The Wildwood They didn't quit, they wanted his head

Early afternoon, scattered clouds, 51.8F/11C. All welcome, but please let @Amondi post first!

The two of them had slowly made their way northward as the days warmed up, seeking shelter amongst the trees from the elements and any possible predators. As the days had passed Amondi's belly began to swell in size, and Rochus found himself more and more hesitant to leave her side, wanting to make sure she was safe, and therefore his unborn children were safe. If there was any way to show that he was a good and strong leader, it was being able to care for his brood and make sure they grew up strong and able bodied. He could start a new pack here in the forest, and while Amondi was not his first choice in a mate, she was here and willing, and he would have to make do.

He nuzzled her neck affectionately, gently nibbling at her fur as he spoke in a soft and gentle tone. "We've been walking for a while, do you want to rest for a bit while I try and find something to eat, or carry on? Rochus wanted to make sure she did not exert herself too much, if only to ensure that nothing untoward happened to his children while she still carried them within her belly. If she required rest he would allow her the chance to relax for as long as she wanted; if she was hungry he would find herself something to eat even if it meant he would go hungry for the day. Nothing would stop him from protecting his blood.

She wasnt sure what she would have done if Rochus wasnt here. Amondi had been alone for so long since getting suddenly dropped off in the this strange, new place. But ever since she was reunited with her mate, things have gotten easier. Easier to deal with her missing family and easier to survive in this new world. She missed the sea so much, but until they could figure out where they were, they just had to make do.

As they moved north, most of the journey was traveled in silence as her growing belly slowing them down. Rochus stopped and nuzzled her, asking whether or not to stop and rest or move on. He had been ever attentive to her since they reunited. Amondi was so thankful for him. Smiling softly, "Let's rest a little, I don't want to overdo it," she answered as she nibbled upon his ear affectionately.

 

Sorry for the wait!

He agreed with Amondi's sentiment, also not wanting her to exert herself more than was necessary. After a quick search he found a spot nestled between some tree roots that he thought she would be comfortable to rest in, and he beckoned her over. "This looks like a good spot." It was no warm den that would fully protect her from the elements, but it was the best he could provide at that moment, and something was better than nothing at all.

"Would you like me to rest with you now, or after I find us something to eat?" He asked her, glancing momentarily at her swollen belly. Rochus was unsure if she was more hungry or tired, and while he always felt more relaxed after a meal, she tended to have a bit more emotional attachment and desire for closeness than him. But whatever she chose he would dutifully follow through on regardless of what and how he felt about it.

"Could you stay a little while?" Amondi asked tentatively, as she peered at him with her dandelion gaze. She was still a little nervous behind left behind with all those months alone with nobody and no family. Having her mate back made her appreciate the small things like the brush of his coat against hers and the way his heat comforted her. At least for a whole before he looked for something for the two of them to eat. "Being alone is still a little unnerving," she admitted, her ears flattening against her skull.

 

Rochus nodded in response. "Of course, my dear," he said warmly, meeting her gaze for a few brief moments. He took note of her seemingly distaste of being alone, and while he agreed that being alone was not desirable, it was not exactly unnerving, either. But Amondi had always been soft around the edges, a little too soft for his liking, but he did what he could with what he had. His cheek gently brushed against hers as he murmured quietly in her ear, "I'll be here for you, don't worry." If he could console her before she became too emotional that would work out better for the both of them. He pulled back and settled amongst the roots of the tree, motioning for Amondi to join him, already planning out what he would do once she was sufficiently rested.