((I know this one is going to be long, so please, don't freak out. It really isn't much to read, but I know it looks really long on the board.))
As Kouhai lay there, she heard others' voices. She lifted her head slowly, but felt a hand push it gently back down. <>Huh? Who.....is that?<> she whispered to herself. Trying to get up, Kouhai felt her legs strain as she pushed herself to rise. Her legs gave way beneath her, and she fell back down. She tried once more, and finally stood up in human form. But to her dismay, her footing gave way as she began to walk. Kouhai felt someone try to help break her fall by lightly grabbing her arm, but she shook them off and got up again.
After taking a few steps, she stumbled and grabbed the tree so that she wouldn't fall another time. She pushed herself off the tree and took a step forward.
A voice came from behind. <>And where exactly do you think you're going?<>
Turning around, Kouhai saw the wolf who she had met before standing in front of her in human form. She spoke. <>I don't want your help....<>
She went to hit him with an elbow, but he blocked it and grabbed her arm. Her whole body weakened, and as she started to fall, Tsume grabbed her other arm also. As he held her arms, he let her come down slowly.
Now on his knees, Tsume gently picked up Kouhai in his arms. He gave a sigh. <>You may not 'want' any help.......but by the looks of your condition....it would seem you 'need' it more than anything.<>
He rose to his feet and walked over to a large rock. As he set her back against the cool surface, her eyes opened slightly.
Seeing Tsume, she immediately snapped her head away. She didn't want to make the slightest bit of eye-contact with him. He gave a quick smile at her reaction and walked around to the other side of the rock and sat down. Giving a sigh, Tsume stared off towards a dense green forest that lay ahead.