Guide it closer towards the sun stone, the roots are twisting! Push, put muscle into it, we need this tree!
Snorting, Nimeat glared at those that stood before him, struggling not to break focus and drop the massive tree he was able to lift with his unique powers. While he could ease the weight it was a bit more difficult for him to guide things where he wanted - he merely lent it a weightlessness that would allow it to go where directed far easier than would otherwise be possible.
As it was, the tree was currently heavier than it should have been; his focus divided between the plant itself and those that were supposed to be pushing it upright. He wouldn't be able to guide the others and hold the tree for very long, not if he expected any significant results.
Shiruba Hoshi frowned as she concentrated next to him, carefully filtering the light coming through the thick clouds overhead and focusing it upon the task at hoof. Using the bright rays as a guidance system, she and Nimeat got everyone working together and pushing as they needed to, instead of scrambling uselessly against the ground.
Midea snorted contentedly as the large tree began to sway back into place, nuzzling into her mate's side as they watched the colony buzz around them. There had been a large storm as of late and the need to straighten things out was nearly overwhelming. As lead alphas, it was their duty to oversee everything, a task which required them to have their eyes on everyone all at once. Thankfully, they had the two higher ranking mystics to help them out, as well.
Of course, it also meant they had a prime chance to consider their colony as a whole as they attempted to cope with the weight of their task.
Midea was pretty pleased with what she saw so far. The terrain was certainly different, but perfect for their kind, that which called themselves Destyres. Their colony favored the valleys between gently sloping foothills of an ancient volcano, a beautiful place for all its oddities. The grass was bright and fragrant, a sweet treat that couldn't be found at the same quality anywhere else, the trees boasting thick, dark trunks and sun-bleached leaves. Many shrubs and a few scattered trees were heavy with various fruits and berries, one of their main food supplies. Not far beyond a stony beach lay a vast lake, providing fresh water, fish, and various plants that thrived in shallows.
It met their needs with ample supply left for a growing colony, leaving more than enough space for them to wander in as well. These creatures were most comfortable out in the open, taking shelter in one of a handful of hidden underground caverns whenever the weather got too rough - it was a rare occurrence, however, for them to seek one of these caverns as they braved all but the very worst without a blink. Typically, the weather was mild enough to be considered pleasant, yet on occasion the rains would come without end and the lands would change.
Krodai was slightly less pleased with the progress being made around him. The last storm had uprooted several of their trees and unless they made much better time they would not be able to save them in time. The goal was to be prepared when the storms came again the next year. It was hard for him to focus long enough to do more than scowl, however, as his mate's purple glow shown extraordinarily well in the dim, post-rain light. She was beautiful in any light, but he found her neigh on irresistible when she looked as she did now.
They're going to rip out the few roots that remained undamaged if Bekinja doesn't start paying more attention to the tree and less to the ground.
Why doesn't Nimeat say something?
Even her voice was beautifully feminine. It was an effort to keep his own deep tone steady as his gold markings glimmered in the dim lighting, making Midea just as distracted as he. There had been a rather close call before the rains had settled, something the two of them were still moving passed. There had not been a storm like that for generations; the land had turned to slush and sank in such a way as to pull them away from the other, separating their colony as a mud hole quickly became a swamp and made it all but impossible to find their nearest cavern. Midea had fallen while trying to lead those that were pulled by the sinking earth with her to the emergency high grounds, effectively becoming trapped in the muck. Short of dislodging a limb or three, she wasn't about to get out any time soon. It was by pure luck that the earth shifted again in the torrents of rain, giving her just enough room to break free.
After everything that had happened, it wasn't all that surprising to anyone that the two of them spend more time looking at each other than keeping an eye on the colony as they tried to repair their home. It didn't change the fact, however, that the lead alpha's guidance would have still been useful. As it was, the mystics were making do on their own, at least for the moment.
Once they managed to get everyone working together properly, Nimeat allowed his gaze to flicker from the massive tree to glare at the two alphas. At the moment he was bitterly wishing that the two love birds watching all of this could manage to wait a few days before going all starry-eyed I-nearly-lost-you, don't-ever-let-me-see-you-in-danger-again at each other. Still, he could understand in a way - though he was just as willing to accept any female of the colony, there was one he favored above the others. How Midea and Krodai could have only each other for mates was far beyond his understanding.
Thankfully, their daughter Liavin was slightly less distracted and quickly stepped up to snap orders at those attempting to save their favorite tree and main source of a precious fruit. They had no name for this fruit, for they had seen it in no lands other than their own, but they were all agreed that they simply could not do without it.
Varoddi could care less when it came to the lead alpha's concern for each other, however. He was leading the main ground effort, giving direction to the others on how and when to push based on his body language and his own efforts. He was more angry than anything else, tossing rather shrewd glares towards the couple that was, finally, beginning to show real interest in the colony. He had vowed to himself that one day he would gain the title he deserved of lead alpha. Seeing the two of them so caring and wrapped in each other only made him all the more certain that he would be better suited than either of them.
One day, he promised himself, he would be the lead alpha and have the most beautiful mate in the land. He would have the largest and most powerful colony, everything that others had. He would have the land, the power, all of it; so he vowed as he glared at the couple that held claim to his desire.
So distracted was he by his jealousy that he failed to pay adequate attention to the instructions of the Mystic Nimeat. The sudden, echoing crack of a branch breaking as the tree was rolled too far in one direction caught him by surprise because of this, his jolting reaction nearly causing the entire colony to be crushed under the monolithic plant.
It was Midea and Krodai that rescued everyone. Instead of allowing panic and futile scrambling, Midea stood and spread her gleaming wings, sending out forceful orders to half the colony while Krodai instructed the other half on how to move. Within moments the colony was working as a single unit, with each destyre focused on their individual task.
Bekinja snorted as Nimeat finally helped the tree to take hold of the soil again, continuing to stare at the ground under his hooves in a most distrusting manner. More than ever he trusted solid stone over the dusty earth it resided in. He had never heard of the ground coming alive and swallowing Destyres before and frankly wished to have never discovered such a thing.
Then again, he hadn't heard of trees attempting to squash Destyres before either. Perhaps the real threat was within his own colony, instead of under his hooves.
I thought you were instructing us how to guide! You were up front, what happened? We were nearly killed!
Like you were paying such avid attention yourself, Bekinja.
The fault lays on all of us, as only together can we repair our home.
Anyone that does not meet the needs placed upon them will fail the colony and prove their worthlessness from this point onward.
Nobody could think of an argument for that. The lead alphas had even accepted blame in this, practically admitting to allowing their minds to drift from the pressing matters before them. It was impossible to ignore that all of them had been guilty of this to some extent, after the storm they witnessed.
Veanii shook herself off as everyone regrouped for the next part of the chore, stumbling slightly on the now unfamiliar landscape. She couldn't understand how the others could still be focused upon the storm that had terrorized them; her own wandering mind had gone to the way their home had been torn asunder.
Our beautiful home...
She, like many others in her colony, had the wandering block upon her mind. There was one time where she was born and lived in another area; she knew this must be so for she had found herself here as an adult, quite unexpectedly. She knew all such things as one would while growing, facts about colonies, food and predators; yet she held no memory what so ever before she reached this home. This colony, this land, became sacred to her, the wandering block erasing all else and leaving her only this that she called home.
To see it weeping as it was now, the trees broken and torn from the ground, the brush buried under mountains of mud, the normally beautiful lake now dark and tangled with debris that found itself tossed into the waters, pulled at her mind like a thorn in the hoof.
And yet as usual, though these truths bore great weight, she found herself calmed by the truths presented to her by the lead alphas. The land was tattered, this was so, but it was not beyond repair. The important thing now as to focus on fixing it, not what the problem was or even what caused this problem. This was her chance, their chance, to thank their home.
Shiruba felt similarly as she shook herself off and followed after Nimeat. She was glad it was time to move to the next location, for it meant progress was being made. It was also an excuse to flirt with Nimeat.
If the two Mystics favored anyone, it was each other. Although they were both perfectly willing to open themselves to others, there was a certain spark between the pair, a strange balance. They helped one another, in more ways than one.
I've been thinking about how you lift things
Oh? And what has your reflective mind shown you?
I play with light by shifting the particles, reflecting and compressing them where I want. Can it be you do something similar with lifting material; that you shift and spread the particles to make it lighter, without destroying the integrity of what you're lifting?
He had to smile at her as she walked closer and nudged his shoulder in a good natured way. She was his best friend; he truly believed he'd be lost without her and her reflective musings.
That makes a lot of sense, actually. But something tells me that you have a point beyond that.
But of course, my love.
Their next destination was drawing closer - a giant stone, this time, one that was normally used for luxurious sunning by the entire colony. It had been shattered in the latest storm, with the largest pieces blocking the main cavern they hid or rested in. They had several areas they could use if they couldn't reach this main cavern, but this was the only one large enough to house all of them together. It reached for miles upon miles under their lands, yet there was only this one entrance. The giant tree, the oldest in these lands and the main source of fruit, had to be a priority as it was vital to repair the shattered roots so that it could live and thrive, yet they also wanted to be sure that one of the first things they did was to ensure the ability for the whole colony to be together should there once again be trouble.
I was thinking, if this is how your talent works as well, perhaps you can also shift the particles where you want - lend a weight to one area or another and use this to guide and tug the object where you want.
Brilliant, as always, my dear Shiruba. Would you care to play with various matter with me?
Always, Nimeat, always, as you well know.
Smiling, they traded a quick nuzzle before parting ways, Shiruba to hone the light where it was needed and Nimeat to experiment with her latest musings. For him, these things simply were. For her, she existed to learn and reflect, to shine anywhere she wished. If she could not hone her mind towards a solution then surely none could be found.
For both, this worked out best. She could help the lead alphas to puzzle through any problem, he could help to accept all that was and work with or around it. Together, they were an incredible team, each one enjoying the others' company. At times it was amusing, others refreshing, still others a comfort or a challenge.
Nimeat had to reflect on this as everyone filed in to help shift through the rubble, his eye lingering on his friend and lover; before wandering over to appreciate the lovely Midnight Dreaming, as well. Companion or not, neither mystic believed in limiting themselves to only one, and Midnight Dreaming was a particularly lovely, if flashy, female as well.
That was one thing he and Midea often argued about, in all honesty. While they both respected each other's views, neither one could understand the choices made. For Midea, she only had eyes for her Krodai. She was a strong leader, unafraid of conflict and ready to defend her place as lead alpha. Krodai held the diplomatic tongue and had proven himself, more than once, to be the strongest and fastest, the most fitting to lead at her side. Even if this had not been the case, each felt as if the other completed them. There was no more cherished word or opinion than that of their mate, no more important eyes to see approval in. They were a team - together, always, in all ways. To break the team was to break themselves, as much as they had grown to be a part of each other.
For them, they were not only the only ones worthy of the other's attentions, but the only ones desired as well. For Nimeat and Shiruba, the pairing was preferred but there was an open wandering as well. Nimeat didn't understand how his alphas could actively need one another, while the alphas had difficulty understanding how the mystics could not, as wonderful as they were together.
Everyone else in the colony thought the four of them an amusing side show.
They loved and fought freely, with few of them showing any preference for any other. Liavin was a true lady princess, just as her mother, her eyes betraying her kind heart as she devoted her life to leading the colony. Bekinja was cautious, thoughtful, observant, always watching the inner-workings of colony events, careful that his beloved family not splinter and break apart. Veanii held her love for the land itself, their home, overseeing how they fed and cared for this place that nourished them so well, relishing the occasional wandering creature for the delicious meat. Varoddi wished to rule, but his hot temper and jealous nature kept him placed firmly as lowest ranking alpha, always. Had Midea been unable to best him in battle the rest of the colony would still refuse him, wishing for a solid, sturdy leader; they were loyal enough to their alphas and mystics for them to oppose him outright, should he ever try anything, a fact he was often reminded of.
Each of them, through their different natures, loved and fought as the moment would demand, a free-flow give and take from all members.
Even with the undeniable balance that came from this order in the higher ranks, Rakone was honestly glad that she was a fighter, a Beta, and no more. She was the leader of her rank, yet even then there was comfort in knowing that some things did not fall to her shoulders. Typically she was in charge of keeping tabs on where the scouts were foraging, and monitoring the borders for security. It was an important role, one she was well suited for with her strange, two-fold nature; yet it was not watching over an entire clan. She only had to worry about what she did best; killing things, mainly intruders that would threaten her beloved alphas.
Yet when it came to this, while repairing their lands, rank mattered only as much as who to look to for direction. They all shared the work, they all had their tasks, each of them getting into the dirt to lend a hoof and coordinate the effort. The other Betas looked to her for direction as they all got in position to shoulder the rubble out of the way, a fact that required trust not only in her but in them, as well. Rakone herself was paying attention to Veanii, who was well known for her skills. Veanii had a tendency to favor Bekinja for the simple matter that the lead alphas and the two Mystics regularly regarded each other for direction; that, and she flat out did not like Varoddi. She was also one of the ones mated to the male, giving her extra reason for her eyes to wander towards him. Bekinja, however, found himself looking towards the speckled male quite often as his other mate, Liavin, had been sent to another area to work. In any case, Varoddi did at least try to be a good leader in spite of his faults, ensuring that he was at the very least worthy of being an alpha.
Rakone wasn't sure how much she trusted the alpha, herself. Her only concern was her Betas. At the moment, as they all prepared to help lug the boulders off their sanctuary, her only thought was that she was grateful she was a simple fighter, her horns giving her a distinct advantage over scouts without the trouble of watching out for an alpha's wings.
With a grunt, she braced herself to shove, glaring a warning to the Betas under her command to pull their weight - or in this case, push. Slamming her horns and shoulder against the offending boulder, she and the others helped to rock it free of the ground it had wedged itself in, allowing Nimeat to get a better idea as to the proper size of the thing to make lifting easier.
One more shove did the trick, providing just enough wriggle room. They all wound up putting a bit too much effort into it, several of them stumbling in surprise as the stone suddenly shot into the air. One glance at Nimeat told Rakone all she needed to know; he had an exceedingly smug grin on his face.
This is no time for foolish games or trickery!
Do you want to have this done with or not?
The glare that accompanied his retort was enough to temper her response, but it didn't stop her from glaring right back. It wouldn't have hurt anything but his pride for him to have given some warning about his attempt to lift and guide, and even then that harm would only happen if he proved to be wrong. Nor did it help his case that he and Shiruba were known to play the odd prank, her bending the light to make things invisible and him causing things to shoot out of the ground that he had previously buried.
Peace, Rakone. Soon you'll be leading us on patrol once again, where we belong. We may even find a good fight while we're out; to defend these lands we're working so hard to repair.
Not soon enough.
Still, Rakone let herself be calmed, turning to nuzzle her friend's shoulder gratefully. Beatrice was the only one who was truly comfortable with her double nature - a fierce, merciless warrior and a tender, caring companion. Because of this the two had a strong bond and alliance; Rakone knew, though she admitted it to none other than this most special of friends, that Beatrice was the better tracker. Rakone was a stronger fighter and warrior, however, and a better leader should trouble arise and there come a need to defend their homelands.
Sighing, Beatrice tossed Nimeat a rather annoyed smirk before trotting after the large stone, helping the others to turn it over for later use. It was no longer blocking the entrance to their cavern, yet they wouldn't be done with it until the rock itself was salvaged as well and could once again be used for lazy, sunny days.
And repairing their home meant repairing all areas, those that were vital and those that were a favorite luxury. Beatrice didn't know a single Destyre who didn't appreciate their luxeries.
Eveneva simply snorted after the master Huntress as she trotted off to help turn the stone, having caught the gaze of Rakone and a very slight, approving nod. Eveneva was ever the one to linger, preferring to groom her vibrant coat than to really dirty herself. Still, everyone knew that she was just as capable as any other in battle, if the issue was forced. Should she ever have a young one she would make a vicious, if vain, mother.
The only problem was getting her to actually tap into these abilities and muss her coat. Even in this, in helping to put their lands back together as they were meant to be, she lingered near the back. At least at the moment she had a good excuse; there was only so much room to help place the remains of their sun stone where it belonged, leaving her and a few others to clear the rubble and finalize freeing the caverns. And with this chore, the worst she got was dust on her hooves. Scraping and tangling her twilight-toned coat by shoving her horns under the stone and ramming her shoulder against it was not something she was willing to do unless there was absolutely no choice.
The least that could be said for her was that she was not so shallow as to refuse what must be done, especially in the chore of repairing what they all depended upon, nor was she the kind to only hold an eye for herself. She was sure that there was none better to compliment her twilight beauty than Varoddi, with his midnight grace. Although Bekinja's unique, aurora streaked coating was also of interest to her, he refused everyone other than Liavin and Veanii, and her loyalties lay under Varoddi’s assumed right to lead.
All the same, she believed it was only fair to share her beauty with any that would court her, even those of lower rank, no matter where she placed her loyalties. It only seemed proper to keep herself groomed and presentable at all times because of this, ever sure to let the others admire the gloss of her coat. Beatrice disapproved, of course; not only of the vain grooming and reluctance to work, but of where and why her loyalties lay in the ranks, as well. A beautiful coat and the firm belief that leadership was owed did not make a good lead alpha, only a confident, if smug one. Eveneva disagreed, however; Varoddi had the conviction, the look and the surety of one who was born for the part, while Midea and Krodai merely ‘fit’ into the role of lead alphas.
Alright, the entrance is cleared. Isn't the next step to patrol our southern borders for damage and invaders from other colonies? It's a perfect time for us to be attacked and our food raided.
If you want to be free of the duties here, simply say as much.
Still your bitter tongue, Varoddi. Eveneva will be of more use performing the guardian duties of a Beta than by kicking around rubble.
Eveneva shook the dust off her hooves as she turned to check their borders, tossing a sweetly understanding smile to Varoddi as she did. She understood; he was upset, not only from this blow but from not being of a position to lead them through it as he wanted. Yet while Eveneva could be so forgiving of a short temper from a frustrated male, Krodai was of the mind that in such unpleasant moments it was a leader's duty to remain calm and kind, guiding his colony with a cool head and a sweet tongue. It was the best way to prevent unease from stirring within the colony.
Frowning, Krodai rested his chin on Midea's shoulder, watching Varoddi as he snorted and turned to ease the stone into it's final position. With Nimeat's ability to help direct matter that he lifted, the chore had passed quicker than they had dared to hope. There was work still do be done, however, and the last thing he needed was for Varoddi's attitude to upset his colony.
We can split up from here, as the rest of the work shouldn't require the strength of the rest of us. Liavin is patrolling the paths the scouts usually take to forage for extra food with Sivasi and Elderberry, which leaves the rest of us for the work here. Rakone, Beatrice, you're in charge of our southern borders; take note of the damage and repair anything you can. Nimeat, Shiruba, keep working together.
Using concentrated light to help dry the earth and make it brittle was brilliant, Shiruba Hoshi. With your help, Nimeat should be able to have all out plants back as they should be, providing for us and bringing prey to our lands.
Veanii, you go with Rakone and Beatrice, just to be safe. Evenea should be waiting.
This is more than a normal patrol and few know these lands better than yourself.
Bekinja, follow Nimeat and Shiruba, just in case they could use a physical shoulder.
At your service, lord and lady Mystic, as ever.
Krodai and I will go with the scouts to rebuild our food supply.
It would be better if we Betas remained with you, to ensure your safety.
In this case, should trouble arise, it is better that we separate like this. We are more than capable of defending ourselves and I would rather we have strong defenses all around, in various groups.
And what of us, Midea. I'm sure it wasn't intentional for you to overlook Varoddi and I.
Correct, Brijkenviit, as ever; the delicate assignments are best saved for last. I need you and Varoddi to steal from another colony.
This is hardly the time for such foolhardy, reckless ignorance -
Silence!
It is, indeed, a necessity, as I'm sure Brijkenviit could explain. Though the great tree was restored to the best of our ability and we will bring order to the shallow-water plants again, food will be dangerously scarce while our lands recover. Whatever we have left, however little it is, will have to suffice until there is life enough to sustain us once again; very little prey can be expected while our home recovers, so even then we must be careful and save the meat.
To ensure that none of us starve, you included, we have little choice. I am the best warrior and enjoy battle in such a way as to literally glow with the power I gain from defeating my foes. You are also a strong and able body and utterly cruel while fighting. It is only logical.
Indeed. I am trusting in your abilities, Brijkenviit, and your fierceness, Varoddi, for the future of our colony.
In the meantime, we must sort through what is left of our food and attempt to ensure the health of those that we depend on for our regular diet. The better the land thrives, the more that are drawn here, the more prey we have to balance our diets with.
Then it is agreed. Brijkenviit, Varoddi is at your disposal. Everyone else, to work. Dream, gather the scouts that remain, for we have much to do yet.
Of course, Lady Midea. Our food stores are scattered and weak.
Everyone turned to their respective tasks with the decisions settled, Midea and Krodai heading towards the shallow cavern they normally stored food in while Midnight Dreaming trotted around to gather the other scouts. She needed to get them all moving together.
Nimeat caught her gaze right as everyone turned to leave, flashing her a dazzling smile as he left to sort through other trees and boulders. It was impossible to miss the gleam in his eye as he winked and trotted off with a flick of his tail, a small smile touching her muzzle at his attentions. Still, while she respected him as a leader and a Mystic and would certainly be glad for him to court her yet again, he would not be her first choice in who she would court herself.
Part of the reason was that she sympathized with Shiruba, in a way. While the lady Mystic would not normally be inclined to reject the affections of another, she herself had little inclination to seek others. She favored Nimeat above any other, yet he favored both the females. Similarly, Dream had a tendency to favor the next ranking scout, Hitoshirezu, yet he also held another female equally dear to him. While she was open to the advances of others in her colony, it wasn't the same as making them herself.
With a mild snort she dismissed the Mystics from her mind, instantly settling into the role of head scout. The five before her perked their ears to attention as a general sign of respect, even though their kind did not speak aloud. They knew that they were to help sort through the remains of their food and to repair the shallow-water plants that often fed them, from what the alphas had spoken of, yet the details of their assignments had not been mentioned. Everyone knew it was not in Dream's nature to enter a task only to look around and ask what happened next; she was a wise, if quiet, female, and perfectly capable of guiding any number of Destyres.
With Midea and Krodai off taking note of what food of theirs managed to last through the storm it gave them a few minutes to gather their wits, moments she intended to use to every possible advantage after that mildly disorienting meeting. They had been doing work at a steady pace, only to suddenly spin around and find themselves witness to plots and insolence.
I believe our lead alphas are capable of handling their chore without aid, so let's just settle on what exactly needs to be done by the lakeside. We’ll all tend to the weakened roots of select plants, making sure that they are thriving as is needed.
One of the first, if not the very first, things we should tend to are the healing plants, with the reasons behind Brijkenviit's absence from our lands. They're more likely to require immediate use.
Dream nodded slightly, looking to the others for any kind of argument. It was a rarity for her to go against the thoughts of Hitoshirezu, mostly because they were generally sound. Her feelings for him, however, were no secret, so she was careful to take into consideration the thoughts of the other scouts as well.
Nobody could offer up a decent counterargument for the notion. While, ideally, Varoddi and Brijkenviit's expedition would end with nothing more or less than a plethora of food carried upon their backs, the likelihood of escaping without at least some injury was not a very good one. Although they all agreed that whatever injury they may receive the colony they raided would more than likely have far worse ones to nurse. They just hoped that the opposing colony wouldn't have a slayer of their own; everyone knew that with a slayer's dark pride, whenever two met in honest combat it was often to the death.
This weighed heavy on everyone's minds as they turned towards the lake to tend to the shallow-water plants that the creator of this realm had shown them so long ago. Many of the plants in the large stretch of earth that were meant for healing had been completely ripped away, yet there were still some that could be salvaged; just enough for a couple wounded Dests with a little leftover for renewing their supplies later on.
Shea had to admit that she was rather impressed with the resilience of these little plants as they started their task. When the strangeling that had first welcomed them to these lands and introduced her to these little shoots of leaves she hadn't been entirely sure of their value or durability; yet they had proven themselves, over time, and were certainly doing so once again. Hitoshirezu had to smile at her while she tended to those in front of her, knowing what she would be thinking. She couldn't help but return his smile when she caught him, catching Dream's eye in the process and leading to a moment where Shea, Hitoshirezu and Dream lifted their head and nuzzled together. Shea and Dream had grown to love each other through their love for the male, yet Shea was not like her lead scout in the slightest.
Shea was not a Destyre that was soft spoken out of subordination or an understanding heart, such as Dream was. She was quiet, nearly silent, due to a rather acute discomfort for social situations. Often times her silence meant only that she was struggling not to betray her discomfort by becoming defensive, her gaze almost cold as she observed the higher ranking Destyres and their politics.
In these small groups, however, when it was just the three of them, she was comfortable. The majority of her distrust stemmed from higher ranking Dests, yet even an overlarge group of fellow scouts could find her feeling unsociable.
It may be a good idea to take the seeds from those plants we can find scattered and plant them now, while repairing this area. I can do that while you two settle those that can be salvaged for Varoddi and Brijkenviit.
Nodding their agreement, the three touched noses once more before seeing to their respective tasks, none of them surprised to find themselves breaking off into pairs.
Titan was glad to find himself near Shea, if he was to be honest with himself. He, too, didn't like to bother with socializing much, yet for different reasons. He simply did not find Destyre company to be desirable. He had always been happiest alone, by the great shifting lake. It was even his typical scouting path, that of the lake and its shorelines. As some knew the lands or the positions of power, so he knew the waters from which they drank. He was the only one to make the long, lonely journey to the very bottom of the great lake.
Typically, those in his colony wished to talk or to at least acknowledge each other with some form of body language. They were companionable, if not friendly, and he was not all that different in many aspects. Still, the company wore thin after a little while; Shea, however, was different. She was willing to leave him be, just as he left her.
Just ask for help this time, if you find your hooves stuck.
He was quickly finding an attraction to her through this mutual peace between them, one she seemed to be returning. Shea was obviously happy with the company of the other scouts, but when given a preference she always found herself near Titan. Like him, she enjoyed being in a colony for the support and protection, but beyond that she would rather be on her own or with a silent companion.
The two were considering their growing fondness for the other when Midea and Krodai joined them. They were afforded a quick acknowledgement, as was proper, before everyone returned to their work, the Lead alphas helping to maintain the plants without a word. But there had still been that bit of communication; there were times where the silence was not at all silent.
In that moment, while they tried to prepare to welcome their raiding colony members back when they arrived, it seemed the silence screamed as the storms had not long ago.
The moment didn't bother all of them. Frankys Bride, in particular, found it to be an honest relief. She was quite happy to spend her time scouting for food and double checking the perimeter with only the moon for company. They all called her Bride whenever she did settle in to be social, but that didn't happen on any sort of a regular basis. Over all, she was content to be as the moon itself, watching with a silent smile. Nobody made her feel unwanted or showed any indication that they had an issue with her or where her place was. She was simply an observer at heart. Yet this often lead to loud moments of silence when she did step forward, as someone would almost always have their eyes drawn directly to her odd coat. Her choices kept her on the outer edge of the colony, but it seemed that her coat symbolized her status with the others. It was strange indeed and held an otherworldly quality about it, but most had come to terms with the stitching patterns and various colorations.
Some thought it was more than a coat pattern, a thought that crossed everyone's mind at least once a year. One night, as everyone had gathered for warmth, the three moons all lay full. One was a vibrant, glowing orange, another red as blood and the third as blue as ice, all of them ominous gems in the usually peaceful sky. Bride had moved her leg wrong and for a moment it seemed that one of her 'stitches' was pulled open, leaving a trail of vibrant crimson dripping down her hoof.
Ever since then the screaming silences had become common when she would step from the shadows in the night, especially under the light of heavy moons. None had ever seen a night to rival the one that gave her this legend to hold, but they all watched for it.
Now, the silence was not for her. It was for the slayer, for the raiders. She was a part of those that waited, tense and ready, not the cause. It was a relief, in a way, as on this day at the least she was not content with watching in silent loyalty. She loved her colony, her home, and in this she was glad to be included.
Watch that your hooves don't get tangled, Witchy. This isn't another game where you can test your skills.
Witchy Poo grinned in amusement, glancing around at her gardening companions. She had no talents worth noting, she knew this perfectly well as she was certainly no mystic, but she did so love to dabble and experiment. Small things, such as potions and good luck spells, were her normal fare. Her mind, however, reflected her coat markings, as she was often distracted into dreaming of having such powers as a great sorceress. It was a rare day indeed that she didn't end up stumbling around and landing in one of her potions or ripping up a plant, only to laugh and search for the strange bit of not-fur she wore upon her head.
So glum, so tense! We are not helpless, even if they should bring trouble riding their heels. Come now, we best not stumble but we need not be depressed, as this is naught but a game.
That earned her quite the startled look from everyone, even a warning snort from Midea. Flitting an ear to adjust the soft material on her head that was not fur and yet similar to it, she lifted her head to explain. Dreamy and lighthearted though Witchy could be, she was no fool.
It is Nature's game, a challenge. We have to win this game, to out smart all obstacles. We can't admit defeat or have such sour dispositions. The cost of losing is our lives.
Everyone nodded in agreement as she looked at those gathered near the plants with her. Bride smiled at her in a rather fond manner, gently bumping noses with her as they set back to their task. They each preferred to watch, to remain in their secret worlds of spells and moonlight. If either held a love it was in the other, something that was well known to all others of the colony. Witchy never ceased to amaze her beloved Bride, with the latest puzzle being how she had kept that trinket in the terrible storm that had just passed. At the moment, however, the puzzle was put aside as they worked side by side, with Bride taking comfort in facing these changes as a challenge to overcome and defeat. Her love certainly had a unique way of thinking of things.
Mother! Father!
The sudden arrival of the heir of this colony quickly broke up such musings, with everyone in the shallows instantly snapping to attention. Just over her shoulder two other scouts could be glimpsed, running as fast as possible and still trailing behind her by quite a long distance.
She skid to a stop, the water feathering slightly around her hooves before she found herself solidly stable. A small, unconscious little bow was given to her parents, a dip of the head and slight unfurling of the wings, with the scouts giving the same sign of respect to her in turn to a bit more noticeable degree.
They return, though the mission was not flawless.
Is there injury? What trouble?
I don't know, only that they run as if in flight, yet they draw upon our borders as we speak.
Midea nodded curtly with this information, taking a moment to gather her thoughts. Her daughter, her and Krodai's greatest love, had been following the scout’s usual foraging paths with Sivasi and Elderberry to check for damage across the rest of their lands. Sparing the three of them had been all they could afford, though their boarders were vast and would take the entire colony an entire week to properly search
Still, a few extra eyes at the edge of their lands had been needed, if nothing else to report damage to key areas. And it had come in handy, apparently, as it was these who first arrived with word of their returning warriors
M'Lady Liavin, please do not scare us like that! Lady Midea, Lord Krodai, there is news - yes, of trouble in the raid, but of more
What more have you to add, Elderberry?
Be quick of tongue, that we might better prepare.
News of trouble that follows our returning alpha and slayer with their conquering prize of food. There is a party of fighters trailing them back to our lands, with clear intentions.
Liavin had regained her breath by this point, though Elderberry, having trailed in behind her, was still panting rather noticeably. Behind him came another, his eyes wide with what could only be called irritation. Liavin had been the first to leave, being the swiftest to carry word of trouble, and after a ways Elderberry had followed after to expand upon this warning. He had no idea why the last scout had also come, unless it was out of fear of facing the approaching parties alone. He did hope for his sake that this was not the case, however, as the scout was sure to be punished for such cowardice.
Not that he could blame him, if such was the case; Elderberry was strong, silent and sturdy, a wonderful farmer and adept hunter. He could nourish their trees and plants in ways that others could only dream, constantly building upon their already adept supply of sustenance and keeping a close eye on the populations of their prey. For all his skill, he was not a fighter. Unless there was no other around to make some sort of stand for the colony, he would instinctively leave such tasks to their betas and alphas, especially to their slayer who was as a separate force entirely.
Trouble has come and trouble has gone - not long after the others left Brijkenviit dropped his supplies and turned to attack. There had to be at least eight attacking them, but we won not long after I reached them; they were driven back, even dropped extra supplies that the others loaded on their backs. But still, all is not well; injuries were gained, and at least one looks serious.
Snorting, he gave the little bow of respect at this point, turning to take a long drink of water as Midea growled for the colony to gather around, a wordless command that carried well through their lands.
As always, Sivasi, there is something you are not saying. This is no time to be reserved; tell me why you are so irritated?
Sivasi paused a moment as everyone that was present gathered around their leaders, weighing his words before he spoke. Although he was known to be social and let himself be seen in many different ways, he was more often than not reserved and only spoke of trivial things, rarely divulging a part of himself. So it was that for him, sharing information in this way would require such times as they found themselves in, in order to be shared freely.
The injury only happened because Varoddi and Brijkenviit fought as we teach all in our colony; a fair match of abilities and intellect, with equal chance. As we are the raiders in this case it is the least we can do - their opponents, however, did not fight in this manner. In their fight it was about more than simply retrieving food.
This brought a quiet murmur through their gathering colony, the mutters quickly cut off as Midea lifted her head to address all of them.
We are dealing with wild Destyres then, unbonded to a keeper of the lands. Our own keeper has come and gone, saving us from collapsed caverns and various injuries; by our insistence she left us to repair the lands ourselves, though she promised to be watching. Now we vote; who is for calling her for aid, once again, against the damage of these wild ones?
We would be set back, and some vital plants and prey-herds lost, but it may be feasible to manage without her aid.
Not all is as it seems; we can't assume to know the situation in full. She would be an aid, either way.
Agreed. We can't handle repairing ourselves as well as our home.
It seems best to at least summon our bonded and keeper. She will help us if we need it.
We all know how she is; it's as Liavin has said, she never gives aid if it is not honestly needed. She respects us too much for that. We can at least ask.
Yet would it really be best to bother her if this aid is not honestly needed? I say we leave her be.
I am against; she would scold us for raiding in the first place, instead of asking for aid. We can handle this without our bonded reminding us that we have her to help. We know this, simply choose not to utilize it.
When has she ever been known to actively scold? If disappointment is feared then perhaps we knew better to begin with. I say we summon her.
She isn't a servant to come help us out whenever we want something. We should deal with this on our own, even if it means making compromises.
No matter how good you get advice is always welcome. Why not see what she has to say? She is our bonded and caretaker.
But how do you get better if you're always having someone else fix things for you? We should at least try to start on our own and only call her when we really need.
Yes, we should at least make an effort first. There may be no cause to ask her aid.
And what happens when we go to call her right as it's too late? Let's ask for help now, and she'll be here to lend a hoof when the time comes.
If the time comes. She has other creatures that need her as well, we've all met them. We can piece things together ourselves, instead of wasting her time with what might be.
Best to be prepared, all the same. And we always do enjoy a visit from her; if she has time for those, she has time for this.
Wild colonies eventually die out because they don't have this aid. It seems smartest to use what's freely given to us.
Trouble will always be waiting; that won't ever change. We need to deal with these things as they come, as something else will find us later and test what we've learned.
They spoke down the ranks, in order from highest authority to lowest with all that were present. Everyone had come running to Midea's call, leaving only the raiding party at the edge of colony lands, slowly limping their way towards home. When everyone had said their peace Midea stepped forward again, her voice ringing clear in their minds.
I also think it would be best to at least ask or her aid. So it is that with two more votes for than against, we shall summon our caretaker.
Everyone nodded in acceptance here, filing behind Midea and letting their eyes flit about their lands; the creature never appeared in the same area twice. As she sent out the call she couldn't help but be glad that Varoddi had been involved in the mission; he never could quite understand the aspect of at least trying to keep everyone happy. That's what made it so he could never be a lead alpha - the colony would force him lower in rank, a feat that had very nearly happened already. If it wasn't for Midea constantly keeping him in line the colony would even force him to leave, for the simple fact that what he could offer that was desirable did not always equal or outweigh the trouble his big mouth was known to start.
It was this disregard for what the colony felt, coupled with holding his own abilities and rights as an alpha above all others that made her glad for his absence. He would have scoffed, at best, at the vote and attempted to proclaim that he frankly knew what was best and everyone would go by that and that alone. It was the last complication she needed, honestly.
Merrily Met, my friends. What trouble hath found thee?
Everyone jumped, spinning around to find the shapeshifting strangeling standing in the very middle of their group. It had been hard to trust her at first, yet each of them had grown to love her as one of their own, a guardian ranked above mystics and even elementals.
Nobody bothered to ask how she had known there was trouble.
While Krodai and Midea explained the situation, the rest of the colony backed off, each of them finding some way to busy themselves as things were decided and finalized. The strangeling had appeared as a small, fuzzy monkey, a difficult form to take seriously for some of them. They weren't familiar with the breed of monkey she was, as it was not one they normally ate, but they could recognize a tree-swinger when they saw one.
As the alphas faced the music and explained the predicament they’d found themselves in, the others paired off to wait for a decision. Liavin, Veanii and Bekinja leaned against each other for support, looking towards the discussion with the strangeling and letting their eyes drift out of focus. So much had happened lately that it was actually nice to just get a moment to be together. Many others followed suit, pairing off in miniature groups, either for support or surveillance.
They all lifted their heads together as Midea and Krodai returned, surprised to see the lead alphas smiling. The little tree swinger behind them also seemed to be in good cheer, something that was heightened by her apparent inability to remain still.
As they rose to our challenge and so with to play, then we shall indeed play!
The excited monkey-chatter quickly caught their ears, stirring them from their placid positions. Witchy was the first to catch on, stomping a hoof excitedly.
A game! A challenge, that’s what this is! This is exactly like all those games we play while young.
These notions made the rest of them perk their ears and look around, eyeing the horizon curiously. A game? Was that the strangeling’s take on this?
We simply had the wrong perspective! Yes, I see now. This is only difficult if we view it as such. It’s a game, an attempt to win and come out alright. We’ve all played it before. It’s exactly like that; things aren’t nearly so impossible when you think of it as a simple competition.
In that case… what would we do if this were a simple game? What would our next move be?
The raiding party needs help returning to the heart of home. The journey can be tiresome alone, without proper perspective.
With the notion of gaining perspective, all eyes turned to Eveneva and Rakone expectantly. If any could suffer through Varoddi’s troublesome tongue or reason with a hard and fast warrior, it would be those two.
A challenge…Yes, it is a challenge, a test of skill and mentality. Which of use has the strongest willpower? It will be an interesting… Battle.
Everyone was smiling by now as enlightenment dawned on them. This was obviously no trivial matter at hoof, yet if they kept their hearts light and their minds clear of pressure, they could address the problem as it was – a problem.
Snorting, Rakone and Beatrice spun around and quickly departed for their raiding heroes, leaving the rest to organize themselves. A few short orders, coupled with some minor corrections from the mystics, were enough to get everyone moving and give them the advantage. The scouts would pull as much as they dared of the healing plant and meet the returning party as soon as possible. Witchy would stay behind and work on one of her potions to help heal them, putting her minor magic abilities to proper use. She could help their plants to grow better or change the fur color on their prey, so this should be no different for her. Beatrice would accompany the party of scouts, and the rest would return to the other colony for a follow up raid.
They were weaker from the raid and had already been forced to retreat once. On principle, their colony had to strike before the wild ones had the chance. With Nimeat, Shiruba, Midea, Krodai, Liavin, Bekinja and Veanii all hitting them the end result would be ideal, especially with the aid of the two mystics. All the available food, as well as a bit of new hide for storing their extra supplies if any were truly defeated.
The little monkey ran with the invading party as everyone scrambled to their tasks, cackling hyperly as they broke the barrier of the strange land and snatching as much food as she could. For her, however, the principle was different; these were here lands, her home that she created, and she would not allow wild destyres to slip through the portal unchecked. She had to take care of her own first, those that were a part of her heart and clan, and invaders would be forced back.
Everything seemed to happen at the same time as they all felt adrenaline coursing through them, excited in their attempts to win this game. The sensation of impending doom if they failed was gone, the pressure of playing for keeps replaced with the sheer, reckless joy of playing against a challenge. And a challenge it was; these wild ones fought with no honor or pride, though this obstacle was also a weakness. Their attacks were savage and unorganized, leaving room to be out-thought or maneuvered as they slammed Midea and her raiders with brute force.
Finally, with a great cry of victory, the upper hoof was found. They had fought together, side by side, guarding one another as they forced the wild ones to retreat into distant realms. They were heard by the others and Liavin smiled as their joy was returned to them, a deep, roaring whinny that rumbled over their home.
This challenge was defeated, yet the game was not yet won. They were sore and tired, though not greatly injured, and there was still work as of yet to be done to repair their home. The march back to the lake was long and slow, although the spirits were high as they carried a hoard of food and supplies with them.
You’ve been holding out on us!
If you ever have to face a challenge, I get to watch.
Remind me to never make you angry.
Krodai smiled at the light-hearted teasing between the three, absently nuzzling into Midea’s neck as the lake finally came into sight. The little tree-swinger strangeling walked in front of them all, chattering happily in a nonsensical way. They had a good start to things; now to finish them.
Nimeat and Shiruba opened their wings as the glittering water appeared ahead of them, flying ahead with melodious bleats. Varoddi and Brijkenviit had already returned with the scouts and looked to be perfectly healthy and sound; they were, in fact, already well on their way to finishing the repairs to their home. Witchy acted as their welcoming party, beaming happily as she nosed around potions and healing plants for all of them, bubbling with pleasure as Bride paused long enough to throw her a quick wink.
Once they were all refreshed most of them set to work; Nimeat, Shiruba, Nimeat and Krodai stayed behind, however, bowing their heads in a quick conference. They all held a certain grin in their eyes as they separated again, each of them growling out specific orders for different groups.
Nimeat flicked his ears as everyone milled about, a small smile tugging at his muzzle. There was much work to be done as of yet, and everyone had reason to pitch in. The alphas directed various destyres, sending them scurrying here, there and everywhere. All of it background noise to him, as he arched his neck and flexed his wings in concentration, steadily reworking the positions of various stones until they pleased him.
Gathering everything into one area had been easy enough, but arranging them properly required a little more thought on his part. It was like a giant puzzle, one that had to be pieced together in a way that would be the sturdiest. Luckily, Shiruba was beside him and helping him shape the shards of their old sunstone as he needed, focusing the light on certain areas to soften them.
Meanwhile, Midea was only allowing the two of them peace as she organized everyone's activities, knowing that mystics had no need of her.
The others, however, weren’t so high in rank and required at least some guidance, especially if the plan the four of them had thought up was to become a reality. To make it easier she had divided the work into section and placed an alpha with each group. She, Krodai and Liavin were organizing everything, with their daughter looking to them for what was desired.
Bekinja had been given the task of overseeing a massive bonfire that the mystics had started, with the goal of building it up enough to suit their needs. It required constant attention to help ensure that it would burn fiercely through the night without getting out of control.
Move faster, Bekinja, you’re low on wood and it’s mostly cinders under those flames!
Midea shifted her wings in satisfaction as the alpha shot orders to Rakone and Brijkenviit without question. The two were putting their powerful abilities at fighting and destruction to use in breaking apart wood for their fire. With a few short orders the pair quickly had their supplies at an acceptable level once again, searching in separate areas for more wood.
Brijkenviit wasn’t that surprised to find that he was perfectly happy with the chore. If there was any excuse to exercise his physical prowess, he would jump at the chance. Most of his free time was spent in training, when he wasn’t called for battle with raiders. He was also the one that Krodai had designated to be the disciplinarian; whenever anyone in the colony needed to be straightened out, it was Beijkenviit they faced. This proved a rather large encouragement for the others to behave. The only exception was a personal offence, in which case the battle was kept between the pair involved.
Veanii was busy overseeing the important task of gathering the food. She knew their lands nearly as well as the scouts themselves did, giving her an advantage over the task. A few found it somewhat surprising that one as peaceful as she was could find the concept of living in the valley of a volcano’s foothills to be charming, but for those that knew her well it was expected. Veanii could find beauty anywhere.She was also great at focusing upon the task at hand, though she was looking forward to being done as well.
It was Krodai who noticed that Sivasi had managed to become thoroughly distracted by Witchy’s methods of gathering their new supply of food and tending to the plants, making him shake his head at the slack-jawed scout.
Keep track of everyone, Veanii, pay attention!
Sivasi was given a sharp rap upside the head with Veanii’s wing a moment later, making him sulk as he got back to his chore. Witchy and Bride were working under Veanii with him, the strangest destyres in the colony as they were the only females to show an interest almost exclusively with each other. A friendship that transcended normal bounds was what they shared, at the least, a perfect complement to their odd natures.
He would have felt that with the two of them working alongside him he couldn’t be blamed for the distraction if it wasn’t for the fact that Titan, Dreaming nor Elderberry was affected.
As Krodai got Veanii to redirect her orders and Midea made Bekinja step up the pace, Liavin found herself snapping at Varoddi, their last alpha who was in charge of a decorating team. Apparently, there were to be some changes made during their efforts to rebuild.
Eveneva had managed to get tangled up in the way of Nimeat and Shiruba as they constructed their stone slab. Considering the fact that this had only happened because she was occupying herself by following Varoddi around and watching him order the others, this wasn’t anything that Liavin was at all pleased to see.
Stop preening your rank and get a move n, Varoddi!
That was enough to get the alpha to look around and see his extra tail, making him snort in irritation and shove her towards the large stone they were to decorate in preparation of the food. She had no choice but to move, yet she made a rather obvious note to pout while she was at it. With the way she acted it could almost be thought that she deemed herself to be another alpha, at times. Liavin wasn’t surprised to see her trying to skip her share of the work.
Dream, meanwhile, was helping Shea and Hitoshirezu finish up the preparations. The lead scout had managed to keep her two subordinates on track while Varoddi had been distracted, much to everyone’s relief.
As the last of the decorations were put into place and the food was taken to the appropriate place, Midea turned to check on the massive slab of stones while Krodai saw to the fire that was finally beginning to cooperate as they needed. Liavin helped oversee arranging the food, as the task mixed both decorating and the organization of the food available for their feast.
The last stone slid into place with a quiet snick sound as Midea approached the mystics, nodding gratefully. In one fluid motion she pulled herself onto the stand, trusting in their ability to make a sound platform. A few stones shifted as Krodai joined her side, making her flick an ear uncertainly, yet she was not disappointed.
The sun had begun to set over the hills by then, closing a long day and making a beautiful backlight for her that heightened her natural glow. Even Krodai seemed to have a golden aura about him in that moment. Everyone grew still as all eyes turned to them, waiting expectantly.
It has been long since these lands were found. Many moons have passed since we bonded to the keeper of these lands, she of many faces. We have survived the first of the great storms here, with her aid, and birthed many foalcus. We have seen great and wonderful things and achieved much. Our underground caverns hold enough food to last us through even the longest of famines, and act as a cozy retreat for private moments. Now, we gather openly and in abundance to celebrate. We are home, forevermore!
Midea smiled as Krodai finished, studying her colony as everyone bleated their joy and approval. They quieted once again as she stepped forward, their lady princess and leader.
Begin!
Everyone broke into movement at the same time, laughing and talking merrily as they moved to the different areas. Witchy and Bride created a beat that many danced to around their fire, nodding in thanks as the others dropped off treats for them to snack on as they stomped their hooves and slapped their tails. Witchy’s coat seemed to shimmer and change as they moved together, and Bride’s pattern of seams looked to stretch open just slightly. Shiruba put on a show for everyone’s enjoyment with Nimeat’s help, flashing light off of small objects that he vibrated in the air. Everyone rejoiced in their success, in how far they had come.
They all celebrated with those they loved most. Midea and Krodai danced together in the fire’s glow, each of them losing themselves in the other. Liavin moved with Bekinja and Veanii, all of them adding to the beat of music as their hard hooves pounded over the stone platform. Bride and Witchy kept the beat going, watching the others with glee as the night revealed the hidden magics of the pair. Nimeat and Shiruba could be seen munching on the feast and weaving in and out of the dancers around the fire with Dream, who was always sure to offer Nimeat a smile whenever his eyes wandered to her. Hitoshirezu moved in time with Dream, laughing merrily and kicking at the sparks that flew from the bonfire. Brijkenviit was a celebration on his own, each move as graceful as it was deadly as he fought imaginary battles. Varoddi pranced near the food, weaving back and forth across the open field, displaying his natural beauty with Eveneva. Not far from them, Elderberry was seen with Shea, their every move inviting physical contact, with Titan flitting in to play as well. Sivasi was found with Rakone and Beatrice, the three of them prancing around the display as they enjoyed the food. And their bonded, the strangeling of many faces, danced, ate and sang with all of them.
None could remember anything before these lands, before finding one another. The only exception was Midea, heir to another colony, the very first to be formed. For the rest, this is all they knew, all there was. Their colony, their land, was their entire world.
They moved with those they favored, the one that had a special place in their own personal hearts as the celebration wore on, all of them praising what they now had. Yet for all of them, as a colony, they celebrated with the ones they loved most; their colony. Each of them attributed different things; each was priceless in their own way. This, too, was being celebrated, not by groups or pairings but by all of them, as one.
Only together were any of them truly whole.