Flamin Ember

[Blu]

Red and white cranium was lowered to a natural herding position as identically colored pillars moved agonizingly slowly towards the lake. Auds were flipped back and lay flat against the dogs skull and her tassel was neatly tucked between her legs. Yellow orbs were pinned to a spot just beside the lake where a small rabbit sat, chewing some grass. The creature was completely relaxed and seemed so carefree. Carefree as the rabbit may be now, in a few moments he would be no more than some stray fur and shredded flesh.

Silently, Ember moved forward, closer and closer with each step the Border collie took. Suddenly, she lunged at the creature. The rabbit pricked its ears and at the same time leapt easily out of the way, for it had known Ember was there the whole time. Her anger peaked, the moment Ember landed she did a tight turn, kicking up dirt in all directions, and sped after the animal. Being the breed she was, she was built for speed and endurance. But, like most dogs her size, she was unable to keep up with the rabbit and had to come to a screeching halt as it ducked into some brambles.

"Damnit" she snarled, exposing her fangs. Still in a blind rage, she ran back and forth in front of the thorny brambles barking and snarling as loud as her voice would allow. Several minutes later, Ember finally stopped. Panting she made her way slowly over to the lake. She cursed herself silently as she lapped up the cool liquid and lay down in the shaded spot. That loud barking will have scared anything within a mile away. No food for a while I guess. She sighed and closed her yellow eyes You really need to get a grip girl...

[Kirin]

Skylir was stretched out beneath a tree, his eyes half closed. His miss-matched gaze was directed towards the sparkling water of the lake, taking in the expanse of sloping, shady grass between his spot and it's waters. The branches of the tree above him moved gently in the breeze, sending circles of sunlight skimming back and forth around him. Funny, he thought, how no matter what shape the space between the leaves is, the splash of light is always circular… they were idle thoughts, the kind that flit through your head on a summer afternoon and then are gone again and forgotten in moments. He would never have allowed a thought like that in his head if he’d been paying attention… he watched the sunlight sparkling on the surface of the lake. Afternoons like these were one of the reasons he liked the countryside… much more peaceful then the city. He dozed, great form sprawled out at the base of a spreading oak, only aware of his surrounding on the level that he would notice if something didn't fit... like the soft tread of a foot, or leaves rustling where they shouldn't... or loud barking.

One dark ear perked up suddenly, moving seemingly independently of the body. He could hear angry barking, somewhere off to his right. His eyes didn’t lose their unfocused look, though, nor leave the water. The ear stayed up as Skylir lazily contemplated getting up. It could be interesting… he realized he wanted some entertainment. Laying by a lake was all very relaxing, but now that he thought about it, he was bored. A little bit of excitement wouldn’t hurt. Maybe it was a fight? It hadn’t sounded like a fight, but who knew? He could go watch... maybe insult the winner? The ear flopped down again, and Skylir was motionless for another minute. he finally convinced himself that yes, he did intend to get up. He let out a whistling sigh and slowly climbed to his feet. Before he left the tree’s cool shade he stretched, reminding his body that it was made to do things other then lay under a tree all day.

He headed in the direction the barking had come from at a brisk trot, movement feeling good after hours of dozing. He hadn’t been in this area for long, so that scent of the dog before him rang no bells. Yay… a surprise. Skylir hated surprises. His face showed only his standard bored, dim expression as he rounded a dense clump of willows and the border collie came into view. Laying in the shade like any intelligent dog would be doing on a day like this… no fight then. Probably just some bird had walked on the wrong patch of grass. Skylir approached her, his paws silent on the dry grass. When he was a few yards away, he called, ”Afternoon, lady. I heard you barking… is there a problem?” He already knew the answer, but it was the only thing he could think of to say. It wasn't even, as blunt as he was, he was going to waltz up and say, 'hey, there, barking your head of a shadows? Smart idea'. And he wasn’t about to just turn right around and wander back to his tree without seeing if there was something interesting going on.

Skylir was oblivious to the fact that city and country hated each other. Otherwise he would have been more careful. He didn’t look like a country dog, with his short fur and very mixed blood. He was scarred from head to foot, though never in a obvious way; he’d always won his fights. But if someone was to have to decide whether he looked like a city or country dog, they’d say city. The truth was, though, that Skylir had no idea a side had to be chosen. For the short time he’d been here, he’d wandered between the city and country whenever he’d wanted, hunting or scrounging as the mood took him.

[Blu]

Red auds twitched as Ember watched a butterfly float past her nose. Her mind said snap at it but her body seemed to refuse. The heat from the sun, even though she was in the shade, soaked into her long coat and seemed to set her fur a blaze. Ember was dozing, her nerves finally calming, when a voice jerked her from her peaceful state.

Sitting up, the red Border collie looked the male over several times. There was a war between the city and country and Ember, though not belonging to a gang, refused to allow the city mongrels to take over the land in which she roamed. unlike most things to Ember, she found the Country beautiful and easy to live in, she wouldn’t have that taken away.
Finally, after thoroughly looking the dog over, which took a couple of awkward minutes, she spoke "No, just" she glanced at the nearby brambles "Venting some anger." she barked. After a few more moments of silence, Ember stood and looked the dog in the eyes. They were dull, unlike her own eyes that shown with intelligence, but she was a Border collie, the smartest of all breeds, believed by many, so it was no wonder she was that way. Though the dog looked completely dumb, her keen mind would not let her stay on that and without much of a fight, she convinced herself there was more to the dog than met the eye.

"Who are you? Where do you come from? You smell of both the city and country." she barked in her usual curious tone "If you’re not careful, a dog will mistake you for a pure city mongrel and deary, in the country, that’s not a good thing." As the words were spoken, she trotted over to the lake to lap up the crystal water. There was no need to be edgy, for they were in a place where fight was strictly prohibited and Ember knew that if he chose to attack, he would surely die. After a few quick laps, Ember turned and sat, watching the dog and awaiting an answer

[Takri]

Takri padded silently along as he enjoyed the feeling of the soft, springy grass unter his feet. Along the way to the lake, he spotted a rabbit and crouched low, inching forward, he bunched up his muscles and leapt, the rabbit, who had been unaware and nibbling grass, tried to dodge and suceeded. Takri, leapt up and bounded after the rabbit, quickly catching up before it could dive into a bush or some similar small area that Takri couldn't reach, and leapt on it, pinning it down. He grasped the rabbit's neck and gave it a quick snap as so the rabbit wouldn't feel any pain. Clinging on to the bloody rabbit, he directed his almond-shaped eyes onto the silouette of the lake and bounded quickly in the direction, the dead rabbit swaying in his jaws. He scented another dog long before he reached the lake and saw her just miss a rabbit and throwing a fit or so it seemed. Then another dog came and asked the border collie a question and then the collie replied back. He was a city dog from the looks of it. Shrugging, he advanced forward with his rabbit even though the country dogs were at war with the city dogs, he and his gang prefered to stay neutral for now, not taking sides in the war though they lived in the country. Guessing that the border collie might be hungry, he dropped the rabbit in front of her and went closer to the lake and lapped up the water. He wasn't really hungry anyhow. He had just come back to the countryside to enjoy and have a bit of peace and quiet away from his gang. He'd have to go back soon anyhow though, he knew that the gang expected him to, he sighed, they depended on him as he was a good leader and better than any other in their opinion. He had told them that he was going out for a quiet walk and he just wanted some peace and quiet for awhile. His soft brown orbs stared at the peaceful surface of the lake. His thick fur attracted the summer heat. Sure he had pretty thick fur and it was long but the heat didn't bother him. He'd had experience hotter weather before and was used to it so he didn't need to be near water or shade much. He sat down and curled his curved tassle around him.

Gazing at the clear sky without much clouds except a few wispy ones, he wondered why the humans had left. He'd spent a lot of time brooding over this subject before. The blazing sun beat down on his back as it was attracted to the dark brownish black patch on it. He ignored the heat and pondered as he gazed at the clear surface of the lake. Then he shook the thought away and looked back at the border collie, she was smaller than he was, then again, most dogs were. He seemed giant compared to all the other dogs, even some of the city gang leaders and dogs. He intimadated them just with his size and height. Sure he may look big, mean and dangerous but in truth, he was kind and gentle and those who found out were surprised but they had been brave enough to find out who Takri really was. His gang members were kind, gentle and honest dogs. He had visited the city a few times and thought it was pretty neat. Then he shook his head slightly to clear his thoughts. "Hello, I'm Takri, but you can call me Tak. I'm a gang leader here in the country. What are your names?"Then he sighed. He spoke again after a pause."I just wish there wasn't a war and we could just talk things over but I'm afraid that can't be. They seemed determined to take our beautiful lands. For now, me and my gang are neutral though we live in the country, we take neither sides for now."

He wondered how the war would turn out and what would happen after that. The birds chirped as they skimmed the surface of the water. It certainly was hot but it was even more so in the city with all the black areas on the buildings and the streets. The country didn't attract as much heat. He sighed as he brooded over the problem of war. He didn't know which side to take, the city dogs weren't that bad, with a little determination, he could mould a few into dogs like those in his gang. He sniffed the clean air and thought about the dry, dusty city air. He wanted to move his gang here but then again, the country dogs and most of the city dogs were at war so he may not be able to, but then again, he could try to convince the city dogs to help revolutionize against this war. He was pretty sure they wouldn't attack on first sight, not a lot of dogs did that for the dog they attacked may have information or a request or maybe a truce of some kind so they asked questions first before they just blindly attacked the other. Then he shook his head, him and his crazy ideas. He would give it a shot though, maybe, just maybe this war wouldn't have to happen. They would still have to fight a few battles but only a few, not an all out war. The blazing heat was withering a few plants though there wasn't a drought. Takri bent his head again and lapped up some more water, then he raised his head and stared out at the horizon, thinking some more. He did that often, brooding and thinking. Some may think it odd but he didn't care what others thought of his appearance or habits, that was their problem if they thought something about another. He turned his head back to the border collie and waited for a reply of some sort. He breathed in the cool air again and yawned even though he wasn't one bit tired. The sun beat down on the dusty earth as Takri glanced back and forth from the border collie to the other dog.

[Kirin]

OoC: Okee, this sucks, and is horribly short, but I need to go to bed. I just wanted something up.

”Who am I? Give me your name, and I’ll give you mine.” He didn’t say where he came from. He had no idea what she was talking about, with being mistaken for a city dog being bad… why? He wasn’t going to show his ignorance, though, but he also didn’t want to make a wrong step. You never showed another how ignorant you were… that was just asking to be lied to. Others tended to tell you the truth when they thought you already knew it. He didn’t mention where he came from, in case whichever place he picked was the wrong one. Hopefully she wouldn’t notice, after his name comment. Comments like that tended to distract others from what hadn’t been said at all. But before he got a reply, another dog arrived.

Skylir stared at him indifferently; he moved like a dog used to being the biggest. He wasn’t much larger then Skylir, though, he was huge himself. The difference between them, Skylir guessed, was that he knew how to use his bulk, and wasn’t afraid to. He was a fighter at heart, and this dog didn’t look like he would bite a butterfly. He certainly wasn’t too bright… he just wondered up and started jabbering about a war. So that was it… Skylir reminded himself that from now on he’d have to be more careful. He came from the country while in the country, the city while in the city. At least until he knew more, he wasn’t taking a side. He felt he had to say something. Perhaps this dog didn’t’ know peace came at a price… but then, he probably hadn’t seen what Skylir had.

”How can you not take sides? Do you think they’ll care? You live in the country, it’s your home, it’s your problem. If you want peace, make peace. Don’t just sit there and moan.” Having said his little piece, Skylir settled down. He sat, his tail sprawled out behind him. He was only half in the shade; the sun didn’t make him as hot as it made these other dogs. His coat was thinner, and he felt just fine. His face was as blank as ever; he was the big, muscle-bound hulk, not a thinker.

[Blu]

Ember narrowed her eyes at the Dogs comment."Ember" she said simply. "And yours would be?" she barked. She expected an answer now, for she had gone out of her way to tell him hers when she made it painfully obvious she wanted his first. But. the red Border Collie was in no mood to drag on an argument about names none the less. It was pointless as, if even he did not tell her his name now, she would eventually find out. Nothing stayed secret forever, nothing. Not even heaven, the only problem there was that after it was discovered, the secret couldn’t be told.

Ember shook her head inwardly, her mind was wandering. She needed to keep focus, it was out of character to day dream. Directing her attention back to the dog, she noticed he hadn’t told her where he came from. Just as she opened her mouth to speak, another scent hit her. Another dog? Male... She seemed to be surrounded by males, but she didn’t mind. Male or female, they both were company.

As the newcomer trotted straight up to her and dropped a rabbit at her feet, Ember growled lowly. She needed no sympathy, not from anyone, most hunts of any dog failed and for her it was even harder as she was no hunter. Keeping her gaze on the newcomer, Ember stood and walked over to her shady spot, stepping over the rabbit as if it werent there. "You speak of war as if it were nothing. A simply fly buzzing around your head" the last sentence twisted into a growl, and Ember glared at at the newcomer with intense distrust.

She was suddenly taken aback by the other dogs response. He was right, indeed, but she never expected such an answer from him. She shot him a look of admiration before rounding on the newcomer again "Indeed. Do you really think that the city dogs will spare you because you supposedly pose no threat? They will kill you, much more easily than I for I will fight them until I no longer have a breath in my body. You, on the other hand, will die with no pride of standing for what’s yours. Not much of a loss to the world, dog." she snapped.

[Takri]

Takri narrowed his almond eyes till they were slits at the mutt's reply though he sensed that the mutt was just like that, throwing nasty comments in other's faces and that he did that to everyone. Then the red border collie spoke. "I'm sorry that my words make that impression but it is not just a fly, dogs get killed, they die to protect their land and I would do so gladly but I was just commenting it would be a lot more simpler if the city dogs would agree to a truce but I know that can't be and I know that they will attack with no mercy even if I haven't chosen sides simply because I live in the country and fight I will and so will my gang."He said this in a calm but slightly harsher tone than he normally used. The rabbit had been forgotten the moment he had laid it at her feet for he didn't care about a mere bite of food since he could easily catch another thing to eat. "And, you still haven't answered my question, what are your names?"He turned his head away from the two dogs and stared over the crystal clear waters. His eyes gazed over the blue depths as he went into thought. Yes, there was no chance of not taking sides. He decided not to use the foolish idea after all as there probably wasn't going to be any chance of trying to stop this war, it would just have to go. Fate wasn't going easy on this world, it never had. Takri's soft brown eyes gazed into the horizion, deep in thought yet again as he pondered over what the other two dogs had said. What they had said was entirely true and fight he will, he was planning on fighting for his beautiful countryside anyways. The city dogs weren't bad, they were simply raised with certain tales told to them that soon became their code as they grew.

Takri breathed in the deep air and sighed, soon, the ground in the city and country were to be littered with many bodies from both sides. Takri lowered his head again and lapped up water, watching a dragonfly hover near his muzzle. He blinked as he wished this war didn't have to happen. Then he sighed and decided that right after the border collie replied, he was going to have a good swim although he wasn't at all hot since he had experienced hotter weather and was used to heat. He enjoyed swimming very much since it was so fun. His ears swiveled around a bit. He parted his jaw slightly, then closed it again. His tassle which was still curled around him was thumping lightly on the ground. If these dogs didn't like him, he would ignore them and have a good swim in the lake. He breathed in the hot humid air and closed his eyes for a few seconds, then opened them again. The sun was still high in the sky and it didn't look like it was gonna set anytime soon. Takri hoped that night would come soon because the night's in the countrysides were so beautiful, especially on a full moon. He wondered when he would get a mate. He didn't want a temporary mate, he wanted a permanent one, even if it meant getting into fights more often to protect her from other dogs that wanted to mate her. His brown eyes gazed sadly over the lake as he remembered he would probably never meet a female that actually liked him, even though he was attractive, most of them wanted one that loved getting into fights but Takri only battled when necessary. He had no family any more, his family had disappeared after the humans had left and he had always wondered where they had gone and if it had been possible that the humans had took them with them but had left him. He felt sorrow over it then shook it away. It was past, he could brood over that matter later. He breathed in the hot, humid air once more and blinked. Then he listened for any reply from the border collie or mutt. If they didn't want to tell him their names, that was fine with him.

[Kirin]

Skylir grinned, showing all his teeth. This other dog irritated him… acting all high and mighty. He decided to throw his own two cents in… again. When he spoke, his voice was flat, as if he was commenting on the weather, not insulting another dog. ”That was a long sentence… you must be full of a lot of hot air if you could say that all in one breath.” His expression was still blank, almost innocent as he looked at the German Shepard, as if he did not even realize he’d said something that was probably offensive. He had been going to tell Ember his name… but he didn’t like being ordered around, and the big dog’s demand for their names was too much like an order to him. Skylir had a bit of a problem with those who thought they had authority. He would have loved not to have answered, just to have given Takri a glare, but he couldn't do that this time. He owed Ember his name, so he would say it, but he could make it as annoying for the german shepherd as possible.

Still watching Tak with his odd, miss-matched blank eyes, Skylir said, ”You didn’t hear? We said them a minute ago. This is Blaze and I am Skylir. She may call me Sky.” Ember, at least, would realize he’d gotten her name wrong. She could think what she would of that. There wasn’t any reason for him to lie about her name, so that option was out. Did that leave stupidity? Or he just didn’t care? He gave them both a bored look and slid down from his sitting position to his stomach. Well, there was no actual excitement, but there was harsh words. Fun, fun, fun. He considered the rabbit lying on the ground, apparently forgotten by both parties. He was aware that he hadn’t eaten all day… he wasn’t the best hunter. He was too big to sneak well out here in the country, and the rabbits always seemed to go down holes. Food was much easier to come by, for him, in the city, but he wasn’t there at the moment. He wondered if either of the dogs would notice or care if he took the rabbit and started eating in… he glanced from the rabbit to Takri, then to Ember.

The sun was starting to relax him again, so he put his blocky head on his paws. The thick collar around his neck, worn and bleached over time to a sickly light grey, became visible from beneath the thick ruff of fur at his neck. His eyes were still on the rabbit, though his mind was drifting, off across the soft green grass and sparkling waters of the lake. For some, summer days make them lazy and forgiving. For Skylir… no matter how peaceful he might seem, he was still listening, still ready to give you his blunt opinion on anything you said. He didn’t feel any better inclined towards those he disliked, though he was certainly less likely to pick a fight. The end of Skylir’s curled tail twitched back and forth, perhaps at something he was thinking.

His eyes flicked back to the German Shepherd again. He didn’t like Takri’s opinion on war… he wasn’t sure he even knew what Ember’s was. Skylir would never tell anyone his opinion on it, only disagree with theirs. The truth was, despite the fact that he looked like a dog just rearing to go fight, he avoided conflicts that didn’t directly effect him. Why fight another’s battle for them? He always seemed to get sucked into problems, though, always ended up taking sides even when he didn’t want to. Yes, he’d told Tak sides had to be taken… but that was only because that big idiot lived in the country. Skylir, though, lived wherever he liked. The city dogs won? He’d be a city dog. The country dogs won? He’d be a country dog. It never ended up that well, though; Skylir had seen wars before, even if they’d had to be on a smaller scale with the humans around. They never ended with things that clear cut; life was not that simple. If only it was... like the stories pups were told, where at the end one side won, and everything was happily ever after. That wasn't life, though. Anyway, he never managed to stay out of conflicts… and the other side always regretted forcing him into fighting.

[Takri]

Takri wasn't insulted much by Skylir's word. He somehow thought that maybe he was just like that. Then he replied in the same flat voice that Skylir had used. "Hello Sky and Blaze if those are your names. Apparently I wasn't here when you first said it. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to take a quick swim in the lake." He didn't really want to hang around with dogs who kept on throwing snide remarks into his face. He started towards the water, then hesitated looking back in case the others had any remark to make about him swimming. He liked to dive but he wasn't as good in diving as he was in dog paddling since almost every dog knew how to dog paddle. Newfoundland dogs were best at swimming and experts at it since they had webs between each toe on each paw. His almond-eyes flew from Skylir to Blaze if those were their names. He wondered if they were lying to him, he wondered if Skylir and Blaze were really their names or were they just made up? It bothered him to not know if those were really their names but he would find out sooner or later. The sun beat down on him as a few faint breezes ruffled his soft fur. Yawning, he lowered his head to take a few laps of the cold water and then lifted his ginger brown head again to look back at the two other dogs. His tassle swayed lightly as a few humid breezes blew and then Takri took a few steps in the other dogs direction. Sniffing the hot humid air, he couldn't make out any other scents except that of the two other dogs, himself and the faint scent of water as water virtually only had a very faint scent. The faint breezes rippled the water's surface as Takri cocked his head and waited for the other dogs remarks or comments.

Takri knew he'd have to go back really quick to train his gang for the war. They'd have to have lots of excercise and practice fighting. Takri himself needed little practice as he was an expert on fighting. Sure he didn't fight often but he still fought a few times. He wondered when the nighttime would come, it would be cooler then, not like he was afraid of the heat. Sighing, he listened to a few birds chirp and looked at a different part of the lake where a few ducks were honking and quacking. His ears swiveled slightly as he waited for any reply by the other dogs. Looking at the pale blue sky, he felt a sense of peace and tranquility. Soon this peace would be shattered and war would rage throughout the lands. But not here, if any dog needed to be at peace during the war, they would come here, unless they were at the city, then they would go to the beautiful crystal fountain. Takri's breathing was slow and measured as he stared at some of the wispy clouds drifting by, he was going to enjoy the peace while he had it. His handsome face had a sad look to it as sorrow settled into his eyes. He wished that the peace didn't have to be shattered by a war but there was no stopping it unless a miracle happened or something else. The treetops waved slightly as the hot humid wind passed through them. "Do you have any remarks or comments or objections to my leaving for a little while?" He asked calmly. The sun beamed down on Takri as he sat down to wait for the others reply. He curled his curved tassle around and settled it over his white paws. His tassle thumped lightly on the dry and dusty earth as his soft brown eyes looked first at Blaze if that was truly her name and then to Skylir. His ears swiveled slightly as he took in another breath of the hot, dusty summer air.

[Blu]

Embers eyes, again, narrowed as the newcomer requested their names. She had just stated hers, was this dog truly that deaf or was it ignorance? Just as Ember opened her mouth to speak, Sky jumped in before she had a chance. Again. Blaze? She paid no attention to the obviously wrong name. She knew he knew her name, though she did not quite know why he had said it was Blaze. For what ever reason, she could care less at the moment for it did not matter. "Swim? Were excellent at staying on topic aren’t we?" she murmured.

A small snicker escaped her lips as the dog asked if they had any more to say. Ember had plenty to say, plenty to do, plenty to think though that had nothing to do with what the dog was inquiring. Again, Ember's eyes narrowed, but she did not answer. Why answer stupid questions? Her gaze shifted to Sky, as she knew without a doubt he would give his remark. He seemed quiet dull, but his actions had said other wise, indeed, looks were extremely deicing.

((Sorry so short, runnin' outta muse people ))

[Kirin]

OoC: I'd just like to say that your charrie 'magically' knowing Blaze isn't Ember's real name is a form of powerplaying... or is it goddmodding? No matter, one of them. You didn't question whether Skylir was Sky's real name, and your dog doesn't question every dog's name. Him having a 'feeling' isn't very fair. Just needed to say that.

Skylir’s tail ceased it’s movement at Takri’s words. Few would have noticed the movement in the first place, so nobody would notice the sudden stillness. They might, however, have noticed the sudden narrowing of his miss-matched eyes, or the way the corner of his mouth tried to twitch upwards into a snarl but was resisted. The narrowed eyes were gone as soon as they had appeared, and his gaze was as blank and bored as before. But as Tak turned to go, Skylir stood. He was not much smaller then the other dog, and with more weight to him. He moved forwards, at a pace no faster then a stroll, stepping between Takri and the lake. ”No,” he said, in the same measured tone, ”But I do have a question. Are you a she?” He paused, to let that comment sink in. He watched Takri’s face for any reaction. Then he went on, his voice not changing, ”You must be, since I believe my words were, ‘She may call me Sky’. Oh, well, that clears that mystery up. Enjoy your swim, Taka.”

He was aware that there was no fighting at this lake, though he didn’t know why. So now he turned his back on Taka to stalk back to his spot. No fighting at the lake did not mean the same rule applied everywhere. He did not consider the one use of his shortened name a fighting matter… though if Takri wanted, they could always leave to discuss matters. Some wolves just couldn’t take insults… Skylir would prefer to avoid a fight. The day was too nice to shed blood on, and this dog did bother him that much. Skylir avoided fights when possible; though his scars were sign enough that it wasn’t always possible. Words were Sky’s chosen weapon before claws; they left no mark on him, but seemed to scar the egos of others. He’d rather have his feelings hurt then his hide; not that someone like Taka looked as if she was incapable of coming up with an insult, even if her life depended on it.

He would ignore anything else Takri said; he had another thing in mind. As he passed, Skylir scooped up the german shepherd’s rabbit in his jaws. It might have been charity for Ember, but once you’d insulted the giver and taken the goods without permission, it was no longer charity. He carried it back to his spot and settled down again with it between his paws. His huge jaws had it’s side open in a moment, and he dug into his meal. It had been a while since he’d had fresh meat… he was a hopeless hunter and any meat in the city wouldn’t be fresh. He didn’t eat quickly, though, nor did he eat slowly. He went through his meal at a leisurely pace, and soon there was nothing left but bones, which he began to gnaw on. He’d learned never to let anything go to waste; he’d stick around these bones until they were picked completely bare and all their marrow was gone. He seemed to be ignoring the others, though he would really be taking in every word they said and storing it for future use… probably against them.

It really was hot, but Skylir couldn’t do anything about it. He didn’t like water… it was fine in small amounts, but a lake? Very pretty to look at, but he wasn’t going in. You were just so awkward in water, and who knew what were lurking in those depths? Skylir would never admit it, but he was afraid of lakes and rivers and such. While on land he could take anything down, it was not so easy in the water. You had to worry about keeping your head above the surface of the water, and not sinking, and your sensed didn’t work underwater. Your view was limited, and even when you saw something coming up on you, it was impossible to turn quickly. No, Skylir wasn’t about to go swimming; he wasn’t that hot. His fur was nowhere near as long or thick as these other dogs’.

[Takri]

Takri's eyes glinted with humor and his lips twitched up in a faint smile as Skylir turned his back on him after calling him Taka, yes that would probably be his name if he was a female but he wasn't. Then he watched Skylir snatch up the rabbit and start eating. After watching Skylir finish the meal, Takri waded into the cool water, it wasn't that hot at all. Some may think he was really hot but compared to the hot weather and droughts he had experienced before, this was like spring weather. He decided to take a swim anyways for the fun of it and also for a bit of excercise. Wading deeper into the cool water, he paddled for a bit then took a deep breath and swam deep into the depths. After a small amount of time, he submerged and started paddling again. Taking another deep breath after a while, he dived again to enjoy the beautifully colored coral and green seaweed complete with pretty but stinging anemone and color fish. After another amount of time, he surfaced and took a few breaths, then he opened his mouth to let in some of the water and swallowed. Paddling about, he tried to use his tail as an otter might use his rudder by lifting it up and smacking it down hard to swim faster above the surface and below it. After awhile, he swam quickly to a shore a few feet away from the other dogs. They had teamed up on him but that was fine with him, he hardly ever lost his temper and got angry and it was rare to ever see him lose his temper or to see him get angry. It was even rarer to witness him in a rage though it wasn't at all pretty and most dogs should just back away from him and keep their distance if he did.

He shook himself, getting some of the water out of his coat and then he walked over to a long, flat, grey rock, he lay down on it, putting his head on his front paws and half-closing his eyes so he looked like he was asleep, he sunned himself with his hindquarters on either side of his body. His curved tassle swished around behind him and his ears swiveled around a bit. Yawning, his mouth opened wide and his curved canines were completely in view along with his pinkish-bluish tongue. His eyelids flickered and he turned his head a bit to the left. He sniffed in the hot, humid air and smelled nothing except the trees, the very faint smell of the water and the other dogs and himself. His breathing was slow and measured as he looked through his half-closed lids. The breezes were pretty big but they were humid. The birds were skimming the lake and a butterfly danced in front of Takri's face. Takri ignored it and enjoyed the peace and tranquility. He needed to get back to his gang soon anyways, he decided to stay for another 10 to 15 minutes before he left. The sun felt good against his still-wet coat. The air ruffled his fur a little as Takri listened to the birds trill their songs. The peace would end soon so why not enjoy it while it was still here? The sun's rays danced on the water's surface, making it look even more beautiful as Takri shifted his head so he could get a better view of the other dogs and the lake.

[Blu]

Ember's red and white cranium lowered as Skylir stood and blocked Takri's way to the lake. It was move that, for many dogs, would have been considered a threat and Ember, though it was far from her job, was indeed ready to break up a fight. It would be breaking the truce and though she wasn’t much of a believer, she respected the law of her lands. Her muscles tense, she awaited what was to come with readiness.

As Skylir said his peace, Ember was taken aback. She expected a lunge of some sort or a snarl and for him to simply speak and walk away was intrigued her. As he picked up the rabbit and lay back down, Ember loosened up. Her gaze followed him as he did the movement and rested on him as he ate. Again, she looked him over thoroughly. He quite frankly amazed her and little in the world could do that. Suddenly, a small splash shook her from her thoughts and she turned her head to look at Takri as he swam. Dumb mongrul, she wouldnt get her coat wet for anything on a day like today. The heat would dry the water up in an instant, making her coat unbearable.

Ember had always been strange like that. Water never had and never will appease her. Again, her gaze traveled over to Sky. He was done eating the rabbit and was now stating in on the bones. Snapping and cracking sounds filled her ears as he gnawed on them. Ember winched, she hadn’t been to terribly hunger before but the scent of the fresh meat had peaked her desire to eat. She looked away and lay her head on her paws. She would ignore the feeling, but once the others were gone she would hunt again.

[Kirin]

Well, Taka seemed to have finally had enough and had gone off by himself. In fact, it was probably time Sky did the same. Only scraps of fur and shards of bone were left over from the rabbit, the precious marrow inside already eaten. Sky was feeling much better; he preferred fresh meat to garbage any day. Maybe that was why the city dogs wanted the country so badly, he thought wryly. All the country dogs have to do is trade some meat to them for garbage. He nosed the rabbit’s remains, making sure he hadn’t missed any meat. He hadn’t, so it was time to leave. Taunting Tak was all very well, but he wasn’t going to stick around forever. He climbed to his feet, considering for a moment going over to ‘say goodbye’ to ‘Taka’, but decided against it. He’d gotten his point across, he thought, so he’d leave it at that.

He turned his big head and nodded politely to Ember. He didn’t mind her… she wasn’t as stupid or annoying as the bigger dog, even if she was as high-strung as all border collies. ”Time for me to head home,” he said, ”Maybe I’ll seeya around, Ember.” Tak had settled himself too far away to hear that exchange. He’d only told Tak Ember’s name was Blaze because he found it entertaining to have the big dog using the wrong name, so he didn’t really care anymore anyway. He grinned at her for a moment, and rather odd smile. At first glance it was the foolish grin of an idiot; look closer, and there was something, something… then the smile flickered out, like a candle in a breeze. The mutt with the miss-matched eyed nodded to her again, then turned and headed off.

He followed the shore of the lake until he was out of sight of the others. The lake was on one side, the grove of willows behind him, and brush and trees on his other side. He stopped and glanced over his broad shoulder, making sure they couldn’t see him. He wasn’t worried about being followed… why would they do that? He was just a weird dog they’d met. He was paranoid, maybe… he made himself promise he wouldn’t look back, not on the whole trip back to the city. It might not be a good idea to sleep out here tonight… Takri might have been a pathetic pacifist, but his pack might get upset he told them some packless dog had been that disrespectful. Skylir had lived through too much already to wake up and find a gang of country bumpkins had torn out his throat while he was sleeping off his meal. No, the city it was. He was more at home in cities, anyway, even if he thought the countryside was more beautiful and had better food. He set off for the dirty streets and grey buildings, keeping his promise to himself.

[Blu]

Ember had ounce again began to doze when she heard Skylir rustle somewhere to her right. Opening her eyes lazily she yawned slightly and lifted her head to look over at him. Her eyes focused and they regained their naturally intelligent look. He stood and walked over to her, only after he'd made sure the rabbit was completely gone and nodded politely. She returned the gesture and sat up. ”Time for me to head home, Maybe I’ll see ya around, Ember.” Ember's auds pricked at the words and murmured dully "O-okay." Just before he walked away, Ember noted a look in his eyes, but it was gone in a flash. It would have been a look of utter stupidity to anyone else, but Ember saw through any dullness. She knew very well this dog was much smarter than he let on.

As he walked away, Ember thumped her tail a few times and then he was out of sight. Cautiously, she stood. Looking out to the lake where Takri was swimming stupidly, she smirked and lowered her head into a natural herding position, proceeding to follow Sky. She was unsure why she had such a desire to follow. The dog was different, he was unlike the others she'd seen and she had a strong urge to be with him, though she'd never admit it.

She moved with speed but silence as she followed Skylir's scent trail until he came into view. She kept pretty far behind him and low to the ground. It looked as if she were stalking him to attack, but she was unsure if she could bring herself to even snap at the dog. A little ways away from where they first set out, she sighed. Where on earth was he going? Suddenly, she froze. The scent of the city's hot asphalt and garbage filled streets hit her like a lead brick. She fought the urge to gag as she looked longingly at Skylir. Change direction...please...go the other way..dont go there, dont... But the dog kept ion going and it soon became apparent to Ember that he was heading to the city without a doubt. She glanced behind her and then to Skylir. Taking a deep breath, in which nearly choked her, she continued after Sky, not knowing exactly where or why she was going.


Ember Out