So...We Have An Understanding Then? { DJINKKA }

[Deleted]

It was a dark night. No moon crossed the sky. No light glittered on the surface of the water of the Nytyte River. The night was strangely quiet: it produced a calming effect on everything that lived and breathed. It had only been twenty-four hours since Yahvi had called together the pack of Osani. Only two new wolves had shown up who were worthy. Two others had arrived, but they had been a disgrace to the wolf species. Yahvi, the Queen of Osani, had ordered her two present children to dispose of the first disgrace, and had closely watched the reactions of the two wolves who wished for acceptance.

They had handled the situation rather well, and had been ordered to kill the second disgrace that showed up much later, at the end of the interview. Once again, they had performed quite excellently. Yahvi had been quite pleased, and they had gained acceptance into the roaming pack. It was really magnificent: one was a female, and one a male. Zaida planned to take advantage of the male, but she would of course need to speak to her mother first. Although he had met the qualifications, her mother might want Zaida's sister, Far, to reproduce with the male.

Zaida had wandered from the hills to the cliff. She had sparred with her brother, and then met a strange wolfess who had somehow escaped analysis. Usually, Zaida found every wolf crackable. Some were hard, others were easy: but every single one could be cracked open. But this one would be very difficult: if she ever met her again, she would use every power she possessed.

After sleeping all day, Zaida had wandered on down to the Nytyte River. She had no doubt that she would pay for her long absence, but possessing a complete lack of any emotion really helped with situations like these. And so, it was with no fear, no rapid heartbeat, no trace of anything, that she approached the water. She stopped when her paws touched the edge, and she dipped her snowy muzzle into the cool water. After taking a long drink, the femme lifted her head once more. Water droplets fell from her chin. Zaida heard an approach, but she knew that it was one of her packmates. Already, the scent clung to the newcomer like a cloak. Which one, which one? Ahh...

Djinkka.

Tags: @djinkka
OOC: sorry this sucks, Frazz :x it'll get better, I promise.

[Deleted]

The night that clutched the territory was not gentle. It was a fierce night that claimed, rather than borrowed, the skies and threatened to hold ransom the daylight. Already it had stretched on, had long overstayed its welcome -- it seemed perpetual to the sleepless Djinkka, who would not close her eyes in rest lest the memories of the previous day's slaughter return to her. The shock of the images themselves had worn off already -- she was not one to squirm at the sight of blood -- but the role she had played in the massacre was haunting her still. She had willingly, knowingly taken a life, and now it was as if this action defined her. As if, in that one irreparable action, she had sacrificed her identity to the all-seeing Yahvi – who had consumed it and replaced it with something else. Something much more suited, perhaps, to the black she-wolf’s rough and fearsome visage.

As she walked along the bank of the river, she reflected but did not dwell on her sins. Her conversation with the green-eyed she-wolf Zira had assuaged some of her more destructive thoughts, and now she was left with a hollow feeling that she could not shake. It rattled in the pit of her stomach like a hunger and occupied the back of her mind like some shade that could only be glimpsed out of the corner of her eye. As much as her wild instinct begged her to run, that was no option. Her fate was now here, with the Osani. She had bloodied her paws and she would suffer the fallout.

It was not as though she hadn’t seen the glint of approval in the white she-wolf’s eyes when the victim had been felled. It had been the first approving glance that had ever targeted Djinkka. And, in the shock and heat of the moment, through all the frenzied thoughts that had swarmed her mind in the midst of it – she had enjoyed it. That small, satisfied gesture in her direction. Enough of a praise to allow the black female to know that she had done a satisfactory job of things. As much as it disgusted her to admit, she wanted more of that feeling of accomplishment. Of acceptance. Of compassion – even if the glint in Yahvi’s eyes had been some other emotion under the guise of compassion. The attention was something, as depraved as it was, that she most dearly craved.

Djinkka’s black fur melted into the night. Looking up at the moonless abyss above, she counted stars that were not there. She wondered at the vastness of it all – wondered at the beauty of space and the dizzying smallness of stars and planets and what it all led to. Where did the moon go on the nights it hid its face? What other heavenly bodies existed beyond the Earth she stood on? Her pale yellow eyes flickered, absorbing whatever trace amounts of light her surroundings offered and reflecting it back into the shadows. In the dark of midnight, they shone like two matchless flames.

Zaida’s scent itched at her nostrils before her iridescent form came into view. Her white fur seemed to give off its own light, a sort of glimmering shine that was something like freshly-fallen snow. Djinkka halted her slow movements upon noticing her, standing a few yards’ distance from the drinking she-wolf. Though they were now packmates, and technically equals in rank, she knew that as a daughter of the Alphess Zaida was to be shown extra respect. Djinkka had not yet spoken to any wolf of the Osani, save for Yahvi herself – and that was on what could only be described as hostile terms. This was her first opportunity for idle conversation among the ranks of Yahvi and her kin.

She had seen the way in which Zaida had ruthlessly attacked the wounded female the previous day. The image flickered across her line of sight as she looked at the she-wolf now, in a contrastingly calm setting. Despite the fact that she was much taller, and might have been able to meet her in combat skill, Djinkka was intimidated by the beautiful white Zaida. As always, though, her face betrayed nothing – just the same, harsh expression that seemed etched upon her masculine, dark-furred face for all eternity.

“Evening, Zaida,” she said, simply and quietly, dipping her head with respect to the white femme.

word count: 734
tags: @zaida
ooc: Rushed at the end but here you go.

[Deleted]

The snowy wolf stood out like a sore thumb. The blackness of the night was like a blanket that seemed to wrap around her. Her black tail and ears were made invisible against the rest of her contrasting coat, making it appear as if she lacked them physically. Zaida's impossible physique was made all the more prevalent in the blackness of the night. The extent of her strength was still a mystery to her two newest packmates, as she had not needed to use any of it to dispose of the sorry excuse for a wolf that had dared to ask acceptance into Osani. However, she had easily displayed her swiftness, utter silence, and ultimate skill when she had assassinated the marred female. Anyone who allowed themselves to be raped was weak. The only exception was her mother, because Yahvi had used the experience to make her strong. Zaida snorted slightly, mocking the now-dead she-wolf in her own, emotionless way. She cackled darkly as she remembered the scene. She had torn into the wolf's body hungrily, eating the sweet flesh and the tantalizing wolf meat. Only a small part of her mind replayed it in her mind--something she rarely did--and her focus remained on the approaching she-wolf. Soon, her packmate made her appearance, slowly coming forward. She was almost invisible in the blackness, only made visible by her pale yellow eyes, and the browns that peppered her fur, as well as the greys that circled her face. Zaida turned toward the wolf, letting a slightly pleasured look enter her eyes as she did so. The black wolf dipped her head respectfully, despite their current equal rank.

Evening, Zaida.

Zaida grinned wickedly. Her liking for this femme seemed to be growing--in her own way. She had never taken any such liking to someone, except for dark purposes, in which the feelings weren't real. But this she-wolf had managed to gain it in a matter of seconds upon her arrival. And Zaida also liked that the wolf seemed impeccably good at concealing her emotions: she always wore a harsh, scowl. Only her body language every betrayed what she really felt. And she was smart. Very smart. She knew that Zaida deserved quite a bit of respect, even though they were technically still the same rank. But that wouldn't go on for long. Now that Osani had some real members, besides the family, Zaida was sure that Yahvi would assign them ranks. If she didn't, feuds and fighting over positions might arise, and Zaida knew that Yahvi would never allow that. Strange that Djinkka's soon-to-be friend and confidant, and her mentor and counselor would have the exact same eye color. It was as if the gods had destined green-eyed beasts to be her protectors. Although Zaida was ignorant of the future, ignorant that she would soon really care for her packmate. Tonight, she relished the opportunity to actually speak to the female. She would have to be subtle and slow with her mask, but she had already figured that out.

Djinkka.

words xx 536
tags xx @djinkka
ooc xx a little better (:

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The covetous night snatched the words from Djinkka’s snout as soon as she’d spoken them, forcing the territory into silence once more. For an elongated moment, the only discernible sound was that of the water tracing the sloping curves of the riverbed – a constant hush that seemed less a sound than a permanent fixture of the environment. On nights like the one which now cloaked the dark she-wolf – nights of such lurid, ear-filling silence – the river’s ceaseless churning was but a modest undertone; merely the whisper of water flowing humbly through a scene already in progress.

It seemed to Djinkka that the only two creatures in the night were she and Zaida, gazing towards one another in calculating silence. The two large females were like Yin and Yang, their sizable bodies opposing one another in every way. Djinkka stood tall, rough and masculine, with dark fur covering all but the lower half of her face, which gave way to a sparse patch of silvery grey. There was not a single graceful bone in her body; the lines of her hefty anatomy were angular and heavy-handed. Meanwhile, there was Zaida – large, yes, but irrefutably beautiful. Her shimmering white form was tarnished only here and there by streaks of black, accentuating rather than disrupting her loveliness. Her body flowed through space and time in a way that both frightened and fascinated Djinkka. Even in the throes of murder, she had managed to look elegant.

And now she was smiling, the intentions behind the wicked expression yet unclear to Djinkka. She had hardly known Zaida for twenty-four hours – the femme was still an enigma to her. But there was something – something about her that she couldn’t quite manage to pinpoint. Something that gave her pause. It was as if there were something else going on behind that pretty face of hers. But she couldn’t quite understand what.

If anything was certain, it was that she could not be sure of Zaida. Instinct told the black female not to trust that cruel-looking smile. A smile on a killer should never be trusted. That seemed like sound advice. But, of course, the truth remained – Djinkka herself had just been brought into the fold, regardless of the circumstances. Would a killer trust another killer?

Zaida’s voice bridged the space separating their dichotomous forms, addressing her shortly. She spoke only Djinkka’s name in acknowledgement; it sounded strange upon the femme’s tongue. Another short length of silence followed, as the larger of the two puzzled over what to say next. It was no secret that she was a poor conversationalist. Her language skills were lacking, and her social skills were next to nonexistent. A puphood spent in quasi-solitude had taken its toll on her ability to communicate and integrate with her own kind. But if there was one thing that Djinkka was good at, it was making an effort – gathering up her breath and courage, she did just that.

“What brings you this side of the river on this night?” She tried to make her voice sound casual, rather than prying. She did not want Zaida to think that she was trying to nose into her private business. Her intentions were pure – truly, she could think of no other way to begin a conversation with her daunting white packmate.

word count: 551
tags: @zaida
muse: Better than expected after 3 hours of studying.

[Deleted]

The black femme seemed intimidated by Zaida. Whether it was her impossibly beauty, or her contrastingly graceful movements, or simply her wicked smile that always accentuated her face when faced with Djinkka, the she-wolf was intimidated. After Zaida had simply greeted the wolf, only acknowledging her by speaking her name, the black wolf remained silent. She seemed to be trying to figure out what to say. This only made the white female turn her body towards the other wolf, instead of merely her head. Now they were face-to-face. Both wolves' bodies faced each other. Sure, Zaida was rather short for her weight, but her length helped distribute said weight incredibly. Djinkka towered over her delicate-looking body, her weight quite evident in her bulky form. But Zaida, even if she had possessed emotion, wasn't and would never be afraid of the bulky she-wolf. She had only barely displayed her skill when she had disposed of the sorry excuse for a wolf only a couple days prior. She had purposefully not exposed herself to her two new packmates. She knew her family, and she knew that they would never really use her apparent vulnerability to them to their advantage--at least not yet. But she also wasn't fully vulnerable to them. There were plenty of things that they didn't know about. She had her own little secrets that would remain secrets forever. She would not even release them at the time of her demise. She may have thought of herself as unkillable, but she was no fool: everyone dies. She simply thought that she would live until she was too old to live, or until she asked one of her children to dispose of her.

But she kept the true extent of her skills a secret. This femme wouldn't stand a chance. Not based off of the skill she had shown. While the black wolf had shown great skill--albeit, not without several mistakes--in her kill, she had no where near the experience and skill that Zaida possessed. Zaida killed as a way of life. She would make several killings a week, if not one every day. She had no emotion; no thought to distract her. She was impeccably good at predetermining another's move, and could therefore act before them in a way that was advantageous to herself. Sure, Djinkka was quite good at hiding her emotions--at least from her face--and her motives and turmoil were a mystery to the white she-wolf, but Zaida had already figured out one or two things about her. And combat was a whole different thing altogether. Someone could easily be totally different in combat than they were normally. Zaida's skills surpassed Djinkka's--to a very far reach, in Zaida's mind--because she had been trained since she could walk to be a perfect assassin. And she had also been trained to defend herself perfectly. Atoyo, since that one fateful day when she had buried his nose in the dirt time and time again, had become her constant partner. Almost every single time Yahvi pitted her children against each other to practice combat, she paired Zaida and Atoyo, and herself with Far. Atoyo had developed such a hate for Zaida--stemmed from a terrible grudge of that one day--that she could easily provoke him into combat any time that she wanted to. His anger would always blossom before her with ease. Because of all of this, she was an incredibly skilled fighter. And Djinkka seemed intimidated by Zaida at the moment, trying to think of something to say that would not upset her packmate. Zaida's smile slowly transformed into one that was more inviting. If this wolf did not speak up soon, she would have to use extreme methods to convince the wolf that she would not harm her. And then, she spoke.

What brings you this side of the river on this night?

Djinkka's voice was slightly unstable, as though she were trying to pose the question casually, but unable to control a fear that it would come across differently. Zaida's smile widened slightly, and her invisible black tail swayed from side to side slowly. When Zaida spoke, her voice was like wind chimes. It was always incredibly and impossibly beautiful, but tonight, as it traveled the blackness of the night to the black female only a few feet away from her, it sounded very slightly friendly. The effect was like a pat on the shoulder, or a comforting smile.

Don't be afraid, Djinkka. Your strength is your savior.

Zaida spoke these words, hoping to envelope the she-wolf in a blanket of comfort and warmth. She knew that the female would have been rattled slightly by her first kill. It was only normal, even if she did share Osani's views. Actually taking a life, feeling the lifeblood running into your mouth, and the life of the creature beneath your jaws leaving its owner, was completely different than simply thinking about it. Or even imagining it. And when Zaida spoke again, to answer the she-wolf's question, her voice was subtly sympathizing. It was subtle so that it would sound real. No one except her family members would be able to see through Zaida's mask as she strove to calm the black wolf.

Why am I here? I am simply on my way back to report to Yahvi on a strange occurrence I experienced last night. I paused here to quench my thirst, and was pleasantly surprised when my audits picked up the sound of your paws.

This last comment was accompanied by a smile that was sweet. Hopeful anxiety hid behind her smile, in her green eyes as they seemed to search Djinkka for signs of hostility. To all but her family, she would appear as if she wanted to befriend the black she-wolf, but was unsure if she felt the same, or if she wished Zaida did not exist.

words xx 1032
muse xx the classic crime
tags xx @djinkka
ooc xx yay, i'm improving lol I told you I would as it moved along ;u;

[Deleted]

As Zaida completed her turn, her entire form now facing forward, her nonthreatening words succeeded in soothing Djinkka of her anxiety. While Djinkka knew she could not trust this white femme completely, her senses conceded that she had no reason to be on edge at the moment. The rippling muscles visibly relaxed beneath her black pelt, though the subtle undulations were masked under the night’s cover. She took another two measured, respectful steps forward, not wanting to have to perpetually address Zaida across a chasm of silence. Now Yin and Yang were only a yard or two apart – one bleeding into the darkness, the other harshly contrasting it.

She listened to Zaida speak, and as she spoke her voice came to Djinkka something like syrup – sweet, lucent, free-flowing. In some ways, it reminded her of the voice of another green-eyed she-wolf whom she had recently encountered. Zira. The brown femme’s counsel was still ripe within her mind. In some odd ways, she could see similarities between Zira and Zaida. Namely their eyes, and the honeylike quality of their voices. And, of course, their names – each beginning with the alphabet’s final letter. A string of coincidences too salient to ignore.

Of course, there were still more ways in which the two were different. That much Djinkka could see plainly. She could say with certainty that Zira was not evil – in fact, she seemed to be much the opposite. Zaida, on the other hand – well, she had proven her alignment with gusto during Yahvi’s test. And about Zira, Djinkka was sure of another thing: that she truly had her best interest at heart. With Zaida, even as the air filled with her gentle, comforting voice, she could not tell anything for certain. The white femme seemed capable of lying perfectly, straight to her face without any tell. She had killed ruthlessly, had seemed to savor the taste of the deceased she-wolf’s flesh – and now, ever contrasting herself, she looked with an expression of kindness. Of tenderness, even. And it was certainly convincing.

But, lest Djinkka forget, Zaida’s mother was Yahvi. Part of the ruthless white femme lay within the she-wolf now standing before her. She could not imagine the toll it would take – to be daughter to Yahvi, with her all-seeing eyes. Were Zaida and her siblings simply an extension of those eyes?

Focusing her attention on the conversation once more, Djinkka nodded slightly. She did not smile, but her expression appeared softer and less tense than it had been when she had first approached. Her tail hung easily behind her, her posture relaxed but ever-respectful. “A strange occurrence?” She wondered for a moment if Zaida had also come across Zira within the borders of Tiayr. Would she have disposed of the brown-furred femme? Not wanting to dwell on the thought, she changed the subject. “It is hard for me to believe that only one day has gone by since my initiation. It seems like much more time has passed.” Her eyes flickered toward the moonless sky for a moment before returning their attention to Zaida. “I look forward to beginning my training.”

This much was true enough. The black she-wolf had always been interested in improving her physical skill. But she hoped to avoid another kill as long as possible; hoped the training would involve practice on something other than living, breathing wolves. Animals she could certainly handle. To take down a large buck on her own was a challenging but accomplishable task. To slaughter another of her own kind, though... her nightmares and the unceasing punishment from her own conscience made her uncertain if that was a challenge she would be able to surmount.



word count: 610
tags: @zaida
muse: So-so.

[Deleted]

Despite the moonless night that shrouded the river and it's surrounding country in total darkness, Zaida's sharp green eyes picked up the visible relaxation of the femme in front of her. Her smile softened slightly, and relief shown in her eyes. They sparkled slightly, and then Djinkka took another couple of slow steps forward. Zaida wagged her black tail quite slightly, and took a single step toward the black wolfess. This communicated two things: one, that Zaida was still superior and dominant, despite their shared rank, and two, that Zaida was seeking Djinkka's friendship and approval. Now the two wolves were quite close to each other: mere inches separated them from each other. Zaida raised her eyes slightly, a shy smile slowly lighting up her beautiful face. She was displaying her pleasure at Djinkka's increasing ease. In truth, she really did have a small wish for the black wolf to confide in her, but she could not explain this wish, as she didn't have any current plans to abuse her.

Djinkka seemed to become distracted for a moment or two after Zaida spoke, but quickly refocused on the white she-wolf. He nodded slightly, a respectful acknowledgement of Zaida's words. Her posture remained perfectly respectful, but somehow became softer, and friendlier as the conversation progressed. She seemed momentarily concerned and surprised by Zaida's mention of a "strange occurrence", an indirect reference to her encounter with Zira the previous night which was not meant to be understood. Zaida's mask did not waiver at the femme's cautious interest, but her mind was busily working. She eyed Djinkka discreetly, picking up on her body language, and trying to decipher her thoughts. Outwardly, she did not change. And Djinkka quickly changed the subject, apparently trying to redirect her thoughts.

It is hard for me to believe that only one day has gone by since my initiation. It seems like much more time has passed.

The black wolfess flicked her eyes toward the moonless sky for a moment. Zaida's mind passed over their encounter, searching for clues to Djinkka's unavoidable turmoil. Surely she would be feeling some remorse? Even the very first time that Zaida had taken another wolf's life, before she had lost her emotion, she had felt some dread. She could still remember how her heart had beat with guilt, and her dreams had plagued her with horrid visions for weeks. And, worse of all, Yahvi had forced her to eat her first kill. She still remembered how she had cried, not because she had eaten it, for she had been raised around cannibalism and had grown calloused to it, and not because she had known any different, but simply because it had been one of her own kind. And they hadn't been able to defend themselves. They had fallen prey to her jaws, teeth, and paws. In reality, it had only barely touched her, but at that moment it had felt worse. She reviewed the memory with different eyes now, as she could no longer feel any emotion, but she knew the turmoil must be worse for an outsider. Djinkka looked back at Zaida, and said something that she suspected to only be a half-truth. Or an ignorant one.

I look forward to beginning my training.

Zaida's smile turned very slightly sad. Almost sympathetic, but not quite. She looked at the wolfess, and then turned her head away. She gazed off into the invisible distance, and blackness swallowed her vision. Finally, after several long moments of silence, Zaida spoke. Her eyes remained focused on nothing as she spoke, and as soon as she was finished, her eyes turned downcast.

Truly, I don't mean to cause you discomfort. But...

Zaida trailed off, her gaze darting to and fro in the vast blackness, appearing to decide whether or not to continue. Her brows pinched together in concern and then she sighed lightly, and her eyes stilled. Once more, they focused on a fixed point in the invisibility before her.

Will you...won't you--

Zaida's eyes drifted to Djinkka's for only a moment, and then she continued, in a strained tone, as if deciding on a different ending to her sentence to prevent distress to her companion.

That is...will you be my friend?

She held her breath, and her ears flattened to her skull, at the same moment that her head bent and her eyes flicked toward the ground. She blinked, flicked her gaze toward the large wolf, and then back to the ground in a second. She waited a dreadfully long time, and then she cautiously spoke once more, barely above a whisper.

It must seem a dreadfully ignorant and stupid question, but you can't imagine what it's like to have the kind of family that I have. I've never had a friend. I suppose I sound ridiculous...

She trailed off into silence again, and remained in her vulnerable, shy position. Her head drooped with her tail, and her ears were pinned flat against her ivory skull.

words xx 000
muse xx classic crime/anberlin
tags xx @djinkka
ooc xx wow. This is a really good reply, I think!! I'm glad I waited :x though I'm sorry for the lateness. Reply soon!!

[Deleted]

What an enigma was Zaida. Djinkka's mind struggled to comprehend the moon-colored femme's motives -- every time she thought she'd figured something out about her new packmate, something was said or done to disprove her theories. Perhaps it was not worth the effort to decipher every last nuanced detail. Perhaps it was best to just accept her actions and words at face value. The other Osani seemed to be perfectly comfortable with leaving Zaida to her own devices, and seemed no worse the wear for it. For Djinkka, it would certainly result in less of a mental strain.

Keeping her posture low and respectful (well, as low as the gargantuan she-wolf could manage), she followed Zaida's gaze toward the moonless sky -- a gaping black maw that seemed to stretch, wide and hungry, above them. Eager for the kill, as it were. She wondered briefly at the vastness of the cosmos, wondering where the once-vibrant stars could be hiding on this night. Perhaps they had retreated after bearing witness to the carnage of the days prior -- perhaps they would never shine again on earth that had been marked by the blood of the fallen. Djinkka did not know what cosmic entities peered down upon the living from their seat among the heavens, but as she stared up into the endless twilight she could feel the pull of something greater beyond. Something both terrible and grand. Something unlike the cruel, earthbound eyes that pervaded her dreams and made her contemplate her every move.

And then the silence was again broken. Zaida's voice melted into Djinkka's ears like ice met by a warm breeze, oozing into her conscious and by her breath warming the evening's chill. Slowly, humbly, the large black femme lowered her pale yellow eyes until they met her superior's, offering her full attention. But as she spoke, the words grew hesitant and clumsy -- and her expression was one of bashfulness and uncertainty. She stumbled through her sentences as if they were uncomfortable; foreign on her lips. Gradually, her eyes shifted towards the ground and her ears arched back against her skull, denoting vulnerability.

Djinkka was surprised -- a bit taken aback, even -- by her packmate's actions. Shyness? From Zaida? The idea did not sit comfortably with her. Was this not the same femme she had seen gleefully tearing her prey limb from limb? Was this not the female who had stood rigidly still before her while Yahvi had interrogated her, a cruel smile on her lips? Zaida was a wolf to be feared and respected, as far as Djinkka was concerned. This outburst of diffidence was completely unexpected.

But her slow and careful words found and struck their nerve effectively. As the word friend blew across the air that separated the two females, Djinkka's ears gave a subtle, responsive twitch. Immediately she thought of Ashaka -- the black female whom she had met some weeks prior to her encounter with the Osani. They had bonded right away; it had been the first full conversation that Djinkka had ever engaged in. And Ashaka had been the first wolf that Djinkka could ever, with certainty, call friend...

...But that time had passed. Djinkka had not seen the black she-wolf in nearly a month. If they were to reunite, Ashaka would never understand why she had chosen to affiliate herself with a pack with such terrible aims. Their friendship would most certainly be weakened -- perhaps broken. And Ashaka, with her limp and wounded leg... she would undoubtedly be a target for the Osani.

Djinkka shuddered at the thought. It would be best for us to never cross paths again.

She began to contemplate the situation at hand. Zaida had offered her friendship in what appeared to be earnest. The word itself tore at the very core of the black femme's heart; she could not place exactly why, but making the ties of friendship was a rite almost sacred in her heart. She valued personal ties beyond all else, for she had few -- at things stood at the moment, she had none. It was rare that anyone came along patient or brave enough to look past her coarse and terrifying exterior. Most wolves she had met along her journeys were loners, interested in only in fulfilling their own agendas. They had no time to waste establishing ties with others, and could not be bothered to stop and chat with a behemoth who, if provoked, could end their life in an instant.

Now, for the second time in her life, friendship was being offered freely to her. And why should she not accept? Had she not joined a pack for the sole purpose of establishing ties? For gaining acceptance? For finding some place in the world where she was not embarrassed by her own physiognomy?

"...I shall certainly be your friend, Zaida," she finally spoke. Her words were gravely serious, as if she were taking some sacred oath. "You do not sound ridiculous. I have no friends as well -- no one is interested in befriending a face like mine."


word count: 845
tags: @zaida
ooc: Sorry for taking forever. I am slowly paying back owed posts.

[Deleted]

When Zaida flicked her eyes into the brutish femme's for only half a second, she read the hesitation in them. Either she hesitated because friendship was sacred to her, and didn't simply wish to give it out at a simple request, especially as she hardly knew Zaida. Or she hesitated because she couldn't imagine that this wolf--who had quickly and savagely disposed of another wolf in mere seconds, and then participated in devouring it without blinking an eye--could actually be so shy and kind at heart. Zaida was sure that it was the former--at least in the most--because she believed that her perfect mask had already convinced Djinkka of the latter--at least in the most. Djinkka stood silent for longer than Zaida had guessed that she would. Slowly, Zaida made her body begin to sag as the silence wore on. Her ears seemed to flatten even more, and her head drooped. A small frown slowly crept onto her snowy maw. And then, just as Djinkka's lips parted, Zaida looked up. She had seemingly been about to speak, to apologize for intruding on the other wolf, but Djinkka spoke first.

I shall certainly be your friend, Zaida.

Zaida's black ears shot back up at the sound, and a slow, pleased smile crept to her lips, though it was still slightly shy. Her ebony tail took on a slow wag and her green eyes peered into Djinkka's with cautious joy.

You do not sound ridiculous. I have no friends as well -- no one is interested in befriending a face like mine.

At this revelation, Zaida's smile grew and she took a single step toward Djinkka. If only Djinkka could trust her now. But Zaida knew that this was impossible. Djinkka's friendship was already a good step forward. Zaida had no more expectations for the present. She would have to show the dark wolf her "true colors" to gain her trust, although they would have to be cleverly concealed. Concealed in a way that her family would not be able to read it, but in a way that Djinkka could understand. She would have to think on this. She could not give away this meeting--or their newfound "friendship"--to anyone, including Yahvi. How else could her plan succeed? Zaida spoke quietly, her voice solemn and sincere. Her head dipped as she spoke.

Thank you.

Lifting her head once more, she turned and looked into the distance again, an easy smile lifting her expression. Her ears swiveled constantly, as if she were paying close attention to any intruder. She really was, though. No one could know what had passed between the packmates tonight.

words xx 000
muse xx myself lol
tags xx @djinkka
ooc xx its all right (: sorry for the short post

[Deleted]

And, with a short thank you, that was that. Zaida spoke no more. The silence that seemed to ceaselessly punctuate their conversation resumed, and as the night swallowed them once more Djinkka fell into thought. How abrupt, she mused. Perhaps she is shy of her request. It must have taken her some effort to ask this of me.

She only briefly entertained the idea that the she-wolf had ulterior motives for befriending her. Now that they were friends, bound by as official an oath as any, she would have to begin giving her white packmate the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps Zaida was secretive, and perhaps she was adept at concealing her emotions -- this was understandable. She was the daughter of a tyrant and had been trained as an assassin from youth. What else could she expect? And Djinkka herself would be remiss to throw stones when she, too, was adept at withholding her inner thoughts and feelings. Life was easier with emotions kept strictly under wraps.

It would be a good thing to have a friend within the pack, she reasoned. Though the dusk-colored femme had turned to pack life for kinship, she knew that the Osani would offer little of that indeed. Yahvi, of course, was to be feared and respected but not trusted. Atoyo -- from what she had seen on the Hill, she could surmise well enough that he would not be interested in her friendship. Senris -- she sneered almost viscerally at his name. She would die before she called that annoying bastard of a wolf friend. And the final member of the pack, Zaida's sister, had yet to show her face.

With such sparse options in terms of companionship, Zaida was the obvious standout. In spite of her faults, she was as good an opportunity for friendship as any. Besides, thought Djinkka, perhaps an alliance with the Alpha's daughter will help me along in the future. You never could tell when it would pay off to have friends in high places. In such a cutthroat environment, every small detail would aid in her survival.

The silence once again grew long, and Djinkka raised her eyes, noticing the way that her companion checked for intruders. Her own gaze scanned the surroundings -- the coast was clear. There was no scent on the wind but their own. She pressed on, breaking the silence: "May I ask you a question, Zaida? How is it that you would define friendship?" Perhaps it was a strange question to ask, but the femme's face spoke to the authenticity of her query. She was curious to know what Zaida saw as friendship, for she had no real idea of the concept herself. To her, friendship was a sort of gut feeling with no real prerequisites. But perhaps this was wrong. Her experience was shallow, and she still had much to learn.

word count: 450
tags: @zaida
ooc: Bleurgh.

[Deleted]

Text | Speech | Thought

Zaida noticed the way that Djinkka's raised her pale, yellow eyes with Zaida's emerald ones. They checked for intruders together, but no one lurked anywhere near. Zaida turned to Djinkka again slightly, and let a slight relief tugged her shoulders and her body into a more relaxed position. A tiny smile crept onto her lips, and she seemed to disintegrate into a whole different being. A small laugh escaped her maw, laced with relief and fulfilled hope. She turned into a joyful, truly amiable and agreeable little wolfess. Quite the two-year-old. As if she only acted years older when she was around her family, but inside she was a bubbly pup crying out to be released.

Djinkka posed a quiet question to Zaida. Her tone was lighter, but still held a high respect for Zaida. Zaida's smile widened slightly. She did like that Djinkka remained respectful, despite the fact that Zaida had taken the first step--approached Djinkka--that had just formed their friendship. It showed her great intelligence. And Zaida truly believed Djinkka to be very intelligent. Even though she was a giant, and completely unattractive, she possessed a startling presence and brightness of mind. Zaida had been intrigued by this--in her own way. And she was determined to unravel the mystery that was Djinkka. Step number one: befriend her--check. Now, Djinkka would feel more inclined to unload on Zaida, or ask her advice. She was sure that only time could aid her now. And that signal...what would it be?

Truly, Djinkka, friendship is a mystery in itself. It is almost a sort of magical thing. It connects two souls intimately--like sisters, or brothers. It can be described as confidence, trust, loyalty, and even sacrifice. A mature friendship is almost more valuable than that of a mated pair.

Zaida looked away as she described what she knew to be the most meaningful definition of the word to her 'friend'. Her tone betrayed nothing. Neither did her face, or her body. But really, Zaida thought friendship foolish and destructive. How could you rely so intimately on anyone? Her mother had taught her to only look out for number one. This meant that her family could turn on her. And if her own blood could turn on her, what was to say that someone who knew the family and their deeds and beliefs would not? Thankfully she had no emotion to give her fear, paranoia, or even trust.

Patiently, the white femme waited for her Yang to respond.

muse k-love
tags @djinkka
ooc do you like my pretty table? C:

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She watched carefully the movement and form of Zaida’s face, taking every nuanced change of expression. The smile on the white femme’s face was wide and pleasing. It suited her; in fact, every expression seemed to suit her equally well. She was as comfortably an assassin as she was a compassionate friend and packmate. She could switch from grin to grimace with seamless form. This was a skill that Djinkka did undoubtedly envy her.

Djinkka’s own face held no smile – she, as a rule, did not smile. It was not an expression befitting of her. It did not feel easy on her mouth; her face was too ugly to hold a smile. The closest she ever came was a sneer or a scowl. She had never really learned to smile. And furthermore, having had no real mothering role model to rear her when she was a pup, she had little experience with body language as a whole. She knew how to display dominance and submission, but that was about it. Her own body did as it was wont to do and, the subtleties of others’ behavior – tail position, ear position, and brow movement – was lost on her.

But, at the moment, even without the smile or the presence of ‘typical’ body language cues, it was clear that Djinkka was feeling a bit more content. As she listened to Zaida’s discourse, her muscles relaxed and her yellow eyes gained a certain pleasant gleam. Her unchanging expression was not so harsh anymore. For the first time in the past two days she was feeling some semblance of ease. Already, she was growing more comfortable in the presence of her packmate.

“I also feel that this is true, Zaida,” she said quietly in response. ”Friendship… is a thing very dear to me.”

The moonless night that had fiercely claimed the lands was loosening its grip now; in the distance over the treetops, the first thin wisps of light were beginning to creep into view. They appeared like pastel smoke signals, heralding the beginning of a new dawn. Djinkka’s eyes were drawn to it, her face turned Eastward as she watched the furthest reaches of the sun break through the fortress of the night and begin its ascent. Black became violet became deep, deep red in a beautiful gradient of color.

“It will be dawn shortly,” she said, her eyes finding their way back to Zaida’s. “Yahvi commanded that I begin my training this morning. I should not be late.” She took a small step in the direction of the rising sun, her gaze steady.

”Shall we go together?



word count: 457
tags: @zaida
ooc: You can end it with your post. If Zaida goes too you can pp them leaving together, and if you want Zaida to stay at the river you can pp Djinkka leaving.

[Deleted]

Text | Speech | Thought

Zaida observed Djinkka's relaxation and growing contentment at her words. She seemed to be growing comfortable around her packmate; at least a small bit. It was more than Zaida expected. She had expected such comfortable ease to come after at least another week or two. But no; it came now. She was pleased in her own way. Djinkka's response did not surprise the femme in the least. She moved slightly, turning to look at the black monstrosity with a shy smile. Her green eyes said it all: "I'm so glad."

Slowly, the blackness between the two contrasting wolves began to lighten. Zaida was able to see shapes in the distance, although it was unclear exactly what they were until a deep violet penetrated the sky. Clouds appeared in the sky, and Zaida's eyes were drawn to the sunrise as well as her companion's. Djinkka turned her pale yellow gaze back to Zaida, and after a moment, Zaida looked at her as well.

It will be dawn shortly; Yahvi commanded that I begin my training this morning. I should not be late.

She turned her body bak toward the hills, and Zaida's body turned to watch her go. Her eyes were a little wistful, but she said not a word. Then Djinkka turned her head back to Zaida, and said,

Shall we go together?

Zaida approached her with a smile. Her tail wagged slowly and her ears were perked.

Yes, my friend, we shall.

Her eyes sparkled, and they set off together. As they neared, Zaida slowly resumed her indifferent, usual mask that she used around her family. And she moved slightly away and in front of Djinkka, as if she were leading her. She turned her head to the she-wolf and winked, as if to say, "Gotta keep up appearances!" Then she turned her head back, and they made their way to Osani, where Yahvi waited.

ooc closed<3