Post by kadhi on Jun 10, 2009 22:58:34 GMT -5
Xinelil's words echoed in his head, but the reassurances just weren't enough to ease his mind. Kadhi was simply too far gone, lost to the horrors of reality that he had been sheltered from for too long. He was the reckless prince, experienceless and lacking the proper attitude for success. And suddenly he'd been thrust into power, his assignment to keep the pack together while the alpha was away. Judging by everything that had happened, to him it seemed like he had failed miserably. Jay had killed a fool, Syren had bolted after getting sick, Kuna was injured, and somehow Xinelil had managed to keep a level head where Kadhi had not. The poor Arabian had been thrust into a leadership position he was not ready for, and had been shown up by the true alpha. It was painstakingly clear how unfit he was, and until he had some time alone he would continue to beat himself up about it.
Surprisingly, that chance for some alone time came much sooner than he would have thought. The scent of yet another idiot flooded the cavern that was their home, and Kadhi's panicking expression was suddenly schooled into one of anger. Yet another fool with a death wish had come to grace them with its presence. The small brute had no intention of sticking around long enough to watch the downfall of yet another pathetic femme. She'd picked the wrong time to intrude into Aldgar lands, and as dark hearted as it may have been Kadhi intended to use the distraction to his advantage.
Silently he began to follow Xinelil down the mountainous path. He didn't stay in the wake of the alpha for long though. While Xin continued on his way to confront the intruder, Kadhi veered off onto a seperate trail, meandering down rocks and steep slopes with careful footing. His goal was simple; he was headed towards the lake. Water was always thought to be a cleanser, a purifier. Maybe some quiet time along Nyspoli's banks would cleanse his mind and rid of of the overwhelming guilt. And if not... well, he would at least be able to catch himself some fish. It seemed like forever since he'd last eaten, haven been too worked up to eat any of kill Xin had returned with earlier. Maybe a full stomache and a long drink was just what he needed. And if anybody worried about him they could always follow his scent. It wasn't as if he were leaving the territory.
As time passed, mountains turned into forest with each passing step. Then, gradually, the treeline broke and before the small statured male lay the lake's crystaline edges. Water quietly lapped at the shore, its sound as calming as the chirping of summer birds and low whistle of the warm breeze. Kadhi broke into a run the moment he spied the cool liquid, and he refused to break stride even as his paws fractured its calm surface. A shiver ran down his spine as he plunged into the chilly waters without a care, a sense of refreshment washing over him as he completely submerged his body. Even in summer the Oriens were remarkably cooler than the other lands of anikira. It wasn't enough to fully deter someone from a swim, however, and that is exactly what the Arabian indulged in.
Small paws batted at still waters, propelling the red male back towards the surface. First two tall ears emerged from the quiet depths, followed by a dark nose and then finally a head and shoulders. The brute gasped for air, the sounds of his panting the only noise breaking the peacefull lull of the clearing. For a good, long while he simply stayed in the water, letting the physical action of swimming exhaust him to the point that all thoughts were chased from his mind. All he was able to concentrate on were paddling and breathing, and it wasn't long before his head was clear of anything but his usual impulses. Xin was right. He wasn't the alpha and wasn't expected to act like an alpha. It had merely been his job to keep a watchful eye out for anything that went wrong.
Tired and waterlogged after what must have been a good, hour long swim, Kadhi began to paddle his way back to shore. His short legs meant it took much longer before his paws would come in contact with the smooth sand of the upper shelf. The moment they did, however, he slowed his movements and gradually stumbled his way out of the water. His legs ached from the constant movement, his body feeling pounds heavier than it really was. Once his back was clear of the water he gave his short pelt a good shake, expelling a flurry of little drops back into the pool. He then proceeded to wade the rest of the way out of the lake, giving himself another good shake once situated on dry land.
Kadhi was satisfied with himself for the time being. He had managed to forget the day's troubles and was no longer beating himself up for circumstances he had had no control over. Instead, both his mind and conscious were clear. The exercise combined with the common myths of H-two-O and a serene setting were exatly what he'd needed. The Arabian was once again at peace with himself; at peace with who he was. He wasn't a failure. He'd done exactly what was expected of him. He had done nothing wrong. And now he could finally breath easy. As he layed himself down upon the soggy shore, a loud sigh mingled with the breeze. His wet body was slightly chilled but he ignored the feeling as his head rested upon his paws. He would prolong sleeping for just a small while longer. For now, he would allow himself to relax and rest, eyelids drooping closed as he fell into a peaceful slumber.