[B] Duty-Bound (Keeper x Fish Bones)

[Ryuukishin]

Keeper leaned against the base of a tree, breathing hard. He had traveled far since discovering Quest's pregnancy, following tales of the Legendaries in hopes of obtaining a blessing. He had yet to succeed, but he knew he needed to turn back soon; he didn't want the trip to be in vain, but he did not want her to be alone when she might begin to need his help, either.

He stayed only as long as it took for him to readjust his gift. Once it was settled more comfortably against his back, he resumed his search.  

[Ryuukishin]

"Greetings, friend," Keeper said, head dipped lightly.

"I've heard of a Legendary in the area, and I was wondering if I might find them." He did not stop, so much as alter his course to walk alongside the grey-speckled buck. He glanced at the basket of berries. Another offering? "Perhaps you are, too?"  

[Ryuukishin]

"'Find myself'...? Ah!" Keeper stopped as well; in one motion he'd bent his knees into a bow, and gently rolled the gift off his back. "Forgive this buck his ignorance.

"I discovered I am to have children soon. I'll look after them, of course, but I did not want to deny them any advantage. When I heard of Legendaries, and what they were capable of—what you were capable of..." He paused, his hoof on the pelt wrapped around his gift. "I must admit, this is my first time... I'm not certain what I must do."

In times of doubt, he preferred to be over-prepared than under. He unwound the pelt to reveal feathers, beads, and fruits—gifts both material and sentimental. Was an offering required? Was a ritual involved? He tried to be pragmatic about what he could bring with him, but he knew he'd come in blind.  

[Ryuukishin]

Keeper lowered his head, allowing the Legendary's compassion, as well as his knowledge, to wash over him.

"That was enlightening, and I thank you for it." He remained silent for a moment longer, eyes half-lidded as he contemplated the stag's words. He had traveled so far for this moment, and now he found himself at a loss.

"To know what is wanted, and what is needed..." he repeated. Health, longevity, happiness—something all parents wished for the children they cared for. Were they intrinsically linked to a blessing, or did one have to ask for them specifically? No; in spite of all his faith in the Motherfather, he did not think even She could guarantee a life unblemished by sickness and despair.

Finally, he spoke. "If I may ask for a blessing, it is this: if the children lose something they love, I hope they will have the strength, and the courage, to be able to move on."  

[Ryuukishin]

"Thank you," Keeper said, eyes low. "It means more to me than I can say."

He re-wrapped the gift so the buck would not have to and moved it forward, his actions deliberate and reverent. This may have been his first blessing, but it was not his first offering.

"If I may ask one more favor: your name?"  

[Ryuukishin]

"It was a pleasure, Fish Bones—truly." It felt as if a weight had been lifted off his shoulders, but a new one soon took its place: Keeper still had long to go before he could reunite with his mate, and they would need to finalize preparations for the children, too.

"I go by Keeper. If times are kind, I hope we may meet again." He bowed once more and backed away, staying only long enough to ensure his exit was permitted. When it was clear he was allowed to leave, he turned, and with a bound he was gone.