Day 32: The New Turn Feast (Yahoo!Group pre-forum)

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A feast, full of sights, sounds, and smells that were truly a wonder to one. All of Cloudbird's thoughts began to disappear into nothingness as she got into the proper state of mind to enjoy herself here. She looked around, admiring all the food, elves, and the rest of the atmosphere that made this feast truly noteworthy.

Suddenly someone grabbed Cloudbird's arm. A smiling, female face appeared over her shoulder. Really it was more a grin than a smile, but it was cheerful none the less.
"Don't stand around like that!" the elfess scolded, winking. "It's a feast, you're supposed to celebrate and dance. Come join the circle! I'll show you how it's done."
Before Cloudbird could answer the elfess had already begun to drag her towards the bonfire. "Don't worry about your tribemates - the healers will take care of them." She paused, as if she'd just thought of something. "Oh, and I'm Silvermist. We haven't had much of a chance to talk to each other since we met. You're...Cloud something. I was never really good with names. I remember you being quite a hunter though - you'll have to show me some tricks later!"
And with that she returned to dragging Cloudbird along towards the fire and the dancers.

"I'm Cloudbird," The elf replied with a smile. "Nice to meet you." She then added a little more smirk to her smile as she asked, "So, what kind of dance steps did you have in mind? I dance occasionally, but I'm always willing to learn new stuff." She began dancing a little, as if to get her partner in the mood.

Silvermist smiled widely at her new friend's chipper mood. It was good to say that these new wolfkin elves weren't all gloom and doom - but then again her people weren't all rays of sunshine either. "Good to hear, good to hear!" she said, eyes sparkling with eagerness. "They're still just getting started with the dancing, so the next four songs should be the Dance of Winds. It's fairly free; you dance however you want to, as long as you do it in the same direction as the others.
Oh, and if anyone shouts 'storm' they music will speed up and everyone has to grab someone else - or more than one person - by the hand and whirl around as fast as they can until the music slows again. Easy, right?"
Grabbing Cloudbird's hand Silvermist once more began to lead the way towards the fire and jumped right in - then continued jumping and skipping, dancing like something in-between a leap frog and a startled white-tail. She did not seem embarrassed about her dancing however.

**It seems an eight of practice hasn't helped you, again,** someone sent, addressing Silvermist.

**It's all about having fun, stop nagging!** Silvermist replied playfully and threw a grin over her shoulder at Cloudbird. **Now, what was your name again?**

Cloudbird smirked and shrugged. "I'm always willing to learn some new dance steps." She watched Skyflare intently, ready to copy whatever moves he was going to show her. Soon, she found herself dancing along with him.

"Very good!" Silvermist hollered over the beat of the drum and stomping feet. "You're doing great!"

Skyflare gave Cloudbird an encouraging smile over his shoulder - seeing as Silvermist already had managed to trap her he might as well be supportive - before turning his attention back to Eclipse. "Ready to learn some new dance steps? Or are you perhaps familiar with this dance?"

Eclipse had pretty much heard what that chipper, plump elfess - 'what's-her-name?' - had told Cloudbird about the dance and felt a tad disappointed. What if Skyflare didn't really want to dance with him? This didn't seem to be the kind of dance where you could snuggle up to someone. The prospect of running around doing some crazy dance didn't seem all that appetizing - or sexy for that matter. It was clear that it was the sort of a dance set up to start the feast and make everybody consider many different partners, but what was he to do that already knew who he wanted to spend it with?
Nodding and following Skyflare, albeit hesitatingly, into the throng of elves dancing Eclipse decided not to be difficult. "I don't dance very often actually."
Oh well, no need to despair - there was always Dusk if Skyflare was rendered... occupied.

Skyflare, already in the circle and stepping along to the music, lightened his grip on Eclipse's hand until they were barely touching. "It's easy and fun," he encouraged. "As Silvermist said, just move along to the music and do as you please. Just remember to listen out for anyone sho-"

"STORM!" someone suddenly called, quickly echoed by several of the other dancers. Immedately the speed of the music picked up and the dancers began to pair off, holding on to each other and spinning around - all while still dancing in the same direction around the fire.

"What ever happens, don't stop dancing," he teased, before leading the way off into a crazy, swift twirl.

Almost as soon as they had arrived to the gathering Riv had discarded his backpack, spear and the top part of his clothing to a spot mostly empty of elves and which he was fairly certain he'd find later. Then he had joined the dancers. He had never danced for fun, only to honor the dead like Go-Backs did, nor did he know the dances of the Children of the Oak, but the fire and the music went straight to his blood. Compared to the other dancers his style was probably somewhat strange and primal, but his own tribe had never had any set way of dancing, only following the beat. Not that he really cared what others thought, and was completely oblivious to the fact that he was actually a pretty good dancer. In his own way.

Silvermist, having grabbed Cloudbird's hands when 'storm' was called, spotted Riv after the three whirling laps around the bonfire were complete and the music slowed again. He seemed to be in his own world - but wherever that was, it gave his dancing a certain charm. And he did keep up well with the beat.
"Hello over there silverhead!" she shouted over at him, releasing one of Cloudbird's hands to wave at him. "You dance good! Want to join us for another twirl?"
She geastured with her free hand at the herself and Cloudbird - she didn't even reflect on the possibility that Cloudbird might have something against that; they were tribemates after all, weren't they? "There might be a storm coming any moment now!" she added cheerfully, giving a few familiar faces that danced past a meaningful wink.

It took Riv a moment to realize Silvermist was calling out to him - first because he really had been mostly in his own world, only barely aware of others because of the twirling taking place around him (he had no intention of being knocked over, after all), and secondly because he didn't exactly associate the name 'silverhead' with himself. The way she waved at him was unmistakable, though.
Even though he had never put much effort into practicing dancing and didn't consider it one of his best skills, being praised for it felt good - not that he'd ever admit it, but in some secret corner of his mind it did. Her comment about a coming storm puzzled him, though. Looking up at the sky, he didn't see any signs of the weather changing, so he just shrugged it off. Then, without a word and never missing a beat, Riv made his way over to Silvermist and Cloudbird. Might as well dance with them a while.

Silvermist grabbed a hold of one of Riv's hands as soon as he got close enough. Her other hand had a firm hold on one of Cloudbird's. "Ready?" she asked no one and everyone, quickly followed by: "Storm!"
At once the couples and groups around them began to spin. Silvermist urged Riv and Cloudbird to follow suit and soon had them twirling like mad, nearly crashing the trio into one of the couples - Eclipse and Skyflare.

"...Wha-?" Riv's question of 'what storm?' was interrupted as Silvermist pulled them to the wild twirl and he had to focus momentarily on his own feet in order not to trip and land face-first on the ground. Instinctively he grabbed Cloudbird's free hand to keep their small group together as they gained momentum.

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Branchwalker hesitated for a moment as Sunsleaf left his side. With a worried glance in Dawngazer's direction he finally squared his shoulders and followed Sunsleaf.
~**Should we find some food or water?**~ he lock-sent to her, shying away from all of the strangers. ~**Haze and Redstreak could perhaps use some. Do you need help changing bandages perhaps?**~ Anything to keep himself busy.

Dawngazer watched Branchwalker rush off after Sunsleaf, obviously avoiding any and all enjoyment. Should she do the same? Well, there were tribemates in need...
**Anyone need a hand?** she open-sent, focusing mostly on the injured elves.

Waterfall had followed the arrival of this strange group of elves with a keen eye. The hunting pack and the Branch of Stars were familiar to her but all these others. And those wolves. Surely they would get explanations soon enough. To her eyes many of the newcomers didn't seem too thrilled to jump right into it. Well, after drinking dreamberrywine and dancing few rounds around the fire, no one will be left outside.
Her eyes spotted few elves sitting further away back. More like laying than sitting. Were some of them tired enough to start sleeping already?! That just wouldn't do! Not at a time like this! She grabbed a pouch of dreamberrywine and took her way to those lazy bums.
While nearing her destination the smell of wounds got stronger. Her earlier hurried steps slowed down in wonder but hurried again as she soon realized that this group hadn't arrived all rested and tidy. Waterfall walked quite boldly, yet gently, to the obviously wounded elves. She made sure to step on a twig or two to announce her coming. "Hey there. How are you doing?" She asked the all of them, or at least the ones still awake. At this close distance she saw and smelled the medical herbs used. At least they had gotten some medical attention but in her eyes, not enough.

Haze was floating in and out conciousness when a sudden sound woke him. Long years of experience have taught him not to make any sudden moves just in case danger was nearby, but he opened his eyes and found all his senses pricked. Fickering lights and shadows made his head hurt, and as Haze focused his eyes, he became aware of the pallet of furs he was lying on, the sound of the fire and celebrating elves, and the friendly face and voice standing next him.
Rolling over and propping himself up on one elbow, Haze asked "Where is the cub?" and began looking around frantically for Redstreak. Haze couldn't remember arrivng at this location, wherever it was. He saw familiar faces danging, singing and laughing not far away, and the sweet sounds of his tribemates voices were music to his heart and ears. "Redstreak...the cub?" Haze asked with great concern. "Have you seen him?"
His body was weak, and his head felt like a whole family of woodpeckers was hard at work inside it, but Haze was determined to try and get to his feet. He got as far as his knees before becoming wobbly and thinking he just might fall facefirst...

"The cub?" You ask me? Waterfall's voice was only a whisper which the very ill elf wouldn't be able to hear. She had no idea who this 'Redstreak' was. "Ummm..." She streightened up from where she had been leaning over the other elf and looked around. A cub was actually right close to him. *Maybe him?* She thought about sending an image of him to clarify if she had the right cub when the male-elf started to move.
Waterfall immediately noticed his wobbling and took a firm hold of his upper arms. "Hey, you shouldn't be moving!" Her voice had the sound of a worried fellow elf and an ordering tone. Swiftly she sent a mental image of the cub to him. "Is that him? Is that Redstreak?" While questioning she genlty pushed him back to lay on the ground. "That cub is right here, two steps away."

Haze surprized himself by allow the friendly yet strange elf to lay him back down, but the pain in his head made it an easy decision. Comforted by the mental image of a dirty and ragged, yet alive Redstreak sleeping close by had a claming effect on Haze, and he sent to the cub **You will be just fine Redstreak. We made it...**
"Yes....yes that's him...." Haze replied. "Redstreak is his name and I'm....I'm Haze." Haze was still weak, but his curiosity was peaked. "I don't think I know you...but I see members of my tribe dancing and singing....where are we?" Haze looked from side to side until he saw Redstreak again and added "Are you a healer?", pointing at the cub in his care.

*So many questions.* She was thankful for the soothing effect of the cub on him. "Couple of your friends have been dragged to learn our dancing. Your group seems to have arrived to our big gathering feast with my fellow mates." While talking she scanned the other elf's body with her experienced eyes. She quickly met his eyes with a smile. "Name's Waterfall, from the Branch of Moons. I am a healer but I prefer being referred to as an herbalist." She diverted her eyes to check him up again. The level of herbal attention he had had would not be sufficient enough. "Who has been looking after your injuries?"
~**Bring my herbal bag to me, now.**~ Waterfall locksent to her close tribemate who she had earlier left to come to see these new elves. Gently she moved her fingers across Haze's body to feel for possible broken bones.

The feel of skilled hands on his battered body was comforting to Haze, and knowing that he was with friends helped as well. "I....I don't know. The last thing I remember was carrying Redstreak and being very weak. Our tribe was attacked and I went to look for survivors who may have gotten away." It was difficult for him, but Haze allowed the self-titled herbalist to poke and prod him as she saw fit.
The safety of Restreak was still concerning Haze, and he tried to communicate with the cub through sending again. **Redstreak....** Much to his delight, a rustling noise nearby was accompanied by a reply.

**Haze...where are we? Who are these elves? Did you find water? I am very thirsty!** Redstreak sent in reply.

Haze's heart sang with joy to know the cub was awake. The reply was weak, but it was enough to put his worst fears to rest. Haze reached out one sore and weak arm toward the cub and sent **They are friends cub. Let Waterfall take care of you. I will be here.**

Eveninglight had been sitting quietly nearby, waiting to see if Sunsleaf had obtained any bone knit, but she was getting impatient as she watched the dozens of elves feasting and dancing. She smiled at Waterfall.
"Sunsleaf is our healer. I know something about herbs but her skills are far greater than my own. Hopefully she has found some bone knit so that I can join your tribe mates. My heart sings to be there dancing, although I doubt that is possible." She blushed at her own rambling, and returned her gaze to the dancers.

*I won't be able to help him much before Morning-Glow brings my herbs.* "I'll be right back with you." Waterfall told Haze. From the open sendings and what Haze had just old her, she figured the cub had been with him, probably being in as bad condition as him. She lifted her gaze to see Eveninglight. "I have some. Bone knits, I mean. Not on me right now but nearby." *If she wants to dance, she should just go, not sit here and whine about it.* "Just go have fun then. That's what this feast is all about! My fellows will gladly teach you, if needed."
By this time she had kneeled by Redstreak and gave him an open smile. "Hi young one. Would you mind me to have a look at you?" Waterfall didn't know how these two had lost their tribe. There was no telling what the cub might do if some stranger just started groping him around.

A slender and rather tall elf walked up to the group with a big bag over his shoulder. "Here they are." He dropped the bag beside Waterfall. ~**The other elf doesn't look that good.**~ With his sending he sent the wonder he felt.

"Thanks." Waterfall didn't turn to look at her friend but examined the cub with her eyes. ~**This strange group of elves seems to have lost many of their tribe.**~ With a thought in her mind she once again looked over to Eveninglight. "My friend Morning-Glow here could take you dancing and to meet our tribemates. Surely this healer of yours will shortly come here to see to the wounded and I'll make sure to give her bone knits and help out. How's that?" Having this young elfess here would disturb her.

Morning-Glow was very familiar with his friend and caught up with her thoughts. "I'd be more than pleased to do as much." He smiled to Eveninglight. It was obvious where his name came from, after seeing his smile.

Eveninglight realized that she would be in the way and could sense Waterfall's impatience so she gritted her teeth and stood up. She nodded at Morning-Glow. "I would like that, thank you."

Longsong's eyes narrowed in automatic suspision as he saw an unknown elfess tending to the injured ones. He'd been the one to settle Haze and Redstreak where they lay, as they'd been riding - or rather lying - on his lifemate's bond-friend to get to the feast. He'd just turned his back on them for a moment to get some water for the wounded and there was this stranger...
~**Sunsleaf?**~ he lock-sent to their herbal healer, ~**one of the strangers is poking about by the injured ones. I don't know who she is, but she just encouraged Eveninglight to go dancing. Is that such a good idea?**~
He had no idea who the stranger was, as he was out of hearing range still, but he could read body language and knew Eveninglight well enough to guess what was being said.

Sunsleaf frowned slightly and locksent back to Longsong, ~** Please delay Eveninglight. I would like to look at her ribs before she goes off jumping about. **~

Longsong replied with a mental nod, then hurried to walk over to Eveninglight. "I brought water!" he said in way of greeting, glancing at Waterfall out of the corncer of his eye. "Should you really be getting up? I didn't think your ribs were healed."

Eveninglight shrugged in confusion. "I suppose I can manage. I would hate to be in the way." She didn't know if she should go, like this new healer recommened, or stay. She turned her attention back to the feast for a moment, then looked back at Longsong.
"I do want to go and explore, but I will wait for Sunsleaf. If she says no then I'll stay." She backed up a couple steps, unsure of herself. She knew that her ribs weren't close to being fully healed, she could feel it every time she took a deep breath. But she didn't want to hang around and be troublesome either.

Slowing to let Branchwalker catch up Sunsleaf looked over her shoulder at him, ~** Something. Perhaps they have some broth or something that would be easy going down? Maybe you could ask Dawngazer. **~ Sunsleaf smiled at him, ~** I don't know the new ones either.. so they'll maybe be more comfortable with you there as well. Someone familiar rather than just the unknown me. **~
~** Maybe we should find a place to settle everyone in as well. It would be wise to know where we're all going to be sleeping so I don't get lost trying to find someone. High Ones only knows where I'd end up if I wandered off in all this. **~ The very thought made her uncomfortable. It was much nicer just talking to Branchwalker about tending to their injured.

~**I don't know. I'll ask Dawngazer to have a look around.**~ Branchwalker followed that with a quick lock-sending to Dawngazer, who quickly replied and agreed to do so.
Branchwalker shuddered ever so slightly at the idea of getting lost. They'd all been separated enough as it was already. ~**A place for us all to sleep would be perfect. Maybe we should suggest-**~ His sending ended abruptly as he spotted two unknown elves where the small group of injured elves were located. Not having heard Longsong's sending, he lock-sent to Sunsleaf:
~**What are they doing? Do you think they want to help?**~

Sunsleaf smiled faintly at Branchwalker ~** Longsong says she's poking about and wants to send Eveninglight dancing. I asked him to delay Eveninglight. I want to look at her ribs and be certain they're healing before she goes off dancing. But we'd best hurry and insert ourselves. Who knows what other trouble could happen. **~
She reached out, grabbing for Branchwalker's hand as she hurried along, intending to pull him with her. (if she catches his hand) As she moved into the immediate area of the injured she called greetings to Longsong and Eveninglight before heading toward Haze and Redstreak. After all the two newest were her responsiblity just as the others had been since she joined the little group.

Branchwalker, pulled along by Sunsleaf, stumbled a little before falling into her steps. Well by the wounded once he gave the two strangers there a shaky smile. They were more or less in these elves' Holt now, their territory. He'd never experienced being in anyone else' part of the world before - not even the troll tunnles - and it made the wolf in him uneasy.
And speaking of territory, how would this go? One of the strangers was cleary a healer, or something like that, as she was tending to Haze and Redstreak. And now Sunsleaf was here as well...
Branchwalker had a few memories of clashes between healers back in Tall Tree Holt - although it had been a magic against herbs sort of fight back then. Would things go similar here? He didn't know if Sunsleaf was a territorial healer, but this stranger had just stepped in out of nowhere to tend to *their* injured tribemates... It made even him a little apprehencive.

Redstreak tried to sit up on the furs, but was till very weak and wobbled back to the ground. **Haze, I'm thirsty. Did you find my sister?** The cub sent to his friend and protector. Redstreak looked around at the group of elves beginning to gather nearby and smiled broadly when he saw the familiar faces of Eveninglight and Sunsleaf.
"Hi!" The wounded cub said with as much energy as he could muster. Redstreak was a bit used to having to be on his own by now, but when he finially saw Haze layed out on the furs a deep concern welled up in him. The younf cub reached his arm to try and get an adults attention and asked "Is Haze ok? I'm worried about him."

Haze drifted back into conciousness briefly and the sound of Redstreaks voice caused him to open his eyes wide. **Redstreak!** he sent, while attempting once again to get up. **Sssh now cub...you should rest...** Haze sent while grimacing at the hurts in his body.
~**Sunsleaf....are you nearby?**~ he locksent, hoping that his tribemate and familiar healer would come help look after Redstreak. Haze was much more concerned for the cub's wellbeing than for his own.
~**Let Waterfall care for me....but please...the cub..**~ he trailed off in a locksend before the effort of moving and sending became to much and he slumped back onto the first and out of conciousness.

Waterfall's attention was moved from Redstreak to Eveninglight, because of Longsong's words. "Wait. You telling me it was YOU who was in need of bone knit?" She had an edge in her voice. Everything just kept on going to a worse direction. Without even waiting for an actual answer she threw her hands out in frustration (of course not hitting anyone) before opening her bag. It only took her a second to take out the right herb.
"Hey you." She pointed at Longsong with a hand carefully holding the herb by its stem. "Pour some water on this and give it to the young one." Waterfall's eyes went to Eveninglight. "I want you to put this in your mouth, chew on it as much as you can and refrain from swallowing it for a moment. It will taste awfully bitter but that way it'll work quicker."
When Waterfall had 'attacked' her bag, Morning-Glow took two steps back to give her more room. *The little one got her all riled up now.* He couldn't help but chuckle. It had been a while since he had seen this scene. Suddenly his eyes caught movement and took notice of the two approaching elves. He could see from their faces that they weren't too pleased with the situation, though he couldn't tell in what way were they displeased. Morning-Glow just gave them an assuring smile. Possibly it wouldn't help though.

Sunsleaf stopped between Eveninglight and Redstreak and cleared her throat loudly, "They're my charges.. and I can care for them just fine if you've some herbs to lend me. My supply was sadly unfit for the challenges I faced and being as I'm not used to the herbs that grow in this area I was hard pressed to find much of what I needed."
She spoke rather than sent hoping that the anger at having her charges poached from her care would be less obvious than in sending. She smiled faintly at Longsong, "Thank you for fetching water for them, Longsong." Then to Eveninglight, "I would like to look at your ribs to be certain you're healing well, though a nice tea of boneknit would help greatly."
Finally, "If you've any stew or broth, perhaps a blood broth, the two you stand next two could use it." Finally her gaze had settled on the less irritating of the two, the one who had brought the herbs, Morning-Glow and an attempt at a smile that would not seem like bared fangs. "I am Sunsleaf, this is Branchwalker."

The attitude of this new-appeared-elfess made Waterfall's temper rise even higher. She drilled her malicious glare onto her and stood up slowly. She crossed her hands without letting anything else touch the herb than the fingers holding it. Though her body was rigid and her free hand glenched in a tight fist, knuckles white, the hand holding the herb was relaxed with a gentle grip on the stem. "After we let you and your pals join our feast with open arms." Her every word dripped of venom. "You dare to tell me to bugger off?"

Morning-Glow felt slightly mistreated by Sunsleaf's comments. A frown appeared on his face and his hands sought their place on his hips. Still, he received the elfess' smile with a calm face, which let out none of his thoughts or feelings.

Waterfall had no intention of waiting for an answer but continued. "And to top that, you want to use _our_ herbs?" This question was far from being one. "You say you can take care of them, yet you say you _don't_ have much knowledge to use what you're asking to lend to use." Not even once had the angered elfess blinked her fierze eyes. "And you know. Even all this is not what really makes me mad. As a healer I won't tolerate to hear _anyone_ treating wounded as their property!"
The last sentence was the first one she actually said with a raised voice. Even in her rage Waterfall kept her sense of sensibility. She tightened her fist beyond the image of possible to with-hold herself from punching this insulting newcomer.
"If you call yourself a healer, you should be aware that healers' priority is to help the wounded as soon as possible and with the best treatment possible. We are _not_ to refrain them from getting those because of any reasons."

Morning-Glow noticed how Waterfall's fist had started to shake. He knew she was starting to lose her control. Not good. With a quick leap he was behind his friend and put a hand on her shoulder, hoping that would be enough. He wasn't pleased with the situation, for few reasons, but in any case, he didn't want a brawl occuring between two healers. For obvious reasons he was sure that this Sunsleaf was one as well.

Waterfall hardly felt the sudden hand on her shoulder. She wasn't yet finished. "Yet you are doing it. How dare you do that? Is not your patients well-being priority to you?" Her fist had stopped to shake and she took deep breaths through her nose. These facts didn't change how she stared at Sunsleaf and how her rage was evident throughout her appearence, the hand holding the herb excluded.

Her voice never raised to yell.. but the tone was one that carried the anger, the protectiveness she felt. "My PRIORITY is to keep you from doing any damage! My priority is keeping you from sending someone with broken ribs off to cavort and dance because rather than ask who is injured and what the injuries are you start handing out herbs and orders! Nooo... you're the healer you don't need to know what the injuries are, or what they need.. because YOU must automatically be right and know everything." The wolf in her was angry.. angry that someone would claim to be a healer and yet wouldn't bother to find out basic details before treatment began.
"You want to say I'm not looking out for their well-being... but what sort of 'watch' are you keeping on their well-being if you don't even bother to find out what it is that you're trying to treat before you treat it? Sheer ARROGANCE! I may not know what GROWS here, but I know what an herb does and I can't explain why. I've always just 'known'.. it's as natural to me as breathing." The confusion and frustration this caused was evident in every word that followed "I touch it, I smell it, I know what it does, what it's good for and what it isn't good for and I DON'T know why I know. If I knew what that was, where it came from.. I would NAME it.. but I don't know where it comes from. I only know that it has never been wrong. Call it a curse if no better name can be had for it.. but it is my curse and it has saved lives." Tears brimmed in her eyes and she blinked them away, anger, protectiveness, and now the confusion over this thing she had but could never name all warred within her for dominance.

Redstreak was lying on the furs provided for him, curled into a small ball. The sounds of elves he didn't know arguing with one he did know was distressing to him.
**Haze! Wake up! Are they going to fight?** Redstreak sent to his friend, trying to look at Haze without getting the adults way. The last thing the cub wanted was any of the toungelashing being directed at him.
Redstreak was getting scared, and worried about Haze, so he slowly got to his knees and began crawling toward his friend with the intent of laying on the furs with him. The cub was still weak, but he was trying very hard to be silent.
**Haze!** he sent, afraid to make noise and draw unwanted attention. **I'm scared Haze...wake up!**

The answers to Sunsleaf were right there, on Waterfall's tongue to be said, but she never had the time for it. The cubling made his sending and she knew her mistake. Maybe she would tell this elfess off, but not now, not here.

The cub's sendings had the greatest effect on Waterfall. Her eyes went wide for a moment before closing up. She took a deep breath and with the exhale she relaxed her body and arms.
"This is no place for this." She opened her eyes and all that had been in there was gone, replaced by sorrow. **My apologises cubling.** As a healer, she could not bear to look at the boy at this moment. Morning-Glow's hand left her shoulder and she bent down. Waterfall grabbed her bag which was behind her and dropped it in front of her, in front of Sunsleaf. She locked her eyes in her's. It was clear from her eyes, that she didn't like what she was doing.
"Do what you want. If you have trouble finding a specefic one, Morning-Glow can help you. He's familiar with how I arrange the herbs in my bag." She had no more to say and turned to her back. ~**Please do that for me.**~ She sent to Morning-Glow.

Sunsleaf had been about to go to Redstreak when the healer dropped the bag in front of her and caught her gaze. Her hackles rose but she balled her fists tightly to control herself. This was not challenge.. she was elf not wolf.
The minute the other turned away she hurried to Redstreak, scooping up the small body and laying him beside Haze, ** Shhh, little one. He is tired, like you. ** There were tears in her eyes but she was not going to let them fall, there was no time that was good for things like that. There hadn't been a good time since she had joined this group.<(p>

The apology to the cub hurt Morning-Glow. Even though the sending in itself hadn't included any other feelings than utter honesty, but in his mind, there was so much more. He knew how much this hurt Waterfall. The act of letting this stranger take full use of her bag was unbelievable, yet happening. A punishment. After he received the sorrowful sending he took a gentle hold of Waterfall's upper arm but the other wouldn't look up at him.
~**Are you sure about this?**~ The answer didn't come right away. ~**Yes.**~ Morning-Glow let go of Waterfall who continued her way away. For a short moment Morning-Glow watched after her but then turned back to the new group. With a small bow he acknowledged his task of informant. He took enough steps back to be far enough to seem outsider, but close enough to be able to answer and assist if needed. There he sat down, cross-legged.
"There should be some broth. Stew will be made later, as the hunting party has just arrived. I can have someone bring broth here." He didn't try to hide the saddness he felt over the situation, but wore on his face an expression of seriousness in handling business.

Eveninglight, who had been watching the ordeal with wide eyes, finally released the breath she had been holding and allowed her shoulders to slump slightly. She hated that the healers had been fighting, but she could understand why both of them acted the way they had. She watched Waterfall walk away, then bit her lip and looked back at Sunsleaf.
"Is there anything I can do to help?" She asked quietly. She didn't want to say the wrong thing and get snapped at.

Sunsleaf smiled sadly at Eveninglight, "You know how to make Blood broth, yes?" Most wolfriders did but she asked before continuing, "Could you go see if some might be made? It would do all in our tribe good before the stew, but especially these two. Perhaps he..." She didn't catch his name but she gestured at Morning-Glow, "Perhaps he can tell you where to find the ones to ask. And I will look at your ribs when you return." She closed her eyes and took a breath to push back the tears that still threatened to fall.
She lingered a moment to check both Redstreak and Haze for signs of fever, the blood broth was the most nourishing thing she knew of, and the warm liquid would help with hydration too. Her hands trembled and she cursed herself for not having better control over her emotions. For not having been here sooner to watch over them, to protect them all the injured. She would blame herself if Eveninglight had come to harm dancing.

"Sunsleaf!" Redstreak said with as much energy as he could muster, and reached his arms out to hug his tribemate as she helped settle him on the furs next to Haze. "I'm so happy to see you! What's Bloodbroth? Is that made with real blood?" The simple fact of being awake and having familiar faces around helped Redstreak regain some of usual hyper-curiosity. The cub brushed some grass off his torn and tattered clothes, then curled up next to Haze, placing his head on the older elf's chest. **Hiya Haze! Sunsleaf is here to help us, isn't that great?** Redstreak sent, as he was drifting off.

Nodding slowly Sunsleaf smiled just a little, "Yes, cubling, real blood, and real broth, and sometimes.. sometimes even milk."

Redstreak wasn't aware of it, and the others nearby may not have been either, but Haze had been awake for most of the verbal exchange, he was simply keeping his eyes closed and lying still to not cause any potential embarrasment to either healer. He opened one eye to look down at the shaggy cub head resting on his chest and couldn't hold back a smile.

**Sunsleaf....thank you...** Haze sent to the healer privately, as he wrapped a dirty yet protective arm around Redstreak's skinny frame. **...I don't suppose anyone has seen Quicksand? Or our chief?**

Startled Sunsleaf replied in lock-send ~** Quicksand is somewhere about. Likely driving all those around her to distraction with her questions. For now... Dawngazer is chief, she has taken that upon herself. **~

As Haze was adjusting to being a pillow for the scrawny cub, he saw a younger elf, with short black hair walking in their direction, but it was not a face he recognized. The unknown elf was a male, wearing simple leathers, no weapons, and carrying a bundle of what appeared to be leather skins and furs. Haze watched him approach, and waited for the stranger to speak first.

"I don't mean to interrupt," the stranger said to Haze, and then looked at Sunsleaf as well, "...I am Greywater, a tanner. I don't know if your tanner is here, or if you even have one." Greywater gently set down his bundle, and was speaking with an aplologetic tone. "I brought some furs, and leathers," he said, gesturing to the bundle he sat down, and ran his hand through his short black hair before continuing, "I couldn't help but notice when you arrived that the cub's clothes are fairly torn, and others in the group may need repairs as well." Greywater added.
"I would be happy to help repair or replace his clothes..." he said, gesturing at Redstreak, "and would be equally as glad to offer my servies to you and the rest of your tribe." With this final statement, Greywater crossed his arms behind his back and looked at Haze, waiting patiently for an answer.

Nodding Sunsleaf smiled, "The generous offer is much appreciated Greywater. I am certain there are those among us that will accept your kindness. Branchwalker would probably appreciate not having to share my sleep fur all the time."
Poor Branchwalker.. she did give him such a hard time sometimes. But where was he.. she hadn't heard a peep out of him since they found the others and the..... there she does wanting to cry again. Blast it, there was not time for this. She scrubbed at her eyes quickly and went to check her own meager supply of herbs. She knew which ones she wanted, but could not remember if she had them.

Haze looked back and forth from Redstreak and his torn, stained leathers, to the pile of fresh bright colors and furs next to this strange tanner. Then he looked up and Sunsleaf, and winked at her. Haze gently removed what was left of the black vest Redstreak usually wore from his body, and shook his head is disbelief. "I guess the cub really does need new clothes doesn't he?" Haze said with a chuckle, even though he was amazingly tired.
"Thank you for the kind offer, and I truly don't know what became of our tanner after the attacks. Your help is much appreciated." Haze was glad the young tanner was willing to help, and delighted that he managed to bring it up without stepping on any toes. If Bloodmane or Silvereyes took offense, Haze would deal with that later. Since leaving the group after the last troll attack to search for survivors and the Chief, he was telling the truth. He honestly had no idea if they were still alive.

Haze was rolling the idea of Dawngazer as Chief over and over in his head. She wasn't the most level headed elf, and prone to swings her mood. "Dawngazer....Chief." Haze said, as Redstreak twitched in his sleep. "And you say she has taken that upon herself? Interesting. I am glad to hear that Quicksand is ok, and Redstreak will be hard to keep still once he hears. the cub has been asking for her for days." Haze didn't know what to make of that revelation yet, but the tribe needed a leader, and there was time for a council later after the elves had made some recovery. Any issue or concerns could be dealt with then. For now, he turned his attention back to Greywater and his generous offer.
"Greywater, could you make a better shirt for Redstreak? Something with sleeves, that offers a bit more protection?" Haze was quickly tiring, but wanted to get this settled. "Some new pants as well, he has torn these to shreds. And boots, and perhaps a belt?" Haze was thinking of what else Redstreak would need, and what he could offer. Haze looked over his own clothing, and saw the rips and tears, and the stains from travelling. He realized he would need some repairs and replacements as well, but that could wait.

Greywater nodded, and knelt down next to the two elves. "I would be happy to! Since he is a cub....and we all know they are not easy on leathers....may I suggest the browns and greens for him....what is his name?"

Haze chuckled. He was so concerned about taking care of the cub he had forgotten to even introduce himself. "I am Haze, and this bundle of questions is Redstreak. I'm glad to meet you."

Greywater smiled, and reached into the pouch at his belt. When he took his hand out, there was a small wooden wolf carving that he held out. "Do you think he would like it?" Greywater asked.

Haze's heart lept with joy at the offer. Redstreak had voiced his concern over finding a wolf bond, and Haze thought the little carving was a wonderful idea. "Thank you..." he stammered. "That is most genrous. I'm sure he would love it!"

Greywater set the carving down next to the two elves, and stood up. "I'll get started on those clothes for him. I have a pretty good idea of the the sizing....but when he wakes up I will need to check, if that's ok."

Haze nodded, and Greywater gathered up his bundles. Haze ruffled the cubs hair briefly and relaxed back against the furs.

Branchwalker finally managed to take a deep breath. The hostility between Sunsleaf and the other healer had shook him to the core. There couldn't be any fighting now, oh High Ones there just couldn't! He want to tell Sunsleaf this, but his voice or thoughts wouldn't obey him long enough to do so.

Seeing how pale Branchwalker had turned during Sunsleaf and the stranger's dispute Longsong stood and walked over to him, putting a steadying hand on his shoulder without a word.

Branchwalker gave Longsong a shaky smile, but some color did return to his cheeks and he visibly relaxed. The healer had left, so the risk of confrontation was over for the time being - that would have to be enough. And at once Branchwalker was pulled back to the present. He didn't interrupt Sunsleaf and Haze's exchange of words, even though the thought of Dawngazer as chief distrubed him somewhat. Clearmind had been chief, Brighteyes would be chief. Dawngazer...

"Chief am I?" a deep, female voice broke in. Dawngazer stepped up beside Branchwalker, putting a hand on the shoulder where Longsong's wasn't already resting. She was however addressing Sunsleaf and there was humor in her words.
"Never thought of it like that and I hope you haven't. The night my tribemates start calling me chieftess, is the night wolves sprout wings and fly to the moons!"

Not far from the, sitting by herself, Claw caught this words and narrowed her eyes. She made no move to do anything though, just sat and thought.

Morning-Glow didn't bother mentioning his name again. Waterfall had said it just a moment ago and he didn't really care if this particular elf knew his name or not. He stood up again. "I can." His gaze trailed of to lay on Waterfall's bag. It was a bag he had once made for Waterfall, according to her wants. It had a big pouch which included many smaller sections and all over this little pouch were connected smaller pouches of different sizes.
"Inside the bag, there is one part that has a cover on it." Looking at the bag had reminded him of something. Probably the others would be a bit surprised of this sudden topic change. "It contains poisonous herbs, even ones that work by touch. You could say that part has a seal on it. Even I don't know how to open it." Every time Waterfall closed off that part of the bag she would have Morning-Glow try to open it. Never had he succeeded. Neither had anyone else. The herbalist did this to prevent anyone from getting in touch with them, especially the young ones, for obvious reasons. The only way beside opening the seal to get to those herbs was to cut up the whole bag. He had stared at the bag during this whole time. It was like he woke from a sudden trance and moved his eyes to where Sunsleaf, Longsong and Eveninglight were.
"In no offence, I don't think it's a good idea to send someone with broken ribs. Surely Longsong can come with me instead." Morning-Glow had picked up the other elf's name when Sunsleaf had thanked him. He would go on his own, if he was certain that the blood broth he knew was the one this new healer wanted.

"I should be fine. I won't be dancing but walking is surely something I can manage." Eveninglight said, hoping to sound convincing. She wanted to see what she could, a cub's curiosity still strong in her as a youth. "I want to help instead of sitting here like I'm a tree root. I will be very careful."

Longsong opened his mouth to protest, but snapped it shut just as quickly. Eveninglight was no cub and she was right, in a way. Walking a little surely wouldn't hurt her ribs too much - and just sitting or lying down too much would make her weak and tired. Still he looked to Sunsleaf for the final word.

Sunsleaf took a breath and tried to force a slight smile as she rubbed at her eyes, "Yes, walking will be fine." She was a bit distracted by her own thoughts and feelings and at the moment

Redstreak woke up suddenly, and his eyes were wide with wonder. Something smelled good, and his stomach hadn't had food in so long that the hunger pains had been barely present. The young cub sat up slowly, sniffing the air as he had seen the adults do so many times. Turning from side to side to try and locate the scent, his hand brushed a small object laying next to him.
Redstreak reached a grubby hand out, and picked up the small wooden carving from the furs.
**Haze!** he sent, having gotten more into the habit of sending than speaking over their long shared journey, **It's....it's a wolf!** Redstreak smiled with excitement, and his dry sore lips hurt. The cub quickly closed his mouth again, and reached up to touch his lips searching for his own blood. Something that stung like that surely had to be bleeding, right?
Finding no blood, Redstreak relaxed, and scooted over closer to Haze, occupying himself with thinking of a good name for the toy wolf and who may have left it for him. **Haze?**, he sent calmly. **You awake Haze?** Redstreak asked, turning to look at the older elf who was sleeping peacefully.

Sunsleaf reached out to touch Redstreak on the shoulder, "Why don't we let Haze sleep a bit.." But then Branchwalker approached and she backed off, after all, he was closer to kin than she.

Branchwalker felt something heavy lift from his heart. Cubs should be full of questions and life. Still, Haze needed his sleep. Giving a thankful nod both to Longsong and Dawngazer he slipped out from under their hands and knelt by Redstreak's side.
"Let him rest cubling. He hasn't gotten as much sleep as you I'm afraid. Are you hungry? Thirsty?" The sniffing had been a rather telltale sign.

Moving more away from the pair Sunsleaf began rummaging through her own herb supplies determined to consider them before anything the other might have had. Still.. she would need the boneknit, she needed to make the tea, she needed to make several teas actually. She nibbled at her lower lip as she seperated out of her pack the small fired drinking gourds she used to dispense the teas.
As she worked she decided that tonight, while everyone slept, she would slip off for a bit of time on her own. Away where she could let down her guard for a bit.

Branchwalker watched her go out of the corner of his eye. He a sudden urge to follow her, but fought it back. The cub would have to come first, for the moment.

"I found a place to move them," Dawngazer commented to her tribemates. "It's a bit away from the fire, but it's still warm. Some of the elves here had spare tents they were willing to leand us. They'll even let the wolves near. I could go start putting them up, but I'll need a hand or four."

"I'll give you two at least," Longsong commented with a chuckle. He looked over at Redstreak and Haze, then at One-Edge, who still slept. *We'll need at least two more to help us – that Greywater fellow might help; Branchwalker seems far too distracted with other things though...*
His eyes lingered on One-Edge and he felt a sad smile slip over his face. *She was far more tired than she let on while we walked. I just hope her leg hasn't gotten infected. Sunsleaf is a good healer, no matter what that Waterfall elf implies, but she isn't a High One. We've been on the move far too much with too many injured tribemates.*
"Where are these tents you say?"

Dawngazer pointed out the direction towards the tents, then sat down next to the wounded elves and began untying a waterskin from her make- shift belt.

Redstreak looked up at Branchwalker, and clutched his wooden wolf close to his chest. "Yes, I am hungry and thirsty!" he said, althought a bit weakly. Redstreak looked back at Haze, and then back to Branchwalker. "Is he going to be okay?" Redstreak sniffed the air around him again, before asking "Is there food? Smells like food."

Morning-Glow certainly didn't like the idea of Eveninglight moving. Especially as it seemed to him that in all this confusion the healer hadn't yet had time to take a look at the condition of the young elfess. He let out a sish and nodded in Sunsleaf's direction. At this time he caught what had been exchanged between Branchwalker and Redstreak.
"We better hurry then." He looked over the cubs and Haze to Eveninglight. "The food section is on the other side of the clearing. Shall we?" *Waterfall wouldn't let her go. At least not without a fresh band supporting the torso. Oh well. I guess all healers aren't pretty much the same.* With a quick gaze to the bonfire's direction he tried to spot the auburn-haired herbalist with no success. ~**I'll be leaving your bag in her care for some time. Sorry.**~ Morning-Glow sent to Waterfall and turned again to Eveninglight to wait for her to come to his side.

Eveninglight smiled at Redstreak's inquiry about food. "We will bring some back you you, don't worry." Then she turned to Morning- Glow and nodded for him to lead the way.

Morning-Glow and Eveninglight took their leave for the blood broth.

Branchwalker made a vague gesture of good-bye to Eveninglight and Morning-Glow, before his attention turned fully to Redstreak. He smiled softly at the steady stream of words from the cub.
"I'm sure Haze is going to be fine. He just needs sleep. And there will be food, in a moment." He paused. "Haze...doesn't know about Clearmind, does he?"
It wouldn't be too much of a surprise if Haze hadn't been aware of the death of their chief. After all, Branchwalker had only known because those who'd seen Clearmind fall in battled had told him of it. And why should Redstreak have told Haze anything; they'd both been in such terrible shape when they'd been found – surely they hadn't wasted time with too much talking.

"Good that you're lively enough to chatter so, cub," Dawngazer added, handing Redstreak the waterskin she'd just untangled from the rope around her waist. "Now, what is it you've got there?" She indicated the gift Redstreak had gotten from Greywater.
Whilst doing so, she lock-sent to Branchwalker: ~**You go after Sunsleaf brother, I'll keep an eye on the cub.**~

Branchwalker gave Dawngazer a grateful smile. "I'll go see if I too can find some food, shall I?" he said out loud, then discreetly walked off in the same direction that Sunsleaf had.

Redstreak beamed with joy when asked about his wooden wolf. "It's a wolf!" the cub exclaimed, forgetting for a just a moment to try and be quiet so Haze could rest. "But I don't know who made it. I wish I did. I would really like to thank them." Redstreak paused in his chatter for just a moment, then cocked his head sideways and looked up at Branchwalker and Dawngaze. "Do you know who made it for me?"
Redstreak lovingly turned the wooden wolf over and over in his still grubby hands while listening to the sounds around him. "What did happen to Clearmind? Was it the trolls? I really hate trolls. I know I'm not supposed to hate, it's not nice, but I think it's ok to hate trolls. They are mean and nasty and hurt us. And kill our parents and friends and families."

As Redstreak was chattering about trolls, the gentle sound of the cubs voice began to rouse Haze from his sleep. The older elf reached out a hand and touched Redstreak's back as he looked around him to try and regain his bearings. "Hello tribemates." Haze said, although his voice was raspy. "I hope my little friend isn't keeping you from anything."

The touch on his back startled Redstreak, but when he turned as saw Haze was awake again, the cub threw his skinny arms around his protector and friend, momentarily forgetting his wooden wolf. "Haze! You are awake again!"

Haze leaned his head over the cubs shoulder and scooped him into his arms. "Yes cub, I'm awake. Again." With a chuckle, Haze picked up the wooden toy left by Greywater and winked at his tribemates. Branchwalker, Dawngaze, my eyes see with joy!"
Haze gently untangled the mess of arms and legs that was Redstreak, and the cub sat down next to him, and tried his best to keep the rags that passed for his clothing on his body.
~**I heard some disturbing news when I was last awake. About our chief. Tell me, has there been a council?**~ Haze sent to Branchwalker and Dawngaze, trying not to worry the cub about more deaths and loss. ~**And the cub-chief-to be?**~
Haze was very glad to see Quicksand tackle Redstreak. The cub had been asking so many questions about members of the tribe, and Haze knew that was one elf Redstreak was very glad to see. Leaving the cubs to wrestle and catch up, Haze was able to turn his attention back to the adults and matters of life, death, and leadership.

Dawngazer shook her head. ~**No concuil, though we should have one. I think we should talk about this later - I'm far to exhausted to make much sense at the moment.**~

Treebreeze and Quicksand came to where the wounded were, riding on Treebreeze's bond Blueeyes. Quicksand jumped off the wolf before he even stopped and ran the rest of the way to Redstreak. Without even slowing down she slammed to Redstreak with her arms around him in a big hug.
"Redstreak!!" She screamed with joy. Her hug had sent them both lying flat on the ground, Quicksand on the top. She released her death grip on him and sat up to look at him. Her hands ran through his hair and face, like trying to find a crack in a clay pot.
"You're alive! You're really there." Small tears came to her eyes but she kept on smiling from ear to ear. Again she grabbed Redstreak to a tight hug, in a fear that he might just disappear if let go.

Treebreeze caught up in no time and jumped of Blueeyes. Quicksand's joy made him feel joyous as well. Though he suspected that Quicksand's treatment wasn't exactly what Redstreak was in need for. His eyes moved from the cubs to the elder sleeping beside them. Amazingly enough his uncle had somehow made it too.
~**How is he?**~ He asked Dawngazer in a lock-sending. From his gaze it was obvious whom he was talking about.

~**Better,**~ was all Dawngazer could think to reply. She was not much of a healer after all.

Redstreak was almost numb with shock at seeing Quicksand again, and quickly lost interest in Branchwalker and Dawngaze, even forgetting to pick up the wooden wolf that fell from his hands when he was tackled. "Quicksand! I never thought I would see you again! I ran and ran and got lost and then Haze found me." Redstreak curled into a ball in his sister's lap and layed his head on her shoulder, so glad to have family back again.
"Are you okay? Did you get lost too?" Redstreak was clutching a fistful of Quicksand's hair in his hand as if that could keep her close to him forever. ~**I missed you,**~ Redstreak sent to his sister.

Quicksand gave her brother a kiss on the forehead, at least as well as she could with his head on her shoulder, and patted his head. ~**Me too. I thought I had lost you.**~ Her free hand embraced Redstreak in no softly manner, though lovingly. All these days she had been sure that he had not survived, like so many others, but here he was. Safe and sound.

~**Quicksand,**~ Redstreak asked timidly. ~**Who are we going to live with?**~ The cub turned his head just enough to try and meet his sibling's eye. After getting lost, and the being found by Haze, Redstreak hadn't given much thought to what would happen when he got back to the tribe, but now having his sister alive.....he felt very happy but very scared at the same time.

Quicksand's hand stopped at hearing the question. Quickly she kept on with it, hoping that the tired cub didn't notice it. It was a question she had found her thoughts dwell on at these more relaxed times. It was the one question she wouldn't be able to answer. At least not yet. Everything was so messed up.
~**Don't worry. I'm sure everyone in the tribe will look after us.**~ Of that, she was sure. No more could she say, without saddening Redstreak or lying. She wasn't certain if anyone would take a special caretaker position of them. Her eyes wandered around, finally spotting the figurine close to them. ~**Oh, that's a nice wolf. Is it your's`?**~

Redstreak smiled at the mention of his wooden wolf, which was already getting dirty as cub's playthings do. ~**It was here for me when I woke up, but I don't know who made it.**~ Redstreak picked up the toy and handed it to Quicksand, smiling and excited that he had something worth admiring, and eager to share.

********

At first Bloodmane just stared. Not at the elves - probably more elves than she'd seen during her whole life - but at the huge fire. And suddenly the images of her dead lifemate and daughter, illuminated by the flames from back when their home had burned, flashed in her mind. Not even the loud music piercing sensitive ears more used to the soft sounds of the forest could drown out the remembered screams and the sounds of fighting.
Her face turning a shade paler than usual, the tanner slowly inched to the back of the group while most of the others either drifted or outright hurried to join the celebration, all the while avoiding looking directly at the fire. She did not want her tribemates - let alone strangers - to see her like this. It was not dark enough yet for the shadows outside the circle of firelight to completely hide her, but as soon as she felt she was far enough not to attract too much attention - and in all honesty, her legs were refusing to take her any further - she sat down, hugging herself and trembling from head to toes.

Rainblossom had been about to join the celebration, the first one she had ever been to, but when she saw Bloodmane creeping away it caught her attention. When she saw the elfess sit and hug herself, Rainblossom frowned in concern. She told Firecry and Cloudshadow, whom she had been walking with, to go on without her. Then she cautiously approached Bloodmane, staying far enough away that she would hopefully not seem invasive, and smiled slightly.
~**Sorry if you don't want me here, but are you feeling alright? Would you like me to bring anything for you?**~ She wasn't quite sure what to do, since she had never talked to the elfess before, but she couldn't ignore her distress.

Bloodmane's head instantly whipped to Rainblossom's direction when she heard the unfamiliar sending. For one vulnerable moment her eyes reflected anger, hatred, fear, and above all else, unmeasurable sorrow. But it was only for a moment before they gained their usual unreadable expression.
~**I'm...**~ she paused. Despite being on the verge of hyperventilating, she wanted to say she was fine to get her to go away. She didn't want this new elfess - wolf-blood or not - to see her as weak. But sendings couldn't lie. ~**Just a little shaken. I don't like fire.**~

Rainblossom was startled to see the expression that crossed Bloodmane's face at first, and she wondered if she had made a mistake by coming over. But after Bloodmane's sending she thought back on what had happened to the Riverbench Tribe, her home, and realized that she would have been very uncomfortable in this situation, with lots of strangers, noise, and fires. She had no clue what Bloodmane's history might be like.
~**It must be a bit unnerving, I can imagine.**~ She sat where she was, without getting any closer to Bloodmane. ~**The Children of the Oak have no wolf- blood, so they don't feel the wolf's desire to flee from fire. It can be very strong.**~ She felt awkward, not knowing what to say, but she felt like saying something would be better than nothing.

~**Maybe so...*~ Bloodmane sent slowly. The simple act of having to concentrate on the discussion was steadily blunting the sharpest edges of the painful memories, and the tanner was starting to breathe normally. She was still shaking slightly, though.
She closed her eyes for a little moment, pulling her knees to her chest and keeping her back to the fire. ~**They burned our home. The trolls. The whole holt disappeared overnight in a roaring inferno.**~ A slight pause again, as Bloodmane firmly extinguished the small spark of desire to tell someone how she felt about the whole thing. This much would eventually be known anyway, told by one of the survivors. Her own memories...they were personal. ~**I don't think any of us can ever look at a fire again without remembering it,**~ she finally said.

After Bloodmane's words, Rainblossom sat quietly for several moments, looking at the ground next to her foot. She was caught up in her own memories for a moment, thinking of the night the humans attacked her holt and killed so many of those she loved. She could understand why the elfess was shaking.
~**It is difficult to move on from something as painful as that. It is as though the fire burns it into your very being, so you are never free of it.**~ She looked back up at Bloodmane. ~**How long ago did it happen?**~

Bloodmane let the silence reign, not directly looking at the other elfess, as Rainblossom focused on her own thoughts. The irrational panic she had felt was slowly fading, and soon she should be able to join the others of her tribe in the celebration. Her legs felt too weak to actually dance or anything, but grabbing a bite to eat and checking on the wounded was starting to sound like a good idea in her mind.
The tanner didn't comment on Rainblossom's words about moving on, although she did realize the stranger was probably right. In a way. Not that she had much intention to move on - rather she believed she'd be free of the memory only when their tribemates were freed and all the trolls who had attacked them dead. After that...who knows? But in the meantime all she could do was push it aside so that she could focus on surviving to that point.
She had to stop and actually think about the question, though. It had felt like such a long time, yet it had all still blurred together. ~**About a moondance. Maybe more, maybe less.**~