just cute wholesomeness

"At Dorrin and Finn's cackling and loud bantering, Watcher's cat-like ears pin back against his head in a silent show of disapproval and displeasure. Not for the first time, he wished his companions shared his preferences for silent traveling. If they had taken the effort they put into their noisy, troublesome joking and instead used it to gain more ground, no doubt they would've reached the next town by now. Instead they're still on the forest trail, and he's seething from his position of leader of the pack." "His tail lashes angrily, and he jerks when he feels it brush against something - a body. !BatBerry! has approached him quietly, and he steps away to create distance, his eyes narrowed as he asks, sharply," "Not joining in with the buffoonery?"

"Watcher's ears pin back further at Ken's shaking head, his tail lashing more angrily. He steps closer to her, looming over her smaller frame as he glowers down with narrowed golden eyes." "Then what are you doing back here, sneaking up on me like a thief? Come to try and pick my pockets again?" "His tone is accusatory, still holding a grudge over her attempted theft when they'd first met. But up close, he notes how her dark eyes seem to hold a hint of childlike wonder as she had watched his tail - an innocent curiosity, unlike the calculating gaze of most rogues. His anger deflates slightly, though he remains stern." "Well? What is it, girl?" <His tail stops its angry lashing, hanging stiffly behind him as he waits for her response. There is tension in his muscular frame, ready to react if she gives an unsatisfactory answer or tries anything suspicious. But part of him hopes she can give a reason that will ease the lingering irritation between them>

"Watcher blinks in surprise at her simple, innocent response. His tail had stopped its angry lashing but now the tip flicks back and forth slowly as he processes her words. She finds his tail...fluffy. There is no guile or trickery in her tone, only honest curiosity. It catches him off guard, after expecting some excuse or lie."

<Her hands clasped behind her back tell him she's restraining an urge. Part of him bristles at another wanting to touch what is his, but...her doe-like eyes and shy demeanor stir something unfamiliar in his chest. This little thief is not like the calculating cutpurses of cities. There is an innocence to her, untouched by the evils of the world despite her hard life on the streets.>

"Slowly, his scowl fades as he considers her. After a moment, he grunts in reluctant acceptance." "Hn. It seems you thieves have some honor, at least."

"His tail swishes behind him, fur puffed up slightly. Impulsively, he finds himself saying" "You may...touch. If you wish." <His ears pin back in embarrassment at his own words, unsure why he's allowing this strange girl such liberties. But her guileless stare tugs at long-forgotten feelings within>

"Watcher's ears pin back further in embarrassment at the girlish giggle she lets out upon touching his tail. No one has ever reacted to touching his tabaxi appendage with such innocent joy before. It catches him off guard, stirring unfamiliar warmth in his chest."

"At her jest about stealing his tail, his ears twitch and he huffs gruffly. But there is no real irritation in his tone as he rumbles" "You would not get far with such noisy theft, little one. I would catch you easily."

<Her gentle pets feel...surprisingly pleasant. Her touch is light as a feather, delicate in a way he isn't used to. Part of him wants to pull away, to maintain the gruff persona he shows the world. But another part, one he thought long buried, urges him to stay and soak in her innocent affection. It has been so long since anyone simply touched him without want or need, for touch's own sake.>

"His tail curls slightly around her wrist of its own accord, as if reluctant to lose the contact of her hand. His golden eyes watch her carefully, but find no deceit in her gaze. Only honest delight and curiosity. Strange, how disarming innocence can be..."

"Watcher's ears pin flat to his skull at her teasing words, tail puffing up indignantly. His golden eyes narrow as he glares down at her, a low rumble building in his chest. For a moment, he looks ready to snap at her foolish bravery."

<But then he catches sight of the tiny quirk of her lips, the glint of playfulness in her eyes beneath her teasing. His rumble cuts off abruptly, ears twitching as he processes this strange girl's intent. She seeks...to jest with him, as companions do, without thought for status or propriety. It confuses and disarms him, leaving him at a loss for response.>

"Finally, he huffs and looks away, ears still flat. But his tail loosens its grip on her wrist, fur slowly lying flat once more." "Insolent thief," "he mutters, though there is no real bite to his words. When he chances a glance back at her, his eyes seem almost reluctant."

"You test my patience, little one. Do not make me regret this...indulgence." "But beneath his gruff tone, and to his own private confusion, he thinks perhaps he does not truly mind so much after all."

"Watcher's ears lay flat once more as she persists in her teasing, golden eyes narrowing dangerously. But when she holds up her free hand in mock defense, tail still curled around her wrist, he sees the glint of mischief has not left her eyes. She seeks only to provoke a reaction from him, without thought for her own safety."

"A low, rumbling growl rises from his chest, tail tightening briefly around her wrist in warning. But then, to his own surprise, the growl changes pitch, taking on a more...playful note. His lips twitch, fighting a smile as he bares his small fangs at her in a mock threat."

"Insolent girl," "he rumbles, leaning down until their faces are mere inches apart. His breath ghosts across her skin, carrying her scent to his sensitive nose. Strange, how such a tiny thing dares provoke a beast twice her size."

"Perhaps this 'angry kitty' needs to teach you some respect." "His words hold a note of warning, but his eyes gleam with reluctant amusement, curious to see if she will back down or call his bluff."

"Watcher lets out an indignant yowl as her head collides with his own, the force of the impact jolting him back a step. He brings a hand up to rub at his sore forehead, ears laying flat in mingled pain and surprise."

<This tiny creature just headbutted him! Him, a warrior of over six feet!>

"Golden eyes blink down at her as she recoils, taking in her own wince of pain. Clearly she had not expected his playful response, and reacted on instinct alone. Strange that she would fear him so, when he'd given no true threat as yet."

"With a huff, he steps back into her space, reaching out to gently tilt her chin up with one clawed finger to examine her forehead. His touch is surprisingly gentle for one so large and battle-hardened."

"Foolish girl," "he rumbles, though there is concern, not anger, in his tone now." "I meant you no harm. Did I frighten you so badly with my jesting?"

"His eyes search hers, tail coming to curl protectively around her waist in a silent apology for startling her."

"Watcher's ears flick forward attentively as she stammers, taking in her watering eyes and stiff posture beneath his tail. Clearly her discomfort runs deeper than just physical pain."

"Hush now, little one. No need for tears," "he rumbles softly, giving her chin a gentle squeeze of reassurance before letting go. His tail loosens its hold around her waist, but does not withdraw, hoping the contact might soothe rather than startle."

"I meant you no harm with my jesting. Among my people, playful threats hold no true danger." "He pauses, considering his next words carefully." "You have nothing to fear from me, Ken. I will not hurt you."

"Golden eyes search her face, wanting her to understand. His people skills are rusty after so long alone, but he wants to ease the tension he helped create."

"Let me see your forehead. I would tend it, to make amends for startling you so." "His tone is low and gentle, a rumbling purr just beneath the surface in an effort to calm and comfort."

"Watcher's lips twitch in the barest hint of a smile at the pink coloring her cheeks, pleased to see her discomfort easing. Her nod and words of acknowledgment soothe something within him - she understands, and bears him no ill will for their misunderstanding."

"Gently, he tilts her head back to get a better look, clawed fingers parting her hair to examine the reddened skin. It's tender to the touch, but not broken, much to his relief. His own forehead has already begun to bruise where they collided."

"A worthy retaliation for my 'angry kitty' jape, I suppose," "he rumbles wryly, meeting her gaze once more." "We are well matched, it seems, little fighter."

"Releasing her head, he reaches into a pouch at his belt. From it he withdraws a small tin of salve, unscrewing the lid to reveal a soothing balm within. He scoops a dollop out, holding it up between them questioningly."

"May I tend your wound, as mine?" "His voice and eyes are soft, seeking her permission without pressure or demand."

"Watcher dips his fingers into the salve once more, scooping up a generous amount before gently smoothing it over her reddened skin with utmost care. The balm is cool and soothing against the tender area."

"There now, that's better," "he rumbles softly, giving her a small, reassuring smile before turning his attention to his own injury."

"With deft fingers, he applies the salve to his bruised forehead, hissing softly at the initial sting that fades quickly under the medicinal balm. Her words of concern for his own wound stir something warm and unfamiliar in his chest - she cares for his wellbeing, even after their mishap."

"Thank you, little one," "he murmurs, meeting her gaze once more." "Your care is appreciated."

"His tail loosens from around her waist to instead lift and gently boop the tip of her nose, a playful gesture meant to lighten the mood. His eyes glint with amusement, hoping to ease the last of her guilt and earn a smile in return."

"Watcher's keen eyes catch the aborted movement of her reaching hand, and he tilts his head curiously, ears perking forward in interest. But he chooses not to call attention to it, sensing her embarrassment."

"Good, I'm glad to hear it," "he rumbles, his own lips quirking in amusement at her reddening cheeks and scrunched nose. Her reactions are utterly charming to him in their innocence and candor."

"Unable to resist the urge, he lifts a clawed finger to gently boop the tip of her nose once more, ears flicking in delight at the way it scrunches adorably. His tail swishes slowly behind him, pleased at having lightened her mood, if only a little."

"Come now, don't hide that smile. I've yet to earn one, it seems." "His tone is teasing but gentle, golden eyes alight with mirth and something warmer beneath as he gazes down at her."

"Shall we rejoin the others? I'm sure their antics have only grown more... spirited, in our absence."

"Watcher's heart swells at the sweet sound of her giggle, tail swishing happily behind him as she flashes a shy smile in response to his teasing request. Her smile is like sunlight breaking through clouds after rain - brief but beautiful."

"As they walk side by side to rejoin their companions, he finds himself stealing glances down at her whenever he thinks she isn't looking. The way her smiles return his gaze so readily warms something deep within his guarded soul."

"When they arrive, he notes the way she falls quiet once more, though her smiles remain whenever her eyes meet his. His own lips quirk in response each time, pleased beyond words that she seems to have overcome her earlier discomfort around him."

"Catching Dorrin's eye, he gives the storm sorcerer a pointed look, silently warning against any teasing remarks about their delayed return. For now, he is content simply walking at Ken's side, guarding her smiles as something precious in the palm of his battle-worn hand."

"As the group settles in for the evening, Watcher sets about helping Vale and Altair prepare their meal. Once it's ready, he collects two bowls of soup, handing one off to Dorrin before claiming a seat on the log beside Ken."

"Scoot over, little one," "he rumbles gently, nodding towards the space beside her in a silent request to share her seat. His tail curls around her waist once more in a loose embrace as he begins eating his own meal, large spoon making quick work of the hearty soup."

"Between bites, he steals glances at her from the corner of his eye, ever watchful for any signs she may need something - another blanket, more food, company. His gruff exterior softens considerably in her quiet presence, a small, private smile curving his lips as they share this peaceful moment together by the fire."

"Watcher's brows furrow in concern as she chokes briefly on her soup, one large hand coming up to rub soothing circles over her back until she recovers. His ears lay back apologetically - he had not meant to startle her so."

"Forgive me, little one, I did not mean to disturb your meal," "he rumbles softly once she meets his gaze with her silent question. His golden eyes warm as he considers how to explain without embarrassing them both."

"You seemed... lonely, sitting here alone. And after our walk, I found I... enjoyed your company." "His cheeks darken slightly as he admits this, tail tightening briefly around her waist in an unconscious gesture of affection."

"If you would have me, I wish to stay by your side. My touch seems to soothe you, and your smiles give me peace in return. But say the word, and I shall keep my distance, as you require."

"His words are gruff but earnest, baring a piece of his guarded heart to her trusting hands. Now it is his turn to watch her reaction closely, hoping she understands the care and care behind his gruff overtures."

"Watcher's entire body seems to relax as tension drains from his broad shoulders at her soft permission. His tail curls more fully around her waist in response to her gentle touch against his furs, rumbling deep in his chest in a sound halfway between a purr and a growl."

"As you wish, little one," "he murmurs, voice rough with emotion. His own meal now forgotten, he watches her finish hers with a small, private smile curving his lips - pleased beyond words that she has accepted his company, at least for tonight."

"Once she sets her empty bowl aside, he shifts closer so their sides are pressed fully together before the fire. One massive arm drapes along the back of their log, fingers idly toying with the ends of her long dark hair as his eyes scan their campsite, ever vigilant even as he savors this quiet moment of intimacy between them."

"His heart, once so guarded, feels lighter than it has in years sitting here with her small, warm form nestled against his larger one. And he finds, in that moment, that he hopes for many more such evenings together in their future."

"Watcher blinks, pulled from his contented reverie of simply watching over her by her soft reminder. Glancing down at his forgotten meal, he huffs a quiet laugh - it seems his focus had shifted entirely to ensuring her comfort, to the detriment of his own needs."

"Aye, you're right little one. Can't go protecting you on an empty stomach," "he teases gently, tail flicking in amusement as he retrieves his bowl once more. He eats quickly but methodically, large bites making short work of the meal as he remains a solid, steadying presence at her side."

"Finishing, he sets the bowl aside and turns his golden gaze upon her once more, ears perked attentively. His massive hand comes up to cup her cheek, calloused thumb stroking her soft skin gently as understanding dawns in his eyes."

"This is new for you too, isn't it?" "he rumbles knowingly, tail wrapping her more fully into his warmth." "Fret not, little grace - I will guide you, as you've guided me to open my heart once more. All in good time."

"Leaning down, he presses a chaste kiss to her forehead, holding it longingly before resting his chin atop her head with a contented sigh. His steady, protective presence promises this is only the beginning of discovering life's sweeter pleasures - together."

"Watcher nods slowly, ears twitching as he considers his reply while gazing down into her wide, hopeful eyes. His thumb continues its gentle stroking of her cheek, marveling at how such a small gesture could bring him so much peace."

"Aye, little one, it is new for me as well," "he rumbles softly, tail tightening around her waist unconsciously."

"For so long I focused only on duty and honor, pushing away all else. Thought I did not deserve comfort or care, after my failure." "His eyes darken briefly with old pain and regret before her smile lightens them once more."

"But you, little grace - you see beyond all that, and find worth in this broken paladin despite his flaws. With your kindness, you've shown me life can hold beauty even after darkness."

"Dipping his head, he presses a lingering kiss to her forehead, then each cheek in turn." "You've given me a gift I'll spend my days striving to repay. Know that you're not alone - I'm here to guide you, as you've guided me to hope."

"His words, though gruff, hold only warmth and sincerity. She has helped heal wounds in his heart he thought long scarred over - and for that, he is eternally grateful."

"Watcher's breath catches in his throat as her soft lips press sweetly to his cheek. His eyes drift shut, savoring the gentle affection as a low rumble builds in his chest - part purr, part growl of contentment."

"Aye, little one," "he murmurs once he finds his voice again, golden eyes dark with emotion as he gazes down at her." "Your kiss lights a fire in my heart I thought long cold."

"Reaching up, he covers her small hand where it rests over his pounding heart with his much larger one, curling his fingers protectively around hers." "You've awakened something in me I thought lost. Filled this paladin with a warmth to see me through any darkness."

"Dipping his head, he nuzzles her cheek with his own, stubble lightly scratching her soft skin as he breathes in her sweet scent. His tail curls more fully around her once more, holding her close against his muscular form as a clawed hand comes up to cradle the back of her head, thumb stroking her hair tenderly."

"Stay by my side, little grace, and I will spend my days showing you just how deeply your care and kindness have touched this weary heart."

"Watcher smiles softly down at her as she drifts off against his chest, her small form curling trustingly into his embrace. His ears flick as he notices their companions discreetly retreating to their tents, granting the new couple privacy - for which he is grateful."

"Lifting her gently into his arms, he carries her over to his bedroll, laying her down with utmost care and tucking the blankets snugly around her slight form. She murmurs contentedly in her sleep, nuzzling into his pillow with a sleepy sigh that sends a surge of tender affection through him."

"Curling his larger frame protectively around hers, he drapes a muscular arm over her waist, claws retracted so as not to scratch. His tail winds around one of her legs, holding her close to share his warmth through the night. Pressing a tender kiss to the back of her neck, he rumbles softly," "Sleep well, little grace. This paladin will stand guard over your rest."

"Closing his own eyes, he drifts to sleep with the soothing rhythm of her breathing to lull him, at peace in a way he hasn't known for years. For the first time, he faces the darkness without fear - for she is his light."

"Watcher slumbers deeply, at peace in a way he hasn't known for years. But even in sleep, his senses remain finely tuned - so the soft nuzzling at his face breaks through the fog of dreams, rousing him slowly and gently into the waking world once more."

"Bleary golden eyes blink open, focusing down to meet her gaze as a rumbling purr starts deep in his chest. Lifting a hand, he tenderly strokes her hair, claws carefully sheathed as he offers her a sleepy smile - one far softer and more vulnerable than she's yet seen from the usually stern paladin."

"Good morning, little grace," "he murmurs, voice still rough with sleep." "Did you rest well? I hope my embrace kept you warm through the night."

"Shifting slightly, he draws her closer still against his broad, muscular form, wrapping her securely in his arms and legs as his tail winds more fully around her waist. Pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead, he nuzzles her cheek with his own, stubble lightly scratching in a way that makes his purr deepen with contentment."

"Stay a while yet in my arms, sweet one. I find I'm loathe to relinquish your company so soon after waking."