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 Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2012 7:57 am
Aminah was fidgeting where she stood. This Alkidike seemed much more serious than the girl she had met the other day. The Alkidike women's size never ceased to amaze Aminah either.
She felt herself relax at the Alkidike's sign of peace, though just slightly. Would Enki come forward and announce himself as leader? What will he say; what will he do? She shrunk back behind Keilana and stepped further away from her brother, who called out to the Alkidike and seemed to be rather irritated. Aminah wanted to avoid any notice. She was getting paranoid about having met an Alkidike, and began to feel like everyone knew about their encounter. She didn't want attention now.
Aminah had to remind herself that it was all in her head. Noone knew, and noone probably cared. Maybe the Alkidikes encountered shifters all the time. Maybe it's just weird here. Aminah let herself be drawn away by her thoughts.
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Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2012 2:12 pm
Enki listened intently to Keilana and her brother, Jacinthus, as they voiced their complaints about being so close to the Alkidikes. He didn’t respond, his expression stern. He agreed with them, of course. The elder Leaf Tribe member did not like the warrior women being on their land, especially without either warning or permission. The Leaf Tribe were a very territorial people; it was necessary, what with the resources of their savannah home being so limited. However, they were not in a position to fight the Alkidikes, let alone the Shifters as well, had they come to back up their fellow residents of Jauhar. The best thing, for now, was to find a way to keep the peace.
Of course, were the Alkidikes planning on trying to overtake their land, peace would never be an option. Enki would die before he became a slave to another tribe and he was sure the other members of his tribe felt the same way.
Aminah was right about more Alkidikes gathering… Enki could see two or three more of the women joining the group, even from this distance. It wasn’t long before one of the women began heading their way. She was carrying a spear… but surely a single one of these Alkidikes didn’t plan on taking on the entire group of Leaf Tribe members gathered here. So Enki remained silent, waiting to see why the woman had chosen to approach them.
The Berserker calmly slipped his right hand into the gauntlet hanging at his waist. The weapon was discrete, glove-like.
Nadhiri’s moves seemed very deliberate; customs were different between tribes, it was smart of her to think through her thoughts carefully. Words were being exchanged before Enki had a chance to step in. His brow furrowed. Was it really such a good idea for these Prentices to be making negotiations, or interacting with members of the other tribes? They were so young… so quick to be guided by emotions and pride as opposed to logic.
Enki stepped forward, placing a hand firmly atop Jacinthus’ shoulder, hoping to both reassure and calm the stubborn boy. It was clear he would be a magnificent warrior one day, defending both his Tribe and his sister without abandon. Now, however, was not the time to get under this woman’s skin. ”I am the leader of this group.” He announced to the woman who had declared her tribe’s peace. ”Your message is reassuring, but please do not be confused; your tribe is not welcome in Tale.” The man’s gaze did not waver from the woman’s dark eyes. Even though he was older than her, the Alkidike woman was still far taller than him, but Enki was well versed in battle. He had gained the title of Berserker for a reason. ”Why have you come here?”
*****
Yansa sighed deeply. She was, of course, proud of her Sisters for being so strong-willed, so brave. However, those characteristics also meant that, more often than not, the Alkidike women were hard-headed and proud to a fault. They would serve their tribe well… and yet, there was still much for them to learn… including the correct time and place for things.
Yansa watched as Nadhiri made her way towards the Leaf Tribe, Phenyo following in her wake. Jerarda’s irritation was unconcealed. The only way they were going to be able to proceed with this mission was if Jera was pacified; she was a strong woman with a strong temper. Surely, she would not be ignored; on doubt it was important to her to contribute, in some way, to the tribe.
Yansa smiled at the mention of smoked fish and fruit. ”Wonderful. Thank you for your contribution, Rishima, and yours as well, Jerarda. We know little about the resources available to us in these lands, so your provisions will surely come in handy.” The woman watched the duo for a few more moments. The mix breed seemed shy… content to pay attention only to his pet. Yansa doubted he was much of a threat, but it could very well be that this was all part of his plan. She would be keeping a close eye on him.
*****
Antiope glanced back. It would seem that her fellow Healer was a natural, making sure to care for the man who did indeed seem incredibly worn out. She re-focused her attention on the groups ahead. It was clear that things were happening. The Alkidike leader was speaking with members of her group… perhaps devising a plan? One of the women had taken off in the opposite direction.
As they grew closer, the reason for the Alkidike’s hesitation became clear: they had come across a group of Leaf Tribe members, clearly also on the move. Antiope’s bottom lip jutted out in a pout. How could it be that every tribe had decided to head out at the same time? They obviously wouldn’t be sneaking through Tale undetected. The question was, what were the Alkidikes and Leaf Tribe searching for? If they all had the same goal in mind, perhaps… some sort of alliance could be formed? A brief laugh bubbled from between the woman’s lips at the thought. That would certainly be an unstable friendship to arrange.
Antiope whirled on her group. ”Alright. We need to approach them and make our peace. It seems they’ve sent someone to contact the Leaf Tribe. We need to see what’s going on… see if we can’t just make our way through Tale. There’s no need to stir up trouble, but just in case…” she smiled at Takoda, ”…be prepared.”
The woman turned back. They were growing close to the Alkidikes. She stopped, just far enough that the woman would be able to hear her without shouting, not wanting to get too close, unsure whether the women desired a fight. ”Greetings.” She called out to them, head dipping gently to show some semblance of respect. ”We approach in peace.”
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Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2012 4:17 pm
“You should feel grateful we are even bothering to offer our peace.” Nadhiri could not help but snap. It would be best if she did not antagonize the Leaf Tribe and she made an effort to smooth her expression of annoyance. She could tell the male that had stepped forward as their leader was a warrior and that deserved some respect.
“We intend only to pass through.” The Alkidike watched Enki steadily, wishing she still had the comfort of a spear in her hands. “Our reasons are our own, but know it has nothing to do with the Leaf Tribe. We mean none of your people harm.” Her stance and an underlying tone to her words suggested that they would travel across Leaf Tribe land whether they were given Enki’s blessing or not.
The movement of the Shifters caught her attention, and Nadhiri watched suspiciously as Antiope now offered her peace.
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Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2012 8:16 pm
Phenyo's jaw dropped at Nadhiri's shortness with the Leaf Trive members, and literally face-palmed herself with an audible smack. She understood the pride of her people - better than most, perhaps, having followed along behind Jera for so long - but you do not approach a possibly...no, probably! Obviously!... hostile group and snap at them! What was Nadhiri thinking???
She wanted to get up and interfere; her very being told her she needed to get in there and defuse this situation with the Leaf Tribe leader before it brought war down upon all of their heads. So much for the best laid plans, because it was at this moment that Shifters appeared on the scene, and Phenyo had to focus on covering Nadhiri's back in more ways than one.
The second Alkidike stepped from her half-hidden spot, arms up with bow and quiver in the air. Phenyo was sure to make a show of laying them on the ground before joining a spot next to her sister, laying a calming hand on Nadhiri's shoulder.
"Sister, would we not want to know their reasons for coming to our trees if they were to appear within Jauhar?" she offered quietly, glancing to the Leaf Tribe leader. She raised her voice in speaking to him, her tone even and nonthreatening. "We only seek to move north into the unknown regions of Tenadji." More of an explanation may come depending on the answer to that statement.
Phen's gaze would then move to the group of Shifters, also so very obviously far away from home. "And it appears we are not the only ones looking for enlightenment about our world."
Please be looking for the same thing, please be looking for the same thing...you have no idea the risk I'm taking by assuming you're looking for the same thing! In her head, Phenyo felt as though she were reliving every single moment she talked Jerarda out of a fight she couldn't win...all at once in a single moment. Every single one of her bones felt like jelly; if she were a lesser woman, she was sure she'd collapse. She was an Alkidike, however, and wouldn't show her nerves to anyone.
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Posted: Sun Jul 22, 2012 8:31 pm
Takoda posts in Green
Keilana posts in Brown
Jerarda posts in Purple
Takoda was appreciative of Chalcedony's concern over Enitan it made them as a group feel more connected, he almost beamed happily at his earnest to give Enitan some food. Granted how the poor shifter seemed beyong coping at the moment he only lay a gentle hand on his arm before continuing. Little globes of water lit upon his fingers the spell almost coming naturally to him after practicing on Chalcedony earlier that day.
About to work on Enitan he found his attention diverted to what Antiope was saying to them all. Be prepared....did that mean he shouldn't be using his magic at this moment? Earlier he had felt dizzy from using it...perhaps it would be best if he just treated the more...roughed up patches of Enitan before reaching into his bag and giving him some energizing leaves to chew on.
"Here...chew on these but don't swallow them...they will give you a bit more energy for awhile." He murmured before he stood up properly and his heart nearly sank as he realized just how close they were all getting to everyone else.
The strange thing was...he recognized two of the Leaf Tribe people, the tall male who was called Jac and....egads that girl with the tree branch was here as well. Trying to avoid looking at the alkidikes all together he felt himself just...slightly move closer to Chal.
~*~
Keilana gave a hurrumph at her brother's comment, sure they shouldn't be picking a fight, but it was just so hard to not do just that. While watching the exchange between Enki and the alkidike woman whom she instantly disliked...probably due to her attitude and the way she was treating them, she gave a distracted hmm sound at his comment about shooting a person with the bow.
"Yeah...well if I had my tree branch I would show them a thing or two..." She whispered to her brother since he had seen her wield the giant and awkward thing. She was getting better with it funny enough though was still very inept at using it. She almost died of embarrassment when her brother went to stand in front of her to shelter her from any possible harm, it was an odd sight to be sure.
Animah stood behind her uncomfortable it seemed whilst Keilana was behind her brother, about to push her brother aside she heard him speak to the rather rude alkidike woman and she felt a swell of pride. He wasn't going to back down to that woman....and yet she wanted to push him aside since he was certainly in her way!
Though Enki was speaking and she couldn't help but feel like they as an entirety may go to war due to pride. Ah well. There were worse reasons to go to war.
~*~
Watching as Phenyo joined Nadhiri, Jerarda wanted to turn about and grab her friend by the arm and haul her back. After all Phenyo shouldn't be working with Nadhiri! Still she was held back when Yansa spoke to her and Rishima. Sighing and obviously frustrated she looked back to Yansa before turning to glower at...well just about EVERYONE who was gathering together.
All the tribes seemed to have come to some sort of neutral ground and were trying to talk things out. She almost burst out laughing as Nadhiri snapped at the Leaf Tribe, not that Jerarda had anything to boast about in this situation..if she had been sent no doubt a fight would of broken out by this point. The only thing stopping herself from laughing was Phenyo's quick action to try and pacify the group, although a swell of pride came with her actions she also grumbled.
"Yansa, why send Nadhiri? As you can see she is already failing at the task at hand." Jerarda demanded of her...'superior', although Jera probably would of done the same thing, she wouldn't admit it. "What is our purpose here Yansa...we are not just traveling...there must be something...more.." Eye's narrowing they flicked back to the other tribes, her eye's lighting on Pup Animah hiding behind a woman and a man, the other woman she had met briefly...and then to the shifter tribe where she spotted Enitan almost instantly.
A cruel smile on her lips, an eager one for a battle. Smirking she gave a little wave to Enitan and then to Animah...she gave a smooching expression trying to antagonize them both. Her attention was then drawn to Rishima who seemed to be busying 'herself' with tending to 'her' pet. Sighing she moved over and looked to 'her' giving a look that described 'come be apart of the group you fool'.
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Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2012 1:59 am
When Antiope laid out the plan, that they were going to see what was going on and if they could make their way through Tale, he gave the slightest of nods. It was best to follow her lead even if the idea of actually going toward the Alkidike was something that caused him to be nothing but tense. They were a dangerous people, one he didn't quite trust due to all of the bloodshed between their two tribes, but he would keep his thought to himself. Best that they do as their leader suggested when she said there was no need to stir up trouble. Of course as she said 'just in case be prepared' words he knew were pointed toward Takoda, he couldn't help but to worry a bit. His worries only compounded as they got closer to the Alkidike. As they got closer he couldn't help but to stare a little. They were rather... big, weren't they? He'd never been so close to one so he'd never really been able to get a feel for the sheer size of the warrior women.
He starred at each of them in turn before he found himself starring at one in particular, one that didn't quite match up with the others and he blinked a couple times as though trying to figure out if he was real before leaning over to Takoda to whisper to him, "Do you see what I see?" He asked quietly. The look of him, the coloration, even the gender didn't quite seem to fit with the rest of that group. In fact that one almost looked as though he might blend in better with their group... how... odd. He'd always thought that the Alkidike hated the Shifters, so how was it they had a halfbreed with them? A war prisoner perhaps? It was a train of thought he quashed instantly, not even wanting to allow his mind to wander down that path for even a moment. Shaking his head he glanced down at Takoda, following gaze over toward where the Leaf Tribe stood, the lot of them being approached by not one, but two Alkidike. He didn't know any of them, having never met a Leaf Tribesmen, but hoped that they would be alright.
Glancing at his friend as Takoda drifted closer to him he gave him a bit of a smile and murmured, "It will be alright." Alright, so he wasn't really positive about that but he would do what he could to make it so. Keeping quiet he continued to glance between the other two tribes, hoping that despite representatives of the three clans being present, that things would remain peaceful. He didn't know the odds of it happening but one could always hope again hope he thought to himself.
*****
Jacinthus's mossy eyes went a little wide when the rude Alkidike woman called him 'boy' and told him that he wasn't not fit to lead, it was something that had him taking a step forward, mouth opening to tell the woman exactly what he thought of her... but he was stilled, as well as silenced by Enki's hand on his shoulder. Turning to look at the one leading their group he gave a little nod of his head. As much as he'd love to tell the warrior woman off he would hold his tongue for the moment since it seemed that Enki was willing to speak with her despite her not exactly being the most friendly creature. He had to commend the man on that, being to put up with her in a calm manner. He wondered if he should attempt to mimic such an attitude? It would be a touch difficult, he was so used to the spirited arguments he had with Keilana, it was how the two of them dealt with one another, how made their point, and the like. It would be difficult change after a lifetime of that sort of thing, still he felt he could learn from their leader.
His ears gave a little twitch when Enki was suddenly telling the Alkidike woman that their tribe wasn't welcome in Tale, something that instantly had him at attention, not sure if the woman would try to take up arms against them now that she was told what they felt about her people coming into their homeland. Enki's next words were a question, asking her why she had come. Jacin slid a hand over to rest on his quiver, not moving to get an arrow but just in case. His fingers curled slightly against his quiver when the woman snapped at Enki, telling him that they should be grateful that they were even bothering peace. And she thought he wasn't fit to lead he thought on to himself, giving the slightest little snort... a second of the Alkidike stepped forward then, deciding to intervene on the side of her companion, seeming to speak a lot more eloquently, not he trusted her anymore then he did her sister. What she said did interest him though, saying that they were seeking the unknown regions of Tendaji. Was it was a coincidence? Or was were they moving because others were.
At mention that they weren't the only ones doing so he found himself turning to looking toward the Shifters and his eyes went a bit wide as he spotted one among them that was far to familiar to him, "Takoda?" He murmured, mostly to himself. Seeing the bug-phobic Shifter on the borders with a group of his people was a bit of a shock to his system. Seemed that it was just a nice day for random groups to come wandering into Tale... must be due to the nice weather he thought to himself. He was drawn from his daze when he heard his sister's words about showing the Alkidike a thing or two with her makeshift tree branch weapon. Lifting a hand he smothered a laugh in his hand, masking it as a cough instead. That was an image that was altogether amusing, the idea of his cute little sister pummeling one of them with her stick, "Let's hope it doesn't come to that." He murmured to her in a hushed whispered, though if it did he would cheer her on, telling her to get a hit in for him.
*****
Given the look that Jerarda was suddenly giving him, one that didn't really give all that much room for any sort of argument, the timid Rishima drifted closer to her. What was it she had told him before? That he had to force himself into the group? He wasn't sure what he thought about that, especially given there were so many of his sisters here and he felt so... small compared to them. Still, he knew that Jerarda wasn't going to let him just hide behind Itzal the whole time. Instead she would likely drag him along by his antennae if he tried, she seemed the sort to do just that. Content, for now at least, to stand near to his friend he watched as the two members of their tribe walked toward the Leaf Tribesmen, watching in a curious manner. He'd never been anywhere near Tale before so actually being able to see these people was something completely new for him, they were small, weren't they? Smaller then him, interesting colors as well he thought to himself.
The halfbreed was watching them so closely that he didn't notice at first that the Shifters were approaching, not until one of them spoke and he jerked his head to the side to look their way... and couldn't help but to stare openly, "S-Sister, look." He whispered to Jerarda, lifting his hands up to cling for a moment to her arm. There were... there were Shifters here! This was the first time he'd seen them, just as with the Leaf Tribe, but it was something even more shocking to him since he was half Shifter himself. It was strange to see so many that shared common traits with him, such as the skin color and his eye color in one of his eyes. It was... almost surreal and he couldn't stop himself from just watching them. A part of him wondered if any of them knew his father... but given he didn't even know the man's name how could they know who he was? On top of that he doubted very highly that his sisters would care for him suddenly questioning the Shifters about such a thing. He knew that Alkidike and Shifters, in almost all situations, weren't on friendly terms... he didn't want to start any trouble by asking about a person they might not even know, so he did his best to remain silent. Now was not the time, perhaps some time in the future he told himself... it was a terrible opportunity to waste but he wanted to impress his sisters, not infuriate them.
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Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2012 7:56 am
It seemed now that the shifters were on the move. Aminah's eyes drifted from the shifters to the group of Alkidike still not far off and caught the gaze of that same girl she was trying to avoid. Jerarda. She shot Aminah a look that had the blush creeping back onto her face. Her smooch was too much for Aminah to handle right now; she quickly turned away, the blush growing exponentially. She tried to keep her eyes from wandering back to the group of Alkidike, looking instead at Keilana as she commented about a branch that she apparently used often. It seemed there were things she didn't know about what she considered her new friend. The thought of her and Keilana as friends brought a smile to her face. Then her thoughts quickly changed. Maybe Keilana was right; her thoughts were aways up in the clouds and lost in her own little world. She needed to come back to earth.
Another Alkidike joined the one speaking to the leaf group and Aminah forced herself to pay attention to what was being said from this point on. This new Alkidike came with information that, as far as Aminah knew, they didn't know before. The Alkidike women were moving into the areas beyond Tale and Jauhar. She wondered what they were planning to do when they found out.
She shared this thought with Keilana and her brother, if he wanted to listen as well. "I wonder what they plan to do when they find out what's beyond what we know. Will they try to settle in?" Aminah felt her skin crawl at the thought of Alkidike to both sides of Tale. She still didn't know what the rest of them were like, but if they were anything like Jerarda, she had a lot of trouble coming her way.
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Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2012 6:58 am
Enki’s stern expression did not waver as he watched Nadhiri. A less disciplined man surely would have lost his temper… begun the war that, at this point, seemed inevitable, despite the fact that the Alkidike girl continued to boast of her people’s lack of harmful intention. Did the ungracious girl not realize that she was not on her peoples’ land? Perhaps the Alkidikes were ready warriors, but here, in Tale, they were outnumbered… and Enki knew well that the Leaf Tribe would fight for their land.
The Berserker’s fist clenched within his gauntlet. It was at that moment that Phenyo stepped out from her hiding place, weapons raised and then laid in peace. Enki’s eyes narrowed notably, although this newcomer seemed to be the much more diplomatic of the two. The man listened intently, his expression stable, although his mind whirled.
What was this? Some sort of extreme coincidence? Enki’s attention flicked briefly to the group of Shifters who had finally approached the Alkidikes before returning his attention to the two women before him. Was it really possible that all three Tribes had decided to seek out… as she put it… “enlightenment about our world,” at the very same time? The man stood in silence. Perhaps there was something greater than they realized going on, something drawing the tribes across the land.
Enki knelt down, grasping a handful of Tale’s soft, downy sand in his hand. He closed his eyes, doing his best to listen to the Savanna, the spirit of their home, the thing that the Leaf Tribe worshiped and revered above all else. If Tendaji was calling the tribes together, he would not be the person responsible for denying it.
”I understand.” Enki slowly rose to his feet, attention locked back onto Phenyo and Nadhiri, ”but you must also understand that we have set out with the same purpose. We will allow you to cross our land untroubled under two conditions: you must leave Tale as quickly as possible, without disturbing our home in any way. That, and you must not interfere with our exploration either.” The man paused, glancing briefly at Jacinthus andKeilana, willing them to hold their tongues. He knew his next words would not settle well with the proud and hard-headed youths.
”Perhaps we should consider a temporary alliance. We need not work together… if we’re all headed in the same direction, we simply must be willing to let the others be. If we’re all fighting to stop one another, nobody will gain any ground; we’ll surely be at a stalemate.”
*****
Yansa watched Nadhiri and Phenyo from afar, but her attention continue to be re-directed back to Jerarda. The cruel and jealous expressions that intermittently took over her features were not lost on the elder woman. ”This is why…” passed through her head, although the words did not reach the air.
”She is showing the Leaf Tribe the true nature of the Alkidike.” Yansa said with a slight grin. ”Our purpose is to discover more about our land. If there are Earthlings living in Tale, surely there are other people elsewhere on Tendaji.” That was their true intent… yet, could there be something more? Could there be something bigger than any of them realized? Those questions were what had gotten Yansa so enthused about this expedition, but now was not the right time to voice those possibilities. First things first… they had to get across Tale.
Yansa’s attention drifted to Antiope as she approached with her group of Shifters, declaring their peace. The Alkidike woman inhaled deeply. She wished that she could quiet Jerarda. ”Yes…” she responded to the leader of the Shifters, ”we live harmoniously enough in the forest of Jauhar. We know you mean us no harm.” The woman’s expression darkened, glowering at the other woman, her skin dark with the risen sun. ”We will not interfere with you so long as you do not interfere with us.”
*****
Antiope’s eyes flicked towards Rishima as they approached. He… was it… a he? Regardless, he seemed to be the only one who had deigned to notice their approach. Yet, he seemed almost fearful. He was strange-looking, clearly a mixed breed between those warrior women and themselves, the Shifters. She had never seen such a combination… and she would be lying if she said she was pleased with the result.
Regardless, this was not a time for brazen accusations or being judgmental. Now was a time for pursuing peace.
Antiope nodded tranquilly as Yansa spoke to her, although she couldn’t help but allow the first signs of a smile to curl at the edges of her lips. This was not their land. Really, the Alkidikes had no place to tell them that they couldn’t be here. They did not know this land. It would be a disturbing disadvantage for them to begin a war in another Tribe’s territory. But this was better than she expected: The Alkidikes would let them continue their exploration, so long as the Shifters did not bother them. It was a tentative and unnamed alliance, but an alliance nonetheless.
”Fine.” She murmured in response to Yansa. ”Then we will do the same.”
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Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2012 9:57 am
Takoda posts in Green
Keilana posts in Brown
Jerarda posts in Purple
The poor shifter clutched at his bag as if trying to distract himself. After all the Alkidike women were getting awfully close and he didn't want to have anything to do with them if he didn't have to. Listening though but not offering anything in the words of wisdom or advice, though part of him wished he was brave enough to offer some words towards the subject.
Only a fool wouldn't believe that there was no tension in the air, it was so thick it made the healer dizzy. Trying to stand on his own two feet so that Chalcedony didn't worry he allowed his silver eyes to look over the leaf tribe first. There were the two he had met before there, it made him hopeful...at least the male had seemed friendly enough though the girl ...he still wasn't sure how she felt about everything. Despite him doing nothing wrong to her or wanting anything to happen to her she seemed to take everything as an insult towards her.
Glancing...though not looking directly at the Alkidikes he didn't see the one he had met a long time ago. He wondered if perhaps she had just been being nice to him rather than fishing for information.
~*~
Keilana wasn't exactly sure what was going on, but given that it seemed the group was gathering closer and the leader meeting she wanted to go stand by Enki's side and offer him the best support she could...being intimidating. Though after looking over the Alkidike women she had almost forgotten just how tall they were. A rather imposing race if one let them be.
Eye's locking on Nadhiri wanting to club that one right here and now before the other one stepped forward offering peace. It seemed dubious after all if they were all going after the same goal who would guarantee someone wouldn't start something. Looking to where another alkidike she had met briefly ...the one boasting to be Jerarda before looking away. Peace.. right she doubted it would last that long.
~*~
At Yansa's words Jerarda rolled her eyes, the true nature of Alkidike women was to conquer not...sit idly by with insults being tossed their way. The alkidike woman wanted to go and show those other leaders a thing or two, after all they deserved their respect since they were allowing them to live on the land after all.
Looking to the elder she sighed giving a growl at her annoyance, discovering is not exactly what she had signed up for, she was here to fight. Probably a bit too eager to go to war the naive girl. Jerarda had just about enough of it all, about to stride forward and clock the leaf tribe leader in the face with his all playing with the sand routine but even as she made her way over she could see that Phenyo was trying to save face in the situation. Something had obviously not gone entirely right. And though Jerarda was the type to start something she wasn't going to embarrass her best friend. Growling she merely became a presence...a menacing one behind her best friend. As in if you start something with her I'll end it sort of presence.
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Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2012 11:07 am
There has to be some sort of hard wiring in Phenyo's head that is wrong...at least for her generation, because between Nadhiri's shortness and Jerarda's brashness, Phen stood out like a sore thumb. How is it that she is the only one between the three of them able to understand the things you don't do when talking with groups of opposing factions? More specifically, the Leaf Tribe who outnumbers then and who understand the desert land better??? Tenadji is their home, yes, and Tale is part of that...but if the Great Tree had wanted them to be people of the desert, she would have grown there, and not in the ocean in the middle of an island, surrounded by trees!
It'd been going so well...they may have actually had a chance to go back and let Yansa know of this uneasy truce, been along their way. No...no, for Phenyo could feel Jera approaching behind her, and her heart sank. This is not what she needed. They needed to end this, not add fuel to the fire. It took every ounce of her being to not show this disappointment in her face, but she was sure if anyone was observant enough they'd see the tension in her shoulders.
Taking in a breath, the Alkidike placed her other hand on Jerarda's arm, her gaze serious. Please...you have caused enough trouble today, and I will throttle you the second I have a chance. Just please...hold your tongue and your attitude right now. Once finished attempting to convey this to her sister, she returned her attention to the Leaf Tribe leader.
"I understand," she said to him, echoing his earlier statement. "I see no reason that our elders would have any disagreement to those terms, but I will make this part clear: any foul play from an Outsider is going to be considered a breach of this...alliance, and will be dealt with swiftly and harshly." She made sure not the name a side, nor implement blame. An Outsider...anyone not of your people causing trouble. Phen understood the Leaf Tribe - and probably even the Shifters - would deal with a problem the same way any Alkidike warrior would.
"Sisters, I think we have much to report to Yansa, yes?" she said to the women at her sides, feeling this was a good place to break before Jera had a chance to open her mouth.
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Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2012 1:33 pm
Oh, no. Not only had another Alkidike joined the members of the leaf tribe gathered at the edge of the forest, but it was her. It was Jerarda. Aminah’s heart quickened at the proximity Jerarda was from her. It wasn’t even that close, but after their last encounter it was as close as she needed to be to get a reaction out of Aminah.
Aminah tried to pay attention only to what they were talking about. Something about a temporary alliance, enough to get everyone to where they were trying to go. It sounded good enough, but Aminah didn’t know if they planned to all take the same route, and no doubt the journey would take some time… time within Jerarda’s reach. Keilana had shifted positions, leaving Aminah vulnerable to Jerarda’s gaze, and she needed someone to hide behind quick. Aminah tried to hide further behind the other leaf tribe members inconspicuously.
Jerarda looked angry. She wondered what was going on between the shifters and the Alkidike women. Was something amiss?
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Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2012 2:39 pm
Chalcedony had his breath held the entire time, watching the proceedings, and much to his relief there was a tenuous sort of peace that was offered along with a temporary alliance between the three tribes. It wasn't something that he'd ever thought to see, especially given that the Alkidike never struck him as the sort to team up with outsiders. Maybe it was because there were a limited number of them heading into Tale compared to countless Leaf Tribesmen? They likely didn't want to get into a battle with such a vast number of people when they had a goal that they wanted to reach. It was the same with the other two tribes as well, but it seemed rather odd to him that they were all striking out together to meet the same sort of goal. They all wanted the same thing, that being to find the new lands and it was... well a strange turn of events. What could have led them all to moving at the same time? Was it something in the air? He had no idea but it made him that much more curious as to what it was that they were going to find in the new lands, really hoping that it would be worth it else one or more of the groups might get testy...
Even now he could see those among the Leaf and Alkidike Tribes that didn't seem to be that pleased over the alliance but then again how easy was it to put aside years of emotions, good and bad, to team up with those foreign to you? Chal himself meant to stick close to the Shifters, not really wanting to mingle with the Alkidike due to trust issues or the Leaf due to having no idea what to say to them. While something in his head said he should try to broaden his horizons the quiet voice was ignored in light of wanting to tend to his own tribe, to keep them safe, not to worry about all the others.
Turning to glance over toward Antiope first, then around to each member of the group of Shifters, and forward again toward the others. Best to keep an eye on things and hope for the best. So long as the Alkidike held up their side of the alliance, and it was those women that he fear breaking it the most, he supposed that it should all work out, right? The already strange journey seemed to be getting that much stranger he thought to himself, just wait until he got home! This was going to one interesting story that he got to tell to his family that was for sure. Best that he do his best to take in all of the details because they were bound to ask endless questions as they were prone to doing when it came to... anything really. Something that poor Takoda had learned all about when he had come to his place a while back and was bombarded with their questions, some more teasing then others.
*****
Jacin glanced at their leader as he knelt down, gathering into his hands the sands of Tale, seeming to be gathering insight from Tale herself, before the man rose to his feet and spoke again and he found the man turning to look at Kei and himself directly, as though giving them a silent order to stay before he turned back the Alkidike and proposed an alliance...? Jacin's eyes went a little wide, quite surprised. He didn't see the point, why should they offer up an alliance to a bunch of invaders? Especially invaders that were after the same thing as them? What was to say that these women wouldn't stab them in the back? As he thought that he thought of Maya, a rather nice member of the tribe unlike the arrogant one they sent as a messenger, and what she had been like. If more of her tribe was like a girl who dreamed about flowers he might be able to deal with them... these ones though, he would say they receiving flowers was the last thing on their minds. It was always something he'd found to be foolish but now at least that foolishness was something he'd find himself more likely to accept and want to ally with.
Still, it was Enki, their leader, proposing the alliance and the elder he'd met with a short time ago had told him it was important to follow the instructions of ones leader, right? Turning to face his sister he gave Kei a smile, leaning in close to whisper to her, "We will hold up the alliance, it won't be the Leaf Tribe that falter." He wouldn't allow his family to be blamed for breaking the alliance, if anything he would keep an eye on the others to make sure that the others held to it too he thought to himself. Giving a little snort, crossing his arms over his chest, he fell once more quiet, glancing over toward where the Shifters were. So one big happy group of travelers, huh? Well... at least that meant he might be able to meet with Takoda again, right? He supposed that this alliance would have its upside though he wasn't quite sure if one Shifter would balance out all of the others that they were stuck traveling with yet.
His, seemingly, calm stance shifted though when a third of the Alkidike decided to join them, this one seeming to radiate with anger in waves. His hand moved once more to resting on his quiver of arrows, eyes narrowing, all attention now on the newest of the women... but it seemed that the eloquent one was quick to put her in place. That one put a hand on the angry one's arm, giving her a chastising look, and he couldn't help but to be amused though his face did show it. Instead he just remained on edge, uncertain if that one could be trusted, "We should watch out for that one." He murmured to Kei, not trusting her in the least. If anyone would screw up the alliance it would be that particular Alkidike if you asked him. That or the first one that had approached them, neither of those two women seemed to care a whit for the Leaf Tribe or the fact that they were invading Tale with their little expedition. Not that he wasn't guilty of wandering into Jauhar from time to time but you didn't see him throwing his weight around while there or acting as if he owned the place. Grumbling a bit to himself the archer did his best to remain calm, or at least as calm as was possible for him since this was going to be a long trip and he didn't want to tire himself out early.
*****
As Jerarda went stalking forward to join the others Rishima remained behind, leaning against his Radaku, glancing between the other two tribes, as well as his own, and tried not to show as much interest as he was feeling when it came to the Shifters. The idea that they were going to be going to the same place, did that mean they would travel together? Would he have a chance perhaps to speak with them? Should he avoid that so as not to appear as though he were siding their their enemies? He had no idea... the more he thought about it the more muddled it became, nearly making the prentice boy a little dizzy. Best that he didn't think about it too hard he thought to himself. First and foremost he wanted to impress his sisters, to become one of them as Jerarda said he would, and then follow in the footsteps of his good friend and somewhat mentor... though at the moment he was more then happy not to follow in her footsteps. The Leaf Tribe, while on the same small scale as the Shifters, didn't all seem to happy to have them here in Tale so it was best that he didn't join the already growing group that was approaching them. Best not to make them feel cornered.
One hand petting against Itzal's mane he did his best to take in all that was being said around him, wanting to be ready for whatever was to come from here on out. It was all on such a more vast scale then what he was used to dealing with, but he wanted to prove that he could stand beside Jerarda and the other Alkidike, even if he knew it would take some doing on his part.
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Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2012 4:06 pm
Meta Jump
And so... all three groups: the Shifters, Alkidikes, and Leaf Tribe set off to the Northeast under this very tentative alliance. Tensions remained high; the atmosphere had become, perhaps, even more competitive than before. After all, now there was a reason to move with purpose: now nobody could stand to be left behind.
The Alkidikes under Yansa's guidance seemed to be moving the fastest. They were longer legged than the other Earthlings and, for the most part, seemed to have packed the lightest. "Keep a keen eye on the Leaf Tribe..." Yansa murmured to her women as they moved. "They know how to find food in this land."
Of course, the Shifters and Leaf Tribe were not far behind. Although the groups were certainly not traveling together, no one group would let the others beyond their sights. It was not a race, persay, but a mission to make sure that no one group got ahead of the others. Everyone would find out information together... meet new people together... see new sights together.
Time passed and the groups continued to travel. They moved swiftly and, although no doubt growing weary from their constant motion, the travelers soon began to see signs of change, a glorious break from the monotony of heat and sand.
A cool breeze began to blow, unnoticeable at first. It was not cold here, but certainly cooler than either the constant humidity in Jauhar or the sweltering heat of Tale. The ground began to change. The downy, soft grains of sand began to grow larger, coarser. Craggy rocks began to appear, jutting from the ground. The earth was becoming hard, but it was somehow different from the dark soil of Jauhar; it was rougher, more dense. The earth began to take on shades of purple, grey, and mossy green. The crags began to grow in size, becoming mountainous structures, purple in color and streaked with neutral hues. The air itself seemed to take on color, a golden haze as if the wind itself were filtering the sun. This place was certainly different from the world they knew... this place called Sauti.
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Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2012 6:04 pm
It had been nerve-wracking in the beginning. Having the Leaf and Shifter tribes walking right behind them had her one edge; part of her brain constantly suggesting that this would be a perfect time for them to strike. But she did not look back, only kept her back straight and marched forward. As the days past, Nadhiri grew used to their presence. While she would rather they weren’t there, there was nothing she could do about it and the Leaf Tribe was proving useful. Without being able to follow their lead, surely the Alkidike group would have been a lot hungrier.
Nadhiri kept mostly to herself. She spoke little, only responding to Yansa when the older warrior spoke. The other Prentices she treated civilly enough, but did not seek their companionship. They already seemed to have strong ties of friendship and she had no interest to stepping into that. Not to mention the half-breed that followed in their wake. Nadhiri ignored him completely.
As the scenery changed and their journey continued, she refused to let her growing weariness show. The vegetation was beginning to change and the earth was hard beneath her feet. It was a different world, where even the air felt different. Nadhiri walked alongside her sisters, looking up towards craggy peaks. What would it be like to climb that high?
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Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2012 8:09 pm
When all of the groups had moved out to continue on their exploration, Aminah had made that large leap of really going through with her plans to disregard her parents' wishes. She felt guilty, but already she was glad she did so. Her parents by now would know that she had gone. She could only hope that they understood and would eventually forgive her after she returned. She needed to explore the world she lived in and expand her horizons. She already felt a change in herself with just having to help with provisions along the way.
As the terrain began to change and the ground under foot grew harder with each step, she wondered about the Alkidike still slightly in the lead. Their long legs took such elegant strides. They didn't even have to work at moving across an entire land. She was almost envious.
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