Tyiva is a very devoted alkidike who has proven herself quite capable in the realms of fighting. Any task which is given to her has been accomplished pretty easily and quickly. She’s efficient in the fact that she’ll study for hours upon hours until she achieves the task at hand. Her devotion to her family is strong and her pride in the Alkidike race is fervent. Being raised by a group of Alkidikes who stay around Chibale to hunt and to guard has taught her that devotion/loyalty to each other, especially to those who earn her trust, is essential to surviving the harsh world.
As she grows it’ll give her a motherly feel for any companions she may gain. It is her nature after all to take care of her companions and to make certain that they are comfortable. While she does wish to see others grow and may turn her back on occasion (only for her to watch them in secret as they set upon some task “alone”) in the end Tyiva will be the one there to quietly bandage and help set any wounds. In that moment she will have a rather kind and caring expression before offering a hint of advice (or even chastising) here and there for any future attempts.
For those who do not know her well, however, it may seem that she’s a bit stand offish and arrogant. Her solemn features are rare to show a smile (as she takes things often way too seriously) and she’s one to miss a joke at times. Outsiders may see her as another arrogant Alkidike because of her dedication to her sisters, but honestly she just believes they are the most capable race as it was how she was raised. Nothing is wrong with others, but the Alks are the best warriors in her heart. This of course includes herself as she attempts to stand tall against any earthling and will often raise to any challenge they present her.
However, the truth is that she can become easily flustered when provoked. Her temper especially is loose whenever someone threatens a dear one or dares to insult her sisters. For that Tyiva may be enticed to start a brawl or two…
She also is good at breaking down after heart wrenching tales or also good at jumping from shadows once someone spooks her…
When caught in the act (basically if she’s called out and she finally fails a challenge or if someone knows something which scares her or if someone confronts her about losing her temper for example) she does indeed become easily flustered. Once her mask of a solemn Alkidike warrior drops the girl can actually be quite sweet and prone to stuttering about. Ghost stories in particular are a weakness (quite honestly shadows are what make her the most skittish after a good tale has been told) and a key way to see her get flustered. After all, how can one fight that which they know nothing about? If her blades won’t pierce ethereal figures, then she truly is wary!
History
Raised by a pair of sisters who worked as a unit with many others, Tyiva has always known love and the bond of warriors. Yet she was strange because while other children may have offered to play this youngling had a stern expression which for its own part made others her age wary. So instead of playing about and exploring the area Tyiva focused on studies and on following around her mothers (save for when they had to leave her behind due to dangerous hunts). Studies of how her sisters hunted and what duties would be ahead for her. As she grew she would continue to practice with the training ‘blades’ gifted to her as an apprentice and would hope that one day her own blades would be given to her so that she could quickly move up into the ranks of warriors.
After all her intention of life was to take over her mothers’ role in protecting Chibale Island. Something about the island enchanted her and to venture close to their ‘mother’, Aisha, touched her spirit. Even as she grew older Tyiva would stay dedicated and she became a guard for the mystic in training. Her role though expanded into an exploration of the open world as she brought knowledge about the earthling lands back home to Danika and over time she found herself falling in love with an earthling. Once the battle with the Dretch was over, Tyiva settled in Oba with her lover and they now have three children together as blessed by Aisha.
Dual Blades can be inspired by inspiration 3 or by either of these images. CC on exact design! [Dual Blades 1] and [Dual Blades 2]
Basically just wears Oban clothing, mixed with a bit of tribal flare if wanted for her Alkidike heritage. Her dreads can be similar to last stage but slightly longer, up to the artist on the exact style. Have fun with her! heart
Body Type: Slender with lean muscles. Slightly curvier than before. Preferred Artists: Kana Full or w/Tasi and Ely Colors or Scar full or w/Tasi or Ely colors WIPs: Sure!
Physical Description: Tyiva has cut her dreads so that they're much shorter than before. The style can be somewhat like this with beads / gold bands incorporated into her hair? [Dreads]
Please take inspiration from the below ideas for her outfit, CC on exact design. She prefers loose, light clothing and can have Oban / Alkidike inspiration added to the overall outfit. So feel free to change up her current accessories/jewelry to give her some Oban inspired ones if wanted. Maybe a sash/rope accessory and even goldenarmbands? If she could have at least something with a lotus on it that would be amazing. x3
[Inspiration 1] // [Inspiration 2 - minus gloves] // [Inspiration 3] Body Type: Slender with lean muscles. Slightly more petite than most of her kind. Preferred Artists: Kana Full or w/Tasi and Ely Colors or Scar full or w/Tasi or Ely colors or Miss Full/Collab. WIPs: Sure!
⚔ Dance of Blades (The beginning of becomming a Sacred Heart) ⚔
Tyiva moved quietly through the trees. In the forest of Jahaur the giant beings rose far above the ground and their huge branches seemingly blotted out the sunlight. In the oldest part of the area the trees were thicker and taller, creating a sense of eternal night. However, the young Alkidike warrior was accustomed to living in a dark world and her twitching antenna would attest to her own adaptation for the lack of sight. It was now that as Tyiva moved through the bottom layer of foliage, with only crystals and barely a violet haze of sunlight lighting the way, the apprentice found herself relying on her antenna. Every so often they would twitch and as vibrations caught her attention she knew that she was going the correct way.
This was a tracking mission, one which she refused to fail.
Her sisters, Nika and Irynoi, were nearby. It was their footsteps that she listened for as well before moving forward. If they stayed in sync then their positions would be solid for capturing the radaku who had evaded them thus far. Though also hearing the footsteps would make Tyiva wince. She knew Nika was a bit heavy footed at times, but now the missteps seemed dangerous. It was best if they could just keep a sense of each other through vibrations and subtle signs. Hearing a slight crack here and there was not her ideal way of sensing her sister.
It was such noises that had alerted the radaku in the first place. Tyiva bit her lip in frustration as the creature bolted from its prime position and towards the deeper stretch of forest “Nika.” The name slipped her lips as she sent her sister a warning glance, “Lift your feet if you wish to keep the element of surprise.”
Her sister, a rather rash warrior, pursed her lips. “Surprise?” She quipped back in an attempt to hide her own shame, “If we had moved quicker and actually attacked just then he would have been ours. I do not understand your desire to trace it to another location.” Her hand clutched tightly at her spear as she strode forward into the area that was now empty of prey.
Tyiva resisted the urge to sigh. How could this blood of hers be so different? Yet, she was relieved when Irynoi spoke up in her stead. “Nika, we are trying to find a prime place to tame the beast. If we bring it back mauled, then what use will it be to us? Nor will we know of where the rest of its pack sleeps. Should we share one radaku amongst the three of us sisters?”
Ah, yes. Leave it to their eldest sister to speak so truthfully. Tyiva nodded her head, “Agreed. No offense Nika but you would be fortunate enough to sit alone upon a radaku with those hips you have.” Even if it appeared to be an insult it was nothing more than an honest statement from the blunt Alkidike. While she had gotten petite genes her sisters were bigger in size. Irynoi was tall with lean muscles while Nika was rounder and fuller at the hips and chest.
“Tyiva!” Nika’s cheeks flushed a vivid red before she turned her head away quickly, “At least I would have a radaku by now. I could have tended to its legs – if harming it is what it takes to bring it home. Don’t forget we can’t go back to our mothers without a beast to call our own.”
“I believe they wished to see our skill in accomplishing a task to our best interest.” Interjected Irynoi once more, “Maiming it will only show a lack of patience and desperation. We are hunters so we must wait out our prey and gain our best results.”
“They’ll never let us become more than apprentices if we rush such an important task.” Noted Tyiva with a firm nod. As it was the Alkidike was feeling restless. What if they lost their radaku already by wasting time with these discussions? Surely it was already noted that they had to capture the beast and do their best to find its pack. If they could find its pack, then it would be best for any of their sisters wishing to become guardians one day to choose their mount. Unless they decided to venture into the foreigners’ lands and pick a beast from there…something that forced a frown on the young Alkidikes’ face. Would that truly be the best? Some of those creatures didn’t seem as if they could adapt to the thick trees of Jahaur. Even Kinfas had to soar above the forest rather than defending what was inside.
“I doubt that.” Retorted Nika harshly, “Though I suppose its in our best interests to tame a radaku. Irynoi doesn’t have to worry since mother seems intent upon teaching her the dance of blades.”
Tyiva found herself glancing away. The dance of blades…. a dance that her mothers had inherited from their mothers which they had inherited from their mothers before them…it was a ritual that initiated one on the path to becoming a sacred heart. A position that in their tribe was rare and valued – especially by the upcoming generation. Whispers always came through as younglings about how beautiful the magic infused dance was and how jealous others would be of the few that were able to learn it. Out of the three of them only one was going to be allowed…that much Tyiva knew. Her mothers kept to tradition after all and would only pass it down to one child. Not that she deserved it – she was smaller than her siblings and younger. Even if she studied with a burning passion Tyiva felt far behind Irynoi who was older and who also looked much more like a true warrior.
“Nika…” Irynoi shook her head, “Even if so that doesn’t mean I’m any better. I’m dependent upon fulfilling this mission as well.”
“I suppose.” Nika shrugged, “ As it is I’ve always accepted that. I just want a mount so I can ride through the forests with ease.”
Of course. The thought quickly crossed Tyiva’s mind. She would wish for the laziest way to fight. Trying to find focus, Tyiva’s hands clenched on her own bow, “Enough talking, sisters. We’ll lose the trail at this rate.”
Bow, spear, and swords.
Each sister had been gifted with a weapon to test. Since Irynoi was supposed to be in line for the dance it was no surprise that the swords went to her. Then as second bloomed Nika had pushed her way towards the spear. It would be the best for her since she claimed Tyiva would be dwarfed by any normal Alkidike spear. Then there remained the bow. Something which Tyiva didn’t hate yet at the same time the girl felt no true exhilaration from firing it. But how could she complain? She just wished to be seen as a strong daughter, a warrior to make her mothers proud.
Closing her eyes against the frustration, Tyiva motioned for her sisters to go forward. They would hunt this radaku and she would put the past longings behind her. She was better than that. She wasn’t like the others who got all starry eyed at the idea of the dance. Nor would she fall to greed or jealousy over her sister’s weapons….
Hours later the three would eventually find the radaku. They would fight to capture it and eventually the net would settle over its head. “Nika, hold onto the rope tightly.” Instructed Irynoi as she fixed the netting so that the creature could be carried along between them. Thankfully it wasn’t too old and was not as big as one would be in its prime, “Tyiva…Tyiva?”
During the fight Tyiva hadn’t gotten the chance to truly sport an injury like her sisters who were close to the beast. Instead she had held her bow and fired the shot which carried a string around the creature’s body. While she had been waiting for that perfect moment, however, the woman had been listening. It seemed oddly quiet in the area. Was this truly a lone radaku? They had been so hopeful to find more, “Sorry, sister.” Tyiva offered the other Alkidike a small smile, “May I linger behind? You both fought hard to capture the radaku and should take it back home. I will join you shortly.”
“I suppose, but do you not wish to join in on our victory?” Irynoi tilted her head in curiosity as she tried to figure out her youngest sister. What was her reasoning for such a request?
“It’s not like she did much, perhaps she wishes to let us take our credit.” Nika beamed, “I’m the one in need of a radaku after all. Tyiva is much better suited to climbing branches since she’s so agile. Who could see her as a guardian?”
“Nika!”
“It’s fine.” Tyiva let out a small laugh, “Go and I will join up. Nika’s correct – I do not see myself as a guardian either.”
Honestly she didn’t even know what she saw herself as. Watching her sisters leave Tyiva turned back to face the small clearing in the trees. Had that truly been the end of their chase? The alkdike glanced around the area with a sigh. They had wanted them to find a pack so that the rest could come out and take a chance at capturing a familiar. The creature had seemed to fight with such a way…that was determined.
It had sacrificed itself for something.
Tyiva reached a hand up towards a thick vine. Using it the alkidike hauled herself up a tree so that she could attempt to peer further out. Time passed as she quietly sat there in that branch, just waiting and watching. Soon enough there was rustling and the apprentice watched as radaku, a whole pack, emerged. They seemed almost in mourning of their comrade. She didn’t wish to take another by force. It seemed wrong. She didn’t feel any greed, any desire to take another from its home. Such a thought surprised Tyiva. Could she stand to allow their comrade to be separated from such a group?
Slipping down from her perch the young Alkidike slipped back into her home camp. The others were making a racket further down in the forest by a fire where they shared stories. It seemed several of the tribe had passed tests today. Yet, Tyiva found herself going towards where a pen was of radaku. Aisha forgive me, but my sister truly didn’t deserve this. Tyiva took a deep breath before moving forward towards the dark shape of the smaller radaku, “You have a family, don’t you?” More than a pack, this one had siblings who relied upon it. It would be like someone stealing a sister from her side…
Frowning as the creature growled towards her, Tyiva shook her head. “You don’t understand, but you will be happy in a second…” Slipping beneath the ropes the woman reached forward towards the tied beast. “Sssh.” She reached up towards its tied neck and only winced slightly as it bit into her shoulder, “You’re fine.” The Alkidike moved her knife up in one sharp movement and cut the ropes.
Surprised that it hadn’t been attacked back or that this strange woman wasn’t pulling at its ropes as others had the radaku simply stood a moment before taking a step back. Its golden gaze seemingly pierced through Tyiva’s heart before a howl split through the air. Turning, the creature let out a low growl before taking steps forward.
“Go.” Holding a hand to her injured shoulder the Alkidike hit the creature’s rump and watched as it disappeared into the trees. Nika would be angry, but Tyiva could help her get a radaku later. Just…not that one.
“She will be angry you know.” The voice startled Tyiva.
“Mother!” Her cheeks flushed from being caught the apprentice hung her head, “You must understand I did not do it out of jealousy! I saw how its pack needed it and guilt weighed upon me for helping to take such a creature from its home. If a creature must become a mount should it not make that decision as well? You shouldn’t force it into submission else it will leave you in battle. Nika should understand that. If not then she will never truly have a partner to blaze next to her in battle.”
“Tyiva..”
“Judge me if you wish, but I just felt the pull. I waited and saw its family looking for it and nature seemed to scream at me.” She glanced up with a sorrowful expression, “By Aisha’s will I could not ignore such a feeling. It was as if someone was to take a sister from us.”
A gentle hand touched her uninjured shoulder, “Daughter, I do not fault you.” The older alkidike warrior smiled, “In fact, I’m thankful. I was worried that no one would have opted to let the creature be free.”
“You…what do you mean?”
“Let me tend to your shoulder first, child.” Taking her hand, Tyiva’s mother led her away from the bustle of the rest and towards an area where a small pool of water rested, “Your mother and I were waiting to see who would come back empty handed on purpose.” She reached for the water and began to clean out the bite and added some herbs, “Finding a pack was part of the assignment solely for the purpose of showing you sisters what a bond even creatures can have with each other. To respect that and to learn from it was our greatest wish. While I would love to see Nika have a mount as I know becoming a guardian is her greatest wish I was hoping to see that one of you, if not all, would be touched by the bonds of the creatures. It seems only you were patient enough to find a pack…and only you were the one who felt for the creature.”
”Isn’t feeling like that a weakness?” Tyiva managed between clenched teeth as the herbs began to sting.
“My belief is that to understand the bonds of sisterhood is an essential to becoming a great warrior. How can we truly battle without depending or understanding each other? Aisha may be our mother that connects us all, but we should connect with our sisters on our own as well. If not then you are fighting alone against a sea of faces in battle.” Her mother pressed a leaf against Tyiva’s shoulders, “How could I trust my dance to someone who doesn’t acknowledge that? Magic, especially, is to protect those we care about. Being selfish leads to corruption…one cannot have a sacred heart become susceptible so easily to darkness.”
“Mother…what are you saying?” Tyiva’s heart thudded in her chest as the words slowly sank in. While her mind was still struggling to process this situation, Tyiva’s heart knew. She knew what her mother was implying and what that would mean for her own path, “I thought Irynoi…”
“She is your eldest sister and a great warrior, yes.” Her mother let out a soft sigh, “But her heart is that of a warrior. As much as I wish my children were perfect not even she is. This test proved that. While she was dedicated in allowing Nika to claim the creature she still took the creature. And she only allowed your sister to claim such a prize due to her own selfish desire that was certain of having my blades.”
“Mother…”
”My other half would agree.” Her mother smiled as she took a step away from Tyiva, “We were always watching you. You always placed your sisters first and never protested, even when I handed you that bow. “ She reached to her sides and pulled free a pair of delicate blades, engraved and elegant in design. “You may hide it well from others, but I know you daughter. These always called to you, but for the sake of your sisters and peace you never fought against the tide.”
“I…” Tyiva hung her head, “Shouldn’t that alone mean I don’t deserve such a chance? I hid from the blades, mother. Irynoi seemed so perfect for them, not me. Are you certain?”
“Take them and you tell me. Are you certain that these are not for you?”
Tyiva found herself holding out her hands for the blades. And as her fingers closed around the handles the apprentice knew. She just knew that they were meant for her hands. Even if she was a bit shorter than her sisters the girl still had the agility and the training that they did. Slashing through the air, Tyiva found tears gathering in her eyes. “They’re perfect.” She whispered quietly before reaching them back to her mother.
“Keep them.” Her mother smiled, “They were meant to be yours. I was just waiting for you to finally accept and begin believing in that – in yourself, Tyiva.”
“What about my sisters? How…” Tyiva bowed her head, “Thank you, I…have no words for this honor. I’ll cherish your blades.”
“Don’t thank me just yet.” Her mother laughed before pulling her humbled daughter into a hug, “We’ll see if you still wish to thank me after the training you will have to endure along with your sisters. It may be tough, Tyiva, but be true to yourself. Do the best you can do and I believe you will be fine.”
“Thank you mother.” Tyiva leaned into the woman’s embrace as her fingers curled tightly around the blades in her hands. Scared Heart. She was going to become a sacred heart with the blades of her ancestors… She just prayed to Aisha that she would do them all proud. And that when the revelation came that her sisters would support her pursuit of this path. Her heart was heavy and nervous yet as she continued to hold onto the blades a calm seemingly came over her heart. Despite her fears everything about this just felt right.
Truly the calling of a sacred heart was what she had been missing this whole time…
(3039)
Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
Offline
Posted: Sun Apr 26, 2020 7:13 pm
⚔ Growth Solo ⚔
[In this growth solo Tyiva learns to speak up for herself and her own wants. No longer will she sacrifice herself in favor of pleasing her sisters. While she cherishes them and wants to work with them the woman is shifting from being a follower to learning to lead a bit on her own. She will move from being a supporter to becoming a warrior by her own rights.]
She had received the dual blades. As she stood in the clearing of trees Tyiva stared at them. The blades seemingly shone in the sunlight and she could almost imagine her mother’s hands still wrapped tightly around the handles. Once her mother had showed her a wonderful dance, a way to demonstrate the true beauty of the blades. And once she had been secretly jealous of their beauty and of the fact that everyone believed Irynoi was going to be the sister to inherit them. Now it had been revealed that it was actually Tyiva who would inherit the elegant blades. No one else of it just yet since she had just been given them a night ago. How was she going to tell her two sisters about this? Nika was obviously accepting of the fact that Irynoi was going to inherit the blades, but now that Tyiva was the one with them she had to wonder – would Nika be so accepting now since it wasn’t Irynoi? And then her dearest sister Irynoi – how would she feel?
Obviously there would be some hurt. Tyiva stared at the blades which rested in her hands. They fit so perfectly, so much better suited to her needs than any bow. The Alkidike sighed at the thought. She had spent so much effort pushing away her desire for her mother’s blades that she was still in shock. How could she adapt to knowing that they were her blades now? She had spent so many years pleasing her older sisters that the young Alkidike didn’t know what to do. Days of prepping meals, of helping them to achieve hunts, of even cleaning up around for them, all that to keep their company and to enjoy pleasant times together. She had never thought of herself since she was also so prone to putting other’s first.
And did she deserve her mother’s blades instead of Irynoi? Since after all she had been a random bloom adopted by her mothers. They had just received their own lotuses, Irynoi and Nika, and a small bloom had been right behind them. She had heard about it from other older sisters who wondered why a small third bloom had fallen from Aisha. What was her purpose? Why did the sisters add another to their family like this? Tyiva was thankful for her mothers though. She thought the world of them and was glad that they had lovingly taken her into their home.
“It does not matter.” Tyiva told herself boldly. What she needed to do now was prepare herself on how to use the blades. She wanted to make her mother’s proud after all! This was her calling and she was ready! Well for the most part. She still was fearful of how to bring it up to her sisters. For now she was determined to just concentrate on practicing the same movements that her mother had shown her the night before. A step forward and a raised arm with a blade aimed upwards before sliding her other foot forward and her second arm twisting beneath the other. It was as if she was trying to catch the winds in her blades as she moved. Tyiva loved every second of it. She was cutting the air and using it to guide her at the same time. Then she could also feel like she was the water rushing down a stream with how fluid her movements became. She had much to learn, but at least her body was willing to follow. Years of watching her mother dancing with the blades had proven helpful. At least because of that she wasn’t blindly trying to move with the weapons.
“Tyiva?” The voice of her sister, Nika, stopped Tyiva in her tracks, “What are you doing?”
“Nika, I can explain – “
“Are those mother’s blades? Why are you playing around with them? Does she know you have them?” Nika’s face flushed, “Those are super important to her so why would you just take them? Are you planning something?”
“No-no. I was actually…mother gave them to me you see…” Tyiva’s voice was quiet as she lowered the blades and took a few steps towards her sister pleadingly, “I wanted to tell you and Irynoi, but I was waiting for a good time.”
“You mean until we had to find out?” Nika shook her head, “I don’t believe you. How could you have inherited mother’s blades? They were supposed to be for Irynoi, not you! How could you betray your sister so?”
“I never betrayed her!” Protested Tyiva as she stepped closer to her sister, “Nika I didn’t know this was going to happen either- “
“Seemed like you were having fun just now as well. Do you not have any guilt? Or feelings towards Irynoi?”
“I…” Tyiva lowered her gaze towards the ground, “I do.”
“Then if you were truly her sister you would have told mother no.” Nika replied firmly, “Let’s go now and fix this before Irynoi finds out.”
“Nika.” Tyiva glanced up with surprise, “But mother chose me…I….”
“You what? You want Irynoi to be sad? She’s been wanting those blades since she was a youngling, Ty!”
“I know.” Tyiva lowered her gaze again as her gut twisted in confliction. Wouldn’t it be easiest to just tell her mother that she was wrong and that she preferred the bow after all? Or even normal blades or a spear would do – just not this pair. But against her thoughts her fingers tightened on the handles. She had been so happy to be seen by her mother. She had been praised without the shadow of her sisters. She had been noticed for her sacrifices. After all these years of playing mother to her sisters and of helping them to shine she had finally been noticed for her hard work and studying. Just the thought of letting go of the precious blades in her hands made her heart crack. Couldn’t she be selfish just this once? “I’ll tell Irynoi.” The words were the softest of whispers from her lips.
Nika’s antenna flicked angrily, “What was that?”
“I’ll tell Irynoi the truth. I want to keep mother’s blades since she gave them to me.” Tyiva spoke louder and glanced at her sister firmly, “I’ve been helping you both out since we were young. I’ve always been there on hunts for you as you have for me. We lived together, we helped each other to survive and grow. And I feel like as my sisters you both should be more accepting of the fact that I was chosen for this. I did nothing dirty – I just stayed true to my instincts and mother approached me first. I never wanted to take this from Irynoi! Instead I sat down on my feelings for so long that I forgot my own desires in favor of pleasing you both.” Her voice cracked, “Can’t you see that? Can’t I have something that I want for once? I feel so at ease with these blades – almost as if they were meant for my hands. I truly felt like a warrior when mother gifted them to me. So please, Nika. Please understand my heart? I never meant to hurt anyone, but I cannot ignore my own calling to become a Sacred Heart.”
“You…” Nika’s face was flushed, but she held her tongue. Tyiva could only guess about the complicated feelings that her older sister was fumbling with. Even she was still in shock that she had actually declined the idea. Rather than pleasing Nika and Irynoi she was going to do her own thing, “How could you?”
“It’s not an easy decision, I assure you.” Replied Tyiva softly.
Nika clenched her fists as if to move forward, but then stopped. “You’ll have to tell Irynoi.” “I know.”
The bigger Alkidike shook her head, “I can only wish you good luck.” She huffed as she turned away, “Don’t expect it to be easy either.” “I know.” Repeated Tyiva with a bowed head, “Thank you Nika.”
“Don’t be thanking me. I’m still going to protest.” She shook her head, “It will be rough for a while sister, but I hope this is worth it for you.”
“It is.” Replied Tyiva firmly, “It is.” For a while she could only imagine that they would not share hunts or even the same sleeping quarters. Her decision had confirmed their own transitions into adulthood. Soon enough they would all three be taking their own paths. But Tyiva was settled in her decision. Even if she had to venture away from her family for a bit the woman was determined. She would keep her mother’s blades and talk to Irynoi. She just prayed to Aisha that her sister would be understanding and one day forgive her for this selfishness. [1469]
Posted: Sat May 02, 2020 8:54 pm
⚔ Stage 2 - Solo 1 - Traveling into Tale ⚔
Tyiva makes her way through Tale after leaving Jahaur on her journey to see the world.
The transition from Jahaur to Tale was subtle at first, but eventually the great forests of her homeland started to fade as Savanna overtook the jungle. No longer was Tyiva surrounded by immense trees that blocked most sunlight and only allowed the shimmering crystals to grow along their trunks and the ground. Instead Tyiva found herself walking on ground which was so soft that it was almost as if she were walking on feathers. Would the ground fly away from beneath her feet? The Alkidike frowned thoughtfully as she dug her toes into the pearly sand that completely covered the ground. Is this even solid enough to be walking on? Oh Aisha how strange this land was. Tyiva could only imagine how she would describe this place to the young mystic.
“Perhaps, this will do.” Squatting down, Tyiva spread out her fingers and carefully laid them against the warm sands. Despite the strange sensation it did feel nice against her skin. It was like walking along the shores of Chibale where as a youngling she would often play with her Sisters. In fact, if she looked around she would almost expect there to be a great body of water near the area. Tyiva knew that if she did try such a thing that she would only face disappointment. Tale was all sand but no great bodies of water save for streams and rivers ran through this country. Travelers had already given her some info and some Sisters had been in this country before. It was close enough to Jahaur so Tyiva was surprised that even she hadn’t been here often before. Perhaps Taka had been here on one of her hunts. The Alkidike had heard about her friend fighting a witu off before. Talk about a feat!
Though I suppose I cannot judge her capabilities against this witu creature without witnessing one for myself. What if the other Alkidike warrior just exaggerated the battle? As eccentric as her friend was Tyiva could only imagine how she would alter some details to make a more dramatic tale. Still, Taka was a proud warrior and Tyiva doubted that she would stretch the truth to make herself look better. I will trust her battle and be wary of these witu while I travel through the land.
As she studied the ground the Alkidike moved to remove a small jar from the satchel hanging by her waist. She could at least bring back some of this sand for the young mystic to experience. Perhaps Tyiva could even compare it to the sands of Chibale. Would they be similar or completely different? She had tried pulling a flower earlier and was astonished to see how such a delicate plant had intricate roots digging deep into the sandy ground. Those roots were probably the only reason the plant stayed in place so well in the open savannah.
“Should I linger longer or head back soon?” The Alkidike had left her companion so that she could go and gather whatever she could find while they were passing through Tale. Karo had mentioned this Belrea place that she really wanted to explore and Tyiva had promised to go with her. Apparently to get to Belrea they would have to pass through Tale and Sauti first. Tyiva bit her bottom lip thoughtfully. It was a long journey for someone who had lived in one area their entire life. Still, she had made a promise to explore the world and return with stories for the young mystic. She had also promised to journey with her new friend. For both of them Tyiva would be brave and face the dangers of this world.
I just hope things remain calm while I am gone. She hated thinking of anything happening to her Sisters while she was off of the continent. Continent. Not country. What a strange situation this was with the people and their flying ships. Never before had anyone dared to imagine that someone lived over the great waters. Aisha forbid they ever dare venture towards Chibale. How would the Alkidike fight off such a contraption? Tyiva’s fingers clenched into fists as she stood up. Those Belreans better not dare think of doing anything like that. Her Sisters would find a way to cut them down and protect their home.
Her thoughts were interrupted as her stomach let out a slight rumble of protest, “Oh.” A flush decorated Tyiva’s cheeks as she focused once more at the task at hand. She was out here to see if she could scavenge anything edible. A bow was strapped to her back along with the blades hanging from her sides, but so far the Alkidike had not spotted any prey. Or at least anything large enough to be worthwhile. So if not meat then what could they eat instead? The flower she had plucked earlier had seemed more ornamental than filling and Aisha forbid that she feed them poison for dinner tonight. Her companion was still recovering from the attack in Jahaur after all. Tyiva felt a surge of protectiveness as she recalled the battle. Lousy mercenaries the bunch of them.
Even the Alkidike had some sense of pride to not sell their blades so easily. Even the extremists had a just cause to believe in before they would spill blood. Whether or not Tyiva agreed with the supremacist views of her Sisters she at least appreciated that they truly believed in the cause that they fought for. Some earthlings it appeared simply fought and stained the precious earth beneath their feet with blood just for some simple coin. Disgusting. How low could one go when there were so many other ways to survive in this world? Still, not all earthlings were so terrible to deal with. Tyiva’s gaze softened and her antenna flicked as she thought of Karo. That one was not so bad at all.
In fact, she cared enough about the Oban to travel with her and to even scout ahead for dangers. I hope I can find something suitable soon. Tyiva dusted off her hands and continued forward through the savanna. It was only a few minutes later when Tyiva spotted the first set of trees. Like strange limbs emerging from the white sand, the dark shapes dramatically twisted towards the skies, their branches seemingly intertwining with one another in their pursuit of the sun.
Could there be something of value in such strange trees? Tyiva could only hope that these trees were somewhat like those on Chibale. The beautiful canopy above her homeland’s trees was decorated by leaves of various colors that shimmered in the afternoon sunlight. Tyiva could relax under the natural leaf shelter all afternoon and just enjoy the peaceful sound of the waves lapping at the shores of Chibale. More importantly the trees held fruits and nuts that her Sisters loved to harvest all year round. Would the trees of Tale hold some sort of fruit or nut as well?
There was only one way to find out.
Face set in determination, Tyiva ventured forward towards the trees. At first she was expecting to be disappointed but as Tyiva reached up and climbed the twisting limbs she found some fruits hanging from the branches. Some were smaller but there were plenty and another tree seemed to have some nuts hanging from the dark branches, “Thank Aisha.” Tyiva smiled as she began to gather the fruit and nuts from the trees. Hopefully Karo would be happy eating these.
As she finished gathering the fruits and nuts, Tyiva once more reflected on her strange situation. Who would have imagined that she would have teamed up with an Earthling? Not even one from Jahaur, but another from the deserts of Oba. She had never seen an Oban until meeting Karo and Tyiva could only wonder about how different these earthlings appeared from one another. She had heard about them of course but to witness them was another thing entirely. To witness their spirit too and how beautiful they can be. Another flush betrayed Tyiva’s wandering thoughts and with a firm shake of her head the Alkidike forced her thoughts away and back to the task at hand. She needed to get these back to her companion so they could get energy and refresh themselves for the journey at hand. She could make a fire and roast the nuts while the fruit surely would be fine as it was. Carefully Tyiva took a small hunting knife and cut into the flesh. It was sticky but the juices were sweet as she took a tentative bite. If it was poisonous then surely she would find out on her way back to their encampment. She highly doubted it though as the taste vaguely reminded her of other fruits she had before in Jahaur. Despite her ignorance of the strange land, Tyiva had been trained as a hunter and gatherer. Admittedly it was a harder task to do such things in Tale, but she was no fool.
This would be fine. They would get through this patch and get passage to Belrea on one of those strange airship contraptions that so many spoke of. Tyiva could only imagine the stories that she would have by the time she finally returned home to Jahaur. For now all she could do was pray that Aisha kept watch over her as she traveled through these strange lands with her earthling companion.
[WC: 1591]
Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
Offline
Posted: Sat May 09, 2020 12:00 am
❦ ❀ WE Solos ❀❦
[Bright Future] Tyiva finds herself in Oba, reflecting on the past and about how the past five years have changed her perspective on life and the earthling races. She also knows that things are changing for everyone still including the Alkidikes who have set off to plant a new seed in Belrea.
Posted: Tue Jun 16, 2020 7:31 pm
⚔ Stage 2 - Growth Solo - Breaking Ties ⚔
Knowing that her family cannot accept her love for an earthling, Tyiva makes a painfully hard decision to sever ties with her family so that she can follow her heart and go to Oba.
“You’re what?!” Nika’s voice hissed through the air as she whirled around to face her sister. The larger Alkidike’s face was fully flushed, anger flaming her cheeks and lowering her antenna in aggravation. Behind her was the silhouette of Tyiva’s other sister, Irynoi. Unlike Nika the eldest was quiet with only her clenched fists attesting to her own rising emotions. It was unnerving for Tyiva to approach them both. She had avoided both for a long time after she had inherited her mother’s blades and only the battle against the Dretch had brought them together again. In battle they had patched up their emotional wounds but as anything the scars still lingered. Tyiva had walked on eggshells for months after returning to Jahaur while she battled with her own heart. Her sisters had finally welcomed her back after years apart but here she was facing their wrath yet again.
This was the toughest decision of her life.
Certainly Tyiva had encountered a dilemma when she accepted her mother’s blades that Irnoi had wanted to inherit but at least her mother had been there to support her. This time she was alone. Her Alkidike family had always been accepting of earthlings but never had they considered falling in love with one. They were purists who didn’t believe in tainting Aisha’s blood with that of the earthling races. But Tyiva could not lie to herself or to her family any longer, “I want to go to Oba.” She repeated, doing her best to keep her voice steady while her heart raced a marathon in her chest. Badump. Badump. Badump! She had never felt such anxiety before. Even going into battle had a sense of calm in comparison to the distress of approaching her family with this honest confession. It would be like ripping a bandage from their previous wounds, reopening the injury to let it fester again without knowing that it could ever be fully healed. Could even time heal such wounds? Her family’s beliefs were so deeply rooted that surely this decision was an unforgivable disgrace to her family.
“But why?” Irynoi finally spoke, her voice strangely calm in comparison to Nika’s spurts of rage, “Tyiva why would you leave when you’ve only been back in Jahaur for such a brief amount of time? You saw the world, you brought back plenty of information already. They even requested that you consider venturing into the new island...our mothers gave their blessings for you to go. It would be a great honor for you but you want to linger in an earthling country instead?”
“I…” Tyiva’s voice trailed into silence. She was accustomed to Nika’s tantrums but to face her eldest sister who she had adored since they were younglings was terrifying. Her sister’s expression was almost pleading, she already could guess what she was going to say. Quietly, Tyiva hung her head to hide the pain in her own gaze.
“You can just say you made a mistake and change things. You can still go.” Urged Irynoi as she reached out to touch her sister’s shoulders, “You can’t be seriously considering throwing so much away for an earthling, right?”
“An awful joke but I’ll take it. It would be far better than the disgusting words you spoke earlier and to our mothers!” Quipped Nika as she stood further back, her arms crossed in frustration as she studied Tyiva, “And to think they trusted you with the family’s blades. It’s like you’re spitting in their faces.”
Tyiva’s heart ached. Irynoi was basically begging her to lie to them, to go along with what they wanted so that they could be a happy family. Despite Nika’s harsher words she knew that both sisters wanted what they believed was best for her. It would be so easy to just give in now and to forget about everything else. She could just act as if nothing had changed from her past year living back in Jahaur. Forget that she had left someone precious in Oba and just please her mothers and sisters by going to guard the new tree. It would bring them honor and avoid any guilt she would feel by taking her mother’s blades. They had been entrusted to her after all.
Love is a precious treasure. Once you find it, always pursue it. The encouragement of the earthling stranger she had met the other day floated through her mind. Tyiva’s gaze burned as she forced herself to stand her ground. Her heart would lead her to a brighter future. Even if it took her away from her family and her roots for a long time….she would endure it because she would have that precious person by her side. Maybe they could even raise their own little ones into this world and prove that there was nothing wrong with mixing two races. Even if my family doesn’t give their blessings then at least I can have faith that Aisha will. The great tree would understand her heart and know that this love she felt was pure. It was what gave her strength now to push back against her family’s wishes. Even if it left an ache in her chest to leave her family, Tyiva was not willing to forget what she had learned to cherish these past few years. She was no longer the purist that looked down on earthlings. Instead she even had learned to respect them and even loved one with all of her heart.
“I’m sorry.” Tyiva straightened her shoulders and looked up at her sister, “I cannot ignore my heart.” Her lips curved downwards as her sister pulled back with a sorrowful look, almost as if she were completely disappointed in Tyiva, “I hope that one day you both understand.”
“I do not know if that day will ever come.” Answered Irynoi truthfully as Nika simply turned her back and walked out of the clearing, her disappearance enough of a statement on its own concerning her feelings about Tyiva’s decision, “If you walk away now I do not know if anything will ever be the same. Are you sure you want to do this?” She asked once more, her voice pleading as she stepped away from Tyiva. Already Tyiva’s decision was separating her from her sisters once more.
“I understand but I will not change my mind no matter how tempting it is.” She whispered softly, “Do not think that I love any of you less for this. I understand that our family has strong beliefs and I know that I am guilty of breaking them by leaving to be with an earthling.” Tyiva’s hands moved to her sides where her mother’s blades rested, “You should take mother’s blades.”
Irynoi paused, surprise flickering over her sorrowful expression for only a moment before she shook her head, “No you cannot rid yourself of the guilt so easily by giving me something that is rightfully yours. I was upset when you inherited them before me but I have accepted it. If this is your decision then you should also embrace it no matter the pain it may bring. I tried to change your mind, do not forget that. I even begged you to reconsider this foolish choice.”
“If you are certain then so be it.” Tyiva replied, her voice steady despite the pain in her chest, “However, do not think that I make this decision lightly. I know I am betraying our mother's trust by following my own selfish desires.” She admitted before taking one of the blades in her hands. Even if it was selfish of her to punish herself, Tyiva knew that she had to make her statement. She didn’t want her family to think that she made such a decision lightly, “I will leave something else behind that is precious to me instead. I will cut our ties.” She refused to let them feel guilty for abandoning her. She would leave them behind to go to Oba and they could continue on while labeling her as the one who left their family, “You did not turn your backs on me today, I turned my own back on you.” Her blade shined in the sunlight as she slashed through her long dreads, “This is my decision and I will not change it.” Her proof lay on the forest floor and around her feet.
Irynoi nodded before reaching to pick up the long hair, sorrow written across her expression, “I will let our mothers know that you are gone. If you come back to Jahaur do not expect a happy reunion.” She advised before clutching the dreads in her hands and walking back through the forest and away from sight.
Tyiva refused to let herself crumble until her sister was out of sight. It was then that the sobs escaped her throat. I will not regret this. It is not a foolish decision. She repeated to herself as she turned away from her home and began the trek back towards Oba. She would follow her heart and find a brighter future, even if it meant that her family may never accept her again.
[WC: 1524]
Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Posted: Sun Sep 27, 2020 7:01 pm
⚔ Stage 3 - Growth Solo - Coming Home ⚔
After years away from Jahaur, Tyiva comes to understand that she had been running away from her mothers rather than confronting them about her decision. Determined to make amends so that she can confidently bring her children to Jahaur and learn about the Alkidike way, Tyiva ventures back home to finally speak with her mothers after years of silence.
It's a sign of maturity and of her growth in confidence because she no longer feels the need to run away because she is certain that her decision to love an earthling is nothing to be ashamed of and that her children are blessings, not hindrances to her kind.
The glistening waters of Chibale greeted Tyiva. Like usual the Alkidike had risen early with the sun and was already up and out of the mystic’s home before the sunrise was even finished. Since she was still resting from her journey from Oba to Chibale, Tyiva had opted to walk down the cliffside and into the private beach that was nestled beneath the giant tree that Danika had made into her secret home. The beach was small and narrow but it curved enough to surround the deeper waters so that the ocean could easily bring in shells and whatever else the tide caught from further away. It definitely was a beautiful place for morning meditation.
Tyiva had opted to come out here before venturing into Jahaur so that she could clear her thoughts. After her talk with Danika, the Alkidike had taken the time to reflect upon her past decisions. She had broken off from her family to go and raise one of her own but had never sought to bridge the gap which divided them. Just like when she had inherited her mother’s blades in the past, Tyiva had simply walked away from Jahaur. She had thought that she was confronting her problems by speaking out against her family’s wishes and her sisters’ protests but had she truly resolved anything with them? She had just continued breaking apart while leaving wounds to fester indeed. The thought made her lips curl in disdain at the idea of it all. What was she supposed to do? Go back and plead for them to listen to her? Her sisters never would have the patience or the ability to even consider her point of view on things. What about her mothers? Tyiva’s gaze softened at the thought. Why didn’t she at least try to speak with Ruilen who had gifted her the blades? She always had been the most understanding…
“Maybe I was afraid of disappointing her.” She whispered the thought which she had hidden far away for so long. “I was actually not confident in my own choice back then. It’s why I had to cut ties and flee rather than face them and argue my case.” Her sisters had made it all too easy with their pride and their stubborn ways. They would rather fight than try to even comprehend Tyiva’s feelings. She had always been the runt, the one to pick up after them and never to lead. Taking the blades had already been a slap in the face and now? She had chosen an earthling lover over them. A choice that she had not taken lightly but one which her sisters had forced her to make.
But she had spoken with Danika and after becoming a mother herself realized that it was best to try and face them. Even if they still turned her away at least they had the choice to do so. She was not going to run away this time because Tyiva was the proud mother of three delightful hybrid children. They were her strength and her proof that she was not wrong to chase her love with an earthling. Her children were a blessing from Aisha and in her heart Tyiva saw that as the Great Mother’s acceptance of her decision to love an earthling. Why else would they have received three wonderful and healthy blooms? She wanted her children to follow the Alkidike path if they so desired and that was why she was no longer running away. She would confront her mothers and prove to them that their grandchildren were worthy.
That decided Tyiva walked along the shore for a bit before finally turning away from Chibale and crossing into Jahaur where her family lived. Her decision had been set in stone but while her decision was fresh and her courage blazing with new life, time had not been so kind to her family. Irynoi and Nika greeted her awkwardly but they did not chase her away. Rather they allowed her to see the bitter truth for herself…their mother, Ruilen had passed away, and Drydi was not far behind.
”Why didn’t you tell me?!” Tears streamed down Tyiva’s face as she fought with the heartbreak. Ruilen had been the one to believe in her, the one who had let her learn the dance and take the family’s blades! “I never got the chance to tell her….to show her how I truly felt.” Tyiva’s throat felt raw from yelling and it was only after she had taken a long walk around their home that she returned with her head bowed. “Will Drydi see me?” She whispered quietly to Irynoi.
“Yes.” Her oldest sister replied quietly, her own spirit broken in mourning and too tired to fight with her estranged sibling. While Nika had stormed off to her own home that she had moved into with her newest Alkidike lover, Irynoi had remained at their mothers’ sides for the past two years. It had been Irynoi who had told Tyiva about her mother’s sickness and how losing Ruilen made Drydi more and more reckless on hunts and how that recklessness had led to this new, injury that had nearly killed her.
Tyiva entered their home with a heavy heart. The large tree had been carved into several rooms and it was in the center of it that she saw her mother resting on a bed of furs and feathers. “Mother.” She breathed as she rushed forward and dropped to her knees so that she could take the frail hand in her own. “I’m so sorry.” The words tumbled past her lips in heaving sobs, her best efforts and maintaining composure lost at the sight of the weak Alkidike whom she had always admired as one of the strongest hunters she knew.
“You’re in time.” The words came out slowly and were weak as Drydi slowly turned to glance towards her youngest, “I’m glad.” A small smile tugged up the corners of her mouth, almost as if it were a grimace more than anything else. “You’re just like Ruilen….”
“Shh, mother. I’m nothing like her.” Tyiva’s gaze softened, “She was amazing and I have done nothing but bring you both pain.”
“No, no.” Drydi protested weakly as she struggled to try and prop herself up on an elbow, the motion making her wince. “Don’t think that. You were brave to stand up for your beliefs and your heart.” She smiled, “Ruilen wanted to visit you, to tell you about how much she loved you and that while your decision may have not been expected it did not make you any less in her eyes.” The older Alkidike sighed wearily. “I was the one who held her back out of pride….”
“Drydi.” Tyiva whispered her mother’s name with shock as she processed the news. Why hadn’t she returned earlier? Why had she been so afraid of her mother’s disappointment when Ruilen would have loved her regardless? Tears burned at Tyiva’s eyes at the realization. She had been so dumb! So blinded and so determined to be hurt that she did nothing more than ostracize herself even more when she could have fought to stay with her family! “I ran away and didn’t even try to speak with your or Ruilen.” She whispered in shame.
“Do not blame yourself, Tyiva.” Replied Drydi, “I was the one who held her back from chasing after you. I wanted you to learn your lesson and come back but it appears I was the one in the wrong. You truly found love and even Aisha gifted you with blooms. I was so ashamed that I was wrong about your earthling and about the fact that you could be happy outside of Jahaur that I hid myself away and allowed hate to cloud my vision.” She shook her head weakly, “Ruilen was always smarter than me and closer to you. She knew better. I should be saying sorry because I kept your mother from seeing you, my child.”
“Mother…” Tyiva tightened her hold on the older Alkidike’s hands. “I’m here now and Ruilen’s spirit knows that I always loved her. I never hated any of you. I just chose to live my life because I was afraid of hearing either of you say that you were disappointed with me. I ran away thinking that I was being brave by choosing my own path but I was a coward for not trying to speak with either of you directly.” Irynoi and Nika could turn her away and that was fine but they were not her mothers. She had allowed her sister’s bias and hate to cloud her own judgment and to forget how loving both Ruilen and Drydi could be. “Let me make amends and stay with you while you recover.”
“If I do recover.” Drydi replied softly. “Do not think we never loved you Tyiva. I am proud of you just as Ruilen always was. I was not good at showing it but I do love you. I hope that your children will show just how strong they are as well.” She lowered back onto the bed with a groan, “But I need rest. Please stay and do not cry over an old mess like me. My heart is aching for Ruilen and I swore I would make amends with you for her sake. Please let me do it and forgive me for my foolishness.”
“I will mother. I will.” Replied Tyiva quietly as she leaned over and placed a kiss on the older Alkidike’s forehead before backing slowly out of the room to let her rest. It was a mixture of emotions and ones that she would need time to process but at least she had finally stopped running away. Eventually she would bring her children to Jahaur as well so that they could experience Tyiva’s world as well because they were from two worlds, not just one, and Tyiva intended to fully embrace them both from now on.
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