Taika was still hurting. Even after Tithe’s soothing assurances, as well as his reassurance, she still could not figure out what ground she stood on. Everything in her was twisted and confusing. She had made a vow to herself and the world she would never lose sight of the magic in the world. The beauty around her, the fantasy and the fairy-tales she held so dear as a child she would carry forever in her heart and in her mind. It was a promise she made what felt like a lifetime ago. It was before she had felt what she had for others. Before she knew that a soul could be captured by another, outside of oneself. She had always assumed her life was her own, fate had been up to her, and she could choose her path. Chocolate eyes closed in her thoughts, a deep breath soothing her body. Fate may control the actions of the world, but she could chose how she danced with it. A small smile came back to her lips at the thought. She could still choose. The smile faltered. It didn’t stop the pain of uncertainty, the fear still clinging to her heart.

Her body trotted down the paths of the field. It was habitual for her body to bounce with the lightness of her spirit, though today her tail hung limp behind her. The sight was unnatural. Any who knew Taika would not have recognized the rust tinted gypsy that padded through the long grasses. Her steps were slower while her mind traveled in thought. It was taking time, but she was slowly coming to accept what could possibly be true. Deep in her mind she knew she needed to speak to Edrick, but she did not think she could see them together at this time. She needed comforts she knew of, something she knew she could count on. Tithe had filled part of that hole for her, now she needed something more.

Visibly brightening, her smile returned, her head raised in pride and returning strength. The tip of her tail wagged and she jumped forward, sniffing around the ground. Laughter found its way out of her mouth, she jumped to the ground, her tail in the air. One paw reached forward and she poked at a small rock formation.

I missed you my friend! She said to her invisible fairy-tale, the friends who never really left her. Do I have some stories to tell you! Her mouth opened to talk to her fairy friend when she noticed another wolf nearby. Jaws snapped shut and her head tilted. The other wolf seemed just as lost in thought as Taika had been, though the weight of it was not crushing her as it had the young fae. Setting her troubles aside, Taika yipped a greeting to the other female.

Hello! She called, her voice picking up its natural cheer, bringing her back to who she really was.