Dance, my little puppets,

Sum/1.2/02  

     Näkki’s eyes softened immediately at Maeve’s candid response to being called an orphan. In all honesty, Näkki hadn’t been attempting to insult her, but was only poking a nail on a bruise to see just how much it hurt. The change in her demeanor was immediate when she seemed to recoil slightly and correct Nakki that her name wasn’t ‘Orphan.’ It meant nothing more significant than to confirm Näkki’s previous thought that Maeve rued not having a parent figure. And Näkki was convinced in this moment that Maeve was not continuing a ruse, but truly being exactly as she was. It excited Näkki because it meant the devilish streak wasn’t just a toy to play with… it was ingrained. It only had to be encouraged to see where it was take Maeve.

     She was thorough surprised by Maeve’s next movements. She’s exposed a sensitive part of herself, but at Näkki calling her out on it, she seemed to reveal the part of her that was still an immature puppy. Her ears flattened and she seemed to shrink from Näkki’s gaze. Näkki waited patiently for her answer, and was far more astonished to receive the message that left Maeve’s mouth. She was liked? Like, really? The only wolf that had ever actually enjoyed Näkki’s company was probably Andras. And furthermore, she was so well enjoyed that the pup wanted to stay with her?! That was… well, truly precious to Näkki.

Näkki reached out and touched the tip of her muzzle to Maeve’s forehead when she moved closer. She breathed out gently, ruffle the fur of her young companion’s forehead.

     “You are welcome to visit me, and I will always receive you. But if you’d like to stay in Iromar, you’ll have to pay featly to Demon Lord Andras - even if it’s a lie. Although, I doubt very much you’ll find yourself often against him. He is, after all, the wolf I respect most,” Näkki stepped away from her and tilted her head in question.

     Näkki wanted Maeve to stay - she’d know that the moment darkness had gleam in her eyes - but she couldn’t, as a member of Iromar, accept wolves into the pack. That was Andras’ duty and right, and Näkki wouldn’t overstep her bounds in that regard. Besides, Andras might invite her to partake in the blood ceremony. If Maeve accepted, Näkki would be proud to represent the pup at the event. It would be a very fulfilling memoir for Näkki, who would likely never see any pup of her own be initiated into the pack - because she had no true interest in mating to produce offspring.

Näkki