehensive by using an accurate descriptor of 'unlucky', 'hazardous', or something else that was not so nice. "But I promise you won't come to any harm at all when you're with me." Their eyes met for a brief moment, and it was easy to see that Sasha meant what she said. While she couldn't make a promise that they would get there on time, she could definitely vow that Azura wasn't going to become injured on their long journey, not so long as Sasha was able to fight.

When they reached horse, Sasha loaded up the bags. Because she was so accident prone, she had a tendency to check, double check, and even triple check knots and bindings to make sure things wouldn't fall out of place. When she was sure that the bags weren't going to fly free, she turned to Azura so she could help the other woman up into the saddle first, that way she could have the most comfortable spot. And then Sasha went ahead and grasped the saddle, moving to hoist herself up and over and over, and-- wait, two overs?! Sash had misjudged the height of Azura's horse and ended up launching herself clear over the saddle, around the other side, and onto the ground with a loud THUD!

"I'm okay! I'm okay…" Sasha called up weakly from the ground. Well…it could've been worse…she could've fallen into horse shit. At least she was only covered in dirt and that could be brushed off. So she scrambled onto her feet, her face and ears beet red in embarrassment. They hadn't even left yet and she was proving herself to be quite the disaster. "Ah…I'll just…walk…"
 
Azura listened and watched carefully as if Sasha was spoke her name through fear of pending death rather than because she had simply requested her to do so. As Sasha nodded at her words that a visit to Miss Esme's would be fine she seemed to eager and ready to face the challenges that lay ahead. While Azura appeared so calm and steadfast she did simply wish to run back into her home and refuse point blank to leave. Yet she had been trained to not give into such emotions and fears. The care of the pack and it's future came first. In binding her pack with that of Dacia would open up trading routes, gain security and protection and it also made sure the blood lines would remain strong and without genetic flaws that developed within packs that constantly bred within itself.

She was no longer a cub and had no reason to act like such and yet as Sasha reached forward and gripped what few items she was taking with her she felt her own grip strengthen around the straps momentarily. It was all she had left that would remain as her and that would be of her life here but after a few moments she became aware of what she was doing and released the straps carefully so not to caught Sasha to end up stumbling backwards out of balance. "Thank you Sasha." She whispered faintly and coolly as she watched her carry the bags with more ease than she would of been able to.

She followed Sasha to her family's stables and smiled broadly for the first time up at her horse. Her horse was a thoroughbred Frisian, almost entirely pure black in colour but for a tiny dot of white just between and above his eyes and what looked to be white socks just above his hoofs on three of his legs. He had never meant to be Azura's because of the markings but it had been one of the few times she had stood up to her father at the age of thirteen seasons, after she had cared for Three Socks for two seasons. The argument had ended with her locking herself in the stables for three days and only she was certain under her mother influence did her father agree to let her keep him.

She reached a hand up to stroke her fingers through his mane as she examined Sasha critically as she began to attach her bags to Three Socks. She was mildly surprised when she checked them once, twice and then a third as if she was fearful the bags were going to suddenly leap for freedom of there own accord the moment she looked away from them. Azura quietly whispered sounds to Three Sock's that made no sense but seemed to calm him down. Yet his unmarked hoof twitched with excitement. He could sense an adventure coming but also his owner's inner distress and blew a sharp breath of air against her cheek.

Azura looked to Sasha as she spoke of her interesting past and a small smile fluttered across her lips. Interesting was the most politically correct and civil way it could be put but she made no remark to the understatement. Her silvery gaze met Sasha's blue head on as the promise left the guards lips and Azura nodded firmly at her words. If there was one thing that could never be questioned about Sasha, it was her loyalty to a task. "Well I shall hope that this journey shall be without danger to either of us."

She looked to Sasha's hand as she offered to help her up and though Azura knew she could mount the horse alone she felt this was not the time to make Sasha feel unwanted or disrespected. She accepted the aid gracefully and in one smooth motion lifted her left leg up and slipped onto the horse without a moments pause. She looked to Sasha as she climbed up and had only let the guard out of her sight for a second when she felt the woman get up and seemed to slide...She looked down to the guard and the soft plume of dust that rose around her and her horses legs. Perhaps her hope of a safe journey had come too soon or perhaps too late.

She dared not open her mouth in case a laugh came out or the question on how she had managed to turn such a simple act into an accident. As she spoke of being okay Azura almost sighed with regret. At least if Sasha had hurt herself she would of been unable to carry on the task and she would of been placed in far more experienced hands. Yet her features remained almost stone like expect for the look of concern that had crossed them briefly.

She nodded her head slightly at Sasha's words of her walking. "As you wish. Let us get to Miss Esme's. Perhaps she shall have a lucky charm or two for us." "We are going to need all that she has at this rate..." She thought to herself as she gently gripped the reigns and indicated for Three Socks to begin moving. She kept him under control so that they did not go too fast and leave Sasha behind but moved at a gentle pace.
 
Sasha did her best to not heave a dejected sigh as she walked alongside Azura and Three Socks. It wouldn’t do for her to be depressed for the entire trip, but she couldn’t help but be a tiny bit sad. They hadn’t even left yet and she was already making a fool of herself! The young guard resigned herself to fretting over what a spaz she was, so much so that she did not even notice how far or how fast they had been moving. Soon enough, they were at Miss Esme’s home, a quaint little house in the middle of town. It appeared that the old woman had been expecting the pair, because as Sasha neared the door to knock and announce them, a white-haired, plump and wrinkled old lady swung the massive wooden door open before her hand had even grazed the surface.

“Ah girls come in! Come in. Come in. You’re late! I’ve been expecting you for awhile.” Miss Esme smiled brightly and waved the two young women into her home. While she wasn’t psychic by any means, she was fairly adept at reading omens and signs. The only reason she knew that she was to be expecting visitors was because she had dropped two forks about a half an hour ago, signifying that she would be getting two female visitors. Low and behold, the silverware had been right.

Well…the silverware was right, and Azura’s father had told her that the two travelers would be stopping by sometime today.

“So what brings you two here? Come to say goodbye Azura? Or are you wishing for some sort of charm for your wedding day? Or perhaps a blessing for your journey? Oh! And speaking of charms and blessings, I have something for you, Sasha.” Miss Esme smiled kindly at the guard that seemed to surprised that the old werewolf had something for her. While Sasha and her father had come to this pack from far away and Miss Esme hadn’t delivered the pup herself, she had still provided guidance to the girl’s father as far as raising a daughter was concerned. Though there was only so much guidance one could give to a wolf as unlucky as poor Sasha was. While she was sure that the guard would grow out of her clutzyness, it was impossible to rush such things.

Judging by the state of her clothing…Sasha definitely run into her share of a bad luck and clumsiness, and it wasn’t even lunch time yet! “Stay right here.” Miss Esme gave the command and then she was off to one of the other rooms in search of a trinket for Sasha. The two women could hear drawers opening and closing, glassware clinking softly, until finally Miss Esme let out an “Ah ha!” and came back to join them. In her hand was something shiny, and Sasha couldn’t help but wonder what on earth she would need that was so small and glinting.

“It’s the North Star, to help you find your way. And it is supposed to bring good luck to travelers, which you my dear, could certainly use.” Miss Esme chuckled as she noticed Sasha’s cheeks light up red. But then her face turned serious as she continued on. “The weather will be harsh on your journey…I believe this winter is going to be a very tough one indeed. Do not doubt yourself or eachother…many travelers run into trouble when morale is low, it will be important for you both to remember that you are very capable young women.”

“I ah…thank you, Miss Esme…” Sasha gave an awkward little bow of thanks before straightening back up and standing off a little bit to the side so that Azura could ask Miss Esme for whatever she wanted. Unsure of whether or not her request would be personal or not, Sasha didn’t want to intrude.
 
The journey had not yet began in truth and Azura was not certain they should travel beyond the boundary gates and walls. She felt too nervous that once they were beyond them that the situation with Sasha would simply get worse rather than better. Her father may have been thinking of her integrity as a female of the pack but she was not entirely certain he had taken her safety into genuine consideration. She glanced repeatedly down towards Sasha as she kept pace with her and Three Socks though Sasha seemed to feel more dejected than Azura felt. At least Sasha would return home to the place they had both grown up in. She would be welcomed home with opens arms and delicate comments about how she managed to get to Darcia and Azura there safely. She would get to come back to loved ones and known ones. Azura faced a time with strangers and expectations she suddenly felt unsure she could live up to. Her mother had repeatedly told her that they were not pushing her away but helping her move on and be the Alpha female they knew she could and yet right then it did feel purely as if they were pushing her away.

She silently slid off of Three Socks once they arrived at Miss Esme's house and Azura smiled warmly to the woman who had helped bring her into the world and advised her how to handle a house ful of brothers a demanding father and taught her a few tricks of her own trade. She felt like a second mother to Azura and Azura swallowed back the sob that threatened to sound as she entered her home. She smiled as Miss Esme spoke. As usual her mind seem to handle several matters at the same time and her conversation veered in a variety of directions before Sasha or Azura could say a word.

She dared not remind Miss Esme that it was seemingly her that had requested the girls presence and watched as Sasha skin began to glow a faint shade of red at Miss Esme's words. It gave her time to consider Miss Esme's question though Azura had not come here with any intention to ask for anything in mind. A frown touched her forehead and her lips pursed ever so slightly at Miss Esme's words of the weather. She shuddered slightly despite being warm in her winter attire. "Thank you for the warning Miss Esme, we shall be extra cautious with that in mind."

She wondered if Miss Esme could create a token to turn back time or create wishes. instead as Sasha stepped aside Azura stepped forward and wrapped her arms around the womans shoulders before she gently settled her head against Miss Esme's own and breathed in the thick scent of lavender, soil and for some reason the scent of eucalyptus. "Please keep an eye on my brothers for me." She whispered softly in her ear before she took a step back and her mask slipped back in place. Any emotion or warmth ahd faded into a look of calm certainty and acceptance.

Miss Esme's face had turned a shade of red as a broad smile touched her lips as she had hugged the young female back and had nodded her head to what ever Azura had spoken into her ear. "I shall do that, though I can not say it will do any good." It was then Miss Esme reached into the large folds of her clothing that was layered around her form and smiled as she offered Azura two items wrapped in cloth. "Open this only when you are the most desperate for aid and now be off with the pair of you before you end up not arriving at Darcia until next months full moon.

"Take care Miss Esme and thank you." Azura looked at the simple back as she reached out and accepted the mysterious gifts before she turned her gaze to Sasha. "Let us be on our way. If I know my brothers they will be wanting to bid us a...fond farewell of their own before we cross the borders."

With a final nod to Miss Esme Azura quickly turned and made her way out of the familiar home and climbed upon Three Socks once more with a faint word of affection as she waited for Sasha to state her good byes.
 
“Do not be afraid to shift if you need to.” Miss Esme said once the door had shut and her and Sasha were alone. “The colder the weather, the more desperate and reckless the bandits get. You must protect Azura and not be embarrassed of your condition-”

“Can we not talk about this?” Sasha felt her ears light up bright red and immediately looked down to the ground, pretending to be very interested in her boots (which were scuffed and needed a shining).

“Your wolf is so much stronger than this form. It’s nothing to be ashamed of! I assure you dear child, it is a blessing…-”

“Please?” Sasha’s voice was quiet, her blue eyes plaintive as she looked up at Miss Esme, letting the old woman know how uncomfortable this conversation made her. She knew that her ability to so easily switch between forms at such a young age was a gift. Many wolves tried their whole lives to master what came so naturally to her without the aid of the moon.

Sasha just…she didn’t like her true wolf’s form…she just wanted to be like all the other werewolves and be normal…

“Alright, alright.” Miss Esme held her hands up in surrender. Then she took a step forward to give Sasha a hug. “Hrrrmph… Just do as your heart tells you, not your pride, not your head, but your heart. Safe journey, little one.” And then Sasha was released, left to bound off after Azura and Three Socks.

The young wolf was already dreading what surprise Azura’s brothers would have for them as they left.

---

“Deeesssttrrryyyy~~” Sasha sang as she gently stroked the side of her horse’s face. The walk to the Blacksmith was short, and after settling her bill, Sasha was free to claim her massive, dapple grey percheron. And yes, ‘Destry’ sounded an awful lot like ‘destrier’. Sasha had gotten confused when her father had told her that the mare was going to be her ‘destrier’, her warhorse. And so, her poor horse had been named by a small child’s inability to correctly annunciate and her confusion about the English language in general.

---

”Alright pup! I’ve gotten you your very own destrier. You must take good care of her, because she will be by your side when you are a big girl and part of the royal guard.” Even as a little pup, Sasha’s father had planned for his daughter to be a warrior and a protector, just like the rest of their bloodline.

“I love her papa! I will take good care of my Destry.” A six-year old Sasha ran up to the foal, which of course startled the creature and it began to run away from her.

“Darling, it’s pronounced ‘destrier’…!” Her father called after her.

Sasha had long since forgotten what her father had been saying. She had a pony! A pony that ran from her, but still, she had a pony. And after chasing the horse about for an hour, it had finally gotten tired and Sasha had been able to catch it to pet it. Hehe, she had a pony! And her pony’s name was destr--..destru…—dastrier…—Destry!! Awfully funny that her father had given it such a silly name! “Destry! Destry!” Sasha giggled as she pet her foal’s snout. And then she quickly turned about once she had had her fill of rubbing the animal’s velvety nose, running back to her father and flinging her arms around his neck, burying him in a sea of ‘thank you’s and hugs.

And of course, the old wolf could only sigh, pat his slightly misguided daughter lightly on the back and say, “Well…I suppose Destry is a very fine name for your horse…”

---

It was easy to see how Sasha had managed to launch herself clear over Three Socks earlier. Even though she was a mare, Destry was massive; so tall that when Sasha stood next to her, it looked as though the young wolf would need a ladder in order to get up into the saddle. The lithe brunette came from a bloodline that was made up of very large, very muscular wolves, and so, Sasha’s father had gotten her a horse that she would grow into one day.

Unfortunately, Sasha had stopped growing once she had hit 5’7”…

Now, perched on top of her gigantic warhorse, the pair looked almost comical due to their size difference. But Sasha didn’t care, she loved Destry. The percheron had served her well over the past fifteen years; whether as a mount, a pet, or a confidant. And even though the mare wasn’t fast, she was strong, perfect for carrying all of Sasha’s gear and trudging through snowfall.

“Well…we better get going if we are to arrive on time.” Sasha smiled encouragingly over at Azura. Then she nudged her horse forward, sending them on a path towards the city gates and adventure.
 
Azura knew moments to say good bye were rare and private so she waited patiently outside until she heard the sound of Sasha coming towards the main door to Miss Esme's house before she gave Three Sock's reigns a careful movement and he began to move slowly but gaining speed as Sasha's frame had appeared in the light of the house. The pair seemed to fall into silence as they made their way towards the black smiths. Azura felt both a low excitement in her stomach, nervousness at what lay ahead and trepidation at what her brothers would do in their way to bid farewell. It would certainly be unforgettable and most likely embarrassing.

She watched in silence as Sasha settled her account with the blacksmith and then appeared with the horse that seemed to dwarf her. A small smile tugged at her lips at the sight. There was a certain physical intimidation from the horse that Sasha was upon. She hoped any bandits they caught the attention of would see the sizer of the horse as more of a threat than a temptation. Once Sasha appeared ready Azura gave her a gentle nod and indicated for her to go ahead of her rather than behind this time. As the horses began to move towards the city gates Azura reached behind her and pulled up the hood of the cloak so that it fell over her head in such a way that it shadowed her eyes and the set of her lips.

As the horses continued at the suddenly what felt to be too fast pace Azura was suddenly aware of thousands of memories she had believed gone forever. She could remember the first time she had ran through their home. She could remember the one and only time she had drank the cook of the taverns apple cider and had been unable to lift her head up without feeling dizzy for three days and that she felt to have lost connection with her legs as the alcohol passed through her body. She could remember the harvest moon festivals and suddenly she recalled that she had no memory at all of Sasha being at ay one of them.

Her silver gaze settled on the back of Sasha's neck as if she could learn why by simply watching the small frame from behind. She saw the waning light of the moon glistened on the dark locks of Sasha's hair and her gaze moved down along the strong shoulders and waist before she heard a distinct ad familiar sound of her brothers voices.

Her gaze shifted to the twin hills that rose up on the lead up to the gates. At the top of one side her four brothers were waving frantically but their state of dress had changed radically since she last saw them. Impossible for any to ignore her eldest brother wore a mane of red hair and one of Azura's former dresses that she had out grown except it had been altered. The skirt had been cut drastically short so that it only came down to just above his knees. The sleeves had been shorted until the point there was only shoulder straps in their place.

Azura drew Three Socks to a halt as she shook her head at her brother only for her to realize what her second brother had dressed up as. Drake had dressed up in a guards outfit and she did not want to know how he got hold of one or what the Captain would do when he found out. He had one foot bare and the other foot had one shoe far too large in it's place. On his own head was a mop of cocoa coloured hair and she realized that was meant to be Sasha. In his hand was what looked to be a dimple and short dagger. Fagin her third brother was dressed up as a bandit, his skin had been dirtied and he seemed to be stalking after the copied and mocking Azura and Sasha with a devious grin on his lips.
 
”What the hell…?” Sasha blinked a couple of times as though she were a woman witnessing a mirage. Surely the Alpha’s oldest son wasn’t standing on a hilltop, wearing one of his sister’s poorly altered dresses! …Was he? After a couple more blinks and her vision did not change, Sasha realized that yes, the young man was indeed in a dress, and yes, he was impersonating his beloved older sister. Sasha herself appeared to not be spared from the skit either, because the boys had opted to include her in it. As ridiculous as her character looked, Sasha couldn’t help but shake her head and let out a laugh. She turned to look over to Azura, her blue eyes bright and a smile on her lips.

“They’re quite clever, your brothers are, if they managed to sneak past Chapman to get a uniform.” The young guard said with a grin. Chapman was an old wolf that had gone lame in one leg over the last great war; he was only fit for Armoury duty. But he took his job very, very seriously. However angry her father the Captain would be, Chapman would be about thirty times more furious if he found out that someone had been rifling through his precious stores without his permission. Or even worse, without signing the log that stated what equipment had been removed!

Sasha turned back to the scene before them seeming to be quite amused by the way Azura’s siblings had chosen to see their sister off. She herself was an only child and had always wished for brothers and sisters to play with; part of her was envious that Azura was lucky enough to have her very own family pack within their much larger pack.

“Though…it must be incredibly sad to be leaving so much behind.” Sasha’s felt a sympathetic pang of pain in her heart as she realized that Azura would not get to be audience to these wonderful shows any longer. Dacia was so far away…of course she’d probably see her family, but only for special occasions and the like. It must be so heartbreaking…

And for that reason, Sasha didn’t take offense to the way that the boys portrayed her. Even when the bandit wrestled with the pretend Sasha and lifted ‘her’ shirt up right over her head so that her arms were trapped by the fabric and so she could not see, Sasha did not stop smiling. It would do no good for her to become upset at he unflattering (though, kind of truthful) way that the boys portrayed her. …Though she was a little bummed out when the bandit pretended to stab her with her own sword.

“Aw…they killed me off.” Sasha pouted. “I assure you, Azura, I do not die so easily.” But her little pout was replaced by a giggle as the bandit began to chase the oldest boy about, making obnoxious kissy faces to which the eldest shrieked like a maiden in distress. The bandit’s advances were soon thwarted by the final brother, who appeared in a fancy white doublet with golden buttons that looked as though it belonged to the Alpha, or perhaps the eldest brother.

Well…at least her brothers appeared as though they were going to give their sister a happy ending by letting her prince charming come to the rescue.
 
Azura could not help but wonder what her brothers had been thinking to come up with this little play to send her off. While she appeared calm and almost serene outwardly the sights before her simply added to the knot of nervous in her stomach. The knot relaxed slightly as she heard Sasha laugh at the sight of her comical self. The last thing she wished for was the young woman to be insulted and upset at the cameo. She felt her hands relax on the reigns slightly at the sound and a small smile touched her lips. A warm, tender look of blatant love and affection for her brothers showed itself in her eyes as she watched them play out the quickly put together plot.

"I suspect I know how they did it. Probably in the same tactic they use. Three distract and one grabs. They have used that tactic for a long time now. I am curious how they are going to get the uniform back in place before any realize it is missing."

As the created Sasha died with a broad grin on her brothers features and the sound of her eldest brother letting out mocking feminine screams she turned her gaze to the genuine Sasha besides her at her words. "That is certainly good to know...it is a good thing my father did not request my brothers join us for this trip. They would never stop with this show."

As her fourth brother Koray appeared she tilted her head back and laughed out loud. He had managed to sneak out their fathers robe for special occasions. He walked on his tip toes, in what was meant to be broad strides with a brave look to his features. He pulled out what looked to be a collection of feathers from his belt and snuck up on the bandit who was drawing ever closer to her masculine copy cat. Koray suddenly delivered a dizzying attack of the feather and within moments the bandit was spinning around and around in circles as he laughed out loud and with just a moments hesitation gave Sasha and Azura a wave and jumped down from the hillside and out of sight.

This left the supposed dead Sasha whom kept making playful dying sounds and bursting into laughter in a rick and masculine tone of voice her brother could not hide. The prince approached the badly dressed brother and attempted to deliver a kiss to the offered cheek before he was promptly pushed off of the cliff, with enough pause to deliver a wave to the observing pair. The eldest brother let out a mock shriek at the sight of the grinning form of Drake and delivered what appeared to be a life giving kiss to the cheek before Drake rose to his feet suddenly, pulled the soon be Alpha into a whirl of dance moves and seemed to lean in to giving his older brother a romantic kiss on the lips before the show ended with a flourish. Her brothers gave her a wave and gentle nods just in time for Azura to hear Chapman's voice sound through the air.

"You four better get back to the barracks before either father finds out and you find yourself cleaning out the stables with your bare paws and polishing all of the metal ware I own."

Azura gave her brothers a gentle nod in turn and blew four kisses towards the rapidly disappearing backs before she turned her moist gaze to Sasha. " We should be on our way before another delay comes to post pone our departure." Her voice was firm but broke a little before she straightened her back, turned her gaze towards the main gates and began to move once more. She did not take into any true consideration the ending to the story her brothers had decided upon. It was just their way of telling them to take care of each other.
 
“It might be nice to have the entertainment, it would make the journey go by faster.” Sasha chuckled. Part of her mind was still focused on the road ahead of them even as her eyes watched the scene before them unfold. A whole month alone with Azura! What on earth were they going to do to pass the time? Sasha had gone on marches and missions before, but never all alone with a stranger. Not that the redhead was a stranger, but seriously, what was someone like Sasha going to talk about with a refined wolf like Azura? It wasn’t as though she were stupid, she had done quite well with the majority of her lessons in school in fact…but…even though they were the same age, Azura just seemed so much more grown up, so much more serious than she did. It was such a strange contrast to her siblings, a stoic sister and a bunch of mischievous bumbling brothers, how odd.

Sasha’s ears lit on fire as the play drew to a close and the two brothers shared a romantic kiss together. She prayed that the blush go no lower, for fear that Azura would notice the discomfort that the gesture had caused her. While there was talk about the barracks for the way Sasha’s eyes meandered over the curves of the gentler sex, the young guard’s sexual attraction towards women was certainly not the talk of the town (though, it was often wondered, why a beautiful female of mating age was not married off yet). Part of her wondered if it gesture was just something crudely symbolic, if meant for her and Azura to be kind to one another and not fight or pull hair the way females are rumored to do. Or perhaps the boys had indeed heard some of the more teasing and crude remarks made by her comrades regarding Sasha’s sexuality. Many of the last words from her guard friends had included innuendos and much teasing that ‘Azura was not to keep all of her innocence as long as Sasha the Lady Killer was around’!

”Pha! Lady Killer indeed…” The only experience she had with women was when she had fooled around a little bit with a wolf from a neighboring pack. The daughter of the rival Alpha from Crowborough had been brought by in the hopes of arranging a marriage with Azura’s oldest brother. Though…when Sasha had been assigned to guard her, the stranger had made it very clear that she had no interest in men.

In all fairness, Sasha had tried her best to behave, she really had! But a pair of lovely brown bedroom eyes and delicate fingers playing with the embellishments on her guard’s uniform had been her undoing. The rival Alpha’s daughter had been too alluring for a young and unexperienced Sasha to handle. Her mind had reverted back to it’s more basic instincts, and had sent her body crashing into a girl who had been more than happy to teach Sasha the proper way to kiss… Her father had been so mad that day that he had caught caught his only daughter locking lips and giggling with a girl in the stables… Not because he objected to what gender Sasha pursued, but because she had stepped out of her place. Kissing an Alpha! An Alpha that was supposed to be promised to the oldest son of their own pack leader! Such things were dangerous.

”Does the eldest know? Does Azura know?” Panic washed over her as tormented herself by worrying over nothing. They couldn’t know…they shouldn’t know…not unless—

The sound of Chapman’s gruff voice ringing out nearby, drew Sasha away from her imposed self-torture. Her blue eyes focused themselves once again and fell upon Azura. Seeing her traveling companion’s glassy eyes pulled at the strings of Sasha’s heart. She wished that she could give Azura a hug, wrap up the smaller female in her arms and hold her, promise everything would be okay and that there was no need to be sad. But such things were improper. Sasha had her place and Azura had her own.

“It’ll be okay Azura…even though you’re leaving, this will always be your home. And you can always return if you need to.” The young wolf said with a nod, as if the bobbing of her head made that statement infallible. It was something her father had told her long ago. That no matter what happened, no matter how bad Sasha screwed up, she could always trust in the fact that she had a home that she could come back to, even if she were to go somewhere far away.

“Come on, this’ll be fun!” Sasha offered a smile, trying to cheer Azura up as she nudged her horse forward, sending them on their way. “Our journey will be like an adventure!” She'd always wanted to travel, and it was easy to see that Sasha was pretty excited about being allowed to go somewhere as far as Dacia was.

After riding for a couple moments in silence, Sasha realized that Dacia was indeed, very far away. And if they had to ride very far away, it was best to not do so in complete and utter silence.

"Sooo...erm...what do you like to do Azura? In your free time..." May as well try to get to know Azura better, that way their conversations would come much more easily as was in the nature of talks between friends.
 
"Until you wished for silence and calmness but yes they would certainly be entertaining indeed. They have always been able to be so..besides after a few nights of hearing them snore you would be ready to use your dagger to make them quiet."

She whispered the last few words quietly as she considered the fact she would not hear them torment each other in a morning. How they would each try and be out smart their parents and more often than not finding out their parents had known what they were going to do all along. They were ones that challenged each other physically pushed each other to be the better wolf. Azura was the one they came too when they had worries. When they had a crush on a female. When they were not doing as they should be in school or when they felt nervous about a test coming up. Azura was their keeper of secrets, the one to solve problems they did not wish their brothers or parents to know. Azura helped where she could, kicked their tails when they needed it and made sure that only she got to torment them in turn. Azura had always been protective over her family. In particular her brothers. She suddenly recalled on year when her and her brothers had been sent to a gathering of packs. A long summer festival.

A gathering of Alpha's from varying packs always had small fights , it was expected and natural but one pack. The pack that followed the Greyfanged Alpha family had decided to set upon her brother. It had been six to four and while Azura had withstood remarks and insults she had stepped in when the battle of words became a battle of fists. She could recall her fathers reminders for a whole week after than a female Alpha only settled a matter with claws and teeth when it came to defense not to simply settle a fight. Her mother reminded her that while she was part animal she always had to control it. She was a female, a female Alpha and even worse the first born. She had to be able to settle matters with soft words, prevent upsets and soften wrongs with her mind and voice.

The look of panic across Sasha's face brought her back from the past and had her watch the young wolf with a moment of concern. She was about to ask whether she was alright but by then Sasha spoke first. “It’ll be okay Azura…even though you’re leaving, this will always be your home. And you can always return if you need to.” She smiled to Sasha and nodded her head gently though she was not so certain that the words were true. She had, had a wonderful childhood, her parents loved her, cared for her and brought her up well. She just some where in her younger years took everything a more seriously and felt like a failure at just the idea of messing up and having to return home.

Sasha's words of the journey being fun made her smile. She envied the womans energy and look out on life. That everything could be fun and every day seemed to be a new one and one to be embraced and enjoyed. At her question Azura smiled slowly and slowed Three Socks so that the pair could ride sides by side rather than one in front of the other.

"What I like to do when not busy? " She considered the question surprisingly carefully. Her days these days and especially the last few months seemed to be full of lessons, training and preparations for her pending wedding and journey. Advice from wives and mothers about everything that lay ahead. She had forgotten what she enjoyed to do when she had time to simply be.

"I enjoy swimming when the weather is far more suitable, hunting, reading, writing and I also enjoy painting." She inwardly felt herself sigh at the last few words that came from her mouth. She realized she sounded older than she actually was. What had happened to the cub that loved creating stories int he woods, catching fish by hands, climbing trees and dueling with the other young ones. Her gaze turned to Sasha with a curious smile. "What about you Sasha? When you are not dueling and completing tasks from your father."
 
Sasha’s gaze came off the road and focused on Azura instead, once the Alpha had slowed down her horse so that they could ride side by side. Good thing Destry was very good at following paths, otherwise they probably would have gotten lost no more than one hundred meters from their home. Sasha seemed to relax now that Azura had told her some of her likes. The other woman’s likes didn’t differ all that much from her own, which was a major relief! Sasha had been afraid that they would have nothing to talk about this whole time.

“You write and paint? That’s pretty neat. Perhaps you could share a story with me sometime…” She seemed genuinely interested in the fact that Azura enjoyed the more creative arts, it set the Alpha apart from anyone that she knew and made her different, interesting.

“Hmm…what do I like to do…” Sasha paused a moment as she turned the question over. Most of her day was full of training and menial tasks. And at this point in her life, she couldn’t remember whether she had imposed all that work on herself, or if her father was the reason that she had so little free time. “Well I do really like to spar, even when it’s not part of scheduled training...” And indeed, she was very good at hand-to-hand combat. What Sasha lacked in size when compared to the other guards, she made up in speed, flexibility, and agility. Even though becoming a guard was not an occupation she would have chosen on her own, she couldn’t deny her body’s natural abilities or the thrill that came with actually being good at something.

“I like swimming, fishing. Pretty much anything to do with the outdoors, I enjoy. I uhh…like to wittle too… Nothing big or fancy, but I’ve almost made a whole chess set for my father.” The young wolf seemed to puff up proudly that her project for her dad was almost complete. All she needed to do was complete the pawns, and the month long journey to Dacia should be plenty of time for her to get eight of the pieces done. She’d have to do the other eight on her solo journey back home. Sasha’s father, the Captain, was an excellent strategist and loved a good game of chess, she was sure he’d love it, as soon as it was finished anyways.

For a moment the young wolf was silent and looked to be contemplating on whether or not she was finished, or whether or not she should divulge some of the other things she liked to do. “I er…really like to dance too…” Sasha’s voice trailed off at the end of the word ‘dance’, as though she were afraid to say such a thing. Perhaps it was because she had grown up surrounded by men (she could almost hear her friends saying ‘Dancing is for prissy nobles and sissymen!’), and because of that reason, Sasha was a little timid when it came like revealing the softer, more feminine things about herself.

Sash ran her fingers through her brown mane of hair, making a bit of a face as she pulled her hand away, calloused digits grasping a dusty red leaf. The piece of foliage was not only a reminder that the end of autumn was rapidly approaching, but also a signal that Sasha was in need of a bath. As cold as it was, she wasn’t above running into the water to rinse off in the middle of winter. Hopefully, the necklace from Miss Esme was truly lucky and Sasha would be able to avoid anymore mishaps.

“Well, maybe we’ll both get to go swimming soon. Unless you’re afraid of a little cold water.” The brunette tossed in some gentle ribbing, finding it much easier to treat Azura like one of the boys in the barracks rather than an Alpha female. “I definitely need to wash off all this dirt…and the path will meet up with the river in a couple of hours.” Thank the Goddess for the river. It ran all the way to Crowsborough, then up to Dacia. It should be impossible for even Sasha to get them lost with such a prominent landmark for them to follow.
 
She smiled softly at Sasha's reaction to the knowledge she wrote and painted. The painting her mother approved of but not the writing. It was the only time now that her imagination ran wild and free and she gained a piece of freedom she had felt she had forgotten in accepting her role as the Alpha female. "Well we have many nights ahead of us. I am sure I could help pass the time by filling your imagination with tales. If I remember rightly you were one of the few that used to seem enjoy listening to stories." She spoke the words carefully as she became aware within a moment how aware she had been of Sasha. Until she remembered that is what she was meant to do. She was meant to observe and listen, to know who enjoyed what and who did not. Who was good at hunting or crafting and fighting.

She considered Sasha's words about spars and a broad smile touched her lips. " Perhaps you could teach me how to spar a little better. I know I am not very good at defending though I can dodge quite well. " She said the last few words almost silently as if it was unnerving to admit that she had a flaw but Sasha was one of the few that seemed to openly accept all and any no matter the flaws they had. Perhaps that came from the way she was and the way she was used to being treated and teased.

Azura gave Sasha a surprised glance as she spoke about enjoying dancing and yet once more she could not recall a memory where she found Sasha dancing. Such was mostly done at the festivals. "I enjoy dancing to though I mostly danced with my brothers or father though if you enjoy dancing why I have I not seen you at the moon festivals? The whole town dances then and there is so many people that no one truly pays attention to any possible mis teps." She said the last word carefully and gently in case it was a sore spot for Sasha.

She watched as Sasha lifted up her hand and pulled the leaf from her hair as Azura chuckled low. "I have no fear of cold water and while I may be clean a good swim in a lake before the water freezes would be quite refreshing. Though if we are going to go swimming perhaps we should try and find a small cave or alcove to set up in so we can avoid drawing too much attention and have a place to return to, to dry and warm up should the weather suddenly turn. With Miss Esme's warning in mind I certainly do not wish to get caught in a sudden snow flurry in nothing but trickling water and under garments ..especially not on our first day at least!"
 
Sasha nodded an affirmative; she really did love to listen to stories, her ears were always open. And because her father didn’t approve of her adventuring past the city walls on her own, or with a capable male chaperone, Sasha had to often settle for fictional tales rather than her own real adventures. Her mood stayed bright at the promise of some stories, and only got better when Azura had said that they could perhaps spar sometime. It was rare that Sasha got to show off her skills, and being able to actually teach Azura, who admitted to be a bit of a novice, would give her confidence a much needed boost. And it would let her prove that she had been a good choice to serve as the Alpha’s guard. “That sounds like fun. It would be good to get some practice in so that my skills don’t get rusty.”

And here came the part of the trip that Sasha had been hoping to avoid. Usually people didn’t ask her why she didn’t come to the festivals, they just wrote it off to Sasha being a clutz and not wanting to cause a mass catastrophe by attempting to dance with the rest of the group. While it was true that she was not particularly graceful when just walking on her own, when her movements were set to music, or she had a sword in her hand, Sasha’s body had a grace and fluidity that was easily enviable. But now, posed with the question about why she did not attend, she had to think up an excuse because she was in the spotlight.

“I…I cannot control my wolf as much as I would like to… It is better if I stay in seclusion when the full moon comes out.” Sasha was picking her words carefully, she’d always been taught to not lie, that lying was for snakes and cheaters. But her true form was a special exception…it was too hard for her to admit that she was a freak of nature. Besides, she was partially telling the truth to Azura. Even though she could shift right now, without the aid of the moon, she did not have control over the fact that her wolf’s form came with some extra bits and pieces that she did not want. “I can dance just fine in this form though…” she added quickly, and then seemed to be eager to drop the subject all together and talk about where they would go swimming and set up camp instead.

“Hmm…a cave or an alcove huh? I remember Zev saying something about a small cave he had found on his last assignment.” Sasha wracked her brain, trying to remember her friend’s exact words so that she didn’t get them lost. “Where…where the river forks, you follow the small branch and it’ll take you past some rapids and to a waterfall with cave…” She paused for a moment, an idea popping into her head, one that would hopefully distract Azura from their previous topic once and for all. “Since it’s going to be out of the way, how about a race? A little friendly competition to see if your fresian is as good as my percheron.” At the word ‘race’, Destry’s ears perked and her tail flicked flicked in excitement. The giant mare did love a race, and even though she was laden with Sasha’s gear, it wouldn’t deter her from running free. So while Sasha was patiently waiting for a response, Destry decided to take matters into her own very capable hooves and get them going. The dapple grey mare began to sprint off, leaving Three Socks and Azura in the dust kicked up by her humongous hooves.

Of course Sasha hadn’t really been paying attention or holding onto the reigns all that hard and they easily slipped from her grasp, falling off to the side of the mare’s big neck and out of her reach. “Destry! No! I did not say ‘go!’” Sasha shrieked as her hands gasped tightly onto the mare’s mane to keep from getting thrown off. “Gaaahhhh!! I’m going to eat you if the winter becomes too harsh!” Sasha shouted her idle threats. But when she turned around to check if Azura and Three Socks were following after them, she was smiling and happy despite her horse’s brazenness. Sasha was absolutely loving the freedom that Destry could provide her.
 
The possibility of stories made Azura smile, it helped that Sasha would be more than willing to listen to them and more than seemed to enjoy the idea of such a possibility. Azura also liked the idea of Sasha being able to teach her a little if not a lot about sparring. She oddly felt more comfortable with the idea of Sasha doing so, at least she could make a fool of herself in front of Sasha.

"Story telling and some sparring as well as some swimming? This adventure sounds all the more fun already." She looked over her shoulder just in time to see the gates of their home disappear. Slowly the scent of fires and home left too physically at least. Yet the memory of such remained strong and she breathed in the scent of Miss Esme that lingered on her cloak. Fun yes, the same as being home? No.

Her brief glance back changed to Sasha as she listened to why the woman always had been absent at every festival. Azura smiled softly at her reasoning. "While I can understand that..you may be surprised to find how much..lack of control there is on those nights." She said the words carefully as she watched Sasha curiously. She had a feeling there was something more to it but it was not her place to make Sasha feel bad about it. "Perhaps when in Darcia you would be willing for once to join me in celebrating the Harvest Moon before you go home."

She laughed at Sasha's offer about a race after she had been told where the cave would be. That sounded suitable enough and it was not moments later that she was given a good reason for having a swim. As Destry rode off her huge hoofs kicked up clouds of dust, stones and even twigs and dead leaves that ahd already fallen with the colder weather. Azura let out a playful howl as she declared the horse to be a cheater as she gripped Three Socks reigns tightly and without a nudge he started off after the pair. He was smaller and would not of been able to carry Sasha a great distance but he was graceful and fast. His smaller frame had an easier time along the ground and Azura could guide him through smaller gaps that Sasha's horse would only crash into.

She could feel the grains of the dust in her hair, on her skin and some had even gotten into her mouth which made her cough. Yet it was the look on Sasha's face that stood out the most. The way she looked so happy, almost like a wolf with a bone. She enjoyed this freedom, this time to do what ever they wished.
 
Sasha was a little curious to what sort of ‘lack of control’ went on at the festivals and what ‘lack of control’, if any, her new friend had gotten herself into. Azura seemed so put together that she couldn’t imagine the Alpha cutting loose and letting herself grow truly wild as it was rumored that other wolves did. But she was unable to contemplate such things for long, because now she was busy holding onto a rampaging mare for dear life.

While Destry was definitely powerful, she was not made for charging off for the long haul. The horse put up a valiant effort, running free for as fast as she could before finally slowing down to a steady trot once she grew tired, at which point she was overtaken by Three Socks and Azura. Once the other horse became too tired to continue at it’s brisk pace as well and was quite a ways ahead, Sasha called out, “Okay! Okay, you win. We concede.” The young wolf smiled, not minding the loss, and pat Destry lightly on the neck, whispering soothing words to the mare that had done a very good job. Eventually the pair caught back up to Azura and Three Socks and the group resumed their journey together.

For hours they traveled, amicably talking for most of the journey, even going through long silences for a lot of it. The silences Sasha didn’t much mind, they occurred often during marches…and they were actually kind of nice. The quiet moments were not awkward, allowing both girls time to let their minds wander in the realm of their own thoughts before speaking once more. She liked not feeling the urge to speak, and reveled in the fact that Azura was very nice company to be around.

Though a substantial meal was probably the main thought on both their minds after several hours of riding, Sasha kept them pressing onward, only allowing their little party short breaks, time outs that were long enough for the horses to catch their breath or her and Azura to tap into their rations for a bit of a snack. Even though she was growing tired as the day stretched on, Sasha knew that it would be best for them to find the cave and then use that for their first camp. Then they could at least relax and rest after engorging themselves on whatever they could trap.

They had ridden through the night and morning. It was late afternoon by the time they arrived to the place where the river forked off. Following the small branch led them about a half hour out of their way before finally it widened and turned into a swiftly flowing current. Further still and it led to the bottom of a small waterfall that had rapids that were so weak and so shallow that Sasha was fairly certain they would be able to swim without fear of drowning or getting cut on sharp stones. Sure enough, near the waterfall was a cave that had been cut into the stone when the river had been much larger hundreds of years ago.

“Phew…we finally made it! Good thing too, I’m starving.” Destry gave an offended snort, as though Sasha had no right to be so hungry when she had been the one doing all the work and carrying all the gear. “Yes yes, I know you’re hungry too.” The young wolf chuckled and patted her horse lightly on the side before springing off saddle. “Sooo…shall we unload the horses so that they may rest and graze, then set up our own camp?” And then a thought occurred to her, one she probably should have thought to ask at the beginning of their journey. “Ah…have you ever been camping before? Do you know how to do things like set up a fire or build a shelter?”
 
Azura had looked over her shoulder as finally Destry tired enough to slow in pace and eventually slowed even further until it became clear she could no longer actually keep pace and catch up. As she heard Sassha's call through the woods she gave out a successful cheer before she slowed Three Sock's down and came to a halt to wait for the pair to catch up. A broad smile touched her lips and she nodded her head gently to the pair as they caught up properly.

Azura enjoyed the hours that followed. For once she felt a pressure she had not known she had carried slowly lifted and eased the tension along her shoulders. That tension was that expectation of what she was meant to be every waking moment except when alone. She enjoyed the simple and casual chatter with Sasha, in which she was not being told how her life was to change, what was to come or what she had to be prepared for and ready to do. It was simply two women having and enjoying silence as well as discussion. The simplicity was amazingly refreshing

She followed where Sasha was certain the cave was and for once she did not get lost, nor did she manage to some how lose Azura along the way. Once they found the cave she quickly climbed off of Three Socks and gave his neck a gentle rub before she reached into a low pocket in her cloak and fed him an apple. "There you go boy. You did a good job today." She spoke in his ear and gently rubbed the base of his ear as he ate.

As Sasha asked her questions Azura's eyes narrowed in slight annoyance. While the questions were practical and expected it had made her wonder how fragile the guard thought she was and how much care the guard felt may have been required on this journey.

"I have been camping several times. I do know how to build a fire, shelter, hunt and prepare meat. I also know a variety of other skills. " She managed to add the last sentence with a softening of her tone of voice as she realized the questions were nothing more than such rather than a possible dig against her own capabilities. "Let's have then relieved of their burdens and allowed to graze a while. While we set up. If you wish to hunt anything fresh I will set up in her for your return."

She closed her eyes a moment as she listened to the relaxing and soothing noise of the waterfall and how the sound seemed to echo slightly within the cavern. "Unless you would prefer to set us up a home here and let me hunt."
 
Sasha cringed slightly as Azura’s eyes narrowed. Apparently that had been the wrong question to ask her new friend. While there had been no malice or judgment behind her inquiry, Azura had apparently taken it as a little stab towards her capability. And so, in an attempt to smooth things over, Sasha tried to clear up any misconceptions by.

“I didn’t mean to offend…I just…thought that because…you know… women don’t really go camping…” Sasha’s voice trailed off as she realized the ridiculousness of her statement. She was a woman and she liked to go camping. But Sasha wasn’t really a typical woman. She had been raised mostly by her father and so had grown up doing many ‘boy things’ that girls didn’t like to participate in because the activities were too messy or too physical. Still, that first sentences hadn’t been a really good one, so she tried again.

“I mean, most women… you know…cook and sew and…” Her second attempt may have been even worse than the first. Despite her efforts to smooth over the flash of irritation she had seen in Azura’s eyes, Sasha couldn’t help but feel as though she were on a sinking ship as each wave of stupid managed its way out of her mouth. ”Ahhhh you’re making it worse! Stop talking!” And so Sasha clammed right up, rather than throw out even more gender stereotypes that would likely make her traveling companion want to punch her in the face. Truly she had only meant the question as a sort of gauge to figure out where their strengths lay, not as a jab at Azura and insinuating that she was weak.

Though, if she were entirely honest with herself, a small part of her had been nervous that Azura’s more privileged life would equate with her being unable to take care of herself once all the benefits that came with being an Alpha was removed. And yes, she had feared that her charge would be completely and utterly useless in the wild. But as Azura went over her strengths when it came to camping, Sasha nodded a little bit. Azura was apparently no ordinary noble woman and the young wolf would have to stop thinking of her as some porcelain doll that was fragile and incapable of taking care of itself.

“I ah… I don’t doubt your abilities. I just…wanted to know…” ”Grrrrr!!!” In all fairness, Azura had looked kind of cute when she was mad, couple that with Sasha’s massive crush on the Alpha, the hunger in her belly, and the fatigue that pulled at her eyelids, and it was of little wonder that she was unable to speak.

“How about you go hunt and I’ll set up camp?” Sasha said after awhile. She had the slight feeling that if she wandered off far in her search for food, she’d end up losing her way. And while Miss Esme had given her the necklace with the thought of the North Star keeping Sasha on track, she wasn’t entirely confident in the power of good luck charms when her own luck was so horrible.

So, while Azura got ready to hunt, Sasha went ahead and started unstrapping and unbuckling their gear from the horses, groaning softly as her own tent managed to spring forth and fall to the ground in a mix of poles ropes and canvas. ”Great…just great…” She made a mental note to pick it up and tie it down better next time, but left the tent where it lay so that she could start on more important things like letting the horses graze and starting a fire for them and their dinner.
 
Azura's gaze remained on Sasha's face as her lips kept moving and words came out. Each ones just seemed to have or would of made matters worse had Sasha not suddenly had the wisdom to fall silent for several moments. Finally Azura smiled gently to the now seeming dumb founded female and simply nodded her head once. For a moment blissful silence filled the cave. "Please Sasha at least speak...plainly and as simply and as honestly as you wish to. I shall try not to take offense and would rather you be truthful about what concerns you so I can at least put those thoughts and worries to rest."

As if reading her mind a moment Azura moved towards Sasha. Her foot steps were practically silent and her frame moved with grace and poise. Even if her body brushed anything nothing fell or tumbled out. "Unlike some of the females of our pack I am not going to scream at the sight of blood, gasp at the feel of mud on me or practically die due to a broken nail. I am not as fragile as a glass doll nor am I squeamish. Though I do certainly have a few flaws. One of them being I am quite ticklish just there." She reached a hand up and pointed a finger to Sasha's left side just above her belt. "So try not to tickle me there as I will burst out laughing no matter where I am."

She then moved away from Sasha after her attempt to lighten the mood she unfastened her cloak and removed it just in time to hear something hit the smooth stone beneath their feet. Her silver gaze turned to Sasha and then down to the tent that had seemingly prang out of the bag and to the ground. "Perhaps if we work together on both tasks instead of separately and once we know each other better and what we are each better tasked at we can working separately. "

Where Sasha had left the tent Azura made her ways towards it and within ten minutes she had the skeleton of it stood up and was in process of fastening the outer material around the frame. "So...I take it you do not savour sewing or cooking..or any of those...girl tasks ?" She asked the question with a teasing smile on her features this time so Sasha could see this time she was simply easing the way between them once more.
 
As long as nothing was wrong, Sasha was okay. One little wrench in the works left the poor guard flustered and bumbling about, creating a snowball effect with her nerves until finally it was this giant disaster! But…if no one was watching, if she was doing something she was good at, or if the mood was light and she had no reason to worry, she seemed to do much better. Her fear of disappointing others would probably be the death of her one day.

But today, for now, Azura was being very sweet to her, going so far as to lighten up the mood with something as silly as divulging where her most ticklish spot was. The little tidbit made Sasha smile, “I will make sure to keep your weakness in mind when we spar.” While she never did like to fight dirty via hitting below the belt or pulling hair, she wasn’t above tickling her opponent into submission.”

Curious eyes watched Azura as she began to set up the tent. And for a moment Sasha wondered if they would be spending the night in the tent together. It was a standard issue guard’s tent after all, big enough to sleep two people, (not that Sasha had ever had to share a tent before though, her father would never allowed such a thing on his watch). Well…she’d think about that more later, for now she had to remove the tack from the horses so that they could graze without burdens. “Alright, working together sounds like an excellent plan.”

Sasha looped a long piece of rope into her horse’s bridle and attached the other end to a tree that was very close to the mouth of the small cavern, allowing the massive percheron plenty of room to eat whatever greens she could find. She did the same thing with Three Socks, not wanting the horse to wander off too far as he fed. Sasha’s cheeks lit up pink at the little bit of teasing Azura threw her way, but she didn’t seem too perturbed otherwise. Infact her lips curled into a smile and she shook her head, tousling silky locks of brown about as she looked over to the other women, her smile only widening as she saw how far Azura had made it with the tent. Sasha was definitely impressed by the amount of progress. She headed over to Azura, helping her secure the canvas to the skeleton that she had set up so that it would go by twice as fast.

“I can sew…though it never looks particularly nice.” And if Azura looked closely at the canvas of the guard’s standard issue tent, she would see a couple of places where Sasha had attempted to sew up rips. While the patches weren’t a particularly nice sight to see, they definitely accomplished the task of making sure no errant rips managed their way into that area of cloth ever again. “But I can do other girly tasks like braiding hair, cooking, and taking care of pups very well.” Sasha stuck her tongue out at Azura playfully. As much of a tomboy as she was, the young guard could still be feminine where it counted.
 
Azura smiled at the playful words that came from Sasha's mouth and for a very brief moment her attention was drawn to her lips but then a look that was both challenging and determined crossed her eyes and she smiled broadly at her. "I am sure you shall. Well I am rare to submit even in a simple spar and I certainly enjoy finding weak spots also. I look forward to finding your own Sasha." One eyebrow arched as she watched Sasha closely a moment to see if she inadvertently gave away any weaknesses without realizing it.

As her hands moved along the pieces of metal that would form the tents skeleton her gaze turned to Sasha as she set up the horses so they could move around to eat without wandering too far. She looked down to the tent and for a moment wondered if she had been given her own sleeping tent or whether she would share with Sasha. It certainly would make more sense to share. It eased the weight on the horses and two people in a tent would be warmer than in separate ones. If Miss Esme had given her father and the Captain the same warnings she seriously doubted they would have given them the choice of such in case that could of proven to be too risky. None the less she certainly planned on going through her bags and making sure before approaching the matter with Sasha.

She glanced down to the indicated attempts at sewing and smiled gently at the haphazard attempts. "Perhaps I could help you with some hints in doing them though those already done look strong enough to withstand a month in the woods at least." She accepted Sasha's aid with the material without question and soon enough the tent was up and weighted down so it would not slide along the cave floor.

"I enjoy those elements to though I will admit I tend to prefer brushing hair to braiding. I find it rather calming and soothing, especially if it is my hair being brushed."

She started to gather some large stones dotted about the cave and formed a circle with them to act as a small guard between the campfire to be built and the rest of the cave. "Is there anything in particular you fancy eating for tea if we can catch it?"
 
"Some hints would be appreciated, though the tailor may not be appreciative of your lessons. I'm probably one of his best customers." The young woman said with a chuckle. Clumsy Sasha tended to get herself caught onto things when she wasn't careful, tearing holes into many of her shirts and pants (never dresses or skirts, they were silly things and she hated to wear them! Especially because there was a strong correlation between Sasha in a dress and the ability of her male companions to notice that she had breasts, then treat her like a sexual conquest rather than a friend). While her uniforms were mended for free by Chapman, who was excellent at mending uniforms, her personal effects were not.

Sasha nodded a little bit at Azura's comment about liking her hair being brushed, stashing the information away for later. The other woman had such long flowing redhair, that perhaps she'd like help brushing it before bed. Sasha's hair had been that long when she was a child and she had always enjoyed other people brushing her hair for her. But her father had coaxed her into cutting it to a shorter length once she had gone into training to become a guard. Fighting was definitely a lot easier with hair that was only shoulder length.

While Azura set up the stones for a fireplace, Sasha moved to go grab a couple of small pieces of wood so that they could get the fire going. A little fire would be helpful for finding their way back to camp from their hunting trip. And it would keep the small animals away from their cave and the couple of rations that Sasha had in her bags just incase a fresh dinner was impossible. But she would prefer to stay out of their ration stores until it was an emergency.

"Hmm...rabbit is my favorite, but they can be very difficult to catch." Sasha said as returned with a bundle of wood, tossing the mess of sticks onto the ground and started to sort through them to arrange them by size. "Squirrels are pretty good, we'd have to shoot down a bunch of them though..." The young wolf said with a shrug as she snapped some of the smaller pieces of wood apart to serve as kindling and tossed them into the circle of stones. She pulled out some dry pieces of grass and pine needles she had found from her pocket. Then she pulled out her piece of flint and a steel so that Azura could give starting the fire a try.

"Here, could you try to start the fire? Please? I'm just going to try to get out of all this gear before we start heading out on foot..." Although the weight of her armor didn't usually bother her, Sasha didn't like to wear all of her armor if she was going to go hunting. Chainmail and leather were not very good for swiftly running through the forest in pursuit of potential dinner. Besides, they were half an hour away from the main trail, she was pretty certain they wouldn't be expecting any attacks, so she could get out this uniform and not be scared. Once Azura accepted the task of starting the fire, Sasha moved off a bit so that she could strip out of her armor. But she stopped for a moment, sizing up the canvas tent that would give her privacy. The tent was too short for Sasha to be able to stand in and change and knowing her luck, she'd probably end up knocking the whole thing over as she flailed about with an arm stuck in a sleeve. It would be safer to change in the cavern... They were both women afterall, both had the same parts, after a moment's hesitation she decided that there was no harm changing in the same room as Azura, as long as her back was turned.

Off came the green tunic of her guard's uniform, followed by her leather armor, then the heavy-chainmail (which Sasha grunted softly and struggled with to get out of, making quite the ruckus with rattling chains), and finally the padded arming jacket that was worn underneath the whole mess. Now, almost thirty pounds lighter, Sasha gave her body a bit of a stretch and heaved a happy sigh in her newfound freedom. Out of her armor and in nothing but an undershirt that clung to her like a second skin, she had quite the impressive body; made up of nothing but sleek muscle and graceful curves. Coupled with her pretty face, she was definitely an oddball by being of the mating age and yet not paired off with a lifemate yet.

Once her skin began to prickle with goosebumps, Sasha quickly tugged back on the shirt of her uniform and then turned back around to face Azura and check on her progress to see if the other woman had managed to get their fire going.
 
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