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 Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 3:50 pm
You can count on me! ::Gem positively bubbled as she began flapping her wings, and quickly darted away out the doors!::
::Only, no sooner did she leave, when Faith's voice called up, as much as she could muster for such a small one:: If I can have everyone's attention, please?
::A quick hubbub began as abbeybeast began nudging abbeybeast, and heads turned one by one to Faith as she stood there, staff in paw once more, and she looked all around until finally, she had enough of an amiable quiet to work with::
For those of you who haven't known... I've been studying abbey records quite some time under my mother, and with great thanks to Constantine for his patience and his tolerance of my mother's temper... I'll see to it myself he gets a sample of tonight's pudding as a gesture alone. ::She raised a few mild snickers there, here or there, but it seemed many a beast thought of Constantine, while others watched on::
::Rosa only leaned herself against Castor a little more, letting him support her as she stayed close to listen::
The result being, I've often tried a few things now and again after reading about them in the records, some successful, some less successful...
Burr oii murmm!!! ::Suddenly the Foremole cried out, raising his mug:: Yurr cnnt boi bloimed furr surpently not troi'in, and boi gum n' Marrin's surd, yur surpently boin troi'in fur the work o' dozen fold abbots n' abbesses!!
::So followed a quick cheer from the other fellow moles... of all the Redwallers, it seemed the moles had taken an extra shine on Faith, mayhap it was the fact they had a leader smaller than they were, or just her young age as a leader that swelled on, but it seemed like there was no request they wouldn't try, and even after last season's failure to fill in a ditch out by the abbey's gates that vermin had been using for season over in battles, they only set themselves ready to try again...::
::And in fact, Foremole himself had been seen sneaking off to secretly add a newly dug up set of dirt and rocks that needed disposing down into said ditch::
::And that alone seemed to brighten Faith:: Thank you... but... I'm not done quite yet... ::She cleared her throat, standing a little taller::
Not to work upon sadder times... but we all remember in Winter, only two seasons past, when the ermine struck a village of Voles only as little as a few acres off of our abbey...
...and as quick as we were to run to them... it was still too late... ::She bowed her head, looking up again:: As was the same with a few other poorer creatures we've laid to rest, taken by winter's cold...
But I've been thinking and thinking... we've always been protected by Martin's spirit, and the mice and abbeybeasts of the past watching over us... and we've stood up more times than counted when some bullybeast came along to push us over.
Redwall has, and always will be a place of peace, but whenever there was a weaker creature who we could aid, we've always strove to help them...
But what if those earlier had been closer to the abbey? Even closer, so we could have helped faster... been there for those ill who may have otherwise lived...
What I'm about to propose, maybe one of the most radical, unheard of, and possibly most silly, unbelievable things anybeast has EVER announced before the entire abbey... but... ::She took a deep breath::
I want to try and expand the abbey. ::Suddenly, a larger hubbub began to rise:: More than just building more abbey on a piece of land... but building round the abbey, where we can make a town or a village around the abbey walls, where the otherfolk may live always within the safety of the abbey's reach, yet not so tight inside that should suffer on those who wish to remain independent of themselves...
I've yet to talk this over with anyone apart from a few... which is why I have to know from all of you in your thoughts... I've never read of such a thing ever being done actually outside of the abbey... and I've no idea what such an undergoing may need... but, I'm ready to hear all who'll help and encourage...
Especially when there's one more idea I'd like to do... ::She raised a finger pointedly:: And, it's really the main idea...
I'd like to stop vermin attacking good folk in Mossflower for good.
::THAT received a more varied set of responses, while some laughed and put it to wishful thinking, a joke on Faith's part... some seemed more serious... even worried what exactly was in mind here...::
Two days ago, a fox came to the abbey gates. ::"AND A VERY RUDE ONE!" came from somewhere in the crowd of abbeybeasts, raising a little laughter, as Faith let it settle a little, smiling as she continued:: And this fox made many a demand to be seen to, although we couldn't very well do all he asked, we at least provided him with enough food and water to last him a day or two before he went off...
But the main thing was, the main point he thought he could speak with us so 'casually'... was because I'm a fox too.
::Silence now::
Vermin always look down as bullies do at other species, or fear them... and in turn, become angrier, more horrible beasts...
But the abbey has rarely ever had anybeast within considered vermin... and I think, as a fox myself... maybe we might be able to reason with them... some kind of sign of peace, or a gesture to maybe better settle matters of old, and convince them that we can work something out...
::She finally stopped, looking around, almost nervous now, and waited for a moment...:: My thoughts are your thoughts... I'd like everyone to be honest, and tell me how it sounds...
::Even Kusaa, one of Faith's closest friends, seemed to be mulling over all that was said, trying to decide herself... what Faith just listed off was more a dream than an idea, and seemed to have a lot of grey areas unlisted...::
::But really... trust a fox to think up an idea as ambitious as this one...::
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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 4:27 pm
Well, a lot of good that did, Eula thought with a shrug. Oh well, at least the bat was gone for now and wouldn't bother her. Stretching her arms over her head with a yawn, she settled back against the well in her little corner, looking up and listening carefully when Faith called for everyone's attention.
Turan listened to all this in silence, watching as the young Abbess became increasingly nervous as she spoke. He looked around at the others in the Great Hall, and saw many rolled eyes and many secretive grins and some whispering. He noted that the only ones who didn't have something truly negative to say were probably the only ones in the abbey whose opinion really mattered. Of course, he would never vocally acknowledge that there were those in Redwall whose opinions didn't matter... but if you do nothing and had never been part of any real decision... well... it should be clear that you should have little to do with such an undertaking as this.
He began to wish Faith had brought this up to a smaller group before announcing it to the entire abbey. At least then she could've received some constructive opinions on the matter and be better informed to answer criticisms and doubts that were sure to arise. There was already a list of problems growing in his mind, but for his part, he remained silent, waiting to see the reactions of the others.
So let the most opinionated speak first...
Eula set her large book on the floor beside her and, clearing her throat, stood so she could be noticed easier. "Faith, this is rather absurdly wishful thinking, and something to this magnitude would take seasons to accomplish... which is why I guess it's so lucky that you're only... what... ten? Anyhow, you need to take a more structured approach to this. You need to collect the well-informed ones and seek their criticism, because I'm going to be honest - more than half of you-" and she appealed to the Great Hall in general."-will have no idea what you're talking about."
Turan had to lift his cup and take a drink to hide a smirk. Well, at least Eula would always be there to say the things he wouldn't.
"Oh don't even shake your heads at me. You don't think it's possible because you have never been part of something big. That's the problem."
She returned her attention to the little vixen at the head of the table. "There are a lot of problems that have to be smoothed over before you can even consider putting this into the works. But the question is do you really want to stand up there and take all the negative feedback and be completely disheartened on the idea before we can even brainstorm it?"
She was getting so many angry and dirty looks, but hey! Better her get it than the little Abbess.
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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 11:55 pm
Not very smart, was it? ::Faith confessed, at least half smiling now in response::
I guess this felt a little different from other decisions, since it was so big... ::She turned from Eula to everyone:: It's not just my abbey, or an abbey belonging to two or three of us...
I wanted everyone's opinion... good or bad, because if even one beast is against this, I don't want to do it.
This isn't something like Redwall being forced to do something under attack, it's a choice.
I'll speak to a few of you alone afterwards, yes, but at least now, everybeast knows at least what I'm thinking, and we can try and work on it just now...
::She scratched behind her head:: I'm still only a few seasons experienced, and again, I think I'm the only abbess to ever suggest something this big... just now, all I ask is for everybeast to think about it, and what it could mean to others out there in the woods.
::And silence, Faith couldn't tell if it was good or bad, and although for a moment, she may have looked crestfallen, she still put a smile on, as she tapped the staff finally:: Anybeast for seconds?
::And Gem finally reappeared with an inkwell, her wings wilting:: Oh, fiddlesticks, I missed it, didn't I?
~~~~~~~A FEW MORE SATISFIED STOMACHES LATER~~~~~~~~
::Faith only let out a long sigh as she seemed to sink into her chairas the Great Hall began to empty out, bar those kind enough to help the friar and his fellow kitchen helpers clean up, and of course, those who remained to wait and talk with Faith::
::Rosa of course, remained seated with Castor, nodding to Antoine to head off outside and play, whilst Kusaa and Gem stayed very much on either side of her and Faith looked up to see how many hares would remain::
Well... it sounds like the hopes of a dreamer... ::Kusaa finally spoke:: But it's a good dream.
::That at least brightened Faith again:: Thank you.
::Seemed it was open invitation to speak out, as Gem still seemed a little disappointed at actually missing the announcement herself, even if she had already known possibly... Kusaa didn't seem that aware of it, so why would Gem have greater chance of knowing it?::
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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 10:54 am
The old badger, although tired and slightly hungry, was awake when Jasmine came in. He watched the fox he had become so familiar with over the past few months and gave a soft smile. He understood that there was supposedly a large announcement going on today, Woodrow had mentioned something about it. But he could not be there.
"What exactly is that mind of hers suggesting?" he asked softly.
Woodrow entered the infirmary then, his bag of food over his shoulder and a slightly distracted look in his eyes. Before Constantine could tell him to leave, go have a life, and try not to worry so much, he spoke to Jasmine.
"This is all for him, ok? You know how he likes his tea, cold not hot, and with a bit of you-know-what. I'll be back tomorrow..." it seemed to take a lot for him to say this, but he understood better than anyone thought that he couldn't just stay here, be confined to this one room. He turned to the old badger and went to his bedside, leaning over to hug him gently before turning and leaving the infirmary, back to the great hall to hear this announcement of Faith's.
Leave it to Faith to have such a large mind, and an even larger dream. Sasha wouldn't stand up and say it was impossible, because anyone was possible with this abbey. She'd seen it do greater things in the past, and this wasn't too far out of reach. But, that was if everyone seemed to agree on it. But, by the way the abbey sprung up in talking, whispers, and shaking heads, Sasha knew that not everyone in the abbey agreed with Faith's wish for peace.
She wasn't surprised Eula stood up first to speak, and although slightly harsh, she was honest. Sasha decided not to say anything in the case and just went back to eating once the conversation died down. She stayed after the bulk of the abbey left the great hall, sitting beside Seth in silence.
Terra had by then moved to sit beside her brother, who was mulling over what the fox had suggested.
"You're thinking hard."
"Hmm?" he turned to look at his sister, and then nodded, "Yes, I guess so." Silence, and then, "What if we had been apart of the abbey when they attacked?" the two raccoons knew what 'they' was by now, like an unspoken code, "Don't you think it would have turned out a little better?"
"I'm sure it would have. But Ather, this movement, if passed, will take seasons. And a lot of help, which I doubt we're going to get. You heard the commotion the abbey made at the mere suggestion. It's...a dream. A good one, but a dream." she hated being so down about it all, but it was the truth.
Ather stayed quite after that, and evetually got up from the table. he passed the others and went to Faith, bowing his head slightly out of mere respect, "I think it's a good idea, and if the abbey wants it done, it will see to it." he gave a soft smile at that, and turned to leave. He had a badger to see to.
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Jen the Quiet Vice Captain
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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 6:35 am
Donato had entered the Great Hall just as Gem was leaving it and as Faith was beginning her announcement. He had been busy lately since he had begun working with the Dibbuns, but he relished it - finally he had something to do. He slipped quietly out of the way and leaned against a wall as Faith spoke, scanning the room for Eula, Ather, and the others. As he listened to the Abbess, he looked at her incredulously. A village outside the Abbey? Well, talk about a lot of work - but why not?
He listened on... stopping vermin from attacking others for good. He knew why the Abbeybeasts were laughing, but he wanted it too much to think that it was impossible. After all, Faith had a point. Surely, vermin would take a fox more seriously than a typical Abbott.
Donato looked up as Eula spoke. Oh, there she was...
((Will post with Julia later; I'm in study and the bell's gonna ring.))
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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 3:13 pm
It was the usuals who stayed behind to discuss the matter with the young Abbess...
Once the big Great Hall table mostly cleared of Redwallers, Eula took up her book and walked over, taking a seat. Now with the ink bottle Gem had fetched her, she had the book open and was writing in it, though still paying close attention to the conversation. She hoped she hadn't hurt Faith's feelings... the rest of the Redwallers could hate her for all she cared. She was honest. That was all.
She had a leg raised up on her seat, her chin resting on her knee as she was writing. Anyone who leaned over would see rather good handwriting, perhaps loopier and less standardized than the writing of most other Recorders. She would certainly not always be this punctual when writing in the book, but she had the job brand new, and the book was available, so she didn't see any reason not to relate Faith's announcement while it was still fresh in her mind.
Turan had stood and helped stack a lot of the plates and dishes up for the kitchenmouse and his assistants, but did little more than that.
Tannia, having dismissed Tracy to go out and play also stayed behind, leaning forward with her elbows on the table, chin in her paws.
Turan cleared his throat, deciding to speak now. "Well Faith, I think now would be a good time, if you had more specifics in mind, to let us know. It was all rather vague before. Now are you wanting an open village around Redwall, or another outer wall to surround the village? What kind of structures are you expecting to use... are they readily available materials? And do you plan on asking the Woodlanders who will use the village for assistance in building it?"
Thus far, Turan had not stated any criticisms with the idea, but rather was wanting to lay out exactly what they could for now before smoothing out the wrinkles.
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Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 9:51 am
::Instantly, Faith's ears were popped up straight and ready eagerly as she fished into her habit, and yanked out a piece of parchment and an errant bandage she quickly shoved back inside before laying it down on the table, unfolding it giddily::
I copied this from a copy of a Brother John's reproduction of Abbess Germaine's original plans... ::She giggled, secretively proud, although perhaps her spelling needed work... either that or Brother John or Abbess Germaine was responsible for the appearance of backwards 'S'es here and there, and the randomly drawn little stick figures she'd used to illustrate a point or two now and again...::
Open, definitely open... ::She waved a paw:: I don't want ANY beast to feel like we're cooping them in, they're still independent of the abbey, but they're just close enough that they can get inside in a hurry...
::She dabbed a finger, pointing to a red chalk line that pointed off to a little distance...:: And the quarry... where redwall was originally cut from the sandstone, there's plenty there... we can do a double deed!!
Use it to build the houses, and use it to dabble and reinforce any part of the abbey that needs a quick tap!
Burrr oi!!! This'n ole gal, she'sa roight uppity abbey is'n... boi roightly gurd to get sum a' that sandstone in... ::The foremole scratched his forehead:: Nev'r 'ad the roight e'scuse to go nab some tho...
It's maybe a day or two's trek for a good strong team, moles and all on cart... ::Faith continued, smiling especially at the Foremole before looking back:: In that time, we can spread out word among any beast who wishes to come, and we all build it together... Simple houses, two sizes for anybeast who has larger families... enough room for a garden each to grow their own plots...
And, just so they feel safe too... we can make a small tower, like they had when they first built the abbey for signalling to the others and spotting anything a little ways off!
No need for a log horn though like they did, Matthias and Methuselah are older than us all, but they still ring loud and clear... ::She beamed, then looked excitedly back at the others::
I'm still working on it, I know there's a lot more to be done, but, everybeast's ideas are welcome! ::She looked around quickly::
::Faith did not reply, hovering cautiously over Eula's shoulder to get a glimpse of what the hare was writing, trying ever so hard not to make a noise...::
::Rosa seemed to be pondering something however...::
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Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 5:06 pm
Donato slipped into a seat diagonally across from Eula and watched curiously as she wrote. Well that was new. He'd have to ask her about it later.
He leaned forward to take a look at the parchment Faith was unrolling - and had to fake a cough to hide his involuntary snickering. She still wasn't much more than a Dibbun after all.
Donato listened with a smile - so far this sounded good. An open village; he didn't like the idea of cooping anyone up any more than Faith did. But - "The quarry? It must be ages since any Redwaller's been there..." He commented - eyes wide-, with a little wonder and not with an entirely negative attitude.
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Jen the Quiet Vice Captain
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Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 11:54 am
If I'm right... ::Faith looked nostalgically at her encircled area:: That quarry has not since seen a Redwaller since Matthias slew the legendary snake Asmodeus...
There seem to be many places just like it... areas of Mossflower we haven't travelled paw upon are rare and few between... but in all this time, there are many great and significant places we haven't touched in generations!!
The same goes for our own abbey... ::She nodded sagely:: We've modified the old lofts a good long time ago, but there are still many sections unused or untouched, that used to be home to the sparrows of times of old... ::She seemed to lessen herself... almost losing herself to the tales of old, and mourning a little for those creatures, all slain one and all, with none left to tell the tale of the fierce sparrows of Redwall Abbey...::
It's always important to remember where we came from. ::She said, suddenly springing from tales of old to the tail behind her, as she tried to stop the huge brush from wagging about all undignified in her excitement::
::After a brief moment of fighting, she shoved it under herself, and adjusted her seated position a little, happy again, before she pointed back to the map:: Lucky for us, Vermin are right old superstitious beasts... some believe that the ghosts of Asmodeus' and his kind lived on there... didn't hurt when a tribe of foxes living there suddenly had their chief keel over dead, and their shaman declare him killed by the powers that be... actually poisoned him she did, I believe...
But anyway, different story... there should be no vermin at all in that area... they all give it a wide berth... and there's no other creature that lives there of which I've found recorded in our abbey logs, or heard mention from any travellers who've visited us of late... ::She scratched behind her ear thoughtfully, still looking studiously at her drawing, her smile unbelievably proud of what she had came up with, and still, she was unable to hide her trapped tail's waggings in excitement... so far it seemed so good...::
And then... we can go from there I think... ::Her smile seemed to widen even more:: It'll always have room to grow!
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Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 12:06 pm
Eula lifted her gaze momentarily to look over and nod a little in greeting to Donato before returning to her writing. After a few minutes she stopped writing and set her quill down, looking up to pay attention to the conversation. Then she stood up and walked over to Faith, leaning over the fox's shoulder to glance over the map. "I don't know Faith, do you think one trip will be enough? We can't send everyone and I don't think one cart will be enough to hold the supplies to build an entire village and reinforce they abbey walls."
"Plus," and Eula lifted a paw, pointing to Redwall, then tracing it along the map northeast to the quarry. "Like you said, there's little to no activity there, and no Redwallers have gone there in generations. There's no beaten path there. A great majority of the trip would be through somewhat thick woodlands. Also, there's a river," and she indicated it there on the map, "right before the quarry. We've no idea if there's a bridge there or not. I say we ask Whisper or Kusaa to fly the area and see if there is a reasonable path. Either way, a day or two's trek might be a hopeful estimate. But like you said, might be pulled off by a strong team."
She backed off a bit now, done adding in her two cents yet again.
Turan was sitting back in his chair, listening quietly. When Eula was done speaking, he had another question. "How quickly are you wanting to start? If you wanted my opinion, I would at least wait until early Autumn. I don't want to be sending a group out on a trip to do some strenuous work during the hottest part of the year."
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Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 12:39 pm
Exactly! ::Faith laughed so suddenly and excitedly that even Gem yelped and flapped backward, as her bubble of excitement burst open and her arms waved about in the air as if she were ready to take to the air::
By announcing it so early, we have time to do ALL of this!! ::She looked around each and every single beast, eyes full of shining hope:: We can plan, ask the Logalog to help us find suitable points in the river, get a path ready, and organise how many teams can work on this!!!
::She suddenly giggled:: Also lets' us plan out our kitchen stock... I imagine we'll need to get a little more than usual this year...
::She suddenly looked very cosy:: And with a little luck... everybeast can be moved into the first houses nice and comfy for winter!
::Her tail suddenly freed itself, wiggling back and forth like a rabid snake in a frenzy as she looked around quickly:: How's that sound!?
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Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 12:49 pm
During all this commotion, Woodrow had quietly excused himself back into the great hall, not quite sure why everyone was gone but not letting that phase him. Turan was there, along with Tannia and Seth and the others, so it mustn't be that closed off of a topic? Although, he did keep to the back, sitting down there as large ears twitched at the voices.
"It all sounds like a good plan, Faith." Sasha spoke up, "Really, it does. But-" there was always a but, "-not everybeast has a heart as big as yours. They're lives are going well enough, why would they want them changed? It's sad, but most beasts don't care about anything but their own selves." perhaps that was a bit harsh, but it was somewhat true.
"We could do it, but it might take some time without the full support of the abbey." They hoped it could be done by winter, but hope only got you so far.
"Stop being so negative, Sasha. It's entirely possible, and I'm sure the abbey would help out. They're reasonable people." Seth was probably the only creature still left that would talk back to Sasha. He had seen her without defenses, she wasn't all that scary.
But this didn't mean she wouldn't retort, "Have you spoken with all the creatures in the abbey, Seth? Can you speak for all of them, really?"
"No, I haven't, but the majority I do know are kind and reasonable beings that would lend a paw when and if needed."
"But wouldn't it require a lot more than just a majority? This is their home, we're talking about. Everyone needs to agree before it's done."
"Yes, but-"
This could go on for ages.
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Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 1:46 pm
::Faith quickly moved in to settle the piece::
They're Redwallers.
Helping other beasts less fortunate is something we've always done, and THAT will never change... ::She beamed a little proudly, almost patriotic if you will of the abbey:: Some beasts may be a little inclined a LITTLE scepticism... ::She scratched behind an ear:: After all, it's a big undertaking...
But with a little time... they'll come through.
It's in our nature. ::She smiled brightly:: Can't do nothing to stop that...
So give them a little time, we'll bring it up after we've planned a little more, given them a schedule and how it would be laid out... by tonight everybeast will be talking about the plan... talking about the good and bad...
By tomorrow I'll be answering questions left right and center of Sister Anne's... always was the gossip hog of the abbey... could talk until she lifted the ceiling off... ::She giggled, but then stopped, clearing her throat::
A little more time, and I know they'll look at it a little better with time to think.
Abbess' honor! ::She raised her paw solemnly swearing::
And now... ::She sighed, tucking away the drawing:: I have a sick badger to deliver some pudding too... ::She grinned widely:: We can meet again tomorrow, agreed?
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Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 2:15 pm
Who: Eula, Ura and Donato
Where: Dreamland
What: Midnight chat with the dead. Same old thing.
Eula: Well, that was an interesting day. A new job and a new massive project to look forward to. Clutching her newly acquired book to her chest, she meandered off to bed after having said goodnight to Donato after their almost routine night-time walk around talking about nothing.
Yawning, Eula slipped into her room, setting the book on the nightstand by her bed. She dressed down into a light-weight night gown and cracked her window open a little, hoping for some breeze from the darkness. Blowing out the candle by her bed, she climbed into bed and laid on top of the covers, too warm to pull them over her. She closed her eyes, yawning again, and soon fell asleep.
Ura: ::As night drew onward, a small, soft breeze filled the warmth of the air outside, working its way and easing over the abbey as it seemed to travel through every errant crack and opening, everywhere at once it looked, until it found one window that was... and finally, the breeze entered Eula's room, twisting and furling, until it could reach her, a familiar voice, whispering softly in an ear:: Wake up, Eula.
:And there before her, was not the same room she'd fell asleep in, nor the bed, but the forests, and a field of grass before a crackling fire, with one very familiar fox behind it, leaning forward on his old swords to peer at her over its licking flames, but no smile as usual he would show, and neither did his brilliant blue eyes show as much life - which was probably acceptable when one considered the irony of the idea:: It's been a while. ::He said, a little flatly::
Eula: One of those long ears twitched irritably, and she rolled over, her arms stretching. "I'm still tired..." Eula mumbled, snuggling her head into her pillow and lifting her arms over her head. When she heard the voice again, she jolted 'awake' to find herself in a semi-familiar area. She panicked momentarily, wondering why she wasn't in her bed. Standing, ready to bolt, it occurred to her just quickly enough what was going on. She looked around, her eyes landing on Ura. "I... I, um..." she was still looking around her. She would never get used to this off dream world. "Yeah, it has," she finally said, returning her attention to the fox. He seemed a little... dull?
Ura: :He smiled... but still it had no spark, as he gently patted the log he sat on, moving up an inch as if to make the invitation more noticeable:: Hope you'll forgive us all upstairs... we get a little caught up in things too often to come as often, except when necessary... ::But his smile finally seemed to crack open:: But what was it you said, hmm? When I handed you that sword before I left you and Donato? ::His smile grew into a mischievous grin as he watched her for her reaction::
Eula: Eula blinked a couple times, still just standing there as she watched the fox. She wondered momentarily what was bothering Ura. When he went on talking, she brushed it off. When he brought up Donato, Eula smirked. Of course, that WOULD be what he wanted to talk about. Silly fox. She answered his question coyly. "I don't recall actually saying anything. It was something like 'er, okay...'" and Eula mimicked looking very embarrassed and generally uncomfortable.
Ura: ::And with that, he laughed out loud, raising a paw to pat her enthusiastically on the back:: Well, congratulations, girl, Ayla's been watching the both of you almost on end up there for a season or two!! Goodness me... ::He sighed, shaking his head, and then, slowly, his grin began to fade:: Although... I have to say I'm here on slightly more formal business than I'd have liked it to be... can you guess?
Eula: Eula stared at Ura for a few moments. Whatever the fox had to say now, it probably was not going to be happy news. She decided to go ahead and take his invitation to sit. She sat on the log and put her arms across her knees. "No I don't.... I don't know. Things have been going very well around here lately. I can't imagine that... you'd have anything to say," she said blankly. Usually when Ura had bad news for her, she already knew a bit about it beforehand, but now she looked thoroughly confused.
Ura: Faith's announcement. ::He said simply, letting her take it from there again, as he took his twin swords in one paw to begin carving out something in the soft earth before them...::
Eula: "Oh, well.... yeah. She brought it up during lunch today. Wants to build a village around Redwall. I could see it happening. Perhaps not all as easy as she seems to think it will... but we can make it happen..." Eula tapered off, watching Ura, still in confusion. What was he not saying?
Ura: Did Faith mention something in her speech about the Mossflower vermin at all? ::He was drawing this out a lot more than usual, for some reason, he was being even more cryptic than usual... and whenever he did that, the realisations brought about often ended up being a little more than easy to stomache... this wasn't something he could just come out and tell her...::
Eula: "Um..." Eula fell silent for a minute, thinking back on the conversation they had all had during lunch. "Well, she said there shouldn't be any vermin around the quarry, because... they're superstitious and wary of it or something. Why?" Eula was pressing Ura to just spit it out. Perhaps being tactful was a nice trait to have, but Eula didn't like to be strung along pointlessly.
Ura: ::Ura took a deep sigh, but then looked at Eula square on, jaw set tight as he seemed to think of his response for a good moment or two before presenting it, trying to think how best to present it:: There are rules about what we can and can't say from beyond... and all I may tell you myself, is that Faith is about to start something, something larger than your abbey has ever seen, and I do NOT mean the expansion... she's about to cause trouble, and trouble of the worst kind it is...
Eula: Eula's eyebrows drew together as she stared at Ura. What on EARTH was the fox talking about? She wasn't sure if warning her of trouble so vaguely could possibly be any help. "You've completely lost me. What great trouble could she possibly stir up by slapping up some huts around the abbey? I'm confused. The plan is just to go to quarry, get the materials we need, and return and set to work building. It'll mostly be done within the shadow of our own abbey... except traveling to the quarry. But that's no great thing when we have it organized."
Ura: ::He took a deep breath, seeming just as agitated, if not more frustrated than her, from his own inability to tell her further:: I'm no good at making riddles or songs that can give you all the clues Eula... but just trust me when I say Faith is about to shake the largest bee's hive you've ever seen by what she's going to soon do... ::He looked straight at her and took a deep breath again:: You remember what she said about being able to reason with vermin, don't you?
The story of the fox outside the abbey trying to get in because he heard a fox was abbess... ::He elaborated...::
Eula: "Well, I thought that part was kind of ridiculous. While we can protect Woodlanders from vermin, we can't reform vermin. That's just a little farfetched. But she'll forget about that when the building project starts taking shape. As long as we focus on building and keeping the creatures in Mossflower safe, there shouldn't be a problem."
Eula just seemed a little more frustrated at Ura's less-than-helpful example. "What?"
Ura: ::He looked away, scowling for a moment:: Never mind that, just a reminder... ::But something...:: This is a very important point... because Faith is going to do something... ::And suddenly, thunder rolled, a crackle and flash of lightning burst from the sky as Ura looked at the sky, even angrier than before now:: More I can't say... Just watch Faith for us, alright? ::He looked at Eula, his anger fleeing for desperation:: This is VERY important...Whichever course she takes, you HAVE to be with her... because she will make a decision... she WILL cause something unless you're there to watch out for her... when the time comes... you'll know it.
Eula: Eula frowned, her eyes still fixed on Ura in confusion and frustration. She jumped a little, ears tilting back as she looked at the flashing sky. "I... I guess I could do that..." Eula said, looking defeated. She was so confused and didn't know what else to do but agree. But how was Ura so sure she'd know what to do whenever Faith made her... decision? Eula actually seemed distraught, more so than usual. While she was never particularly happy when something bad was coming, she at least reveled in the idea of having something important to do. But now... she liked things the way they were. She had actually fallen into the peaceful pattern of Redwall comfortably and now that it sounded like something might change that, she was nervous.
Ura::Finally, slowly, his expression softened as he nodded at her, one paw gently on her shoulder as his blue eyes looked at hers with a new warmth of hope...:: And that, my dear, is all any of us will ever ask of you... I know- ::He stopped... and his eyes turned to the fire, and beyond it, as his jaw set even further, tighter at the sight before them...::
Martin: ::There now, a warrior mouse stood, tall and strong, armored, armed and bearing his helm, a flowing cape, a sight to gape, his voice had a story to tell...::
The eye is an eye until it's spoken.
The abbey is an abbey until it's broken.
A gift from afar,
A vixens token
Will light the way, a guiding star
In the darkest hour, a chance you'll see.
A fallen angel from her tree,
One wing white, one wing black
A quest to set her free
In the sandstone find the key
You, You alone hold it
There is no time to stand or sit
Run, run from the opening pit
And the lantern, may it be lit.
From beneath you, it devours.
::And then, nothing, as the forest around them collapsed into mist, leaving only her and Ura left...::
Ura ::The fox's eyes set tight, and his maw held tight and silent...::
Eula: Ugh, what was WRONG with her? Why, instead of some little thrill of excitement at some new adventure did she just feel completely overwrought at the idea of something messing up her peaceful little lifestyle? What had happened to her, really? She had lived for danger, for walking on the darkest side of things. But now she wished everything would just leave Redwall alone.
She let out a breath, seeming lost in her own thoughts until the mouse appeared. Blinking rapidly, she sat up straight and fixated her attention on it, soaking in the words like a sponge. Though she couldn't make heads or tails of it, she knew the rhyme would stay imprinted on her mind like a brand. When the mouse disappeared, she frowned again, even more confused. How had such a simple, optimistic thought as building around Redwall come crumbling down to something do foreboding? She looked to Ura, not knowing what to say.
Ura: ::Slowly he looked up, to her once more, and he tried to crack a smile, his words simple and short:: We know how serious it is when HE shows up, don't we?
Eula: Ura would have to forgive Eula is she couldn't quite muster up a smile in return. She had drawn her legs up and wrapped her arms around her legs, looking like a small child again as she fell silent, into her own thoughts. She nodded vaguely. "Why is this happening? Why now? Can't things just stay the way they are, for once?"
Ura: ::He stood there for a moment or two more... before slowly joining her, seating down aside her on the non-existent world around them, as the mists turned and twisted slowly around them in a never ending flow that drifted forever onward:: I know it's not nice... and I know it's not fair... but... ::He seemed to fall upon his own words:: There will always be those who feed off of others... and there will always be there to shield those creatures... and somewhere in that logic, it stands that the two must clash to hold their ideals... Redwall is a shining light, that draws many, good or bad, creatures will always come, but the abbey has stood forever now, has it not? ::He placed both paws on her shoulders this time::
Eula: Eula only nodded a little, not replying for a long while. She had rested her chin there on her knees, staring blankly out at the swirling mists while she listening to Ura. Eventually, she ducked her head a little, to rub her forehead, then sat back up. She was a little annoyed at herself, taking this all the way she was. "Yeah, yeah I know... I always knew that. Just different..." She paused, and shook her head. "I don't know. It's not different. Five seasons didn't turn me into a coward, really it didn't. I don't know what, but it's just different. I don't want things to be like this anymore."
Ura ::Ura thought a little more before speaking again, always keeping at least one eye on her, if only at a glance as he stared into the mist:: Eula, I promise you, with all I can do... make it through this, and I swear on my own grave... very few beasts can actually do that... if you make it through this, it WILL be easier... but it's up to you and every other beast at that abbey, alright?
Donato: : biggrin onato walked into view, looking a little disoriented. He stopped when he saw Eula and Ura, looking surprised. He shook his head with a faint smile and spoke.:: "Er, hullo everyone." ::What was the appropriate greeting for this sort of situation?
Ura ::Ura looked up quickly, almost a little disorientated himself, as if not expecting the new arrival here as he held his jaw for a moment, and then stood fully, trying to get a smile on in time, but not quite enough:: Well, here is the hare of the hour!
Eula: Eula dropped her legs from her seated position on the log and sat up a bit, not wanting to look as pouty as she did before. She blinked in surprise at the sight of Donato. She looked in confusion to Ura. "He's allowed to be here again?" She didn't sound in the least upset by this. Just... surprised.
Ura: Well... as you've seen... ::He simply shrugged, a bemused look genuinely on his face now:: We have others watching this meeting... so it seems as though someone wants BOTH of you here for this... Although, who can I blame them not to split up a couple? ::He grinned mischievously again::
Donato: "What d'you mean, what's going on? I-" :: Donato stopped, grinning wryly.:: "Enjoying this?"
Eula: "Of course he is," Eula replied with a smirk. "Just like everyone else did two seasons ago. He's mighty proud of himself, too, you know." The haremaid seemed to brighten up at least, not knowing if it was because of Donato showing up or the change of topic in general.
Ura: Still got my sword somewhere? ::He asked, all proud of himself as Eula pinned it, hardly alike what he had been moments ago as he tried to push the subject more for the two of them to talk::
Donato: :: Donato looked up, surprised. It was in a trunk at the foot of his bed, but he certainly didn't use it. He'd all but forgotten it over the course of seasons.:: "Sure, it's in my dormitory."
Eula: Eula grinned as she looked over at Donato. "Well, at least you won't hurt yourself with it." She looked over at Ura and shook her head. "I don't know if he even knows the right end to hold." Eula blinked. "Me? Oh, mine is up on pegs on my wall."
Ura: Well... glad to see I still have something left to give you back in the real world... ::He rubbed under his chin and finally grinned again...:: Those were actually an advance wedding present I must admit.
Donato: "Ha ha. Thanks very much, Ura." :: Donato replied drily.:: "So what's going on?" ::He asked, changing the subject:: "I'm not sure, but I don't think you'd've done all this-" ::he gestured around at the landscape:: "just to tease Eula and me."
Eula: Eula had grinned and rolled her eyes a little at Ura's comment, turning to Donato to see his reaction. Haha, changing the topic... but it was a topic she didn't want to talk about. She preferred Ura teasing them about their relationship than his 'news' that.... was bad? Death, doom and despair basically.
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Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 11:22 am
Who: Eula, Donato, Payton and Shaftin
Where: In and around Redwall
What: Eula's father and brother drop by for a visit.
Eula: Eula was up on the ramparts in the late afternoon, perhaps a little ill-advised with the hot summer sun, but there was a good breeze flowing around the Wood that day. She had managed to dodge making the 'crazy' list amongst the Redwallers again - though she assumed that was because she left out the part of the dream about Ura. Martin the Warrior coming to speak in dreams...sure! But a fox? Perish the thought. She let out a slow breath, trying to enjoy the temporary calm and ease the foreboding feeling clouding her thoughts. She was looking around the ground around the abbey, lost in her own thoughts as the village began to take shape in her mind. Would it ever really happen?
Donato: Donato had come out of the Abbey to get some air and clear his head. The lines of the riddle were drumming through his head, taunting him. Ura's warning to Eula also vexed him. What was Faith about to do that Eula had to stop her? He couldn't imagine the little fox coming up with any plan that would ultimately lead to the destruction of Redwall. He ran a paw over his face and looked upwards - to catch sight of Eula on the ramparts. He smiled a bit. No surprise there.... He headed for the stairs and made his way towards her to catch up.
Eula: Eula wasn't paying any attention, not hearing Donato's approach. She was obviously deep in thought, her gaze down below, her eyes unfocused. When close enough, she could be heard mumbling to herself every now and then. "In the darkest hour, a chance you'll see... a fallen angel from her tree..." Eula hadn't had to study the piece of paper she'd written... the riddle was burned into her memory from the very moment it'd been recited to her, and with it there at the foremost of her mind, she couldn't help but recite it even when she tried hard to push the thoughts away for now.
Donato: Donato walked up to her slowly, hearing her mumbling. He frowned a little and touched her arm. "You alright?" He asked quietly, looking at her face.
Eula: Eula looked a little startled but didn't jump. She blinked hard and turned to Donato with a somewhat confused look on her face. It passed quickly, and she smiled. "Yeah, no, I'm fine..." she wondered momentarily why he looked so worried, then she frowned. "Oh... er. It's just stuck in my head." Literally. It was plaguing her... she could not stop thinking about the riddle... implanted as it was on the foremost of her mind. "Has anyone come up with anything?" She asked lightly, as if she wasn't really interested in an answer.
Donato: Donato wasn't fooled - but it was understandable. They had just found out that their lives of the past five years were going to be torn apart. He smiled sympathetically as he leaned against the rampart looking down at the future site of the village. "Not that I know of." He replied, shrugging. "I know what you mean. It's a lot to take." And probably much more for Eula, the one who had actually seen and heard Martin.
Eula: Eula nodded a little and didn't reply for a bit. She didn't want to have to pretend this all wasn't bothering her... she knew she didn't have to... but she was so used to being the collected one. Well... in some ways. With Donato leaning on the ramparts beside her, she moved a little closer and rested her head against his shoulder. "I don't really know what's bothering me more... knowing that something bad is going to happen... or NOT knowing what exactly the bad thing IS. It's nerve-wracking. At least if I just knew, I could be prepared... know what to do. But it's just... it's like I just have to wait for everything to go wrong before I can fix it."
Donato: Donato tilted his head to look down at her face. "I know, I half wish it would just happen already so we'd know what we were dealing with." He looked back out over the ramparts. "But look at it this way - they wouldn't have given you a clue that you'd only understand when it was too late, right? So whenever this thing happens, we'll still have time to do something about it." I think. The poem had sounded pretty ominous.
Eula: Eula nodded a little, not saying anything. Perhaps best just to not think about it for awhile. She closed her eyes, not necessarily because she was tired... but it just shut out the world for a little bit, helped her relax....
Visitors?: It was difficult to discern through the hazy day, with the breeze pulling up the dust and sand from the path and wafting it in the hot, heavy air, but it looked like someone was walking up the path in the distance. Or... two figures? As they moved closer, it was easier to tell that there was indeed two creatures approaching the abbey, but it was too hard to tell who they were.
Donato: Donato stood for a little while with Eula's head on his shoulder, quiet as he looked from her to the silent expanse before them. As he squinted in the bright sunlight, he eventually noticed the pair coming towards them. On edge from recent events, he was immediately nervous. Keeping his voice level, he shifted his weight and nudged Eula. "Looks like we have company."
Eula: Obviously this news wasn't comforting to Eula either. She popped her head up, alarmed, and looked down across the path. Her face had paled and her body tensed when Donato had spoken. However, now when she looked across, she slowly seemed to relax. There was only two of them. How had she let that scare her so? What happened to her... when she used to rush into a group a vermin without batting an eye? Now that she was even older, and even better trained, the thought of a real conflict actually intimidated her. She let out a slow sigh, squinting her eyes. "Oh... there's only two of them," the relief in her voice was evident.
Visitors: They came more and more into focus as they approached... one tall, one shorter... and then, drawing closer still, their forms could be recognized, especially with those long ears...
Donato: So far... Donato thought. Still, Eula's relief was contagious, and the hare watched the two approach with curiosity. As they grew closer, Donato squinted again, trying to make them out. He smiled when he saw the ears and glanced at Eula with raised eyebrows.
Eula: Eula blinked a couple times. "Oh," she laughed a little. "Just a couple hares." And she had turned to leave the ramparts and head to the gatehouse. She paused though, a confused look on her face for a moment. She turned back around slowly and looked back at the approaching figures. She gasped in disbelief, though not displeased sounding.
Visitors: The two hares were easier to see now. The taller one, a strong older hare with a regimental tunic on. The shorter, a lanky young hare not even in his teenseasons.
Donato: Donato smiled at Eula's reaction. If that hadn't been enough to tell him she knew the newcomers, he was pretty sure he recognized the older hare. He glanced at her surprised figure - "That's your dad?" He peered at them again. "Is the younger one Payton?" He grinned.
Eula: Eula leaned over the ramparts a little, as if she didn't believe her eyes. She had realized it was her father, but it took Donato's second question for her to avert her attention to the shorter hare to realize it was actually her brother. "Oh my gosh!" She laughed, and turned and ran across the ramparts, hurrying down the stairs. She darted across the grounds, rushing into the gatehouse. Her paws were shaking so much in excitement that she was having difficulty unlatching the main gate that led out to the path.
Donato: "Guess so," Donato laughed, jogging along after her. He caught up to her at the gate. He noticed her struggling with the latch and laughed again. "Here, I'll get it," he offered reaching up to help.
Eula: Eula grinned a little and nodded, stepping back. She shook her paws out a bit. "Sorry, need to calm down. I can't believe they're here! How amazing is that? I haven't seen them in forever!" Since they had left Salamandastron after the big battle with the scorpions actually. She hadn't seen them in five seasons. Wow... such a long time. She couldn't even believe it.
Donato: Donato grinned in response, working the latch. "I know, five seasons.... Payton got big." He commented. Then he felt like an old granny and chuckled. Well! He swung the gate open.
Eula: Eula smiled and had to stop dancing around on her footpaws, acting like a child, all excited. She eyed Donato's paws however, antsy, and he seemed to be taking forever! "Thanks!" she was able to spare him before she slipped out the gate and when running down the path.
Payton: "Hey, it's Eula!" said Payton, the young hare had certainly grown. He had on a blue tunic, a belt around his thin waist, sporting a bright silver latch of a running hare - the insignia of the Long Patrol. He also had a small dagger sitting on his hip. He waved enthusiastically.
Eula: "I can't believe you're here!" Eula nearly squealed in excitement when she came up to the two, running up to hug her father.
Shaftin: Shaftin had stopped walking when he saw Eula, and had let her run up to him. He lifted her clear off her footpaws in a hug, laughing. He kissed the top of her head and spun her around once. "Look at you! You're all grown up."
Payton: "She's still short," Payton decided to point out.
Donato: "You're... welcome." Donato answered Eula's disappearing form. He smiled and followed after her slowly. He caught up just in time to hear Payton's comment. He smiled. "Hullo again!"
Eula: Eula stuck her tongue out at Payton when Shaftin set her back down. Yes, she was all grown up. Of course, a look of disbelief crossed her face when she realized she was almost looking eye-to-eye with her little brother. She pulled him into a hug.
Payton: Payton hugged her back shortly, but soon wiggled out. "All right, all right, " he said shrugging her off. He smiled a little and then his grey eyes shifted to Donato. "Oh, you're still friends with her?" He asked blankly. There didn't seem to be any surprise or any kind of resentment in his voice... he was just stating it.... because he actually recognized Donato.
Eula: Eula's eyes had lowered, training on Payton's silver buckle with consternation. But the expression passed and she returned her attention to her father.
Shaftin: Shaftin nodded at Donato, smiling warmly. He held a paw out in greeting. "Hello, good to see you again. How are you?"
Donato: Donato just smiled again. "Yes, yes I am." He, too, blinked when he saw Eula and Payton standing next to each other. How much time had gone by! He shook his head in disbelief before turning to Shaftin. He shook his paw warmly. "Fine, fine." Well, he personally was fine... "Good to see you, sir. How are you?" He smiled.
Eula: Eula watched the exchange between them with a grin, glad that her father and boyfriend seemed to get along well. Okay, so she was a little disappointed that she didn't get to watch Donato squirm. She decided to just go ahead and get it out there. "Dad, Donato and I are together now."
Shaftin: "Oh?" He asked, looking between them. He wasn't sure what to say. What was the right fatherly thing to do at this point? And how long had they even been together? Whatever was going to come out of his mouth next was going to be really lame. "That's... good." Yup. Lame. What was he supposed to say?
Payton: "Ugh," Payton rolled his eyes, groaning. "I'm not hungry anymore."
Donato: "Oh! Right, yeah..." He hadn't thought to mention it. And now that it was out there, he wasn't sure what to say. Hm, where do you go with that? "Well... um, how about we head inside?" He offered cheerily.
Eula: Eula grinned at that. "Oh, right, yeah?" Eula mimicked Donato. "Did it just slip your mind there?" She queried playfully, teasing him. She turned and nodded to her father. "Yes, let's go avoid an awkward situation," she said, translating Donato's suggestion.
Payton: "Yeah... hold on, let me go upchuck in the bu-" Payton turned to walk over to some nearby bushes, but Shaftin caught him by the back of his tunic and dragged him over.
Shaftin: "I'll make sure you get right to bed when we get in, rest that stomach of yours."
Payton: Payton knew when he'd lost. "I was just joking."
Eula: Eula shook her head little. "All right, come on," she said with a motion of her head, going off to lead the others back into the abbey.
Donato: "Heh, heh... maybe." Donato said with exaggerated embarrassment. "Sure sounds like a plan, doesn't it?" He watched Payton's antics and had a fleeting sense of gratitude that he had never had siblings. He could only grin as the young hare was shot down by his father. He was remembering how he had liked Eula's dad when he met him.
Payton: "Eula!" Payton hailed her. "I'll race you back," he said, a mischievous look on his face.
Eula: Eula turned around and met her little brother's devious grin. She looked at the young hare's lanky figure, and wondered how much he could back up the expression on his face. "You're on," Eula said, using her footpaw to draw a line in the dirt.
Payton: Payton hurried over to the line eagerly, stooping into a runner's stance, watching Eula in anticipation. "Dad, count us off," he called back.
Shaftin: Shaftin shook his head a little, but obliged his children. "All right. Ready... set... go!"
Eula and Payton: They were gone in an instant.
Shaftin: Shaftin watched the two for a moment, then returned his attention to Donato. "Your feelings won't be hurt if I don't ask for a race, right?"
Donato: "I think I'll get over it." He looked after the two. "Who d'you think wins?" He'd never seen Eula lose a race, but Payton looked like he might beat her.
Shaftin: Shaftin shook his head, shrugging. "I honestly have no idea. Eula's always been fast. But Payton's the quickest of the leveret runners in the Long Patrol. Let's go find out," he said, walking in the swirl of dust the siblings had kicked up behind them.
Donato: Donato nodded, following. "Anyway, what brings you both out here?" The prospect of walking back to the Abbey in silence was a bit awkward for Donato's liking, so he decided to try to keep the conversation going as they followed in Eula and Payton's wake.
Shaftin: "Long overdue for a visit, "Shaftin replied, which was true enough. I need to catch up with Eula. And also, Payton's going to be a scout soon and he's interested in being one for Mossflower... so I thought now would be as good a time as any to let him visit."
Eula: "Ha! I win!" Eula exclaimed, and perhaps her tone would've been slightly more victorious if she wasn't currently leaned up against the frame of the main gate, panting for air.
Payton: "Oh, it was so... close!" Payton said breathlessly, arms bent over his head - a technique he'd leaned to get his breath back quickly and comfortably.
Eula: "Please, you ate my dust!" Eula said, still breathing quickly, paws on her knees.
Payton: "Nuh-uh! Plus I had a long trip here, I was tired," Payton said in a whiny voice. He lowered his arms, not sounding exhausted anymore.
Eula: Eula blinked. She hadn't considered that. She decided not to gloat anymore.
Donato: Donato nodded in response to Shaftin's answer. He looked over at the two siblings at the gate with raised eyebrows. "Well, congratulations Eula. You have competition, I see." He smirked a bit. Nevermind that he could never hope to keep up with Eula in a race.
Payton: "I'll beat her next time," Payton assured, walking past a still-panting Eula into the gatehouse.
Eula: Eula watched him walk by, shaking her head. She stood up straight and looked over at her father. "When did he learn to do that?" She asked, bewildered.
Shaftin: He smiled. "Runs in the family I guess. He nearly had you. Just wait until he's taller than you," he said with a laugh.
Payton: Payton popped his head back out. "I really was joking before... I'm hungry," he said with a frown. He looked at Donato as if he would wait on Payton for everything he needed.
Shaftin: Shaftin walked in and prodded Payton along to keep walking. "Be polite."
Donato: "We'll probably be eating soon; otherwise I'm sure we can get Jude to fix you both something." Donato offered, directing the response more at Shaftin than at Payton. He wasn't completely oblivious. He paused to wait while Eula caught her breath. "You okay?" He asked with a smile.
Shaftin: "Thank you," Shaftin said, nodding at Donato. He led Payton out onto the grounds. Apparently he'd been here before, he didn't hesitate when he walked off a bit.
Eula: Eula looked up at Donato and smirked. "Yes, I'm fine. I still won." She turned and pulled the gate shut, latching it. She turned back to Donato and gave one last breath, finished panting for air. "I think that's the last time I'll ever beat him in a race," she said somewhat sadly. How had he grown so much, and how had he come so close to BEATING her?
"Anyhow, I'm hungry, too. Let's go grab something to eat before everyone in Cavern Hole with the riddle comes up to bother me."
Donato: "Sounds like a good idea," he agreed, remembering reality again. "We'll go see Jude." He started walking back inside.
Eula: Eula followed Donato out, meeting up with her father and brother. "We'll go grab something to eat... I'll just go ask Jude to get us something."
Shaftin: "Oh, no need to inconvenience him," Shaftin began, frowning a little. He had a grip on Payton's shoulder, afraid the young hare would go running off on his own.
Payton: His eyes were wide in curiosity, looking all around the abbey, obviously itching to go and explore this new place.
Donato: Donato shook his head, smiling a bit. "Oh, it's alright. He likes Eula, he won't mind." Jude and Donato had gotten to be pretty good friends in the past five seasons; the mouse usually gave him a hard time in the kitchen for good measure, though. "There's always something in the kitchens that's ready to eat, it seems like." He had to smile at the younger hare's expression. It only renewed his own affection for his home. At the same time, that thought stung at the moment.
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