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Post by Moo on Mar 15, 2014 10:28:59 GMT -5
Colt was moving as fast as he could. He'd been hunting for some food for him and Selene, when he heard her cry. A mourning cry. Something bad had happened. He had a feeling he knew who she was crying for. Tessa. The soul who had saved him. Saved her daughter from her mind relapsing. He could only hope that right now, he could return the favour. Before it was too late. He used his wings as he sprinted as a form of boost; there was no room to fly. He was a fair distance away, but he could hear from Tessa's cry it was too late. She was doomed. He felt a sorrow grow in his heart as he closed in. He had to get there before she passed onto another realm. To thank her for all she had done for them. For making his family possible. She was getting more hands off in the daily running of the clan as she aged. This though...this didn't seem right. It felt surreal. No, unreal.
Even the guards, to which he helped out when he could, normally held their place no matter what. They were the most disciplined, capable fighters the clan could offer. Now, they were actually gone from their posts. They knew this was a big event. Colt pushed through them as if they weren't there. He had no time to apologise; he had to get there before she passed. Those in the clan let him through as he sprinted in; they knew Tessa meant a lot to him, let alone Selene. He rounded the corner to the save where she slept, hoping there was time. There wasn't. He saw Selene crying over her still body. Blood was on Selene's body, running from Tessa's nose. A fear was put into his heart. This leader. His mentor to Selene was no more. And he couldn't even thank her for what she had done for him. He felt tears fill in his eyes. He could only hope Selene didn't form a link with here when she passed. He knew all too well what it was like from Tessa's end. A feeling passed through his old scar. As if it was about to fall off and revert that never ending pain he had felt when he put his life on the line for Selene, and nearly lost it. He didn't need those memories to return. Not now. Because of her age, unlike him, her body wouldn't have been to 'shut down' and rebuilt. She was...gone. He was filled with regret. A regret that he couldn't thank her.
Tears in his eyes, he came up behind Selene. He knew he was crying himself by this point himself, but it didn't matter. Not now. He held Selene with his wings and placed his head on top of hers. Not out of passion, or love. But out of consolement. They both needed each other right now. At least she could say goodbye to her, it was more than he was able to do when he lost his parents. His old family. The entire clan had learnt of the news by now, and were in equal shock and sadness. He knew Selene, being the daughter of the clan's leader was the next in line. However, being the male mate of he meant that he was going to be in charge, whether he wanted it or not. And right now, he didn't.
-----
Whip was not doing much as he was flying through the air. Slowly but surely, he had been improving his flight time. He saw his dad was impressed when he glanced up to him as he was catching a meal for his mum. He knew his dad was the most able dragon the clan had, and he knew that he would be stronger, swifter, faster... better in due time. He knew what his dad had gone through when he was not much older than a toddler, and his scar served as a reminder as to what cost he'd given for everyone. He couldn't believe he'd taken a full shot from a Monstrous Nightmare and survived. He'd never seen one, and hoped never had to fight one. He also learnt of the meaning behind his name quite recently from him, and he saw the pain etched on his face as he did so.
He heard a scream from his mum. He dove towards her. This wasn't good. He was panicking as his heart rate jumped, sweat trickled across his brow and started breathing in shallow, fast breaths. Something he thought he'd never do in a moment when everyone else was too. He wanted to live up to his dad's legacy and surpass it. He couldn't do it like this. He landed and nearly tripped as he did so. He had to move to see mum. To see that everything was alright. His dad had already passed as he reached the entrance of the cove, brushing him aside as if he wasn't there. Like he didn't notice. Or care. He felt a fear build in his heart. What was happening? He had only been able to reach the the edge of the clan's sleeping quarters when he saw his sister Felice emerge from the crowd, crying. he still didn't know what had happened. He heard her calling for him, and he instinctively wrapped his wings around her. Everyone had gathered around gran's quarters. No. No no no no no. She couldn't be. Please. He knew better. Felice was crying, and he nuzzled her gently, trying to console her as best she could. He managed to keep a solemn face for her, holding back the tears. He didn't need to cry now; he could mourn for her later. His sister needed him now.
Hang on. He picked up the scent of something. Something foreign. But also something familiar. Why was it familiar? He mentally noted to check out the scent as soon as Felice could be left...
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Grinch was with a few of his siblings, playing around with them as he had done his whole life. He never seemed to win a game of tag; they were just too fast for him, though at least they didn't pick on him. They stopped as they heard a cry. More than a cry. A roar. They all stopped and sprinted towards the cove. Something had happened. Something serious. Alas, they had all left him behind as they were simply...better. He didn't stop running to get to the cove, but he knew he would be too late to see what had happened. He saw the guards leave their posts; something that even he knew was normally associated with a serious punishment if they did. It seemed like that didn't matter.
By the time he'd entered the cove, he could hear crying. They were mourning the loss of one of the clan. He ran further into the cove, and he didn't want to believe what he was beginning to see. The same name was being sent around the clan. Tessa. Granny. Was she...? Had she...? He pushed past the crowed, though he was struggling to do so. Eventually, he managed to, and he saw his mum being held by his dad. They were both crying. And gran lifeless. On the ground. He had to sit on his haunches as it sunk in. That she was gone. He felt tears spring into his eyes, but one of the crowd actually held him as they did. He could smell her scent. It wasn't a familiar scent, but it was hers. The last scent she'd ever give...
He needed time alone. He had this feeling to just...be alone.
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Post by thenightandthefury on Mar 15, 2014 11:01:34 GMT -5
Selene heard the commotion as the crowd seemed to grow suddenly, as it seemed the entire clan had come to see what was happening. Her wild growls at them warned any who were not her family not to come any closer. They were only silenced when Colt came to her side, sinking down around her. Slowly, she wrapped her wings around him, letting the sobs shake her. She felt his chin atop her head, and moved to press her maw against his neck. After long moments, she caught the scents of her children coming to see what had happened, and she heard their horrified cries. But right now she knew the one who need her the most was wrapped up in her wings. Despite Tessa being her mother, she knew Colt and Tessa had grown incredibly close. She could sense Colts feelings, and regrets..
Quietly, she whispered through her mind link.. Colt, she knew.. She knew how thankful you were. She knew he probably wouldn’t believe her, so she closed her eyes. A few weeks ago she told me how proud of you she was, and told me all that she’d helped you through when we were younger.. And what you did for me. She told me that even though you never said it, she knew you were grateful.. She could see it every day when you were watching the eggs hatch and raising our cubs. She knows, Colt, she knows. She wrapped her wing tighter around him, wrapping her paw around him. She soothed her tears, for she knew she would have to be strong… Whether she liked it or not her and Colt would be the leaders, with Colt as their head leader and her as his queen. She knew deep down that from now on, she couldn’t show weakness.. She couldn’t show her clan, or anyone, how much she was hurting. Her kids couldn’t take it to see her break down like she had when she was younger.. and so.. she vowed to herself to dig deep down, and muster all the strength she could so she could be strong.. For the clan, for her cubs.. For Colt.
---
Felice felt a wing around her, it was her brother. She melted into him, crying. Yet as he looked up she looked up as well. Only she saw something much different then what he had caught in his nostrils. For as she looked up, she saw Grinch… Completely alone… A pain grew within her.. Lately this feeling of wanting to be near him, of wanting to just be as close to him as possible had been growing within her... She didn’t know why, but she felt like she connected to him.. more then what she should.. Whip, go check out that trespasser.. I’ll be back.. She said softly, breaking away from him. Despite her pain, she knew Grinch had a pain all his own.
Following him, she stopped a distance away.. Grinch.. She whispered through her link. Maybe it was a mistake to follow him, but something in her drove her to do it, for something in her had to make sure he was okay.. She sensed deep down he wasn’t… Not mentally.. But right now, who was really?
Her eyes were large pupils, she stepped towards him slowly, and wordlessly wrapped a wing around him. She looked at her paws, as she said quietly through her link.. I’m not going to leave you... I’m here.. and I’m not going anywhere.. She looked back up to him, a softness in her eyes. Her heart beat was faster then normal, she didn’t know why.. But she wasn’t about to leave Grinch’s side, no matter how much he fought her. She could only imagine that he needed her as much as she needed him.
---
Her hopes of a new home were quickly being diminished as even the guards left their post to hurry to a cave. There were lots of night furies who seemed upset, nearly all of them were crying. She saw the female who had spotted her with a young handsome male. He seemed oddly.. familiar.. She didn’t know why, but she felt a spark of rage at the female holding him, unaware it was his sister. Her eyes were slits, until she saw the female move away and wrap her wing around a different male. Confused, her pupils became large again as she looked around herself. Where was she.. this place.. It was wonderful..
It had plenty of trees, and fresh water, caves to keep warm in, and not only that.. everyone here seemed to really care for each other. It was then she realized it; there were no slaves here! These night furies were completely free.. Like one big happy family.. Like something she had always dreamed of.. But as he looked around at the chaos, she wondered what was going on. She caught words in her link about someone dying.. That explained it, someone had died.. Maybe this was a bad idea, maybe she should head somewhere else before they found her and took her back to her enslaved life…
But just as she turned to go, one of the guards spotted her and flew over with a single flap of his wings, tackling her and snarling at her. The other guards were well on their way to chase her out. A scream came in her link.. What exactly did they do to trespassers? Were they going to chase her out.. or..or worse.. kill her?
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Post by Moo on Mar 15, 2014 12:34:21 GMT -5
He was normally the last one to shed a tear. He'd taken blows few dragons lived through, and been through traumas that would reduce most to wrecks: a shell of their former selves. But this...this shook him to the core. All his bravery. All his courage was momentarily depleted. He felt...broken. He couldn't help but weep. This was the first time in his life where he was weeping, and he knew that he couldn't afford to show it, as soon he and Selene would take her place as leaders. But to him, in that moment...it didn't matter. Not one damn bit. Because most of the clan were in a similar state, at least this could be overlooked...he hoped.
Selene must have made a link with him before he arrived, as she knew what he had thought as he had approached. Colt, she knew.. She knew how thankful you were. Her eyes were closed as she said this. In his mind, he had doubts about what she was saying. But this was Selene. She wouldn't lie to him. A few weeks ago she told me how proud of you she was, and told me all that she’d helped you through when we were younger.. And what you did for me. He let these words sink in. He was amazed that in her final moments, she actually thought about him. He felt her wings close around him. He reciprocated. She knew you were grateful.. She could see it every day when you were watching the eggs hatch and raising our cubs. She knows, Colt, she knows. He found a resolve in his mind in these words. It managed to stop his weeping. He still needed to mourn for her, but for now it had to wait as much as it pained him. He could face the clan again.
He heard guards tackle someone at the perimeter of the cove. He had to move. Now. He snapped into action, without a second thought. The clan moved out of his way as he flashed past. This was not the time. Not now. Bursting out of the cove, he saw the trespasser. She was quite young. Around the age of Grinch and Whip. The was struggling to get free, but he knew that would be futile. These guards were the best this clan had. They were damn good. He knew that this would be a defining moment as a clan leader. Every time they found a trespasser, they would give them one chance to leave. And not return. However, if they did this, then they'd be able to report back to their clan. He was reminded of the spy that had launched himself on Selene. He remembered the anger. The rage. The feeling of him wanting to kill him. But... he didn't. He was glad he didn't. Tessa's words rang in his ears, from all that time ago. 'The best dragons fight for love, not power.' He felt a lump in his throat. Take her into our prison. We'll decide what to do with her later. Make sure to treat her fairly. He was going to get questions from her, but to do that he would have to show that this clan was not out to kill her, regardless of what she did. He gave a low snarl as he gave the order. He saw a fear in her eyes. The same fear he had seen from times gone by. If she co-operated, she would be OK. If she didn't... he'd cross that bridge when he came to it.
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He was still holding Felice when he saw the trespasser get pinned to the ground by a guard. He saw her squirming in fear. A fear that she would die. He knew not to speak out, but she seemed familiar. Why was that? His dad was sprinting towards her now. Her life was his to decide, and there was nothing he could do about it. He only hoped he would spare her. As he approached her, an anger was visible in his eyes. Was he wanting revenge? For Tessa? He feared the worst, but he kept an ear out for what he said next. He seemed to pause for a moment as he decided her fate. Take her into our prison. We'll decide what to do with her later. Make sure to treat her fairly. He felt such a relief. Why was that though? Why was it that she was spared? He had a feeling he wanted to see her. To know her. But he couldn't figure out why.
Felice was gone. He hadn't realised she'd gone off, but he didn't know where. Honestly, he wasn't concerned either. He had this feeling. A feeling he had seen her before. When he was much, much younger. He saw her being dragged down towards a burrowed out cove by at least three guards. He remembered when he was younger he'd crept into there. It was dark. Damp. Cold. Scary. The insides of it were designed to be intimidating. He actually felt sorry for her, but at least his dad had made the point of not neglecting her. He had to talk to her. Somehow. He had a gut feeling. That he wanted to know her. He knew his dad would be mourning the loss of Tessa. Perhaps then would be a good time? He'd have to wait for the guards to change. And pray they didn't come in while he was down there.
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He felt an emptiness unknown to him. It was something he had never experienced, so he wasn't sure how to deal with it. He needed time to be by himself. He moved away from the crowd, and into an empty cove. He felt something in his gut. That he had been through this... before? He couldn't remember having to live through a family member dying. He had a vivid memory fly into his mind. It contained a view through his eyes. Of a clan's home on fire. He was pulled back to the present when he found Felice had moved towards him from where Whip was. Perhaps she saw he was by himself? She felt her wings wrap around him, and his heart fluttered a little. It must have been a sisterly love thing. That she knew he had just experienced something horrible. I’m here.. and I’m not going anywhere.. His heart fluttered again. It felt...right.
As she held him, he wrapped his wings around her, as a sign he appreciated it. What he couldn't understand though, was that it felt...more than that. Why? He passed it off as a brother/sister caring thing, but...no, this didn't feel like that. He almost gagged at the next thought he had. No. He pushed her away, but it pained him to do that. I...I need to be alone. I'm sorry. He felt like dirt as he did this. It probably showed.
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Post by thenightandthefury on Mar 15, 2014 13:06:38 GMT -5
Selene as holding him, knowing that he at last knew the truth.. That Tessa had known his gratefulness, and now he could be at peace with that. But it was only moments later when a commotion made her look up, and she saw the guards fly off and tackle someone. Colt.. Don’t.. But before she could have been heard, he was off, in a fiery rage.. She followed him out, and as she caught a glimpse of the youngster she felt a tinge of sorrow for her. She looked scared to death, an innocent young soul who seemed to be fearing for her life. Colt.. She attempted through her link but he didn’t seem to hear her. She could only hope he would have mercy on her, and that through his anger he could see that she was only a cub. In her gut she knew if he gave the order, the guards would chase her out, or even kill her. Her heart raced, until finally Colts order came through as a growl. She watched the young female being dragged off to the prison, and felt a tinge of pain for her.
Colt.. She said, striding towards him.. What did that female do to deserve all that? She asked, her eyes stern yet with worry in them. She walked off, passing by the cave where her mothers body lay. If that cub had come moments earlier, Tessa would have dealt with her, and deep down she knew her mother would have called the guards off of her in a flash. The scars on her mothers body were proof of her morals, of how she had fought for justice, had fought those who thirsted for power, so that they wouldn’t succeed.
Walking off a distance, her eyes drifted back to the prison.. Despite her mothers death, she knew, somehow… someway.. that that youngster couldn’t have been to blame for it. The look in her eyes just before she’d been caught; the shock.. and the utter terror in her cries as she feared for her life.. She finally walked back towards Colt.. Dear.. She said softly. I know you’re hurting, we all are.. But Colt, she’s a child.. No older then our own cubs. How would you feel if that were one of ours sitting in that prison? She looked at him with soft eyes, before nuzzling against him. I know you’ll do the right thing.
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Being tackled by the guards, she screamed, trying to fight them, but more came and surrounded her, until she heard a louder.. and much more sinister sound as a large night fury looked over to her with a rage in his eyes. Too afraid to speak, she fought to get away. He seemed to glare at her for long moments.. Her eyes were drawn to the male she had seen earlier, her heart fluttered as she saw his gaze was upon her.. She looked away quickly, finally letting out her teeth and biting into the guards in retaliation. It was all she had known; fight or die. But at his sinster growl, his claw on her throat, she was silenced, before the larger male made his decision. Prison.
The guard snarled at her and three of them dragged her by the wings, the other biting at her hinds to make sure she went where they wanted her to.. Until she was thrown into the prison.. Before they pushed her back into its dark depths, she caught a glimpse of the young male again.. Backing up, she growled quietly as the guards left her there, though she was more afraid then she ever had been in her life. Looking around herself at the caves, the sharp icicle like rocks hanging from the ceiling and shooting up from the floor, she shivered… As the guards left a large boulder closed the entrance. No! she screamed. You can’t do this! I haven’t done anything wrong! Please… She slammed herself against the boulder, trying to move it. But it was no use. No single night fury could move the boulder, especially not one as weak as her. Curling up into a ball, she felt the tears come to her eyes, trying to close them so she didn’t have to live through this nightmare.
Later that night she awoke, after having had a nightmare. Thunder blasted the air outside, and she sensed it might be raining. But her world was still as dark and terrifying as ever, trapped in this nightmare of a prison. Suddenly, she was aware of someone nearby.. A link was slowly forming, and she growled, thinking it was a guard.. Who’s there? She growled, backing up into the wall. She was mentally preparing herself for the worst.
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Approaching Grinch had been a brave thing to do, particularly because she knew he had wanted time alone, and little known to her at this time things might not go as planned if she didn’t. For each individual was unpredictable at the time of grieving.. Saying and doing things they often would never say or do.. and just as often don’t mean. But how could she realize this, being a cub? No, she was too young, and although her parents had taught her many life lessons the ones of grief and love had yet to be thoroughly explained.. Thus it was a risk to just be there, especially knowing that she had these odd emotions for him.. For all she knew he could react badly..
And.. upon wrapping her wing around her brother, she felt an odd emotion going through her.. It was weird, it was wrong.. She felt him pull away suddenly, and pulled back as well… Grinch.. Whats wrong.. She said softly but he said he needed to be alone. She backed up a little, looking down. Tears filled her eyes. I’m sorry.. She managed.. Before she turned, running off.
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Post by Moo on Mar 15, 2014 14:50:54 GMT -5
He watched as she was dragged away to the prison. If she co-operated, she'd be fine. He'd ensure that much. He knew that she was scared, but he'd hoped that she would stay calm and listen to what he'd have to say later tonight. If she did, she would be accepted into the clan... if she could be trusted, and her answers earnest. He felt Selene's link. Colt.. She approached him with a concerned look. For the cub. What did that female do to deserve all that? She was hurt with him, and he watched as she was forced down into the prison. I know you’re hurting, we all are.. But Colt, she’s a child.. No older then our own cubs. How would you feel if that were one of ours sitting in that prison? He knew what he would have done. He felt her nuzzle against his skin. I know you’ll do the right thing. He had planned to talk to her this evening, and clean up this mess. He couldn't see her now though; the guards would be listening, and it wouldn't have been right to ask them to leave. It would have looked odd. I know. I'll see her in the evening, when the guards are changing. I doubt I'll get the answers I need to know to trust her, if she knows they're nearby ready to pounce at the slightest resistance. If she's honest with her answers, then I'd be happy to free her, and maybe even integrate into our clan. That's why I had to send her down there for now. He put his maw on her maw, and went off to the stream. If she was going to be honest with him, he had to get her trust. Show he wasn't going to hurt her.
Evening came, and the sun was casting the last of its rays over the world before night came. He knew the guards would be changing, so now would be a good time to move in and get his answers. He hoped she'd co-operate. He entered the prison and immediately saw where she was being held. It was the only boulder to be closed. But, to gain her trust, and in turn get an honest answer he had to show he wanted to help her. That's why he had the fish. He heard her behind the boulder. She was scared. Alone. He sent a link to her. It was met with aggression, though that was because she expected a fight. Or worse. Calm down cub. I'm Colt. Leader of this clan. The guards are currently changing. They aren't here, and won't be for a few minutes. I've brought a fish if you're hungry. It took two night fury's to move a boulder no-one was able to move it by themselves. It only took one Colt. The boulder was at least three times the size of a night fury, and as wide as one. He used every bit of strength to move the boulder out to one side; enough for light to enter her cell and be able to give her the fish, but not enough for her to escape.
He moved the boulder to a point where he could nudge the fish into her cell, and let some light in. Hungry? He used his nose to nudge the fish into her cell. He couldn't tell if she had eaten the fish. I'm sorry for scaring you like this. You caught me at a bad, bad time. I need a few questions though. Do you mind if you answer them? Nothing. His heart told him she was alright though, but he needed to do something drastic to get the answers he needed. There were still a few minutes left before the guards were due. If you want, I'll move this boulder out the way so you can see more. Once more, he used all his strength to move that boulder to one side, and he saw her. She was backed up against the wall, like she was afraid of him. As if he was going to kill her. He backed away a little, enough so she wouldn't think he would strike her. I want to help you. But to do so, I need you to answer my questions honestly. OK? He paused, so this could sink in. What is your name? Where did you come from? What was your purpose being here? Please. Answer me truthfully. I want to help you, but I need you to be truthful.
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He had a plan now. Dad was going to see her in the evening, hopefully to free her. He hoped she would do what his dad said. His mind kept asking that same question over and over and over. Why do I seem to know her? He needed an answer, as it would probably drive him crazy otherwise. He was in his quarters and was quietly sifting through his memories. Trying to think of anything about her. Where he had seen here before. He had a good memory, and he could remember vague things he did even as a toddler, though they were mostly a haze. One or two bits did stand out though. He remembered him being nervous of going into the woods. Until dad gave him the encouragement to go. What happened after that? He kept thinking. And thinking. And thinking. But no, he couldn't remember anything else. All that he could remember was just that. Going into the woods, running with the others. His siblings ran past and sent him a link. Wanna play tag? You're on! He had to pass the time one way or another.
He saw his dad go into the prison, just as he was thinking of doing the same. He knew he'd be in serious trouble if he followed him down. Not least because his dad was leader now. But...he had this urge to go down and see her. The consequences didn't matter. Not to him. He waited until he couldn't hear his dad's footsteps, and followed him down as quietly as he could. He timed his step with his dads, so that he wouldn't hear his steps. He air was still down here, so he wouldn't be able to smell him. Looks like his hunting lessons were paying off. He eventually stopped at the base of the prison floor, just out of sight if dad looked behind. He knew that it took two night fury's to open that boulder, so why did he bring a fish down? He was trying to talk to her, and it looked like she was too scared. He wasn't surprised. What he saw next was absolutely incredible. He saw his dad move toward the boulder. And he actually moved it. He found his mouth was actually agape. Unbelievable. He nosed that fish into the cell. She probably took it. Once more, his dad tried to talk to her. Something about questions.
This was a big, big risk. He wanted to help her, but if he did and his dad caught him down here, he would probably be locked up down here himself. He felt he had to do something though. He sent a link to her. Please. Do what my dad says. He doesn't want to hurt you. He kept his voice so low that he wasn't sure she heard it. Thankfully, his dad didn't hear it. Once more, his dad did the impossible. Something no night fury should be able to do alone. He moved the boulder to one side. He saw her backed up against the wall, afraid of him. While his dad got ready to talk to her once more and backed away from her a little, he took the opportunity to send another link. Please listen to my dad. He's a nice person. Really, he is. Also. Please don't say I'm here! He closed his link as his dad talked to her. He had the exit covered if she made a run for it, but at the same time he tried to appear non-threatening to her. Hoping she would see sense.
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He felt cruel to Felice. It didn't feel right though. It felt like the emotions he felt weren't natural between a brother and sister. They felt like they were...more. She had tears in her eyes. Now he felt guilty. I'm...sorry. This stabbed at his heart, as she ran off. He sighed. He looked at his tail. He still didn't know how that mark was on there. Maybe it was a birthmark? If it was though... why wasn't it on the others. It was a dark grey colour, similar to the one dad had along most of side. Alright, his was a little more dull, but it was the same sort of thing. He felt another vivid memory come forward to his mind. He looked around, and all he saw...was death. Destruction. His mind was brought back to the present.
He was scared. Did he just have a...a...premonition? A surreal premonition? He backed into a corner and stayed there for a while. Why was this happening to him. First Gran, then that first vision. Now this second one. He had to talk to someone about this. He looked for mum. Something wasn't right. He needed to be reassured. That everything was alright. He wasn't going to talk about the feelings he had for Felice though. That was something that he;d have to deal with for himself.
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Post by thenightandthefury on Mar 15, 2014 15:42:54 GMT -5
Having woken from her nightmare, and woken into a fresh nightmare that was her prison, she backed up against the walls of the cave as she felt the link formed, giving her cautious words to try and figure out who was out there. As a voice greeted her, telling her to calm down, she tilted her head. That voice in her link sounded familiar.. Then she realized it, and hunched her back, teeth coming out. You’re the one who sent me here! She growled, still not sure why she should trust him. The anger she had seen in him when they had first met was still fresh in her mind, and it reminded her of how her clan often treated her. But then, his next words seemed to hold a different emotion then what he had first greeted her with.. Was she sensing a little remorse at how he had treated her? She couldn’t be certain.. His next words were asking if she was hungry, and the boulder moved just a little, some moonlight shining in. She got a glimpse of the male looking at her, her own eyes scared and wary of him. Suddenly, a fish flopped between the crack that he had made, and she stared at it for a long moment, before looking back up at him. Was this a trick? Had he poisoned the fish? But… she was so hungry..
Slowly, she approached the fish, sniffing it. There was no foul or off putting odor from it.. It really was just a plain old fish. She ate it in a gulp, without even chewing. Backing up again, she felt another link form… This one sounded familiar as well, yet, she couldn’t place it.. He was telling her to trust this male who was his.. father? She then heard him ask not to say he was there. She knew if she spoke back to this other male in her link, the older male would hear it. Her eyes spotted him, and her heart leapt. She looked away, pretending to look at the stars as the leader spoke to her. He was asking her who she was, where she was from, all that. She looked at him, looking down. I’m nobody important, I’m a slave, from another clan up north.. I had had enough, and I got my chance so I took it, and ran away. I didn’t want that life. Do your worst to me, its nothing my own blood hasn’t done to me. She stepped forward, so he could see her more clearly.. Her body was bloody, with plenty of old and new scars, her figure incredibly skinny. Her eyes, however, were the saddest.. For they had lost the sparkle that was happiness; instead, they were empty, only reflecting the pain and fear she had known all her life. If you must know, I am Luna; Luna the slave. Her eyes met his, she had told him the truth.. But what would he do with it? Would this male send her back to her life of slavery, or set her free?
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Felice couldn’t believe what had happened, how he had pushed her away like that. After the incident she wandered to the edge of the forest, and ran to one place she knew she could think.. When she got there, she saw the drawing.. Still carved just as it had been so long ago… Kept fresh by dad, as a token of his love for mom. But.. wait.. why did this place seem so familiar? She had been here plenty as a cub, but something else was trying to get through to her mind, some distant memory. Walking over to the lake, she looked at its waters, unaware that this was where she was created.. But this.. This lake… This spot..
And suddenly she could faintly remember, seeing a young and scared little hatchling laying here, his tail bloody and dangling in the water. It couldn’t be… That’d never happened.. had it? But it wouldn’t be in her memory for nothing.. But who was that-
Grinch..
He had a birthmark on his tail.. Or was it a scar? She knew she needed answers, and she needed them now. She headed off to find her mother, for she knew she would be able to tell her the truth.
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Selene was resting, when she saw Grinch.. Hello dear. She greeted with a purr, but sensed something was wrong.. Forming a mind link, it was easy for her to see his memory.. She had never known about his past before, but what she saw sent horror down her spine. He looked to be in a panic, something about a premonition.. She knew she had to put his mind at ease. Grinch.. There’s something you need to know.. She felt a second mind link with hers, and recognized it as Felice, somewhere in the distance. Sighing she looked at Grinch.
Grinch.. when you were young you were.. with another family. A family that loved you, cared for you. We never really knew why, but.. Somehow we found you, alone.. and injured. I loved you from the moment I saw you, it has never mattered to me if you were my blood or not, you are my son. That will never, ever change. I know this is hard, but.. Maybe some day you’ll understand..
--- A voice cried from the shadows. Liar! In a blood curdling scream. It was Felice. In a blind rage, she lunged at her mother, trying to tear up every inch she could reach.. Yet Selene was able to easily fight her off and gently keep her off. Felice backed up to be next to Grinch. Liar! You never cared! You couldn’t even tell us the truth! Our lives.. are a lie.. A bloody lie! Tell me, mom, were you ever.. ever.. going to tell us that he wasn’t our brother? Why didn’t you tell us… Why didn’t you tell… Grinch.. the truth.. before now? Her voice was a furious growl, she had no idea where this anger had come from. Inside her she was raging, a firestorm of emotions. Grinch wasn’t her brother, not by blood.. He was a cub they had taken in.. And now.. Now.. they had some sort of sisterly brotherly bond? And she had feelings for him as well? Why had her mother spun this lie, and caused her this pain.. In her mind, this somehow had to be all her and her fathers fault. For she didn’t know what to believe any more, nor what to think or feel.. about.. well.. anything.
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Post by Moo on Mar 15, 2014 17:08:02 GMT -5
There was a coldness in the way she spoke to him. An...emptiness to it. Like she...like she... had never known anything else. Other than fear. Nothing else. She looked away as she spoke. I’m nobody important, I’m a slave, from another clan up north.. I had had enough, and I got my chance so I took it, and ran away. I didn’t want that life. Do your worst to me, its nothing my own blood hasn’t done to me. He had enough experience when talking to someone to know when they were hiding something from him. She wasn't. It was blunt, but honest. He was shocked at how...defeated she sounded. Like she was expecting him to attack her. He had known about a clan located north. Somewhere. They had never been concerned with attacking them. But this...this was something dreadful. They seemed to be built on a foundation most wicked. One of power. And power leads to anger. Distrust. Worse. If you must know, I am Luna; Luna the slave. That was it. That was the truth he'd hoped she'd give him. Thank you Luna. I was hoping you'd tell me the truth. I know you told me just that. The guards will be due here any minute. Don't be aggressive. They won't hurt you if you keep relaxed. You have my word if you do as I say here. Stay to my side, not behind me.
He could hear the guards coming down, but that was OK now. He could trust her. He could trust her to be integrated into the clan. She would need time to lose her aggressive stance, and learn to trust others. But in time that would come together. He knew it would be something Tessa would want. I've talked to our guest Luna. She's OK. We can trust her to be one of our own. They carried on moving as normal. They expected that they needed to be move the boulder. And be ready. Just in case. They stopped when they saw the boulder had been moved, mouths agape. By him. Alone. No other night fury could have done that. With her free. For a guard to be caught out like that, it had to be something special. They stepped to one side. He sent a calm link to her. Luna, follow me. We will need to work on your aggression, but nothing that can't be sorted in due time. I know I didn't help that. We'll begin to make you feel at home in the morning. Tonight, you'll be sleeping in a spare quarter next to my son's. And mine. He gestured his head for her to follow him. First though, I'd like you to meet someone. He knew Selene would be absolutely over the moon.
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Whip flew out of the entrance only a second before the guards turned the corner. Too close. Far, far, far too close. His heart was racing, and he finding it hard to breath. He was so nearly caught. But he knew he'd helped her. Helped her trust his dad. And now, hopefully, she would be following him up and she could start to live in the clan. So he could talk to her without fear. A fear that he would lose her. He needed some rest. He had started to calm down as he ambled towards his sleeping quarter. He saw Grinch go past with a concerned look, though he thought nothing more of it. It looked like mum was going to deal with, and he was too tired to really care right now. If he was more alert, perhaps he would have eavesdropped. He lay down in his usual spot, and began to nod off instantly. Bliss. True bliss.
He heard another dragon run up to Selene's room, and the steps woke him from his short lived slumber. Eh? What was happening? He staggered out of his bed and out into the night. It had turned cold very quickly, and that sharpened his tired senses. He thought he heard Felice's link. She sounded mad. Real mad. More than that; he heard a growl. He put as little of his head as he could round the corner. He saw Grinch. He saw Felice trying to... attack mum! Before he could jump in and defend her though, she'd managed to push her away and not receive a scratch! He had this feeling that he wasn't mean to know what was happening. But he did. She was next to Grinch, screaming at mum. Liar! You never cared! You couldn’t even tell us the truth! Our lives.. are a lie.. A bloody lie! Tell me, mom, were you ever.. ever.. going to tell us that he wasn’t our brother? Why didn’t you tell us… Why didn’t you tell… Grinch.. the truth.. before now? She gave another growl. A growl of anger. he wasn't our brother? He didn't want to believe this. He had grown up with Grinch just as she had done. But something didn't add up, he had to admit. He seemed a lot...weaker than the rest of them. Like he was the runt. And that tail. He just assumed it was a cut he got. He still cared for him as he had done before. He didn't care that he wasn't related by blood; he was related by memories. By actions. Why was it this made her so upset? So angry at mum?
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He listened to his mum as she talked. And little by little, it started to become clearer. The 'premonitions' were in fact flashbacks. Nightmares. Of a time where his future was uncertain. He was only a toddler, probably more so a baby. She wasn't his mum...she was only Selene. A mum by all rights except by blood. He felt turmoil in his mind, but something came forward out into the room. Felice. He knew why he had those unnatural feeling for her. Because they were natural after all, but he would never have realised. He saw her lunge for Selene, but he was helpless to stop her. She'd managed to get her off without hurting her. She was right against him now, with an anger in her eyes. He was afraid. Afraid of her. Afraid of the damage he'd done. In a roundabout way, this was his fault.
He had to leave. He had to try and limit the damage he'd created. He was able to fly, but not for as long nor as well as the others. But it was enough. It was enough for what he needed to do. To get away. Fly away as far as he could, wherever that may be. He felt he couldn't come back here. Not now. He hurtled towards the open sky out of the door and took of into the night. He had to get away. Had to get away...
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Post by thenightandthefury on Mar 15, 2014 17:44:08 GMT -5
Her eyes met his, and she saw something in them that she hadn’t seen before.. Or at least not in a long, long time.. Concern.. After she had told him her story, and introduced herself, he calmly thanked her and told her to follow by his side, but not behind him. Hesitating, she wondered if she dare try to trust him, but upon him offering his sleeping quarters she felt a sense of trust.. Well, at least enough to go to his side, just as the guards came in and he told them that she could be trusted. Together they strode out. She got a glimpse of the stars, and looked around herself. There were some eyes upon her, still wary of her.. She could sense it.. But she felt a little more secure knowing she had at least one friend here. She looked back up to see if the boy was still there, but he was gone. As the leader told her there was someone he’d like her to meet, she smiled. Is she nice? She said softly. Something told her if this lady was as nice as him, then she’d be a quick friend.
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Selene could only try to soothe Felice after she had attacked her. She saw the horror and guilt on Grinch’s face. Grinch, dear, its alright.. She’s just upset.. But he wasn’t listening. He was looking at the female he had known as his sister all his life with a new look in his eyes; fear. It saddened Selene to see him fear her like that.. Deep down Selene knew Felice hadn’t meant to get so upset.. Grinch.. She said, but he flew off, taking to the skies as fast as she could. A panic rose in Selene, and her mothering instincts grew strong within her. However a soft, ashamed voice stopped her before she could lift her wings to fly after him.. Stopping, turning to look, she saw her daughter, who seemed to be taking Grinch’s reaction especially hard.
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The anger in her was something she had never felt, not in such amounts, ever before. Backing up to stand next to Grinch as she finished her tyrade, she happened to catch him staring at her. His expression, his posture, the look on his face.. made all her anger fizzle out of her in an instant. A guilt swept over her, for what she saw was fear.. He actually.. was afraid of her..
She heard her mother try to talk him, try to soothe him, she stepped towards him. She tried to speak, but words wouldn’t form, her mouth moved but no words came out.. A hurt, pained expression was on her face.. Guilt in her eyes as he suddenly took off.. Her mother was ready to fly after him, but she said quietly. No mom.. I’ll.. I’ll talk to him.. If.. If it wasn’t for me he wouldn’t have ran off…
Taking to the skies, she followed the direction he had gone. Soon she had his scent, and as she pumped her wings to go faster she caught up to him. Grinch! She called.. Grinch, please, wait.. I was just angry, I.. I didn’t mean to scare you.. She flew in front of him, hovering a distance in front of him.. Please Grinch, just come home.. Mom needs you there, dad and Whip need you… I.. She looked down.. then back up at him. I need you, Grinch.. Please.. Don’t go..
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Post by Moo on Mar 15, 2014 18:28:36 GMT -5
He had to get away. Had to get away from the anger he caused. He felt fear. A fear he had just rediscovered. He only felt like this once. When when was only a Toddler. His memory was thrown open, and remembered what had happened to him. How he had to just keep going through the grass. Going. Going. He found he had begun to slow. This nightmare was too vivid. He looked behind, and he saw Felice catching up. He knew she was faster than him. There was nothing he could do. He expected the worst...but... she didn't do anything. He felt a link. Please Grinch, just come home.. Mom needs you there, dad and Whip need you… I... She looked away, then back towards him. I need you, Grinch.. Please.. Don’t go... She...wasn't mad at him? You're...not mad at me? He was nervous being near her. Nervous that she would attack him like he attacked Selene. His mum. She may not be his mum by blood, but by her nature she was. And he loved her as a son would love their mum.
Slowly, he moved towards her. He felt jumpy. But then...he seemed to lose that fear he had of her, and he nuzzled her cheek. It's alright... it's alright... Tentatively, he gestured toward the cove. Do you...you want to head back home? He'd already begun to fly back slowly. He knew she was sorry. Hopefully Selene would forgive her. And that Colt didn't find out.
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Whip couldn't believe it. Grinch was going. Away. His brother was running off. Because of Felice. He felt pity for Grinch; it must be hard for him to go through that; learning that he was not actually part of his siblings blood line, then being turned on like that. It must have been harder for him mum. However, he felt not anger...but disappointment for Felice's actions. She must have done too, as she moved off in hot pursuit. Hopefully she'd bring him back home. He wanted to pursue Grinch. To make sure he was alright. But he wasn't responsible for the damage. He couldn't repair it. Only she could. He could only return to his quarters and wait. He couldn't go in and check on mum either; otherwise she'd know he knew. That would only make it worse for her.
It must have been at least 5 minutes since Felice went after Grinch when he smelled a scent. A scent of... that dragon dad had seen! He jumped out of bed, and peered around the corner...
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Apart from the guards, the clan was in bed by now. Except he and Luna. She was starting to take in what it meant to be part of a clan as an equal and not as a slave. He couldn't stand to think of her being a slave. He'd only noticed the scars on her body. And that she looked quite thin. She must have been a runt, but hopefully in time she would be able to deal with it. Like Selene had to deal with his death. It still haunted him, even after all this time. He was glad that he couldn't see her face when the link...died. It must have been soul breaking. She was a strong lady. He brought himself back to the present, and he felt her link Is she nice? he was close to where he and Selene slept. He opened a link with her Selene, I have someone you're going to want to meet! he knew she'd be absolutely over the moon with seeing Luna here. He linked with Luna. Selene is queen here. Just after I'd wrongly sent you to the prison, she helped me clear my mind. Calm me down. As... he didn't finish his sentence and looked away. He still needed to mourn her. Privately.
He saw what must have been Grinch flying in the distance. Strange. That wasn't like him. And...Felice? He mentally logged that he needed to follow up on this. What happened?
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Post by thenightandthefury on Mar 15, 2014 19:07:12 GMT -5
Upon finding him, and making her plea for him to come home.. She saw that he didn’t look like himself, not at all.. She saw the same fear in him… Fear.. of her.. as he looked at her. As he questioned about her anger, she shook her head. No, I’m not… I.. Yet she was silenced with his touch, a nuzzle.. Telling her it was alright in his link. He offered for them to go home, and he was already flying, his course set for home.. She followed, and as she grew closer there was a growing dread in her.
For her dad wasn’t just dad any more.. He was the leader, the king.. and her mom was her queen.. Had she.. She had.. she had attacked not only her mother, but her queen.. But surely dad wouldn’t.. He couldn’t.. banish her.. could he? Would he really do that to his own daughter? But.. wasn’t that what happened when an attack was made on a leader..
As she came back to the caverns, she saw her mother there.. She caught a glimpse of Whip in the cavern next to her… She realized as she linked with him that he had seen it all go down.. It just added to her shame. And then, her father walked in, with the strange female.. As he seemed to be trying to figure out what was amist, she felt her heart thunder. Never in her life had she had reason to fear her own father.. but now.. she did.. She had heard stories of how he had reacted when her mother was attacked in the past.. He’d injured them so badly they’d never return, or worse.. kill them.. But he was her dad.. Surely he wouldn’t hurt her.. right..?
---
The slave female entered the caverns, introducing herself with a shy tone. I’m Luna. She said quietly. She felt welcome here, but the air was tense.. She could tell just by looking around that something was up… There was some tension in the air, something that wasn’t being spoken of. It was only then she got a good look at the queen. Although she was trying to hide it, she had very, very small scratch marks on her..
The scratch marks weren’t even deep enough to be considered made more then a cub, nothing that would have hurt too badly to get… She could tell the mother was worried, and trying to hide the small scratches as best she could. It was then that a young female came in and she realized there was another cub following..
Odd.. For she could tell by the scents that this female was the young of these two, and yet.. she seemed scared to death of something. That’s when it hit her.. She’d made those scratch marks. A small protectiveness formed in Luna.. She could understand this girls fears, for she had felt the same fears with her own siblings and even parents.. Although they were much less understanding… Still, judging by the big scar on this male and the fact that she was scared to let the truth come out, Luna felt she had to do something.
Without making a big fuss, she moved herself so she was between Luna and the leader. Sure, she was puny, and could be killed easily.. But she had experience with taking beatings. If nothing else, maybe the simple comfort of a friend would ease some of this girls anxiety. If worse came to worse, well.. she’d deal with that then..
---
Selene watched as her daughter entered the caverns, greeting her with a nuzzle. Colt entered and she smoothly folded her wings over the cuts, but there may be a few that were still visible.. She greeted the newcomer with a smile, and nuzzled Colt as he came in. She would have to tell him what happened, but as she glanced over at her daughter it saddened her to see her practically cowering… Reading her mind link told her quickly her worries.. She was worried Colt would punish her severely for this.. It didn’t help that, as she read her mind link, she worried that Colt would take a punishment and treat her as an outcast now. Selene doubted that Colt would go that far, but she knew he wouldn’t be happy to find out what had happened.
She noticed the newcomer Luna moving to sit beside Felice.. Looking to Colt she knew she had to tell him before it came out in a argument. Colt dear.. She wrapped her wing around him, so that it was just him and her beneath her wings.. The kids know about.. about Grinch.. She looked at him, saying softly. Felice took it the worst, she did some regrettable things, but no damage was done. She let her small scratches be shown, and before much more could be said.. she nuzzled against Colt. She’s just a cub, Colt. We all make mistakes.. She lowered her wing just a little. As you can see, she’s had her fair share of punishment just from the shame and guilt of it all. She put her wing back around him. Silly girl is worried you’d banish her.. But I know you.. You wouldn’t do that.. Just.. don’t be too harsh with her.. Show her the same love you showed me all the times I messed up. Nuzzling against him, she finally lowered her wing. She kept a close eye on the scenario.. She had knew Colt would get angry, but he wouldn’t do anything drastic. Just in case, she kept one wing around Colt to show him she was okay and that everything was fine now.
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Post by Moo on Mar 16, 2014 5:29:39 GMT -5
Luna introduced herself to her, and he knew that it would mean a lot to her to see Luna. He heard Felice and Grinch landing behind them. Wait, hang on? Were those... cuts? On her? He nuzzled Selene's cheek as just she nuzzled him. Just what had happened here? He felt her wings wrap around him. He was about to get an answer. The kids know about.. about Grinch... It became clear to him. Why he saw Grinch flying. Perhaps... he was ashamed? It hurt his heart think about him being scared like that. Felice took it the worst, she did some regrettable things, but no damage was done. So that explained the scratches... She moved her wings so that he could see what she'd done. It wasn't much; nothing that wouldn't be gone my morning. But it hurt him. To know one of his own would attack her like that.
He didn't feel anger... only disappointment. Disappointment that she'd act like this. He thought about talking to her. Privately. But... he saw something. Luna had moved between he and Felice. She thought he'd attack her. Just what did her clan do to her? To make her think he'd do that? To his own? We all make mistakes.. Selene's sweet link came into his mind. He saw Felice's eyes. They were one of fear. One of remorse. He knew she'd suffered enough already. He knew she was sorry for it. He had to tell her that was she did was not right... but he didn't need to do anything more. In fact, he needed to comfort her. As a father who uses love as his weapon, not power. He felt Selene's link, but didn't listen to what she said. He'd already made up his mind.
He felt Selene's wings wrap around him. She was worried he'd overreact. Like he did with Luna. He made a link with Felice. A link those in the room would be able to hear. He made sure to meet her eyes. I can tell you're sorry for what you did. Your eyes say it all. I'm not happy with what you did, but I know that you weren't in your right mind. I've already made the mistake of overreacting once today. He looked to Luna as he said this. He moved towards Felice, nimbly moving round Luna as he did so, and wrapped his wings around Felice. It's alright Felice. He had to find Grinch and check he was OK but that would have to wait. He had to show Luna her sleeping quarters. He gave Felice a nuzzle, then made a link with Luna. Luna, this way. I'll take you to your quarters. He tilted his head as he said this.
He left the room and strolled toward her quarters, and as he did this, he opened a link with Luna once more. A private link. I'm sorry you had to witness that. As you can imagine, I was as surprised as you were. Grinch is a cub we'd taken in when he was only a baby. He's quite weak, though he's a kind soul. Until tonight none of the others knew he was from another family to begin with...
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He saw her next to dad as he came up towards mum's room. His heart leapt with joy. She'd listened to him! Dad had to be showing her around the place. Tomorrow, he'd make sure he'd speak to her. Maybe even this evening, if he could. He was drawn towards her. He didn't care why. Then a realisation struck him: dad was about to find out what had happened. He couldn't do much about it, but he needed to know Felice would be OK. It wasn't like her. Hopefully his dad saw that too. He waited until they had turned into mum's room before he crept out to where he had been before.
He heard Grinch and Felice coming in from behind. It was too late to hide, and he could only look at Felice and open a link. To let he know that he saw what she did. And that he knew she didn't mean it; hopefully that would ease her nerves. She still had dad to deal with. His scar on his right side was proof enough as to what happened if you messed with him. Messed with mum. He had to keep himself quiet, and hope Felice didn't say he knew as well; that would hurt mum's heart. She didn't need that as well. To know that he knew. Grinch was quite far away from the room. He wanted to let him know that he was still his brother. But now wasn't the time. He sneaked back to his bed, and waited until she was alone. He heard her name being called out as he did this. Luna. What a name. Luna...
He had to talk to her tonight...
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Grinch landed at Felice's side. He didn't enter the room though. He still needed to accept what had happened. He saw another cub in the room though. She was thin. Had cuts and scars on her body. Where did they come from. More importantly, where did she come from? He shifted his thoughts to today. He remembered there were guards who had caught a trespasser. Was she the...? He took another look. She was! What was she doing out of there? With Colt? His surrogate dad? He let himself move into a position where Selene could see him. To let her know he was alright.
He saw the events unfold ahead of him. He saw Colt's face as he begun to realise what had happened. He feared that Colt would punish Felice harshly. They all did. For something she hadn't really meant to do. For putting a fear in him. For lashing out. He was quite far from the room, so he realised he probably wasn't visible. He saw Colt listen to what had happened. He moved towards Felice. Oh no. Please don't hurt her. Please... He actually looked away, but then...he opened his emerald coloured eyes again. He saw Colt hugging Felice. Oh, thank the spirits. He saw she was sorry.
He still felt uncomfortable being near here. But it was home. He was still with his surrogate family... and now, maybe, he could talk to Felice in the morning... He headed for his room. He needed the sleep. Hopefully no-one else knew. He doubt they'd understand, and it would only lead to heartache. Just like what had happened with Felice.
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Post by thenightandthefury on Mar 16, 2014 12:23:25 GMT -5
Selene watched Colt as he took it all in; out of all of them, she was the one who had likely had the most faith in him that he wouldn’t lose his temper. She knew him better then that, but the worries were still there. However, she needn’t worry for long as he turned and spoke to Felice, with not so much as a harsh tone but a somewhat gentle one. Then, he moved towards her. Felice knew before he nuzzled against her that his intentions were good, and a small smile formed on her maw. After he had nuzzled her, she wrapped a wing around Felice.. Come, dear.. Time for bed. She said softly, nudging her to her sleeping quarters.
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Luna was between them, and yet as the leader found out what had happened she didn’t sense any anger in him, or at least not much anyway. He seemed a little upset, but it was nothing like what she had known when her own kind got upset. He spoke to her, seeming to understand, then moved towards her and.. nuzzled her? Wow, he really was different then her own blood line. Most of them, if not all, would have given a physical punishment. He moved back towards her and apologized for her having to see all that as he led her to her sleeping quarters. A small laugh came through her link. Don’t worry. It’s nothing compared to what I am used to. She said softly, then added. You know, most dragons I know would have.. well, it would have gone a lot worse. She said, then looked at him. Your cubs are very lucky to have a gentle leader like you…
Then she moved off to her sleeping quarters, and as she passed by a cavern she saw that same boy who had made a link with her. She gave a soft smile to him, before going into her own sleeping quarters. It wasn’t until late that night when something awoke her.. There was a link forming in her mind. She knew who it was before the link was fully formed, but waited to be sure. Hello there.. Come on in.. She said softly. She had a growing desire to see him, to thank him for what he had done for her but more then that.. just to be next to him, close to him.. It was a feeling like never before.
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Staring at her mom as she told he dad, she feared the worst, but instead her dad seemed to comfort her, to which she seemed slightly relieved.. When he nuzzled against her, she returned the gesture. She should have known better; he was her dad, and he would never hurt her. But she knew she would never, ever attack anyone like that again. Or attempt to. There was too much at stake now, too much that could go wrong. She listened as her mom told her to go to her sleeping quarters, and obliged.. She lay awake for a long time, before she was almost certain most everybody was asleep. Quietly, she moved to Grinch’s sleeping quarters..
She remembered seeing him sitting there alone on her way to her quarters.. She needed to be with him, if not for her own comfort and peace of mind then for him. Little did she know they both needed each other, and as she paused at his sleeping quarter entrance, she entered and formed a soft link. Grinch.. She said softly through her link. She curled up next to him.. Remembering his touch earlier, she gently nuzzled against him, before laying her head back on her paws. She smiled at him, a soft gummy smile.. I’m here, Grinch… I’m here…
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Post by Moo on Mar 16, 2014 13:20:57 GMT -5
As he was leaving, he heard Selene comforting Felice. Good. That was sorted, and one less thing to worry about. Luna made a link with him. Don’t worry. It’s nothing compared to what I am used to. Just what did her clan do? To make her... She continued You know, most dragons I know would have.. well, it would have gone a lot worse. That was because they were set up wrong. They weren't built on those members being equal. Only power and greed. That would always fail in the end, sooner or later. He knew she'd have to learn this through experience. All she'd known until now was fear. Your cubs are very lucky to have a gentle leader like you… This warmed his heart. He took her passed Whip's room. She seemed to look into his room and smile before moving on. He made sure to look away and pretend he hadn't seen it. He knew that look. It was the sort of look Selene gave him all that time ago, when she had nearly felt his maw when he revealed himself to her...
The next cavern along was hers. Here we are. He nodded his head towards the entrance. We're a clan that believes in each member being equal, and not one built on power or slaves. I can tell you're going to need to time to adjust, but we'll get there. He quickly smiled, before moving away. Good night. Sleep well. He headed to where Grinch's room was. Once he knew he was OK, he'd go to bed himself...
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Whip was in his room, having just got back as his dad was finishing with Felice. He knew that she would be OK. He was passing his room with Luna, when she looked into his room, and she quickly flashed a smile to him. She knew he was the one who'd sent her the link. He was fairly sure his heart had just melted. Alright, he had to see her later tonight. To talk to her. He had this urge to be close to her. He listened out for for dad stopping. That would be how he knew which room she'd be in. He stopped almost as soon as he came up with that plan. Had he stopped next door? He heard him talking to her. Something about time to settle in. He didn't really care about what he was saying, but more that it confirmed what he thought. She was next door.
He lied awake until he couldn't hear anyone else moving. He quietly got up and put his head round the corner. To be sure that no-one else was up. Clear...clear... yeah. It was clear. Moving as quietly as a mouse, he was next to her room. He opened a link with her and he recieved a reply faster than he could send her his thoughts. Hello there.. Come on in.. He duly obliged. He walked into her room. You feeling OK? He knew she was, but he had to start somewhere. He was able to look at her in better detail. She was actually very pretty, even with those cuts and scars from her old clan. He felt the urge to be nearer her. He moved towards her, and lay by her side... he felt he should nuzzle her... and he did.
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He was shattered. He didn't expect all this to happen today. Losing Tessa. Having those feelings for Felice. Learning that his family wasn't a family from his blood. He still felt at home though. That hadn't changed. He was grateful that it hadn't, though he mind was filled with anxiety. Who else knows now? About his past? As he lied on his bed, he couldn't fall asleep. No, he was too worried. About Felice of all people. That it had affected the way she saw him. As someone to distrust? He couldn't take that. He needed to know that he and her were still as close as before.
A link formed in his mind. It was Felice...? Grinch... her link was soft. He heard her come into his room. He saw her come in and curl up next to him. He felt the same feelings he had earlier for her. Though this time, he knew that it was OK to have them. She nuzzled his cheek, and lay down next to him. He reciprocated, and put his head net to hers. It felt good to him. That she wasn't genuinely mad at him, though he wanted to be sure. Felice... are we good? Even after that? He could probably guess the answer, and he felt the fear he had of her fall away. It probably showed one way or another. His heart pounded with an unfelt emotion. That he wanted to be with her...
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Post by thenightandthefury on Mar 16, 2014 14:00:56 GMT -5
Selene watched as Colt led Luna off. Luna seemed to be happier now, and that brought a sense of relief to her. She silently curled up, waiting for Colt to return to their caverns. After what seemed like forever, she drifted off into a light sleep. Somewhere in her sleep, she thought she heard Colt and smiled a little. Her eyes opened in the middle of the night, to check and make sure Colt was next to her. But as she did so, she could hear a few faint links in her mind. Four of them, actually.. Two were her own children, yet she was aware they weren’t talking to each other.
One surprised her, it was Felice, talking to Grinch. She had never guessed that there would be something between them, but suddenly it made a lot more sense as to why Felice had gotten so upset. She had been protecting Grinch, or at least in her mind.. She had a lot to learn about love and fighting for it, rather then losing her temper like that. But Selene was confident that she had learned from her mistakes. The next link that was in her mind was closer, as it was Whip with.. Luna? A soft smile came to her maw.. Her little cubs were growing up. Cutting off her link, she left it open only for Colt, the one nearest to her. Sleep well, my love. She whispered softly in her link, before curling back up and going to sleep.
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Luna had woken from her slumber and knew that someone was there. As soon as she asked the question, her eyes landed on his figure. He asked if she was alright, to which she rolled on her back, peering up at him. ‘Course I am. She said softly, she rolled onto her side, peering at him as he curled around her. The urge to be closer to him grew in her, and she moved a little closer to him. That’s when she felt it.. A nuzzle. It was a touch that was unfamiliar to her, and her ears laid back a little.. But not in an aggressive way, but rather a soft one that showed she enjoyed the contact.
Wrapping a paw around his strong shoulders, she nuzzled back against him gently. Tell me.. Why does such a strong, handsome lad as yourself fancy.. well.. fancy someone like me? She asked softly, peering at him. She was certain her skinny figure was clear now that he was next to him, as were her scars and all that. Her shorter wingspan was folded, but by now the fact that she was a weaker night fury should be apparent… So.. why did he still like her? She couldn’t figure it out, but somehow it didn’t matter. She just wanted to be close to him, right here, right now..
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Felice had come in and softly greeted Grinch.. She curled up next to him.. She nuzzled him, and felt a warmth in her as she did so.. As well as some new emotions, similar to her to fish swimming up her veins. As he asked her if they were good, she smiled. Grinch, I could never be angry with anyone for long.. Especially you.. And I.. I wasn’t angry with you to begin with. She said softly, wrapping her wing around him. She nuzzled against him gently.
She buried her face in his neck, whispering softly, I really like you Grinch.. And not.. not as a sister.. She finally looked up at him.
Moving closer to him, she knew she wanted to be like this for a long, long time. Just laying here, with the comfort of her crush laying next to her, caught up in an embrace. It felt nice.. It felt.. right.. She smiled at him, gently, tenderly licking his cheek as a soft purr rose within her. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me. She finally whispered in her link, and meeting his eyes, she meant it.. He truly was the best thing that had ever happened to her, the best thing in a long, long time..
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Post by Moo on Mar 16, 2014 15:45:54 GMT -5
It was late by now. He was lying by Selene, as he always did. He wasn't sure why he couldn't nod off, though he had a few ideas why. Tessa. Luna. Generally the whole day actually. He was struggling to nod off. Selene wasn't. Lucky. Actually... he felt her stir. Just a little. She had her link open, listening. He could feel it. Her eyes opened a little, and her eyes met his. He gave a little smile. She seemed to be thinking a few things over, as her eyes weren't really focusing on him. A few moments passed, and she seemed content. He felt her link simmer down, but she kept it open to him. Sleep well, my love. She curled up a little, and went back to sleep. You too. At last, he could get some rest. That seemed to calm his mind. A dream took over his mind.
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He was enjoying the moment. Everything seemed good in the world. He was with Luna, and she was enjoying his company. She had to be the runt of the litter, as she was smaller, weaker... he didn't care. He was drawn to her. He felt her paw wrap around his shoulder. His heart warmed a little. Her link opened, and her soft voice came through. Tell me.. Why does such a strong, handsome lad as yourself fancy.. well.. fancy someone like me? He nuzzled her maw. He wasn't sure why he was drawn to her. But he was. He had to tell her something. He could only say what he felt. I don't know, honestly. I'm just... I want to be with you. He wrapped his wing round her body. His wing could feel the cuts and scars on her wings. For some, this would put them off. Not him. He wondered what monsters would do this to another of their own clan? How would that help her? He found himself drifting off to sleep. Happy. With her.
He felt the Sun's rays on his skin. He was still with Luna and he was by her side. His parents would be up shortly, and he couldn't be seen with her. Not yet. It was too soon. I'll see you in a few minutes. He gave her a nuzzle against her maw, and quickly went to his room.
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He had Felice by his side. Sweet, sweet Felice. He felt her link, and her answer. Grinch, I could never be angry with anyone for long.. Especially you.. And I.. I wasn’t angry with you to begin with. The answer was what he had hoped it would be. He wondered why she said 'not you to begin with', though he didn't dwell on it. He was with her. That was all that mattered. Her felt her soft wing wrapped around him. It was comforting. Pleasant. He thought about nuzzling her...but thought better of it. I really like you Grinch.. And not.. not as a sister.. her head was facing him as she said this. He moved his head so that his nose touched hers.
He felt her move closer to him. He felt her tongue against his cheek as she gave a soft purr. He felt emotions new to him. Emotions that, to him, this was perfect. Once more, the thought of nuzzling her crossed his mind, and he did. He nuzzled her neck. He got a response You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me. Once more her golden yellow eyes met his. He gave her a small, shy smile. More emotions travelled through him. They were of satisfaction. That he wanted to be by her side. Forever.
He drifted off to sleep, with his head right next to hers...
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