Post by Sofia on Apr 8, 2014 20:32:42 GMT 1
((OOC: I'm copying the current main game here. In-game date is the 3rd of March, Year 0 after the fall of the Tall Tree Holt!))
IC:
The sun had barely passed above the horizon, when a sending from Keensight brushed against the mind of all Children of the Oaks. ~**Come show your loyalty.**~
Wasp had been awake before sunrise. To distract her mind from what would happen this day, she had kept herself busy with some heavy training excercises. Wasp's mind was clear and calm, when Keensight's sending reached her. She grinned at the thought of what would happen now. She knew to whom she would show her loyalty.
Keensight's sending brushed Hale's mind and woke her up, slowly. She did not want to get up just yet, but they shouldn't keep the Chief of Chiefs waiting.
"Hm... Eveningfall?", she asked in a sleepy voice, "Are you awake yet? I think we should go soon."
Evening-Fall hid his face in the furs, muttering something incomprehensible. Then he lifted his face with half-closed eyes. With a great yawn he rolled on his back and stretched out.
"A challenge, huh?" He remarked, rather to himself than to Hale. "Now we won't know who is the better in pole-climbing." He winked to Hale, his enerqy gushing out in a rush. Although he often had trouble to open his eyes, but when he did, he was fast to become his usual energetic self. He sat up and dug through the furs for his leathers.
"Now where did I put my pants..." he muttered. Finally he managed to get all dressed up, Hale already waiting for him outside, telling him to hurry. Evening-Fall flew out of the tent in a roll and stood up next to Hale.
"Now, we RUUUUN!" he exclaimed as he dashed away, Hale certainly right after him.
It had been long before dawn when Tracker had left the camp for an early hunt. He returned with some fat birds he had caught and left them in a basket in front of Mayflower's tent, a peaceoffering of some sort. When Keensight's sending reached him, Tracker walked over to his chief's tent and waited for the elder man to come outside so they could walk to the gathering together.
Mayflower heard footsteps outside of the tent she slept in. The others residing with her had already left earlier. At first she didn't pay attention to the steps but as the elf took a pause outside of the tent, yet not coming inside, she got curious. Still, she waited for the elf to move on before she peeked out of the tent flap. She noticed the birds Tracker had left her. She looked out to the direction the elf had gone and recognized the now far away back of Tracker. Just seeing him made her head boil with anger and she was about to kick the birds when she stopped the movement midway. And yes, by now she had hopped outside of the tent. She thought again. She would just leave them there. With a snarl at the birds she strode off after Keensight's calling.
Whitewater stepped out of his tent, a grim look on his face. His shoulders sagged with some relief when he spotted Tracker. "To the gathering," he said, mostly to himself.
Most of the tribe had already gathered by the remains of the bonfire; Keensight on one side of it, Palepelt on the other. The rest of the Children of the Oaks were gathered in a half-circle, waiting for the stragglers to join them before the choosing of sides could begin.
Tracker fell into step with Whitewater. "May the High Ones guide our minds and hearts today", he said, his face as grim as his chiefs'.
Wasp was seated in the semi-cricle with Thundergrace, being one of the first to arrive. Her young niece Cinder sat between the sisters, leaning into her aunt and munching on some jerky.
"What is taking mother and father so long?", Thundergrace asked.
Wasp shrugged. "Don't know. I'm sure they'll be here soon."
Keensight and Palepelt stood stock still, awaiting the arrival of the final tribe memembers.
****
Dawngazer sat at the opening of the survivors' tent, taking in the red sun, peaking over the distant horizon. It was strange to see it so easily, even after so long spend on the open plains. Then again, she hadn't had much time to sit and enjoy the view.
And speaking of view, there seemed to be a lot of running about for such an early part of the day. ~**Wake up! I think our hosts are up to something. Preparing the day's games, do you think?**~ she lock-sent to everyone in the tent, including those who slept in the tent for the wounded. In her sending, an image of elves walking quietly from their tents, all headed in the same direction, was included.
Silvereyes shot her eyes open but closed em quickly again as the images followed the voice in her mind. She had a mild throbbing in her head from the hangover of endorphins mixed with dreamberries on an empty stomach from only a few hours ago. She shifted to her side pushing her self up with her arms and sat up to stretch with a long yawn. She rubbed at her eyes as she woke up trying to stand and stumbled outside.
"Moan" ~**It is odd this early but could they just be respectfu....**~ she locksent only to Dawngazer as she exited the tent near silent standing beside the other female. ~**Oh....Yeah, that is kinda suspicious. What ya wanna do about it? Greyspear is still sleeping, or was a moment ago.**~ She put a hand to her head hoping the slight throb would soon stop.
"Dawngazer, you have some jerky and water on you? I am hungry," she whispered softly.
"There should be some water left in that skin over there," Dawngazer answered, pointing to a half empty sack by the tent's door flap. "We're all out of food though."
Privately, she answered: ~**Not sure what to do yet, let's wait with actions until some more of the others are awake.**~
"What's going on?", Eveninglight, barely awake, asked to whoever was nearest. She knew there were others closeby, but didn't feel like opening her eyes just yet.
"Must be those games or something", she muttered, remembering that on of the Children of the Oaks-elves had told her a little about it.
"Doesn't look like games to me," Branchwalker said, his sleeping fur wrapped around himself like a cloak against the chilly morning air. "Look at their faces!" He pointed at a Branch member that darted passed quite close to their tent; she was pale and wide eyed, like a rabbit cornered by a fox. "Are we under attack?"
Sunsleaf slipped out of the tent to stand in the early light, "I have a bad feeling about this." Rubbing her arms she shook her head trying to free it of the cobwebs of sleep. She wasn't even aware when Sureshot came out to stand behind her and watch the movement in the larger part of the Children of the Oaks camp.
Squirrel emerged from a tent still trying to straighten the hair of her cubs.
Greyspear got out of his furs, cursing his old bones and the daylight shining in through the open tent flap. A terribly way to live, this getting up with the sun. He threw on most of his clothes as the others watched the goings on outside, then got to his feet and hurried to the opening in the tent.
~**I don't like this,**~ he sent to those who'd spent the night in the tent. Eclipse had gone missing again, probably cuddle up to a new furmate, but the rest of the tribe's remains and its new additions seemed to be present. ~**We need to send someone out to have a look, without drawing attention to themselves. Any volunteers?**~
Silvereyes offered Dawngazer a smile and a nod. “You’re a good sport Dawngazer, thanks for the water skin” She took is listening to and watching the others as they gather just outside to see the on goings of the other tribe. The chill in the air seemed good to Silvereyes. After last night she just felt the chill let her know she was among the living. She shivered still as she drew one arm across her chest.
“Eh, I can wait to eat with the others.” She cast her eyes to Dawngazer with a not ~**Sure, sounds good to me. I think I am awake now.**~ She passed the water skin to any other that needed it at the moment but if none took it she’d return it to where she had gotten it. At the question from Branchwalker Silvereyes' eyes widened then she looked again to the other tribes’ mischief waiting patiently to find out what was going on.
Silvereyes, preoccupied with what was happening outside did not notice her side waking. Silvereyes was ready. ~**I can go Father. But a second or third pair of eyes as look outs would be welcomed if you allow me to go?**~ she offered in an eager tone.
~**I could come with you**~, Evenlight offered. She was almost dressed now, even if she had wanted to sleep longer a few moments before. The strange behaviour of the Children of the Oaks alrarmed het and made her curious at the same time. What was going on with them? Might they be planning on atacking them perhaps? That could not be, could it?
Slipping on her shirt, Eveninglight added: ~**If you would like me to come, that is. And if Greyspear says I can**~ The young elfess looked up at the older man. As far as she was concerned, he was their leader now. Who else wa there to lead them?
Greyspear nodded. ~**You two go scout ahead. Just be careful. The rest of us will stay here and prepare, in case we need to move quickly.**~ His mind voice held an undertone of suspicion, but no true panic yet.
The wolves are well rested, we have plenty of food nearby and there is prey to be had out here. The injured ones can be carried, if we have to move quickly, he thought to himself. We'll be fine, as long as we stay together.
~**We will**~, Eveninglight promised Greyspear. She turned her gaze at Silvereyes. ~**Is it alright if I go with you?**~
"Sure, If Father dose not oppose?" Silvereyes looked over to Greyspear for approval first.
"You have my approval," Greyspear said. "Now go, before you miss out on anything important!" He waved them off, feeling only slightly guilty when thinking about Eveninglight's bruised ribs. She's a wolfrider, she'll do fine.
Eveninglight let Silvereyes take the lead. Her ribs were healing well, but she didn't move with her usual ease yet. Her wolf, Shade, followed close behind them. They tried to stay out of sight, making use of whatever cover was available.
****
Sabre walked towards where the Children of the Oaks were gathering. His steps were heavy, as was his hard. He kept his face as stern as ever though.
DancingFlame followed close behind him. There had been an exchange of sendings between them in the night. Feelings and emotions, that could not close the gap that had come between them. Recognition once had made them as one soul, but now she felt half. Half of her heart, her soul, was gone, perhaps never to return. And she knew Sabre felt the same pain. Yet she could not make herself agree on Sabre's opinion of the strangers, nor could he agree with her feelings about them.
Mayflower knew from the previous day that Wasp and Thundergrace shared her opinion on the strangers and their filthy lineage. She managed to sought them out among the elves and took a seat next to them. She gave the three (including Cinder) a stoic nod of greeting before her gaze glued to the semi-circle of chiefs.
Waterfall and Morning-Glow arrived together, shortly after Keensight had called the gathering. The two had not exchanged words throughout the night or morning. Somewhat not unusual, yet unusual. It was no guess in their minds what the feud between the chiefs is about. Waterfall wondered if the challenge would really make much of a difference whereas Morning-Glow pondered if Blaze had put in action his word's from previous day or if another chief had stepped up. Either way this time the Day of Games would not be laugh and fun. The two sat down among the early gathered elves.
For this occasion Bloodcut did make the exception and arrived in the company of her fellow wolf-riders Firecry and Rainblossom. Cloudshadow was also with them, staying at the side of her lifemate. They took a seat as far away as possible. Bloodcut could feel the hair up on her back. The situation might turn even dangerous for them. Certainly the elves of Branch of Stars would be there to support and help her and her blood-related but would that be enough? Very unusually so, Bloodcut looked as serious as her thoughts were.
It didn't take Rainblossom many second to notice most Children of the Oaks were giving her, her brother and Bloodcut a wide berth. She was just about to address this strange state of affairs, when a sending from Redfur:
~**For your own safety, go somewhere else.**~ His mind-voice wasn't harsh, but it sent shivers don't Rainblossom's spine nontheless.
Confused and worried, she gave Firecry and Bloodcut a questioning look, to see if they'd also heard the sending.
Cloudshadow had not received the sending and gave her fellows a curious look as she saw the exchanged glances. ~**What is it?**~ she lock sent to Firecry.
~**Redfur instructed us to move away.**~
Cloudshadow was about to retaliate to that but instead kept her mouth shut. She was no oblivious to the glances her friends received.
In a silent agreement the three wolf-bloods left the gathering.
Evening-Fall and Hale arrived to the gathering. Probably the last of the bunch. There were many kind of reactions, actions, and like that crossed Evening-Fall's mind that he would do, but the tension in the air stopped him. No one would appreciate a loud and funny entrance, even from him. Instead he quietly took Hale's hand and pulled her to a spot at the side of the lines of gathered elves.
Thundergrace nodded a greeting back to Mayflower.
"Morning", Wasp spoke.
Looking over her shoulder the elder sister noticed their parents approaching. "Almost everyone is here now", she remarked.
"Good. They better get started soon. I hate waiting this long", Wasp said with a scowl.
Sabre found his daughters' seating place an sat down next to them. He nodded in greeting, but did not speak.
Nor did DancingFlame when she too took her place. She managed a smile for her grandchild, but it could not hide her feeling of loss and sorrow.
Thundergrace opened her mouth to ask what was wrong, but closed it again when she saw her parent's faces. Something was very wrong here. She exchanged a look with Wasp, who just shrugged. She decided she would talk to her mother when the gathering was over.
Hale let Evening-Fall guide her. She was glad he did not try to make a grand entrance this time. It was not the time nor the place for it. The tension was almost overwhelming her and she was happy Evening-Fall choose a spot to the side of the group.
****
Sunsleaf shook her head again and rubbed her arms, she needed to check up on those still mending, she had no time to be running about trying to figure out what was going on, she didn't like the feel of the day and she wanted to be certain they could move if they had to.
"How are they?" Branchwalker, wanting to distance himself from the mess outside, knelt down by Sunsleaf's side and his wounded tribe mates.
Sunsleaf smiled at Branchwalker, "They're mending. Some of them slower than I'd like, but mending is mending." She checked Haze and Redstreak and then moved on to the others. "Nothing so horrible that it would keep us here, but Riv and Childwolf might slow us down a little."
"Oh," Branchwalker, averting his eyes, "good."
He fiddled with the strings on the doorhide, then took a deep breath and said: "I know I shouldn't pry, and that I've already asked questions, but could Sureshot be involved in...?" He ended the sentence by gesturing at the outside world and the few stragglers left of the Children of the Oaks.
Longsong watched from the corner, not commenting. He had one hand on One-Edge's leg, gently, waiting for Sunsleaf to take a look at his lifemate.
Sunsleaf looked at Branchwalker and considered it for a moment then shook her head, "He might be many things, or at least he was, but the Sureshot I knew would never choose them over us. I admit it has been more turns than I can recall since last I saw him, but it has not been so long since he has been gone from the tribe we were both born to. I won't say trust him completely, but neither can I say there is a reason to distrust him."
"Yes, good, eh, good," Branchwalker said, blushing.
Sunsleaf moved from Redstreak and Haze, both with more broth in their bowls, and to One-Edge. Kneeling she lay her hand gently on the leg to assess the healing, "You're drinking the tea, yes?" She looked to Longsong and smiled, "You've been keeping an eye on her? She's limping less?" She trusted that he would be keeping enough of an eye on his mate to see one way or the other.
"She's my lifemate," Longsong said in way of explaining, though he knew the irony of his words most likely would be lost on Sunsleaf. After all, she hadn't been with the tribe to see how he and One-Edge had acted around each other before Sweetbreeze...
He winched. The pain was a fresh wound still, wolf-blood or no.
Gaze drifting back to Branchwalker she watched him a moment before returning her full attention to tending the injuries.
Redstreak stirred as someone moved close to him, then away. "Mother..?" he queried, rubbing his eyes and sitting up in the furs.
Branchwalker saw his opportunity to dispell the awkward atmosphere between him and Sunsleaf and hurried over to Redstreak. In his haste, he got one leg tangled in Riv's already pretty messy sleepingfurs. Before he knew it, he'd tripped and landed on the tent's floor with a loud 'oof!' - luckily not on top of any of the wounded, but pretty close to smashing his elbow in Riv's face. With the air smashed out of his lungs, there as no air to aid the apologies Branchwalker wanted to make. He simply laid there and silently cursed himself.
Looking over at the commotion Sunsleaf couldn't help but giggle. She stifled it quickly and looked apologetically at Longsong and One-Edge, "Of course. Forgive me." She rose carefully, "She is healing well enough, it will simply take time." To One-Edge, "Please try not to push yourself, it will only delay the healing."
Riv bolted to sit up at the sudden sound and in some way being aware that something hit the ground near him even through restless sleep. Attacking trolls? Stampeding animals? Rapid wolves?
Oh. Just a clumsy wolfrider. The moment the first instinct-driven moment of "fight or flight" passed, he became painfully aware of his own condition. The feeling of trolls hammering the inside of his head had dulled to nauseating ache and his mouth tasted like something had died there.
Feeling too sick to even snap at Branchwalker, Riv buried his face to his knees, groaning.
Branchwalker blushed up to the roots of his hair. But his mortification was somewhat lessened though, by the absence of something he'd come except; Riv was quiet. Well, groaning, but there were no insults being thrown, not raised voice to speak of.
~**I think Riv is worse off than we thought,**~ Branchwalker lock-sent to Sunsleaf, doing his best to dampen his embarrassment.
One-Edge had been awake for some time but had kept her eyes closed. The Howl the day before had drained her out, left her feeling somewhat hollow. Would she ever get over her loss? No! She never wanted to get over Sweetbreeze!
At Sunsleaf's first inquiry on the tea, she didn't make any motion, still not opening her eyes. It was the loud thumb sound that Branchwalker caused that brought her eyes open. She didn't get up or try to see what had happened but heard Sunsleaf let out a giggle. And then she addressed her again.
With a weak smile she gave her attention to Sunsleaf "Thank you. My leg is much better." One-Edge felt the gentle touch of Longsong on her leg. At the moment she found it smoothing. In her mind she felt it wasn't entirely right but now she needed it. It was only the elf next to her that could see into her soul and understand the painful loss. For now she held her deeper fences up but allowed Longsong the access to the outer layer of her mind.
Longsong had felt One-Edge closing off since the Howl and couldn't help but mourn; and then felt awful for doing so. She had all the right to grieve in the way that fit her best, yet he couldn't help feeling bereft. Their lifemating had been a slow and fragile process even before Sweetbr-, even before their loss, and now... Was he to lose a lifemate as well as a child?
Sunsleaf smiled gently at Longsong and nodded to One-Edge as she rose and moved toward Riv and Branchwalker. She had to face that the best she could manage was to heal their bodies, their souls were beyond her abilities. It was these moments that reminded her that she was still an outsider, that she still didn't know them the way they knew each other. The howl had been.... well, painful, but also informative. She had learned more about each of them in the way only a howl could teach. Now, if only there were a balm for the pain the berries had exposed for the sharing.
Crouching down beside Riv she reached out a hand carefully to touch his arm and spoke softly, "Come, drink your tea and tell me how you're feeling." She herself felt a little raw, but had not indulged as deeply in the berries as some. Sunsleaf had been hesitant, knowing she couldn't afford to be out of sorts the morning after. Her gaze slid over to Branchwalker and she smiled softly, ~**How are you? Bruise anything?**~
~**Nothing but my name,**~ Branchwalker sent back to Sunsleaf. ~**Though I must admit I was always more at home in the trees.**~ His blush was dying down. "I'm sorry you had to wake up like that Riv."
"I don't -need- your tea or your concern!" Riv snapped, fighting down the nauseating feel in his stomach. He was sure he'd throw up instantly if he ate or drank anything. He brushed Sunsleaf's hand aside. "Leave me alone."
Sunsleaf frowned and rose, "You and your foul moods, one day you're going to care about help or concern and we'll all have been bitten too many times to bother with it."
She moved to make the last cups of tea for Eveningsky and Eveninglight. Too much in her own thoughts while she did that she decided to add a cup for Gale as well, she wasn't sure his exact condition but a restorative brew could not hurt.
****
Sureshot was scrubbing his face with a hand trying to wake up. It just wasn't natural to be awake at this time of day. Any sane wolfrider would be deep in the furs and not coming out except for flood or fire. He would put the uneasy feeling down to what he'd been feeling since he arrived here, but others seemed to be feeling it too. Something was afoot.
Dawngazer laughed as she spotted Sureshot's sleepy look. "You get used to the sun, after a while," she said, hoping to start a conversation with the newcomer. With the chaos outside, it would be nice to know all there was to know about those staying in her tribe's tent; Sunsleaf had punched him, which should put him on her bad side, but on the other hand, Sunsleaf hadn't demanded the stranger be banished, so whatever he'd done, it couldn't have been bad enough to deserve being treated with contempt right away.
"I take this as a sign that your people like sleeping during the days too." That's the impression she'd gotten for Sunsleaf, but she thought that name might not be the best thing to bring up right at that moment.
Sureshot looked up and rolled his eyes at himself, he must be quite the sight. "I think I'd rather not get used to it. Just doesn't seem natural to stalk under the light of the daystar."
Nodding he scooped up a half empty water skin, "Hunts, howls, most everything done in the light of the moon or at least in the shade of the forest where the dappled light isn't so bad." He poured a bit of water in his hand and splashed it on his face before he took a drink and then restoppered the skin and dropped it back to the ground, "I should apologize for any trouble I've made. Your.... healer and I... Let us just say I won't blame her if she hits me again. But this time I hope to be better prepared."
"Doesn't sound too bad," Dawngazer said. "I've done a thing or two myself that have resulted in fistfights. But you two seem to have been parted for some time; must have been a plenty bad thing for her to remember it for long. Or are your tribe less Now-living as mine, perhaps?"
Hanging his head Sureshot started, "I was...." He shakes his head, "In my youth there was much I had to learn, to her I was.... especially cruel." Crouching he runs a hand through his hair, "I think the strike was as much for who I might be as for who I was. She is much changed, but she was not there to see me change as well."
Rising restlessly he looks over his shoulder at the tent and then out across the sea of tents, "Words can not fix the hurt I inflicted. But I have no intention of causing hurt or strife, if that is your worry."
"Excellent!" Dawngazer said, her tone loud and jovial. She gave Sureshot a friendly slap on the shoulder. "With that out of the way, what do you say we go join the others in plan making? And I apologize ahead of time if my soul brother continues to act skittish around you; he's grown quite fond of Sunsleaf and will do anything not to offend her, if I know him right."
Sureshot arched a brow at her reaction and the tension went out of his shoulders and looked toward the tent where Sunsleaf and her companion had disappeared. Skittish he could accept, it was hostility he hoped to avoid and he was almost positive he had felt some from that quarter. Forewarned was forearmed and he would watch his step around the other male. "All right. Lead on."
****
Having seen Eveninglight and Silvereyes off, Greyspear led the rest of the group inside the tent they'd all slept in.
~**We need a plan,**~ Greyspear lock-sent to all of them once they were inside. ~**And a watch outside this tent. Something is tellig me our hosts won't stay friendly for long, if only because they'll have danger to handle.**~ His mind voice said he had a sketch of a plan of his own, but that he was open for suggestions as well.
~**I'll be a watch,*~ Quicksand quickly raised her hand to volunteer. Maybe she could "keep watch" in a bit larger area and get a better look what was going on instead of being stuck in the tent just because older elves thought she was still too young for spying.
Greyspear fought the urge to roll his eyes. He was sure Quicksand would stand guard - for all of two heartbeats. "Why don't you go fetch the stragglers?" Greyspear said, "and then perhaps check on your brother? I'm sure he's awake by now."
Squirrel smiled at Greyspear, glad that it hadn't been her that had to disappoint her daughter. She'd only gotten her family back and she didn't want the first thing she did to be squash the hopes of either of her children, she wanted it to be something positive, but if they were going to have to leave quickly that would take time. She needed to find out from the others how Quicksand had fared while she had been away.
Quicksand didn't let her disappointment show on her face at all. Instead she announced, "I will!" She was sure Redstreak was recovering well - he had to be recovering well - but maybe checking on him would still be good.
Then she did a quick headcount who was in the tent and who was not. Dawngazer and Branchwalker at least were missing. "Um...Should I get Sureshot and Sunsleaf too?" She wasn't completely sure if Greyspear had meant only their own tribemates or also their new friends.
"No need for fetching this one, cub," Dawngazer said from right behind Quicksand, giving Sureshot a slap on the back. "He's right here. I think Sunsleaf went to the tent with the injured ones, so Branchwalker should be right there along with her."
Eveningsky had followed her tribe mates to this planning session. She would have been no use at the scouting but at the inquiry after guard she felt something stir in her. Even in her current condition she would do that. She could take this watch duty and somehow regain her pride in being the guard. At least some of it. But before she could volunteer, Quicksand spoke out. She let the little scene with the cub pass by before she spoke out. "I can watch."
"Are you sure?" Greyspear said, eying her. "The wound isn't paining you too much?"
"She'll be fine," Dawngazer cut in. "I'll stand guard with her and-, woah, that was quick!" She stepped out of the way as Silvereyes and Eveninglight came darting into the tent.
****
Silvereyes looked back to Eveninglight seeing she was hiding her pain. Silvereyes, being who she was took point as a scout watching the way to make sure it was clear for Eveinglight to fallow with her bond-wolf. They made their way to the tent where the other tribe was oddly looking to be sneaking off behind.
The silver-eyed elfess smiled as she saw a open sem in the side of the tent so she and Eveninglight could get inside without being seen going within.
~**We made it...I spotted a way to get inside look here.**~ Silvereyes had spread the hole open just enough to see inside and listen, but she could not hear everything. The tension in the gathering was not smooth she noted as she watched during the send.
As the other elf maiden moved into the tent to peek out at the elves in front of it, Silvereyes watched her friend to see just by glace how bad her pain was. She worried about that. ~**Will you be alright?**~ She smiled warmly looking for a moment to Eveinglight's eyes.
~**Here, come see. It looks like it is not all shade and sweet water out there.**~ She shifted out of the way keeping watch again hoping maybe Eveninglight could hear them better maybe? Silvereyes did not see anyone spotting them. She had a bad feeling but kept it to herself for the moment thinking it was possibly nerves. Her tribe had already endured so much. Then she remembered to live in the Now.
~** Can you hear them?**~ she lock-sent to Eveninglight.
~**It hurts**~, Eveninglight answered honestly, ~**but not so bad anymore. I'll be fine**~
She returned Silvereyes warm smile, with a reassuring one. The young woman sent to her wolf to watch their backs, before her attention turned to the gathered elves again. Coming closer, Eveninglight peeked outside, hoping to hear a little more. ~**Yes, but they are just talking among themselves it seems. Like they are waiting for something**~
She retreated and looked at Silvereyes. ~**They sure are tense though**~, she agreed with her. Worry clouded her eyes. Would this mean trouble for their tribe?
Silvereyes thought a moment.... ~**If you are alright then let's head back and let Greyspear and the others know what we saw and what little we could hear.**~
Eveninglight nodded. ~**Let's do that. They'll be wanting to know what's going on**~ She left the tent after Silvereyes, following her back to their own tents.
Silvereyes headed back with Eveninglight and her bond at the tent opening then back across the way to the tent where the Wolfriders were.
When they arrived to the Wolfriders Silvereyes looked for her father going to him with Eveninglight. ~**Father we have returned. I'll let Eveninglight share with you what we learned.**~
Silvereyes wondered why so much sneaking around. How could they ever trust each other if they are not open with one another? She looked out of the tent with a shiver folding her arms over her chest.
She felt she may just be over acting so she kept her anxiety to herself trying not to be obvious. After a short while she looked to her father and Eveninglight and the others to see what was going on with her tribe.
As Silvereyes had suggested, Evenlight shared the information they had gathered with Greyspear, when he said she should. Then she waited for his reaction to the news. Evenlight trembled a little, both from anxiety and being tired of the pain her ribs still caused her. The trip outside had been too long and too tense. Shade nuzzled her hand and leaned into his bond-elf, offering her his strentgh to lean on.
Greyspear waiting in silence as Eveninglight spoke, his frowning deepening for every word she spoke. "All gathered up in one place, chiefs in one big group separate from the rest and all of them tense. That doesn't bode well." He gave Eveninglight a concerned look. "We should prepare to leave, all of us. And you, young wolf, should go see Sunsleaf. You look like you could use something to ease the pain."
"I will, Greyspear", Eveninglight promised, "I need to be fit, if we need to travel fast. One of the wounded ones can ride Shade in my stead. They will need it more than I do."
"Aren't you one of the wounded ones," Dawngazer cut in, lifting an eyebrow to show this hadn't been a question. "There's plenty here that can run, friend. Keep on wolf-back, should we need to move quickly. We'll need you whole and hale before long. And ask Eveningsky if she needs something from Sunsleaf too, on the way."
"Well... yes", Eveninglight answered Dawngazer, eyes downcast, her old shyness resurfacing, feeling embarrassed after the other's friendly reprimand.
"But some are worse off than me.", she finished softly. Head held low, Eveninglight headed out of the tent, to seek out Sunsleaf.
Dawngazer rolled her eyes, but not in a mocking of condescending way. "Pride and care are both good but watch out so they don’t come back and bite your tail."
Greyspear gave Dawngazer a look that was neither disapproval nor encouragement. It more seemed to evaluate than anything else.
Silvereyes smiled faintly to Eveninglight with a added nod. Her silvery gaze then watched the guards step in place to keep watch. A warm feeling of normalcy washed over Silvereyes suddenly. Having the tribe mostly together was good in her mind. She went standing near Greyspear briefly placing a hand to his shoulder then withdrew it.
"What would you like me to do to help? I will do whatever I can to help the others to be ready, if needed." Silvereyes felt safe with her tribe around her, knowing Greyspear would protect them.
"Anything you can, dear child," was Greyspear's answer. "Though we need a clear plan, of course. Has anyone left anything important in another tent? Food, clothes, furs?" The question was addressed to all present. "Anyone have a brilliant idea on how to make a wolfess with newborns move from her choice of den?"
Silvereyes' stress about the other twibe was gone in a wash of her sire's words to her. "Alright." She looked around then saw she had left her weapons in the other tent. she turned to peer out to the direction of the gathering then looked back to the others and her Sire in the tent.
"Oh, father, about the wolf mother; smoke works on bees. Smoke would stir her out of the den while we gather her cubs. She would follow seeing we were helping her pups, not hurting them. I can cut and tie a sling for them to rest together in from the spare leather the other tribe gave us to repair our clothes after I go get my weapons?" She suggested to Greyspear.
"Could be risky for the wolf pups," Greyspear said, a trouble frown wrinkling his face. "But if push comes ot shove that is what we'll have to do. Good thinking, cub, though let's give One-Edge a chanse to trick her bond-friend to leave the tent first. Playing with fire should be avoided as long as possible." He ruffled Silvereyes' hair, a gesture he hadn't indulged in much since she was much younger.
"Now, I say we get to work on packing up, unless someone has objections?"
With her father's approval she went to gather he weapons then started to gather up the pieces of spair leather leaving plenty for the others to use. The tanner Silvereyes went to work cutting a large piece to tie the ends to make a pouch sling for the pups and made it a big piece of leather not knowing how long until they could settle down again to make a new Holt.
The pups might need room to grow before they oculd fallow her long distance on foot she thought as she looked around at the others moving about to get things ready and kept in ear shot to listem to the plans being made. When that was done she waited to see who would be handling the cub and wolf mother situation before she got up. In the meantime she kept an eye out for anyone needing help.
Quicksand had not been worried in the least at first - the whole situation had just seemed more exciting than anything else - but now she was getting a little anxious. Leave again just when they had barely settled down? Where would they sleep? What would they eat? How would all the hurt tribemates manage if they had to run for their lives again? If this wouldn't be their new home, where would it be and when would they find it?
Suddenly she remembered something: she was supposed to get Branchwalker and Sunsleaf! And check on her brother. Especially if they were leaving soon, she'd better make sure that Redstreak would manage.
"I'll be right back with them!" she announced before dashing out of the tent. With the discussion having moved on a long time ago, nobody else probably had any idea what she was talking about, though.
Dawngazer started as Quicksand rushed past her, brought up short by the cub’s sudden outburst. She made no move to stop her though, instead getting busy making bags ready.
Greyspear too was startled by Quicksand’s shout, but said nothing. Having made sure everyone had something to pack, he set about doing his own packing.
~**Eveningsky**~, Eveninglight lock-sent as she stepped outside. ~**I am going to see Sunsleaf. Do you need anything?**~
****
"Friends, tribe mates!" Keensight said the moment every member of every Branch was present. "A challenge has been issued against me by Palepelt. She will speak her case and I will defend my reasoning. After that, you will vote."
The other chiefs were gathered behind him, facing the rest of the tribe. They all looked grim.
Palepelt took center stage without being asked. "We have all heard the stories of elves who mate with animals. Through magic and desperation they form an unnatural bond with four legged creatures. And we all know the price of that bond." She didn't elaborate further, seemingly thinking her explanation obvious.
"We were warned that they could come. And now that they are here, we risk Recognition. We risk giving birth to dying children, who'll howl at the moons and be more beast than elf. And your First Chief would have these animals stay among us!" She grimaced for a split second, then got her neutral mask back in place. "Choose me as new First Chief and no wolf-blood will be allowed to stay among us past sunset."
She stepped back to join the other chiefs.
Keensight shook his head, as if saddened. "Think this over for a moment. I will present my reasoning after you have a chance to gather your thoughts."
"I don't need his reasonings", Wasp muttered with a nod in Keensight's direction, "My mind is made up. We don't need those filthy animals among us."
DancingFlame sighed and shook her head, her eyes downcast. "Whatever their blood is, they are elves", she spoke softley, repeating what she had told Sabre the night before.
"Once they may have been elves", her lifemate replied coldly, "Before they dirtied their blood by lying with animals."
"That does not make them less then us!", DancingFlame replied at a louder tone, eyes burning with emotion, "They are no different than us!"
"Mother... Father", Thundergrace tried to keep the peace between Sabre and DancingFlame.
Evening-Fall leaned his chin on his hand. ~**What do you think?**~ he lock-sent to Hale.
Mayflower muttered in silence, not liking the fact that DancingFlame was for the beast-bloods. They are a curse on our blood... She didn't voice her thoughts aloud. Although she was loyal to her Branch she didn't approve of her chief's opinion.
~**However the outcome...**~, Hale answered with a sad sigh, ~**It will be a bad day for all of us. I do however, no longer feel scared of the difference in blood. I hope others will change their minds aswell.**~ She turned her face to look Evening-Fall in the eye. ~**What are your thoughts, my friend?**~
"They are!", Wasp agreed wholeheartedly with Mayflower, "Don't you see mother? Those beast-bloods should be driven away before they will dirty our blood too! Look what their presence is already doing to us Children of the Oaks!"
Hearing Sabre and Thundergrace agree with Wasp's words, a silent tear fell down DancingFlame's cheek. Was this her family, her blood? She no longer felt she like belonged with them.
Palepelt took center stage again, apparently having decided there had been enough deliberating.
"I need not speak long, for I know you all are of sound mind and good reasoning," she said, nodding to a choice few in her audience. "We need to protect ourselves, need to keep our blood free from animal or we might lose what makes us elves. I do not suggest a fight, merely that we beg them leave. And should they refuse... well, I know we have many strong warriors who will make them. Lay your voice with me and I will make sure you'll never have to fear Recognition."
She took a step back, leaving room for Keensight to take her place.
Keensight looked like an elf who'd lost a soulmate. He first just observed his tribemates in silence, his eyes sad. Then:
"We all die. We do not age, but no one lives forever. Be it a flashflood, a hunt or disease, we all become spirits in the end. If aging children is what you fear then remember that others have lost children before you, without the aid of any animal blood."
He took a deep breath. "These strangers are our guests and we've always prided ourselves on our hospitality. They've been through great loss and need our aid, yet some of you would turn them away, injured and without more than their clothes. You have met them. Are they not just like us? Don't they love their children and grieve their lost ones? They are certainly not the first of our kin with customes we find strange. And while I know some of you might protest animals may grieve and love as well, I would ask you this: do animals send?"
He let the ensuing silence last for a couple of heartbeats. "Lay your voice with me and you will never have to remember the day you turned away wounded children from a warm fire."
Tracker looked around, trying to read the faces of the elves around him. He knew his chief's heart and supported his view. But there were others from their Branch, who didn't. Tracker's gaze found Mayflower and the elves she was seated with. His eyes found and held hers for a few short moments. He still hoped she would have changed her mind, but knew his hope was futile.
"Can we make our choices know already?", Wasp asked impatiently, a frown wrinkling her brow.
"Patience, my child", Sabre chided her.
The Children of the Oaks shuffled in place for a few moments, more than one face showing indecision. But before long they’d all gone to stand by one of the challengers. And it was easy to see who had won.
Palepelt’s smile was both triumphant and grim.
****
Redstreak switched a little shakily from sitting to his hands and knees and crawled closer to the trio. "Branchwalker, are you alright?"
Branchwalker gave Redstreak a kind smile. “Thank you for asking; I’m perfectly fine. Just tired and clumsy.” He said nothing to Riv, but silently agreed with Sunsleaf. There was only so many times you could stand being snapped at by someone - the tribe knew Eclipse far too well to treat another one like him like a fragile eggshell. Speaking of which…
“Has anyone seen Eclipse?”
Quietly Eveninglight entered the tent the wounded elves occupied. "Hello", she said, walking over to Sunsleaf, trying to ignore the pain her ribs still caused her. In a short sending, she explained to the healer what was going with the Children of the Oaks and what Greyspear had said. She didn't want to bother the other wounded elves with the news just yet.
Sunsleaf handed a cup to Eveninglight and looked at Branchwalker. "I haven't seen Eclipse. He probably still asleep in someone's furs." At the news Eveninglight shared with her she relayed it to Branchwalker, curious if he'd heard the same from Dawngazer.
“I think this mess would have woken even him up,” Branchwalker said, frowning. “Whatever is going on I don’t think a furmate would have left him to sleep.” Branchwalker sent out a lock-send to Eclipse. No answer.
About to comment further, Branchwalker was shocked into silence by a sending from Dawngazer of the matters at hand. He gaped. “Oh. Oh no. That can’t be good. We should wake everyone up, get them to the tent with the others.”
“Share with the rest of the pack,” Longsong said, having silently watched One-Edge drink tea up to that point. “What have the others seen?”
Sunsleaf finished setting out the teas and settled down to pack her things away. "It seems that we may be on the move again soon. I don't know how much we'll be able to take with us, but we're to prepare." She was carefully packing her herb bag as she spoke, "Injured, cubs that aren't ready to travel.."
She wondered how many would have to ride, how many were bondless, how many could ride double? If it came to it WhiteEars could carry a second, but how much extra would the wolves already be carrying? Would it be reasonable?
"Only SilverEyes and me have gone out to see what is going on", Eveninglight told Longsong, "I will send you what I've seen. I do not have more knowledge than that." In sending she shared with the elves who were awake what she had also shared with Sunsleaf.
"I do not know what Greyspear's plans are", Eveninglight spoke after finishing her sendings. "But he said to prepare to leave, and I think we should do that." She reached for the tea Sunsleaf had made. It would ease her pain she knew and after that she would start packing her few belonings.
“Curses,” Longsong muttered under his breath, looking not unlike a wolf with its hackles raised. “Well, better follow the rulings of our Elders.”
In their corner BrightStar and ClearIce looked concerned, most likely sending among themselves.
Childwolf looked like he wanted to run and get Laughinglizard right away.
Branchwalker only sat in stunned silence as his mind tried to catch up with what was happening. After a short moment he got up and began to clumsily pack whatever necessities he had in sight.
Seeing that Redstreak was being ignored in the midst of this silent chaos, Longsong beckoned for the boy. “Come here cub. Help me gather our things.”
Sunsleaf finished packing her herb bag and began helping roll furs and collecting the cups as she went. As much as she wanted to say something, what would she say? As much as she wanted to lay a hand on Branchwalker's shoulder and offer comfort, she couldn't watch him fumble and do nothing, ~**Deep breaths. Things have been worse and you, we all have survived.**~
~**Right, deep breaths,**~ Branchwalker sent back, sounding anything but calm. ~**I can do that.**~
IC:
The sun had barely passed above the horizon, when a sending from Keensight brushed against the mind of all Children of the Oaks. ~**Come show your loyalty.**~
Wasp had been awake before sunrise. To distract her mind from what would happen this day, she had kept herself busy with some heavy training excercises. Wasp's mind was clear and calm, when Keensight's sending reached her. She grinned at the thought of what would happen now. She knew to whom she would show her loyalty.
Keensight's sending brushed Hale's mind and woke her up, slowly. She did not want to get up just yet, but they shouldn't keep the Chief of Chiefs waiting.
"Hm... Eveningfall?", she asked in a sleepy voice, "Are you awake yet? I think we should go soon."
Evening-Fall hid his face in the furs, muttering something incomprehensible. Then he lifted his face with half-closed eyes. With a great yawn he rolled on his back and stretched out.
"A challenge, huh?" He remarked, rather to himself than to Hale. "Now we won't know who is the better in pole-climbing." He winked to Hale, his enerqy gushing out in a rush. Although he often had trouble to open his eyes, but when he did, he was fast to become his usual energetic self. He sat up and dug through the furs for his leathers.
"Now where did I put my pants..." he muttered. Finally he managed to get all dressed up, Hale already waiting for him outside, telling him to hurry. Evening-Fall flew out of the tent in a roll and stood up next to Hale.
"Now, we RUUUUN!" he exclaimed as he dashed away, Hale certainly right after him.
It had been long before dawn when Tracker had left the camp for an early hunt. He returned with some fat birds he had caught and left them in a basket in front of Mayflower's tent, a peaceoffering of some sort. When Keensight's sending reached him, Tracker walked over to his chief's tent and waited for the elder man to come outside so they could walk to the gathering together.
Mayflower heard footsteps outside of the tent she slept in. The others residing with her had already left earlier. At first she didn't pay attention to the steps but as the elf took a pause outside of the tent, yet not coming inside, she got curious. Still, she waited for the elf to move on before she peeked out of the tent flap. She noticed the birds Tracker had left her. She looked out to the direction the elf had gone and recognized the now far away back of Tracker. Just seeing him made her head boil with anger and she was about to kick the birds when she stopped the movement midway. And yes, by now she had hopped outside of the tent. She thought again. She would just leave them there. With a snarl at the birds she strode off after Keensight's calling.
Whitewater stepped out of his tent, a grim look on his face. His shoulders sagged with some relief when he spotted Tracker. "To the gathering," he said, mostly to himself.
Most of the tribe had already gathered by the remains of the bonfire; Keensight on one side of it, Palepelt on the other. The rest of the Children of the Oaks were gathered in a half-circle, waiting for the stragglers to join them before the choosing of sides could begin.
Tracker fell into step with Whitewater. "May the High Ones guide our minds and hearts today", he said, his face as grim as his chiefs'.
Wasp was seated in the semi-cricle with Thundergrace, being one of the first to arrive. Her young niece Cinder sat between the sisters, leaning into her aunt and munching on some jerky.
"What is taking mother and father so long?", Thundergrace asked.
Wasp shrugged. "Don't know. I'm sure they'll be here soon."
Keensight and Palepelt stood stock still, awaiting the arrival of the final tribe memembers.
****
Dawngazer sat at the opening of the survivors' tent, taking in the red sun, peaking over the distant horizon. It was strange to see it so easily, even after so long spend on the open plains. Then again, she hadn't had much time to sit and enjoy the view.
And speaking of view, there seemed to be a lot of running about for such an early part of the day. ~**Wake up! I think our hosts are up to something. Preparing the day's games, do you think?**~ she lock-sent to everyone in the tent, including those who slept in the tent for the wounded. In her sending, an image of elves walking quietly from their tents, all headed in the same direction, was included.
Silvereyes shot her eyes open but closed em quickly again as the images followed the voice in her mind. She had a mild throbbing in her head from the hangover of endorphins mixed with dreamberries on an empty stomach from only a few hours ago. She shifted to her side pushing her self up with her arms and sat up to stretch with a long yawn. She rubbed at her eyes as she woke up trying to stand and stumbled outside.
"Moan" ~**It is odd this early but could they just be respectfu....**~ she locksent only to Dawngazer as she exited the tent near silent standing beside the other female. ~**Oh....Yeah, that is kinda suspicious. What ya wanna do about it? Greyspear is still sleeping, or was a moment ago.**~ She put a hand to her head hoping the slight throb would soon stop.
"Dawngazer, you have some jerky and water on you? I am hungry," she whispered softly.
"There should be some water left in that skin over there," Dawngazer answered, pointing to a half empty sack by the tent's door flap. "We're all out of food though."
Privately, she answered: ~**Not sure what to do yet, let's wait with actions until some more of the others are awake.**~
"What's going on?", Eveninglight, barely awake, asked to whoever was nearest. She knew there were others closeby, but didn't feel like opening her eyes just yet.
"Must be those games or something", she muttered, remembering that on of the Children of the Oaks-elves had told her a little about it.
"Doesn't look like games to me," Branchwalker said, his sleeping fur wrapped around himself like a cloak against the chilly morning air. "Look at their faces!" He pointed at a Branch member that darted passed quite close to their tent; she was pale and wide eyed, like a rabbit cornered by a fox. "Are we under attack?"
Sunsleaf slipped out of the tent to stand in the early light, "I have a bad feeling about this." Rubbing her arms she shook her head trying to free it of the cobwebs of sleep. She wasn't even aware when Sureshot came out to stand behind her and watch the movement in the larger part of the Children of the Oaks camp.
Squirrel emerged from a tent still trying to straighten the hair of her cubs.
Greyspear got out of his furs, cursing his old bones and the daylight shining in through the open tent flap. A terribly way to live, this getting up with the sun. He threw on most of his clothes as the others watched the goings on outside, then got to his feet and hurried to the opening in the tent.
~**I don't like this,**~ he sent to those who'd spent the night in the tent. Eclipse had gone missing again, probably cuddle up to a new furmate, but the rest of the tribe's remains and its new additions seemed to be present. ~**We need to send someone out to have a look, without drawing attention to themselves. Any volunteers?**~
Silvereyes offered Dawngazer a smile and a nod. “You’re a good sport Dawngazer, thanks for the water skin” She took is listening to and watching the others as they gather just outside to see the on goings of the other tribe. The chill in the air seemed good to Silvereyes. After last night she just felt the chill let her know she was among the living. She shivered still as she drew one arm across her chest.
“Eh, I can wait to eat with the others.” She cast her eyes to Dawngazer with a not ~**Sure, sounds good to me. I think I am awake now.**~ She passed the water skin to any other that needed it at the moment but if none took it she’d return it to where she had gotten it. At the question from Branchwalker Silvereyes' eyes widened then she looked again to the other tribes’ mischief waiting patiently to find out what was going on.
Silvereyes, preoccupied with what was happening outside did not notice her side waking. Silvereyes was ready. ~**I can go Father. But a second or third pair of eyes as look outs would be welcomed if you allow me to go?**~ she offered in an eager tone.
~**I could come with you**~, Evenlight offered. She was almost dressed now, even if she had wanted to sleep longer a few moments before. The strange behaviour of the Children of the Oaks alrarmed het and made her curious at the same time. What was going on with them? Might they be planning on atacking them perhaps? That could not be, could it?
Slipping on her shirt, Eveninglight added: ~**If you would like me to come, that is. And if Greyspear says I can**~ The young elfess looked up at the older man. As far as she was concerned, he was their leader now. Who else wa there to lead them?
Greyspear nodded. ~**You two go scout ahead. Just be careful. The rest of us will stay here and prepare, in case we need to move quickly.**~ His mind voice held an undertone of suspicion, but no true panic yet.
The wolves are well rested, we have plenty of food nearby and there is prey to be had out here. The injured ones can be carried, if we have to move quickly, he thought to himself. We'll be fine, as long as we stay together.
~**We will**~, Eveninglight promised Greyspear. She turned her gaze at Silvereyes. ~**Is it alright if I go with you?**~
"Sure, If Father dose not oppose?" Silvereyes looked over to Greyspear for approval first.
"You have my approval," Greyspear said. "Now go, before you miss out on anything important!" He waved them off, feeling only slightly guilty when thinking about Eveninglight's bruised ribs. She's a wolfrider, she'll do fine.
Eveninglight let Silvereyes take the lead. Her ribs were healing well, but she didn't move with her usual ease yet. Her wolf, Shade, followed close behind them. They tried to stay out of sight, making use of whatever cover was available.
****
Sabre walked towards where the Children of the Oaks were gathering. His steps were heavy, as was his hard. He kept his face as stern as ever though.
DancingFlame followed close behind him. There had been an exchange of sendings between them in the night. Feelings and emotions, that could not close the gap that had come between them. Recognition once had made them as one soul, but now she felt half. Half of her heart, her soul, was gone, perhaps never to return. And she knew Sabre felt the same pain. Yet she could not make herself agree on Sabre's opinion of the strangers, nor could he agree with her feelings about them.
Mayflower knew from the previous day that Wasp and Thundergrace shared her opinion on the strangers and their filthy lineage. She managed to sought them out among the elves and took a seat next to them. She gave the three (including Cinder) a stoic nod of greeting before her gaze glued to the semi-circle of chiefs.
Waterfall and Morning-Glow arrived together, shortly after Keensight had called the gathering. The two had not exchanged words throughout the night or morning. Somewhat not unusual, yet unusual. It was no guess in their minds what the feud between the chiefs is about. Waterfall wondered if the challenge would really make much of a difference whereas Morning-Glow pondered if Blaze had put in action his word's from previous day or if another chief had stepped up. Either way this time the Day of Games would not be laugh and fun. The two sat down among the early gathered elves.
For this occasion Bloodcut did make the exception and arrived in the company of her fellow wolf-riders Firecry and Rainblossom. Cloudshadow was also with them, staying at the side of her lifemate. They took a seat as far away as possible. Bloodcut could feel the hair up on her back. The situation might turn even dangerous for them. Certainly the elves of Branch of Stars would be there to support and help her and her blood-related but would that be enough? Very unusually so, Bloodcut looked as serious as her thoughts were.
It didn't take Rainblossom many second to notice most Children of the Oaks were giving her, her brother and Bloodcut a wide berth. She was just about to address this strange state of affairs, when a sending from Redfur:
~**For your own safety, go somewhere else.**~ His mind-voice wasn't harsh, but it sent shivers don't Rainblossom's spine nontheless.
Confused and worried, she gave Firecry and Bloodcut a questioning look, to see if they'd also heard the sending.
Cloudshadow had not received the sending and gave her fellows a curious look as she saw the exchanged glances. ~**What is it?**~ she lock sent to Firecry.
~**Redfur instructed us to move away.**~
Cloudshadow was about to retaliate to that but instead kept her mouth shut. She was no oblivious to the glances her friends received.
In a silent agreement the three wolf-bloods left the gathering.
Evening-Fall and Hale arrived to the gathering. Probably the last of the bunch. There were many kind of reactions, actions, and like that crossed Evening-Fall's mind that he would do, but the tension in the air stopped him. No one would appreciate a loud and funny entrance, even from him. Instead he quietly took Hale's hand and pulled her to a spot at the side of the lines of gathered elves.
Thundergrace nodded a greeting back to Mayflower.
"Morning", Wasp spoke.
Looking over her shoulder the elder sister noticed their parents approaching. "Almost everyone is here now", she remarked.
"Good. They better get started soon. I hate waiting this long", Wasp said with a scowl.
Sabre found his daughters' seating place an sat down next to them. He nodded in greeting, but did not speak.
Nor did DancingFlame when she too took her place. She managed a smile for her grandchild, but it could not hide her feeling of loss and sorrow.
Thundergrace opened her mouth to ask what was wrong, but closed it again when she saw her parent's faces. Something was very wrong here. She exchanged a look with Wasp, who just shrugged. She decided she would talk to her mother when the gathering was over.
Hale let Evening-Fall guide her. She was glad he did not try to make a grand entrance this time. It was not the time nor the place for it. The tension was almost overwhelming her and she was happy Evening-Fall choose a spot to the side of the group.
****
Sunsleaf shook her head again and rubbed her arms, she needed to check up on those still mending, she had no time to be running about trying to figure out what was going on, she didn't like the feel of the day and she wanted to be certain they could move if they had to.
"How are they?" Branchwalker, wanting to distance himself from the mess outside, knelt down by Sunsleaf's side and his wounded tribe mates.
Sunsleaf smiled at Branchwalker, "They're mending. Some of them slower than I'd like, but mending is mending." She checked Haze and Redstreak and then moved on to the others. "Nothing so horrible that it would keep us here, but Riv and Childwolf might slow us down a little."
"Oh," Branchwalker, averting his eyes, "good."
He fiddled with the strings on the doorhide, then took a deep breath and said: "I know I shouldn't pry, and that I've already asked questions, but could Sureshot be involved in...?" He ended the sentence by gesturing at the outside world and the few stragglers left of the Children of the Oaks.
Longsong watched from the corner, not commenting. He had one hand on One-Edge's leg, gently, waiting for Sunsleaf to take a look at his lifemate.
Sunsleaf looked at Branchwalker and considered it for a moment then shook her head, "He might be many things, or at least he was, but the Sureshot I knew would never choose them over us. I admit it has been more turns than I can recall since last I saw him, but it has not been so long since he has been gone from the tribe we were both born to. I won't say trust him completely, but neither can I say there is a reason to distrust him."
"Yes, good, eh, good," Branchwalker said, blushing.
Sunsleaf moved from Redstreak and Haze, both with more broth in their bowls, and to One-Edge. Kneeling she lay her hand gently on the leg to assess the healing, "You're drinking the tea, yes?" She looked to Longsong and smiled, "You've been keeping an eye on her? She's limping less?" She trusted that he would be keeping enough of an eye on his mate to see one way or the other.
"She's my lifemate," Longsong said in way of explaining, though he knew the irony of his words most likely would be lost on Sunsleaf. After all, she hadn't been with the tribe to see how he and One-Edge had acted around each other before Sweetbreeze...
He winched. The pain was a fresh wound still, wolf-blood or no.
Gaze drifting back to Branchwalker she watched him a moment before returning her full attention to tending the injuries.
Redstreak stirred as someone moved close to him, then away. "Mother..?" he queried, rubbing his eyes and sitting up in the furs.
Branchwalker saw his opportunity to dispell the awkward atmosphere between him and Sunsleaf and hurried over to Redstreak. In his haste, he got one leg tangled in Riv's already pretty messy sleepingfurs. Before he knew it, he'd tripped and landed on the tent's floor with a loud 'oof!' - luckily not on top of any of the wounded, but pretty close to smashing his elbow in Riv's face. With the air smashed out of his lungs, there as no air to aid the apologies Branchwalker wanted to make. He simply laid there and silently cursed himself.
Looking over at the commotion Sunsleaf couldn't help but giggle. She stifled it quickly and looked apologetically at Longsong and One-Edge, "Of course. Forgive me." She rose carefully, "She is healing well enough, it will simply take time." To One-Edge, "Please try not to push yourself, it will only delay the healing."
Riv bolted to sit up at the sudden sound and in some way being aware that something hit the ground near him even through restless sleep. Attacking trolls? Stampeding animals? Rapid wolves?
Oh. Just a clumsy wolfrider. The moment the first instinct-driven moment of "fight or flight" passed, he became painfully aware of his own condition. The feeling of trolls hammering the inside of his head had dulled to nauseating ache and his mouth tasted like something had died there.
Feeling too sick to even snap at Branchwalker, Riv buried his face to his knees, groaning.
Branchwalker blushed up to the roots of his hair. But his mortification was somewhat lessened though, by the absence of something he'd come except; Riv was quiet. Well, groaning, but there were no insults being thrown, not raised voice to speak of.
~**I think Riv is worse off than we thought,**~ Branchwalker lock-sent to Sunsleaf, doing his best to dampen his embarrassment.
One-Edge had been awake for some time but had kept her eyes closed. The Howl the day before had drained her out, left her feeling somewhat hollow. Would she ever get over her loss? No! She never wanted to get over Sweetbreeze!
At Sunsleaf's first inquiry on the tea, she didn't make any motion, still not opening her eyes. It was the loud thumb sound that Branchwalker caused that brought her eyes open. She didn't get up or try to see what had happened but heard Sunsleaf let out a giggle. And then she addressed her again.
With a weak smile she gave her attention to Sunsleaf "Thank you. My leg is much better." One-Edge felt the gentle touch of Longsong on her leg. At the moment she found it smoothing. In her mind she felt it wasn't entirely right but now she needed it. It was only the elf next to her that could see into her soul and understand the painful loss. For now she held her deeper fences up but allowed Longsong the access to the outer layer of her mind.
Longsong had felt One-Edge closing off since the Howl and couldn't help but mourn; and then felt awful for doing so. She had all the right to grieve in the way that fit her best, yet he couldn't help feeling bereft. Their lifemating had been a slow and fragile process even before Sweetbr-, even before their loss, and now... Was he to lose a lifemate as well as a child?
Sunsleaf smiled gently at Longsong and nodded to One-Edge as she rose and moved toward Riv and Branchwalker. She had to face that the best she could manage was to heal their bodies, their souls were beyond her abilities. It was these moments that reminded her that she was still an outsider, that she still didn't know them the way they knew each other. The howl had been.... well, painful, but also informative. She had learned more about each of them in the way only a howl could teach. Now, if only there were a balm for the pain the berries had exposed for the sharing.
Crouching down beside Riv she reached out a hand carefully to touch his arm and spoke softly, "Come, drink your tea and tell me how you're feeling." She herself felt a little raw, but had not indulged as deeply in the berries as some. Sunsleaf had been hesitant, knowing she couldn't afford to be out of sorts the morning after. Her gaze slid over to Branchwalker and she smiled softly, ~**How are you? Bruise anything?**~
~**Nothing but my name,**~ Branchwalker sent back to Sunsleaf. ~**Though I must admit I was always more at home in the trees.**~ His blush was dying down. "I'm sorry you had to wake up like that Riv."
"I don't -need- your tea or your concern!" Riv snapped, fighting down the nauseating feel in his stomach. He was sure he'd throw up instantly if he ate or drank anything. He brushed Sunsleaf's hand aside. "Leave me alone."
Sunsleaf frowned and rose, "You and your foul moods, one day you're going to care about help or concern and we'll all have been bitten too many times to bother with it."
She moved to make the last cups of tea for Eveningsky and Eveninglight. Too much in her own thoughts while she did that she decided to add a cup for Gale as well, she wasn't sure his exact condition but a restorative brew could not hurt.
****
Sureshot was scrubbing his face with a hand trying to wake up. It just wasn't natural to be awake at this time of day. Any sane wolfrider would be deep in the furs and not coming out except for flood or fire. He would put the uneasy feeling down to what he'd been feeling since he arrived here, but others seemed to be feeling it too. Something was afoot.
Dawngazer laughed as she spotted Sureshot's sleepy look. "You get used to the sun, after a while," she said, hoping to start a conversation with the newcomer. With the chaos outside, it would be nice to know all there was to know about those staying in her tribe's tent; Sunsleaf had punched him, which should put him on her bad side, but on the other hand, Sunsleaf hadn't demanded the stranger be banished, so whatever he'd done, it couldn't have been bad enough to deserve being treated with contempt right away.
"I take this as a sign that your people like sleeping during the days too." That's the impression she'd gotten for Sunsleaf, but she thought that name might not be the best thing to bring up right at that moment.
Sureshot looked up and rolled his eyes at himself, he must be quite the sight. "I think I'd rather not get used to it. Just doesn't seem natural to stalk under the light of the daystar."
Nodding he scooped up a half empty water skin, "Hunts, howls, most everything done in the light of the moon or at least in the shade of the forest where the dappled light isn't so bad." He poured a bit of water in his hand and splashed it on his face before he took a drink and then restoppered the skin and dropped it back to the ground, "I should apologize for any trouble I've made. Your.... healer and I... Let us just say I won't blame her if she hits me again. But this time I hope to be better prepared."
"Doesn't sound too bad," Dawngazer said. "I've done a thing or two myself that have resulted in fistfights. But you two seem to have been parted for some time; must have been a plenty bad thing for her to remember it for long. Or are your tribe less Now-living as mine, perhaps?"
Hanging his head Sureshot started, "I was...." He shakes his head, "In my youth there was much I had to learn, to her I was.... especially cruel." Crouching he runs a hand through his hair, "I think the strike was as much for who I might be as for who I was. She is much changed, but she was not there to see me change as well."
Rising restlessly he looks over his shoulder at the tent and then out across the sea of tents, "Words can not fix the hurt I inflicted. But I have no intention of causing hurt or strife, if that is your worry."
"Excellent!" Dawngazer said, her tone loud and jovial. She gave Sureshot a friendly slap on the shoulder. "With that out of the way, what do you say we go join the others in plan making? And I apologize ahead of time if my soul brother continues to act skittish around you; he's grown quite fond of Sunsleaf and will do anything not to offend her, if I know him right."
Sureshot arched a brow at her reaction and the tension went out of his shoulders and looked toward the tent where Sunsleaf and her companion had disappeared. Skittish he could accept, it was hostility he hoped to avoid and he was almost positive he had felt some from that quarter. Forewarned was forearmed and he would watch his step around the other male. "All right. Lead on."
****
Having seen Eveninglight and Silvereyes off, Greyspear led the rest of the group inside the tent they'd all slept in.
~**We need a plan,**~ Greyspear lock-sent to all of them once they were inside. ~**And a watch outside this tent. Something is tellig me our hosts won't stay friendly for long, if only because they'll have danger to handle.**~ His mind voice said he had a sketch of a plan of his own, but that he was open for suggestions as well.
~**I'll be a watch,*~ Quicksand quickly raised her hand to volunteer. Maybe she could "keep watch" in a bit larger area and get a better look what was going on instead of being stuck in the tent just because older elves thought she was still too young for spying.
Greyspear fought the urge to roll his eyes. He was sure Quicksand would stand guard - for all of two heartbeats. "Why don't you go fetch the stragglers?" Greyspear said, "and then perhaps check on your brother? I'm sure he's awake by now."
Squirrel smiled at Greyspear, glad that it hadn't been her that had to disappoint her daughter. She'd only gotten her family back and she didn't want the first thing she did to be squash the hopes of either of her children, she wanted it to be something positive, but if they were going to have to leave quickly that would take time. She needed to find out from the others how Quicksand had fared while she had been away.
Quicksand didn't let her disappointment show on her face at all. Instead she announced, "I will!" She was sure Redstreak was recovering well - he had to be recovering well - but maybe checking on him would still be good.
Then she did a quick headcount who was in the tent and who was not. Dawngazer and Branchwalker at least were missing. "Um...Should I get Sureshot and Sunsleaf too?" She wasn't completely sure if Greyspear had meant only their own tribemates or also their new friends.
"No need for fetching this one, cub," Dawngazer said from right behind Quicksand, giving Sureshot a slap on the back. "He's right here. I think Sunsleaf went to the tent with the injured ones, so Branchwalker should be right there along with her."
Eveningsky had followed her tribe mates to this planning session. She would have been no use at the scouting but at the inquiry after guard she felt something stir in her. Even in her current condition she would do that. She could take this watch duty and somehow regain her pride in being the guard. At least some of it. But before she could volunteer, Quicksand spoke out. She let the little scene with the cub pass by before she spoke out. "I can watch."
"Are you sure?" Greyspear said, eying her. "The wound isn't paining you too much?"
"She'll be fine," Dawngazer cut in. "I'll stand guard with her and-, woah, that was quick!" She stepped out of the way as Silvereyes and Eveninglight came darting into the tent.
****
Silvereyes looked back to Eveninglight seeing she was hiding her pain. Silvereyes, being who she was took point as a scout watching the way to make sure it was clear for Eveinglight to fallow with her bond-wolf. They made their way to the tent where the other tribe was oddly looking to be sneaking off behind.
The silver-eyed elfess smiled as she saw a open sem in the side of the tent so she and Eveninglight could get inside without being seen going within.
~**We made it...I spotted a way to get inside look here.**~ Silvereyes had spread the hole open just enough to see inside and listen, but she could not hear everything. The tension in the gathering was not smooth she noted as she watched during the send.
As the other elf maiden moved into the tent to peek out at the elves in front of it, Silvereyes watched her friend to see just by glace how bad her pain was. She worried about that. ~**Will you be alright?**~ She smiled warmly looking for a moment to Eveinglight's eyes.
~**Here, come see. It looks like it is not all shade and sweet water out there.**~ She shifted out of the way keeping watch again hoping maybe Eveninglight could hear them better maybe? Silvereyes did not see anyone spotting them. She had a bad feeling but kept it to herself for the moment thinking it was possibly nerves. Her tribe had already endured so much. Then she remembered to live in the Now.
~** Can you hear them?**~ she lock-sent to Eveninglight.
~**It hurts**~, Eveninglight answered honestly, ~**but not so bad anymore. I'll be fine**~
She returned Silvereyes warm smile, with a reassuring one. The young woman sent to her wolf to watch their backs, before her attention turned to the gathered elves again. Coming closer, Eveninglight peeked outside, hoping to hear a little more. ~**Yes, but they are just talking among themselves it seems. Like they are waiting for something**~
She retreated and looked at Silvereyes. ~**They sure are tense though**~, she agreed with her. Worry clouded her eyes. Would this mean trouble for their tribe?
Silvereyes thought a moment.... ~**If you are alright then let's head back and let Greyspear and the others know what we saw and what little we could hear.**~
Eveninglight nodded. ~**Let's do that. They'll be wanting to know what's going on**~ She left the tent after Silvereyes, following her back to their own tents.
Silvereyes headed back with Eveninglight and her bond at the tent opening then back across the way to the tent where the Wolfriders were.
When they arrived to the Wolfriders Silvereyes looked for her father going to him with Eveninglight. ~**Father we have returned. I'll let Eveninglight share with you what we learned.**~
Silvereyes wondered why so much sneaking around. How could they ever trust each other if they are not open with one another? She looked out of the tent with a shiver folding her arms over her chest.
She felt she may just be over acting so she kept her anxiety to herself trying not to be obvious. After a short while she looked to her father and Eveninglight and the others to see what was going on with her tribe.
As Silvereyes had suggested, Evenlight shared the information they had gathered with Greyspear, when he said she should. Then she waited for his reaction to the news. Evenlight trembled a little, both from anxiety and being tired of the pain her ribs still caused her. The trip outside had been too long and too tense. Shade nuzzled her hand and leaned into his bond-elf, offering her his strentgh to lean on.
Greyspear waiting in silence as Eveninglight spoke, his frowning deepening for every word she spoke. "All gathered up in one place, chiefs in one big group separate from the rest and all of them tense. That doesn't bode well." He gave Eveninglight a concerned look. "We should prepare to leave, all of us. And you, young wolf, should go see Sunsleaf. You look like you could use something to ease the pain."
"I will, Greyspear", Eveninglight promised, "I need to be fit, if we need to travel fast. One of the wounded ones can ride Shade in my stead. They will need it more than I do."
"Aren't you one of the wounded ones," Dawngazer cut in, lifting an eyebrow to show this hadn't been a question. "There's plenty here that can run, friend. Keep on wolf-back, should we need to move quickly. We'll need you whole and hale before long. And ask Eveningsky if she needs something from Sunsleaf too, on the way."
"Well... yes", Eveninglight answered Dawngazer, eyes downcast, her old shyness resurfacing, feeling embarrassed after the other's friendly reprimand.
"But some are worse off than me.", she finished softly. Head held low, Eveninglight headed out of the tent, to seek out Sunsleaf.
Dawngazer rolled her eyes, but not in a mocking of condescending way. "Pride and care are both good but watch out so they don’t come back and bite your tail."
Greyspear gave Dawngazer a look that was neither disapproval nor encouragement. It more seemed to evaluate than anything else.
Silvereyes smiled faintly to Eveninglight with a added nod. Her silvery gaze then watched the guards step in place to keep watch. A warm feeling of normalcy washed over Silvereyes suddenly. Having the tribe mostly together was good in her mind. She went standing near Greyspear briefly placing a hand to his shoulder then withdrew it.
"What would you like me to do to help? I will do whatever I can to help the others to be ready, if needed." Silvereyes felt safe with her tribe around her, knowing Greyspear would protect them.
"Anything you can, dear child," was Greyspear's answer. "Though we need a clear plan, of course. Has anyone left anything important in another tent? Food, clothes, furs?" The question was addressed to all present. "Anyone have a brilliant idea on how to make a wolfess with newborns move from her choice of den?"
Silvereyes' stress about the other twibe was gone in a wash of her sire's words to her. "Alright." She looked around then saw she had left her weapons in the other tent. she turned to peer out to the direction of the gathering then looked back to the others and her Sire in the tent.
"Oh, father, about the wolf mother; smoke works on bees. Smoke would stir her out of the den while we gather her cubs. She would follow seeing we were helping her pups, not hurting them. I can cut and tie a sling for them to rest together in from the spare leather the other tribe gave us to repair our clothes after I go get my weapons?" She suggested to Greyspear.
"Could be risky for the wolf pups," Greyspear said, a trouble frown wrinkling his face. "But if push comes ot shove that is what we'll have to do. Good thinking, cub, though let's give One-Edge a chanse to trick her bond-friend to leave the tent first. Playing with fire should be avoided as long as possible." He ruffled Silvereyes' hair, a gesture he hadn't indulged in much since she was much younger.
"Now, I say we get to work on packing up, unless someone has objections?"
With her father's approval she went to gather he weapons then started to gather up the pieces of spair leather leaving plenty for the others to use. The tanner Silvereyes went to work cutting a large piece to tie the ends to make a pouch sling for the pups and made it a big piece of leather not knowing how long until they could settle down again to make a new Holt.
The pups might need room to grow before they oculd fallow her long distance on foot she thought as she looked around at the others moving about to get things ready and kept in ear shot to listem to the plans being made. When that was done she waited to see who would be handling the cub and wolf mother situation before she got up. In the meantime she kept an eye out for anyone needing help.
Quicksand had not been worried in the least at first - the whole situation had just seemed more exciting than anything else - but now she was getting a little anxious. Leave again just when they had barely settled down? Where would they sleep? What would they eat? How would all the hurt tribemates manage if they had to run for their lives again? If this wouldn't be their new home, where would it be and when would they find it?
Suddenly she remembered something: she was supposed to get Branchwalker and Sunsleaf! And check on her brother. Especially if they were leaving soon, she'd better make sure that Redstreak would manage.
"I'll be right back with them!" she announced before dashing out of the tent. With the discussion having moved on a long time ago, nobody else probably had any idea what she was talking about, though.
Dawngazer started as Quicksand rushed past her, brought up short by the cub’s sudden outburst. She made no move to stop her though, instead getting busy making bags ready.
Greyspear too was startled by Quicksand’s shout, but said nothing. Having made sure everyone had something to pack, he set about doing his own packing.
~**Eveningsky**~, Eveninglight lock-sent as she stepped outside. ~**I am going to see Sunsleaf. Do you need anything?**~
****
"Friends, tribe mates!" Keensight said the moment every member of every Branch was present. "A challenge has been issued against me by Palepelt. She will speak her case and I will defend my reasoning. After that, you will vote."
The other chiefs were gathered behind him, facing the rest of the tribe. They all looked grim.
Palepelt took center stage without being asked. "We have all heard the stories of elves who mate with animals. Through magic and desperation they form an unnatural bond with four legged creatures. And we all know the price of that bond." She didn't elaborate further, seemingly thinking her explanation obvious.
"We were warned that they could come. And now that they are here, we risk Recognition. We risk giving birth to dying children, who'll howl at the moons and be more beast than elf. And your First Chief would have these animals stay among us!" She grimaced for a split second, then got her neutral mask back in place. "Choose me as new First Chief and no wolf-blood will be allowed to stay among us past sunset."
She stepped back to join the other chiefs.
Keensight shook his head, as if saddened. "Think this over for a moment. I will present my reasoning after you have a chance to gather your thoughts."
"I don't need his reasonings", Wasp muttered with a nod in Keensight's direction, "My mind is made up. We don't need those filthy animals among us."
DancingFlame sighed and shook her head, her eyes downcast. "Whatever their blood is, they are elves", she spoke softley, repeating what she had told Sabre the night before.
"Once they may have been elves", her lifemate replied coldly, "Before they dirtied their blood by lying with animals."
"That does not make them less then us!", DancingFlame replied at a louder tone, eyes burning with emotion, "They are no different than us!"
"Mother... Father", Thundergrace tried to keep the peace between Sabre and DancingFlame.
Evening-Fall leaned his chin on his hand. ~**What do you think?**~ he lock-sent to Hale.
Mayflower muttered in silence, not liking the fact that DancingFlame was for the beast-bloods. They are a curse on our blood... She didn't voice her thoughts aloud. Although she was loyal to her Branch she didn't approve of her chief's opinion.
~**However the outcome...**~, Hale answered with a sad sigh, ~**It will be a bad day for all of us. I do however, no longer feel scared of the difference in blood. I hope others will change their minds aswell.**~ She turned her face to look Evening-Fall in the eye. ~**What are your thoughts, my friend?**~
"They are!", Wasp agreed wholeheartedly with Mayflower, "Don't you see mother? Those beast-bloods should be driven away before they will dirty our blood too! Look what their presence is already doing to us Children of the Oaks!"
Hearing Sabre and Thundergrace agree with Wasp's words, a silent tear fell down DancingFlame's cheek. Was this her family, her blood? She no longer felt she like belonged with them.
Palepelt took center stage again, apparently having decided there had been enough deliberating.
"I need not speak long, for I know you all are of sound mind and good reasoning," she said, nodding to a choice few in her audience. "We need to protect ourselves, need to keep our blood free from animal or we might lose what makes us elves. I do not suggest a fight, merely that we beg them leave. And should they refuse... well, I know we have many strong warriors who will make them. Lay your voice with me and I will make sure you'll never have to fear Recognition."
She took a step back, leaving room for Keensight to take her place.
Keensight looked like an elf who'd lost a soulmate. He first just observed his tribemates in silence, his eyes sad. Then:
"We all die. We do not age, but no one lives forever. Be it a flashflood, a hunt or disease, we all become spirits in the end. If aging children is what you fear then remember that others have lost children before you, without the aid of any animal blood."
He took a deep breath. "These strangers are our guests and we've always prided ourselves on our hospitality. They've been through great loss and need our aid, yet some of you would turn them away, injured and without more than their clothes. You have met them. Are they not just like us? Don't they love their children and grieve their lost ones? They are certainly not the first of our kin with customes we find strange. And while I know some of you might protest animals may grieve and love as well, I would ask you this: do animals send?"
He let the ensuing silence last for a couple of heartbeats. "Lay your voice with me and you will never have to remember the day you turned away wounded children from a warm fire."
Tracker looked around, trying to read the faces of the elves around him. He knew his chief's heart and supported his view. But there were others from their Branch, who didn't. Tracker's gaze found Mayflower and the elves she was seated with. His eyes found and held hers for a few short moments. He still hoped she would have changed her mind, but knew his hope was futile.
"Can we make our choices know already?", Wasp asked impatiently, a frown wrinkling her brow.
"Patience, my child", Sabre chided her.
The Children of the Oaks shuffled in place for a few moments, more than one face showing indecision. But before long they’d all gone to stand by one of the challengers. And it was easy to see who had won.
Palepelt’s smile was both triumphant and grim.
****
Redstreak switched a little shakily from sitting to his hands and knees and crawled closer to the trio. "Branchwalker, are you alright?"
Branchwalker gave Redstreak a kind smile. “Thank you for asking; I’m perfectly fine. Just tired and clumsy.” He said nothing to Riv, but silently agreed with Sunsleaf. There was only so many times you could stand being snapped at by someone - the tribe knew Eclipse far too well to treat another one like him like a fragile eggshell. Speaking of which…
“Has anyone seen Eclipse?”
Quietly Eveninglight entered the tent the wounded elves occupied. "Hello", she said, walking over to Sunsleaf, trying to ignore the pain her ribs still caused her. In a short sending, she explained to the healer what was going with the Children of the Oaks and what Greyspear had said. She didn't want to bother the other wounded elves with the news just yet.
Sunsleaf handed a cup to Eveninglight and looked at Branchwalker. "I haven't seen Eclipse. He probably still asleep in someone's furs." At the news Eveninglight shared with her she relayed it to Branchwalker, curious if he'd heard the same from Dawngazer.
“I think this mess would have woken even him up,” Branchwalker said, frowning. “Whatever is going on I don’t think a furmate would have left him to sleep.” Branchwalker sent out a lock-send to Eclipse. No answer.
About to comment further, Branchwalker was shocked into silence by a sending from Dawngazer of the matters at hand. He gaped. “Oh. Oh no. That can’t be good. We should wake everyone up, get them to the tent with the others.”
“Share with the rest of the pack,” Longsong said, having silently watched One-Edge drink tea up to that point. “What have the others seen?”
Sunsleaf finished setting out the teas and settled down to pack her things away. "It seems that we may be on the move again soon. I don't know how much we'll be able to take with us, but we're to prepare." She was carefully packing her herb bag as she spoke, "Injured, cubs that aren't ready to travel.."
She wondered how many would have to ride, how many were bondless, how many could ride double? If it came to it WhiteEars could carry a second, but how much extra would the wolves already be carrying? Would it be reasonable?
"Only SilverEyes and me have gone out to see what is going on", Eveninglight told Longsong, "I will send you what I've seen. I do not have more knowledge than that." In sending she shared with the elves who were awake what she had also shared with Sunsleaf.
"I do not know what Greyspear's plans are", Eveninglight spoke after finishing her sendings. "But he said to prepare to leave, and I think we should do that." She reached for the tea Sunsleaf had made. It would ease her pain she knew and after that she would start packing her few belonings.
“Curses,” Longsong muttered under his breath, looking not unlike a wolf with its hackles raised. “Well, better follow the rulings of our Elders.”
In their corner BrightStar and ClearIce looked concerned, most likely sending among themselves.
Childwolf looked like he wanted to run and get Laughinglizard right away.
Branchwalker only sat in stunned silence as his mind tried to catch up with what was happening. After a short moment he got up and began to clumsily pack whatever necessities he had in sight.
Seeing that Redstreak was being ignored in the midst of this silent chaos, Longsong beckoned for the boy. “Come here cub. Help me gather our things.”
Sunsleaf finished packing her herb bag and began helping roll furs and collecting the cups as she went. As much as she wanted to say something, what would she say? As much as she wanted to lay a hand on Branchwalker's shoulder and offer comfort, she couldn't watch him fumble and do nothing, ~**Deep breaths. Things have been worse and you, we all have survived.**~
~**Right, deep breaths,**~ Branchwalker sent back, sounding anything but calm. ~**I can do that.**~
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