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 Posted: Tue Oct 06, 2015 3:33 pm
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ T r a i n i n g || D a y s ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 2000
Prentice to Guard growth
The first official day of his training had come and gone so quickly, as well as many others. Gael wasn't even sure which day they were on now to be honest. His mentor worked with him when he could and the water tribesman enjoyed days off in between. Days he spent on the beach or with his friend or both. Now, he stood in his teacher's back yard, feet equal lengths apart, holding his arms out straight in front of him. "Keep them lanky arms steady, boy." The deep, gruff voice of the older man sounded from behind him. Gael's arms were shaking from muscle weakness and prolonged exposure but he nodded his head anyway. There was determination in his orange eyes. Determination that said he would do his best.
The gray haired man moved steadily around him in a slow, tight circle, watching his form, correcting it, and occasionally adding weights to the arms he had out. With each addition of weights Gael grunted and had to adjust the strength in his arms to keep them level. "If they drop we'll start this all over, you got that?" His teacher gave the warning with a bit of amusement. Clearly he found this exercise to be entertaining and wouldn't mind starting from the beginning. "Yes sir." His statement seemed forced and with a huff of air as he gritted his teeth after each word. Clearly he was having some difficulty with this but was unwilling to give up any time soon.
Now that a good amount of the weights were added on the old man walked around to the front of his student and stared at him with a calculating gaze, gauging the strength that was in his thin form. For a time he was quiet, almost as though he was waiting, then finally he started to speak. "This is to help build muscle in them weak things you call arms. You'll need them if you plan to wield a shield with any bit of force." As he spoke he lifted a hand up to his chin and stroked it in thought. "With any luck you will be decent." A statement that said he didn't expect his student to be anything outstanding.
This statement caught Gael's attention and he narrowed his eyes a bit at the man that was teaching him what he needed to reach his goal. "I will be great, not just decent." He corrected with some cockiness. There was no way this young matorian was going to let himself be simply decent. Not in this. He needed to be the best so that he could protect those he cared about. It meant a lot to him to be able to do that and more. It meant that he would be able to stand up to anyone that intended to hurt his family, his friends. Anyone he wanted to protect would be safe. Kani would be safe. And that was what mattered the most.
A snorting laugh came from the elder of the two but he gave a short nod of his head before he spoke. "Alright, boy, then prove it." And with those words he added more weight to the arms that were already laden with pounds. Slowly a smirk started to take shape. He could see his students arms shaking even more as he struggled to keep them where they were. Within seconds those appendages dropped and sent all the weights down the the ground. The mentor nodded again but this time he was grinning at Gael as if to say "I told you so." A level of knowledge that came with experience. Experience that told him ahead of time that Gael's arms were going to drop.
"There is that greatness, huh boy? It takes more than words to become something great." The old man took a deep breath then reached out to take Gael's arms and raise them up again. He pulled them out straight then let go. "Keep them there. Work on your endurance. The longer you can keep them there under their own weight the longer you can withstand added weight from something else."
While he instructed his student to keep his arms up he took to moving the weights away from Gael's feet. Picking them all up one by one to be placed elsewhere. They would be stacked on the side and wait to be used again at another time. "See how long you can do that. No weights. Then we'll talk." There was an air of disappointment in his voice as he waved one hand in dismissal and turned to walk away as he shook his head. The man disappeared into his house and left Gael standing there alone.
The moment his teacher was gone shame hit him like a ton of bricks riding a train. He'd been too sure, too cocky, and it had resulted in him being embarrassed. Gael had been shown that he was far from being great. Without the weights on his arms he could still feel his muscles tremble in protest. Lips pressed together and he closed his eyes against the struggle. There was no way he was going to give up. Not now. Not after he'd lost face. He'd never be able to face his mentor again if he did and Gael couldn't live with that. Nor could he face his friend if he failed.
So Gael stood with his arms outstretched in front of him; unmoving. He'd not let his teacher down. He'd not let Kani down. He'd not let himself down. Minutes ticked by and he placed his mind elsewhere so that he could ignore how his muscles were reacting. He didn't want to feel the tightness they were starting to show. Nor did he want to acknowledge the cramping that was starting to make things more difficult. He thought of the days spent on the beach. Thought of moments he could spend with a special someone. Anything to keep his mind busy and away from the weakening in his arms.
Those long minutes of waiting turned into hours. The sun had sank below the horizon and shrouded the world in darkness. The lights that were on in his mentor's hut went out. The village was asleep. All but him. Gael stayed as he was even though it made his whole body tremble. The stillness caused him to sway and the exhaustion of making his muscles work against themselves was making him sleepy. But he didn't lower his arms even a little bit. He couldn't. He needed to prove to his teacher that he could be great. Wanted to show his family and friends that he could become great. Though mostly there was only one person that truly needed to know that he could do it. He needed to prove it to himself...
When morning came and the sun broke the spell of darkness that had shrouded the world of Tendaji, he was still standing there. Barely, but he was standing. His arms held out in front of him as though he were a zombie, and from the tired expression he wore he could have passed for one as well. The old man stepped out of his hut ready to face the new day and go to work but he paused when he noticed something, or rather someone standing in his yard. It was the kid. The very same boy he was training to become a fortress.
"When did you get up, boy?" Was his first question as he thought that the boy had snuck into his yard to make it seem as though he had been there the whole time, but when he drew closer he noticed the exhaustion that wracked Gael's body. "You never went to sleep." The statement was made in astonishment and was more for himself.
Looking Gael up and down he sized him up and then circled. His stance was a little off but given that he'd been there the whole night the man didn't bother to correct it. To have done so would have cost the boy his pride. Instead, he made his way back to the front and deliberated for a minute. "Impressive." The word was short and to the point but the nod that came with it and the pat to the shoulder that followed would show Gael that the man meant it. "Perhaps you can be great after all."
Once he had that little bit of approval Gael let his arms drop. He'd have lowered them slowly if he could have but the muscles within them were all too ready to give out. "Thank you sir." He managed to whisper as he started to sway on his feet. When his mentor noticed this he lead the boy over to a stump in the ground so that he could sit down. With tired eyes he looked up at the older man and questioned him. "Why did I need to learn to keep my arms up?" The question had been rolling around in his head all night and now that he had the man's attention he wanted an answer.
Several seconds passed where the old matorian blinked his eyes. All that time and the boy hadn't figured it out? A chuckle left him as he shook his head. "I figured you'd have found the answer to that by now." Still, he supposed the poor boy was busy with trying to control his muscles. "I had you do that so that you could endure the hardship it puts on your muscles. Next we shall do it with the weights. You will need to be able to hold up a shield for long periods of time. Battles don't stop just so you can rest." As he finished speaking he put a hand on Gael's head and ruffled his hair.
"Oh.." Such a simple answer. One that should have been glaringly obvious. Gael started to feel stupid when the man spoke up again. "Your brain wasn't thinking about reasons for why just on the how." He had seen the look that was starting to form on Gael's face and meant to stop it before he thought his efforts wasted. After a night like that the boy deserved some praise and rest. He knew he certainly would.
"You've proven your point and proved me wrong in the process, bo- I mean, Gael. I think now you should go home and rest up. The strain you put your body through is going to take it's toll. You'll be sore for a few days at best." The man was still amazed that the young man had it in him to do as he did. "Go. Get rest then come see me in a few days and we'll see how well your muscles healed." The old man suspected that there would be more than a few pulled muscles that would plague the boy.
Gael gave a slow nod of his head but didn't quite move yet. He understood the words that were spoken to him, knew that he needed to get home but his body had already started to ache. When he did try to move it provoked a groan from him. "I think I pulled something.. my arms feel dead." Gael tried to laugh at his own words but the movement caused some pain and it made him wince. This in turn made his teacher laugh and shake his head at him. "I imagine you pulled more than a something but your legs should work just fine." To give a helping hand he lifted his student up and off the stump and steadied him on his feet before letting go. "There we go. Now lets get you home before someone thinks you've gone missing."
Gael chuckled at the thought but made no pretest to the idea of his bed. So he placed one foot in front of the other and made his way toward his own hut and the soft bed that waited within.
(( This shows growth with Gael because he learns that cockiness and words don't make him any stronger or better. He has to work for what he wants not just say that h wants it. It also gives him an appreciation for his teacher's ways. ))
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Posted: Sat Dec 05, 2015 10:55 am
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ T h e || C o m p a n i o n ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 1028
Used in Guard growth
Shortly after graduating from prentice to guard in the eyes of his teacher, Gael was sitting on a fallen tree on his day off. It was supposed to be a day that he used to relax and let his body recuperate, however, the young Matorian decided that he would get some running in. With a final check he made sure his boots wouldn't slip off then stood up ready to start his long trek. To his left, in the rolling waters, he saw a small group of Zanteer splashing around and having fun. On any other given day he'd be right there with them being care free but today he had a goal in mind.
Inhaling deeply, Gael swung his arms and tried to sike himself up for the run then he shook his head and decided to just get right to it. With a small push that sent sand flying behind him the guard started his run. Since he was going over dry sand it made his calves work harder and within minutes he could feel the muscles starting to burn. Knowing that he had only just begun he started to hum a random tune to take his mind off it. The off key humming caught the attention of one Zanteer as he passed by and the animal turned his head this way and that. As Gael moved farther away the beast decided that he wanted to follow and keep listening.
The two would run like this for a while before the water tribesman even took notice. As he caught the image of the trotting Zanteer at his side he turned his head to look at the creature with more than a little bit of confusion. He'd not done anything to entice it, or at least he didn't think he had, so why would it be following? When the fur covered beast noticed he was being stared at it moved to slow down and fall behind Gael. Thinking that it had given up the guard kept running, feeling the full force of the burn in his legs. Another moment passed and he was knocked into from behind. It seemed the Zanteer thought they were now playing. Clawed paws smacked into his lower back and pitched him forward forcing him to scramble to keep his footing. "What in the...?" He practically shouted a profanity at the animal.
Prancing away the spotted beast looked as though he was going to run from Gael. With a shake of his head the young male started to run again, but this time was more wary than before and it paid off. Another moment passed before he caught a sound that made his ear fins twitch. Something was fast approaching. At the last second he stepped to the side and watched as the Zanteer went flying right past him. As the water feline landed face first into the sand he let out a laugh that echoed off nearby trees. He couldn't help it. "You stupid beast." The comment came before he thought better of it though he found it appropriate for the situation. Did the Zanteer really think he was going to knock him over? Not a chance.
The mammal got up and shook the sand from his face as well as the injury from it's pride. When it turned to face Gael directly there was little hesitation before it leaped into the air and slammed right into his gut, forcing them both to the ground now. The Matorian landed with a grunt and the Zanteer took up a perch on his stomach in triumph. "Why you little ba--.." He stopped himself before the word could full form on his lips. Giving an irritated huff instead, Gael moved one hand up to shove the animal off him. "Get off you over weight water mammal." Not much of an insult but it got the point across. Able to sit up without the added weight of the beast he coughed and shook his head before eyeing the Zanteer.
This one was odd in behavior. Mostly they were wild beasts, however, Gael suspected that this one had been tamed when it was nothing more than a pup and had been abandoned. So for a long time the two sat in the sand staring at one another. The Matorian trying to figure out what to do and the Zanteer wanting to play. "So much for getting extra exercise in today." If he tried to continue then this animal would think he was playing anyway. Getting to his feet the young male patted the side of his thigh and motioned for the creature to follow. "Come on then. Lets go fishing to get you something to eat." With the open invitation clear as day the Zanteer got to his feet and pranced along side Gael as if he'd been there his whole life.
"Guess you'll need a name." He said at random. If the beast was going to follow him for a while, which it seemed was the case, then Gael would need something to call it. Silence passed between them as they walked back the way they had come then suddenly a wicked smile formed on the Matorian's face. "Bastul." He had played with a few names and Sebastian had been one but with his earlier almost slip of the tongue he made it a play on words. With this the Zanteer tilted his head and looked at Gael with curious eyes and when the name was said again the beast rubbed up against the guard's leg affectionately. "I guess that means you like it."
To return the affection Gael gave a pat to Bastul's head and smiled. Maybe the creature wasn't so bad. Though it did make him wonder just how he was going to manage to care for him. He'd need to look into just what it took to care for such an animal. Food and exercise would be needed to keep him healthy. "Well, at least you'll be helpful when I need to train." He'd have a companion to run with and likely practice defending against. Those claws were dangerous when used correctly.
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Posted: Sat Dec 19, 2015 6:10 am
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ B r o k e n || G e a r ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 1307
Used in Guard growth
"Hah! Gael's voice carried as he grunted his efforts. He was busy training with his mentor again, putting in the long hours that he would need to become something great. He didn't want to slack or even to just do the minimum. He wanted to work his body until it was well define and could take a hit without even a second thought. "Hrng!" Again he strained. His mentor was swinging a large wooden sword at him with everything he had. The weight of the heavy, solid wood, mixed in with the strength of his teacher was more than enough to test his resistance.
"Come on boy! I can still see some give in them arms!" The gruff sound of his teacher's voice met his ears just before another blow was landed on his shield. Gael knew he was right, there was some slack in his strength but each hit would send vibrations through his arms. It rattled his bones and didn't feel all that inviting, so the young matorian would ease his muscles to lessen the odd sensation. Thwack! "There it is again!" This time his teacher seemed more than just a little displeased. So he took a deep breath and readied for the next blow with all his might. "Rahh!" When the sword came down he brought his shield up to meet it.
"Good! You're gettin smart!" A chuckle formed on the old man's lips and Gael blinked. His surprise at this caused him to lose ground on the next hit and the end of the wooden weapon smacked him squarely on the head. "Ouch!" He lowered his defense to glare at his mentor for the knock to the noggin. "Eh? Don't give me that look boy. A compliment shouldn't take away your focus. Now, shield up." Before his last words were out of his mouth the old man was swinging downward with the heavy practice sword. Gael had little time to react and in fact went a somewhat wide eyed at the attack. Thankfully he was able to bring his arm up and block the blow but his arms swayed again. "Nah! You're slipping again! Fix it boy!" The frustration in his mentor's voice was abundantly clear now.
Knowing that he needed to keep his arms from loosening when he blocked a blow he tensed his muscles and pushed when he saw the sword coming down at him. Clack! "Haha! Good. Now.. faster!" Clack. Clack. Thud. Thwack. The old man started landing blows one after the other after the other. Gael felt his heart rate increase as adrenaline pumped through him. Each time he made sure to raise up and meet the wooden sword blow for blow, of course this also moved him forward. Step by little step he was gaining ground on his mentor. "Grah! Take that old man!" Despite his voice being strained he meant his words in a light hearted manner, something of which his teacher caught on to. The two kept at it and increased the strength of each attack and block until finally.. CRACK! The wooden sword split in half, sending the tip to the ground, and the shield sported a fancy new crack down the middle.
Both paused in their activities to look at their prospective weapons then at the others. It was the old man that cracked a smile first. A wide grin that said he was pleased with the days events. "Now that's skill boy!" He laughed aloud and tossed the rest of his broken practice weapon to the ground before coming to Gael and patting him on the shoulder roughly. "A battle scar for your shield eh? Not bad." There was another clap to his shoulder before the old Matorian walked away shaking his head. This left Gael standing there staring at his shield with bewilderment. How had they managed to not only break the solid wooden sword but also his shield? Blinking several times he still didn't seem to grasp the concept. But there it was, plain as day.
He took the shield off his arm and turned it so that he could see it's face. Right down the center was a fracture of splintered wood. The paint was messed up in that area and he examined it with her fingers. "Huh.. I wonder what a real sword would have done." He had to admit he wasn't exactly willing to find out. After all, his measly shield was only wood and behind that was his arm. Flesh and bone. A true sword could cut through them both like whale blubber. Not exactly something he wanted to see.
Gripping his shield on both sides of the split he tugged and pulled and generally tested the strength it still had. Unfortunately he noticed that it wiggled and bowed. "I will have to make a new one.. My old man won't give me the money for another." That would be a challenge of it's own right there. Him trying to make shield that was actually battle ready. Or at least ready enough to be used against a wooden sword. Gael frowned at the thought. It might delay his training if he couldn't get one and soon. That was something he just couldn't let happen. "Hmn.. I wonder what kind of wood would better hold up." Sure, they had palms around Matori but he wanted to know if there was a stronger wood that could be used. Something imported perhaps? It was a question for a carpenter. When he was done testing his only means of defense he sighed and started after his mentor. He was going to need time to make a new one.
"You look like an Oban slave boy.. cheer up. You did good work!" Clearly the older matorian saw nothing wrong with the shattering of two weapons during practice. In fact he seemed to be proud of the fact. "This was my only shield. My dad won't buy another so I'll have to make one." Gael said in response. Of course he noticed that his mentor nodded his head but there was something in the old man's eyes that made him give a confused look in return. "What..?"
His teacher gave another grin and brought his arms up to cross over his chest. There he simply looked at the broken gear in Gael's hands then nodded his head. "I guess you'll be needin to make one.." It was almost as if he has expected this. As if it had been his goal all along. Just as Gael went to say something the old man cut him off. "Ahct.. You wanted to be a fortress yes? Well you need to know your weapon inside and out. Making one yourself will show you how it works." He brought a hand to his chin and rubbed slowly. "That will be your next lesson boy.. make me a shield worthy of being used." Finally he nodded with a wisdom that took Gael by surprise.
"Well, yea I was going to make a new one but... I'm not even sure where to begin." And he would get no help in the matter it seemed. The only thing his mentor said, and it was rather cryptic, was that everything he needed to know was already in his hands. Then the old man went inside his house. It had been their silent signal of "Lessons over" since day one. If his teacher walked away and went inside then they were done for the day. Sometimes it was because there was nothing left to do but mostly it was due to the older Matorian's frustration at Gael. "That was helpful." His voice rang out sarcastically. He guessed he was just going to have to deal with the matter on his own and learn what it took to make a god shield.
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Posted: Sat Jan 16, 2016 10:35 pm
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ U n b e a r a b l e || L o s s ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 1551 Words
Used in Guard growth
He had managed to do some research on shield making and now had the materials that he needed in his arms. Gael’s intent was to make it home and finish up his chores before he sat off to the side by himself to try and make a new shield. It was, after all, his task assigned to him by his mentor. The young matorian was ready to start on the project so he could show the old man that he was capable of completing anything thrown at him. So naturally Gael had a smile on his face as he walked home. To him tonight would be the beginning of the good days.
He was looking down at the wood in his hands when he heard the commotion coming from his family’s hut. Giving a blink he lifted his gaze up in time to see his little sister coming toward him with tears streaming down her face. That was a rare sight since she always wore a smile. The baby of the family was pampered and treated like a little princess. So for him to see her crying was enough to send a jolt of pain through his chest. What could have happened to make her turn on the water works!? Everything in his arms was dropped in that instant and his feet moved before he could even process that he was moving forward.
One fell swoop and his sibling was in his arms and being cradled against his chest. “Shhh, Shhhh, little princess it’s alright.” The words of comfort came from him without him knowing the story, but it had to be alright. He could fix it. He would fix it. Whatever her problem he would make sure it was righted. “There now, no more tears.” Leaning his head forward he pressed his cheek to the top of her head and he stroked her hair with one hand. The wrenching feeling he felt within his gut made him fear that something had happened to their father.
No, he thought to himself, that’s not possible. The family wouldn’t survive such a loss. His heart started to pound in his chest and he worried it would give away his fear so he pulled away from his little sister and set her back down on her own two feet. Searching her face he used his thumbs to wipe clean the tears that he saw there. Gael was about to ask her what happened to their dad when he looked up at a dark shadow that was getting closer. Relief flooded through him. His father stood there, strong and tall, whole and hale. Then the fear came back. His brothers then? His cousin Janoii? His aunt? All these questions flooded his mind but for some reason his mouth could not word them.
“Gael… You are needed inside.” The only words his father spoke to him and in such a tone as to foreshadow the worst.
Gael gave a last look to his baby sister, making sure that she was alright, that she could stand on her own without him holding her up.
“Gael.. she will be fine.. go.” The man that he looked up to, the man that was always so harsh, had a crack in his voice as he spoke again.
It was then that he knew whatever was going on inside his home was really bad. Straightening up he looked toward his house, toward the darkness despite the lanterns burning. That feeling he felt in his gut earlier was getting heavier and for a moment he thought that he wasn’t going to be able to move. The sound of his cousin Janoii’s wail is what finally got him moving. Faster than he thought he would move Gael was at the door to his home with both hands on either side of the frame. So many people had gathered both inside and out. It was more than just his family that was present.
“Wh-what happened…?” His timid question came out the same time that his cousin cried out again, this time with a gut wrenching painful tone. Gael rushed inside to find out what was wrong with his closest family, only to stop dead.
The room hushed as they all took note of him standing there. His orange eyes had landed on the eerily lifeless body of his other cousin, Varuna. She was Janoii’s eldest sister and most of the family assumed that she had moved to another village for work. So why… why was she here laid out on his bed and so still? His brothers were staring at him with worried expressions, his aunt was trying to console her son but at the same time she was staring at him with wide eyes. She hadn’t expected to see him apparently. However, knowing that the pain he and her son felt would be similar she got to her feet and shooed everyone else out of the room.
She paused only long enough to speak to Gael. “Stay with him.” Three simple words and an even simpler command. Something he could easily do.
He didn’t seem to pay attention as the room emptied. All he saw was Varuna laying there and Janoii clinging to her arm. The sounds of his cries broke him on the inside. Gael slowly made a step forward but it felt like he was being physically beaten. “Var...una..” Was all he managed to get out before his next step had his legs giving out beneath him. He landed on his knees next to Janoii and hunched over. The tears had finally broken free and his sobs were shaking his body. “Varuna!!” Gael screamed at the floor.
She had been with Janoii and him throughout their childhood. The three of them were thick as thieves. So to see one of the trio laying there.. gone forever.. Gael felt as though he would never smile again. As the salty liquid leaked from his eyes and down his nose he sucked in a breath. Another scream left him but this one had no word within it. Instead he was yelling at the world for being so cruel.
Hours passed with Gael and Janoii both crying out and becoming hoarse, until finally they quieted down. It was then that his aunt came back in. She looked ragged but she brought her sad eyes to her nephew with a pleading expression. “Can you move… Can you move her? She needs to be…” Unable to finish the sentence she brought a hand up to cover her mouth.
He knew what she meant and he nodded his head. Despite being exhausted from his grief he didn’t want to push the duty off on his cousin or his aunt since he knew their pain was double what his was. With puffy eyes he got to his feet and shifted so that he could place his arms under Varuna. Even though she was gone from this world he was gentle with her, treating her as if she were sleeping. Due to the dead weight that she presented he was instantly thankful that his training had increased the muscle mass in his arms.
When Janoii grabbed him and pleaded with him to not take his sister away Gael had to close his eyes. He couldn’t look at his best friend’s face as it held such agony. “Janoii… She needs cleaned and made ready.” He tried to explain what was being done but his cousin just shook his head.
“No. No. I can do it. She’s my sister… I will..” But he couldn’t finish his sentence and it tore at Gael even more. It took his aunt to calm Janoii down enough to let Gael walk out of the room with Varuna’s body in his arms. If he thought he was getting away from the pain in that room then he was only walking into the pain outside it. The rest of his family waited there. They all looked at Gael then down at the girl he carried in his arms. With everyone staring at her in such a way he felt the need to cover her up but at the same time he felt that would be disrespectful to her and her memory. So he lifted his chin, straightened his shoulders, and started to walk through the gathered crowd with his dearest cousin in his arms.
People touched her arm or his arm as they passed, murmuring their condolences but Gael heard none of them. He was slowly slipping into a different stage of grief. Anger. All the questions that he should have asked before came rushing to the front of his mind. How had this happened? Was someone responsible? If so who was it and where could he find them. As he thought this he walked right past the materials that he’d dropped some time earlier. He would be back for them later and when he was he was going to construct a shield in honor of Varuna and it would find vengeance for her.
A darkness had fallen over his home, his family, and him. For now he would tend the dead but in the morning he was going to tend to the anger and blackness that was seeding within his heart. Someone would pay for this.
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Posted: Thu May 19, 2016 7:36 am
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ F r e e d o m ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 2138
Used in Guard growth. Class Quest
Sun burned his eyes as he stepped out of the building and into the light of day. How long had it been since Gael had been taken against his will by Nera and trained? He'd been bled and worked. His emotions had been drained and wrung out. With a squint he looked on at the world before him. It was different somehow. Not in a catastrophic things have progressed kind of way but in the way he looked at it. All that pent up anger he'd had as an adolescent was gone. Even though he was still only a young adult he didn't think the same way as before. In a way Nera had helped him to grow. Something he hadn't known that he had really needed. The old him would have found the irony in the fact that it had been an Oban that had helped him to heal a wound he was oblivious to, but his current self was simply grateful.
Tightening his hands into fists he tested the muscles that lay beneath his skin. Gael even rolled his shoulders and moved his head from one side to the other to send the tendons and other tissue rolling under the scars he'd gained. When he was done flexing the little bit that he had, the Matorian turned his head to look into the dimmer light of the building. It was a silent goodbye. With that last look given he faced forward and took his first step toward home. It had been a while and he knew his family would be worried about him. As well as a certain woman that he'd left behind. Gael only hoped that Kani had waited for him. If not.. well he would get to that bridge when the time came.
For now, he walked shirtless through the streets of Sulburi. The glances and stares that he gained from everyone bounced off him as though they were simply small pebbles. He did, however, move his hand up to run it over his head. No longer did he had the long hair that he'd sported before. It was now neatly trimmed and cut to give him a more mature look. As his hand dropped back to his side he took in a deep breath of fresh air and let his shoulders droop a bit. "Ahhh." was the sound he made upon exhaling. He was on his way home and he would enjoy the coastal breeze all the more when he got there.
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When he arrived in Matori he headed toward his mentor's house first. While he wanted to track down Kani and his family to show that he still lived he knew that he needed to ensure that he still had a teacher. Setting his shoulders squarely he knocked on the old man's door and waited.
"What do you want!?" Came the cranky reply to the sound as the door was jerked open. Then the old made glared up at Gael for a moment before leaning closer to get a better look. "Well I'll be.. That you Gael?" The older Matorian looked him up and down then gave a whistle. "You know many people thought you went off and got yourself killed."
During the whole thing he stood there, waiting for the old man to be finished. His patience had grown as well. However, when he heard that his family and friends thought he was dead he gave a visible grimace. "I apologize for that." There was a reason for his absence, of course, but no one would learn of it. At least, not yet. The only person he planned on telling, if she was willing to speak to him, was Kani.
Clearing his throat, the guard did his best to turn the conversation to what he was really there for. "I was wondering if you would still be my mentor while I am here in Matori." Since Gael had intentions of one day leaving his homeland to journey around, hopefully with his girlfriend, he figured he would at least let others know.
The old man eyed him for a long time, clearly thinking things over in his mind, and Gael stood there calmly. He didn't fidget or even look like he was in a hurry. "You've changed, boy." Then his mentor nodded his head. "Alright. But you've got some making up to do, Boy." A glare was shot at him. "You be here before the dawn tomorrow and be ready for the workout of your life!" Then just like that the old man went back into his house, slamming the door in Gael's face.
From the encounter he guessed that his teacher was upset that he'd vanished without a word. The Matorian male also guessed that the workout that he would be doing the next day was going to be a tough one. Not that he minded. Gael was actually looking forward to it. His head nodded to the door and he turned on his heels to head home. Next on his list of people to inform that he was alive and okay were his family. This one was going to be harder since he knew his aunt and cousin were less likely to forgive him for leaving so close on the heels of their loss of Varuna. If they forgave him.
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Finding his family home had been easy enough since it hadn't moved and neither had anyone that lived in it but Gael wasn't sure if he was welcome to just walk in as he had before. So he stood there for several minutes, staring at the wooden door that divided him from the rest of his family. Then he finally lifted his hand and knocked on the door three times. Afterward his hand dropped to his side and he felt a rush of anxiety. What if they didn't recognize him? What if they hated him? So many things could go wrong or right that he wasn't sure what to do. And then the door opened up and he was staring his older brother in the face.
It took several seconds but after the realization of who he was sank in Gael saw his brother's eyes widen and he threw his arms around him. The buff Matorian wasn't so sure how to react since he'd never had a reaction like that from his brother before but he did eventually return the hug, even if a bit awkwardly.
"Gael? Is that you? Where have you been little brother!?" The words and questions spilled from Baiel's lips as he pulled away and gave Gael a once over with his eyes as if to make sure he wasn't dreaming. When he saw the muscles that his sibling had put on he reached out to grab his biceps. "What's all this now?" A grin passed over his face.
Gael chuckled and lifted his shoulders slightly. "I had time to workout where I was staying."
His words gained him an odd look from his older sibling but he shook his head to say that he would explain in a moment what had happened to him. First, his eyes went past Baiel and into the home to see the faces of everyone else. Wide eyes and slacked jaws met him before all hell broke loose and everyone tried to speak at once. Gael barely had enough time to say a hello before he was dragged inside and hugged from every angle possible. Though there was one angry face among the welcoming crowd. Janoii.
When his eyes met those of his cousin his smile faded and he moved forward so that he could speak to him directly. "Cousin.. Let me expl--" His words were cut short by a right hook to the jaw by the cousin he still had in his life.
That made everyone else hush and take a step back so that they could watch what would unfold. Gael simply reached up to rub the now sore spot but he kept his eyes on Janoii. Finally he nodded his head.
"I deserve that." He would allow his cousin to have one shot since he had vanished in a time of need. However, when the male went to strike his a second time Gael caught the fist with his hand and shook his head. "I don't deserve another." And he let the hand go.
Turning his head to look around at everyone that was gathered in the same room, rather crowded too, he took a deep breath. This is where things would be rocky..
"I'm sorry for just disappearing without a word. It wasn't intentional, I promise." Gael then faced his aunt and took the two steps he'd need to be directly in front of her so that he could hold her hands in his. "Aunty, forgive me. I went to Oba as you wanted me to do so I could deliver your letter and bring back that which you wanted for Varuna." He saw her eyes begin to water but she did nod her head.
Gael offered a soft smile. "I was so angry at losing her, Aunty. We've lost enough family members... I didn't keep my anger in check while I was there and I took it out on an Oban." Right there he was met with the horrified gasps of everyone in the room.
Even Janoii, who had struck him with such anger of his own, paled a little in the face of that knowledge. Baiel frowned as he stared at his little brother. What had happened to him while he was there? While the family thought that Gael had run away or died he was in the hands of the Obans. When his baby sister burst into tears Gael gently hushed her and knelt down so that he could give her a hug. He stroked her hair and waited for her to realize everything was ok. The rest of the family found somewhere to sit and stare at him. Since he wore no shirt his scars were visible and now that they had the time to look, to truly look at him, they all saw them. His aunt brought her hands up to cover her mouth and keep her own sobs in. His brothers clenched their fists and turned their heads to look away. Janoii hung his head, feeling ashamed for everything bad he had thought about his cousin in the time he had been missing.
It was Gael's baby sister that faced the scars without shrinking away. She stared at them then reached out to touch them. "Do they hurt?" Her small voice asked.
It surprised the matorian a little but he shook his head. "No, princess, not anymore." His wounds had stopped hurting a long time ago.
It had been Nera, the Oban woman he had mouthed off too, that had helped him. His inner wounds at losing someone close had been soothed over. The physical wounds that she inflicted on him had ceased to give him any feeling after about the third layer. While it marred his flesh he couldn't say he regretted them. They were proof of his journey through that hell. Proof that he had been in pain. They were the proof he would wear proudly for the rest of his life. Gael would never want to get rid of them. The only thing that bothered him about the scars was that he wasn't sure if Kani would still find him attractive.
"I'm sorry Gael. We didn't know that you were.. that you had been..." No matter how he tried to word it he couldn't bring himself to say it. Baiel couldn't verbalize the truth.
Instead it was Gael that shook his head as he stood, taking his baby sister with him so that she could still be comforted. "Don't. None of you could have known so don't beat yourself up over it. Besides.. the woman that held me wasn't as bad as some of the others out there." Which he was very thankful for. Clearing his throat he looked around at everyone then spoke in a softer tone, "Has anyone seen Kani?" Gael wanted to make sure that he saw her soon and let her know that he was back. He had a feeling that if he didn't then she would either throw something at him or take it upon herself to go looking for him, if she hadn't done so already. The young man certainly hoped not, he didn't want her to get hurt or lost while looking for him. In his eyes he wasn't worth that.
Everyone in the room shook their heads and Gael groaned. That meant he'd have to go find her soon. For now, though, he would sit with his family and let them get used to the fact that he was home. For now...
(( Here Gael has developed patience and understanding in a way that he didn't have before. While the actual development took place in an RP this gives a better look at how much progress he has made. It also shows him trying to re-establish the relationships that he had before with his Mentor and his family. ))
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Posted: Fri May 19, 2017 2:00 pm
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Posted: Wed May 09, 2018 4:33 am
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Posted: Sun May 27, 2018 8:39 am
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ E m p t y || H o u s e ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 1098
3 pts - Massif
When he was finally able to make it home he first made sure that the rest of his family was doing alright. The period of strange weather had taken longer than he had hoped and a lot of the plant life had died. Gael just hoped that the fish had been smart enough to go to deeper waters and save themselves. After all, if there was no food source to keep people from starving then the after math could be more devastating than the snow itself. That was something he truly hoped didn't happen.
After seeing that his brothers and sister were doing well, despite the harsh weather change, he went to check on his aunt and cousins. He found them all safe and sound as well and could breathe a little easier. Not that it made the anxiety in his chest completely disappear. He still worried about a few others. Though the one that truly had his mind had not contacted him in some time so he had to wonder if she wanted anything to do with him at all. The thought made him sad but there was nothing he could do about it.
From his aunt's house he moved on to the small hut that he had for himself. There was no one waiting there for him, it was just an empty house. Big enough for him and Bastul, his Zanteer. There was another room but it stayed empty. A constant reminder that he was alone. Even with such a big family he was alone.
As he and his familiar walked into their house he reached down and pat the beast on the head. “Alright boy, we're back for a little bit.” Since things had been delayed so much the captain wanted to make sure everything was good and right with the ship before setting out again. Not to mention he needed to sell his wares and get new cargo to take over and sell on Yael. It turned out that the strange people of the island liked what the mainland had from time to time. It was a good way to make money. Gael had certainly made his fair share. “Not sure what we're going to do while we're here.” He sighed.
He crossed the main room and plopped down into a chair so that he could lean forward, his elbows on his knees, and place his head in his hands. When Bastul trotted over and gave him a nudge Gael turned his head to look at the beast. “I'm okay boy, just.. thinking.” With the Zanteer bumping him again he gave a scoff and sat up straight, dropping his hands into his lap. “Really?” The question was left to hang in the air as Bastul lay his head on Gael's lap.
“Ah, I see..” A small laugh left the man and he moved one hand to give the beast scritches behind his ears and under his chin. “Spoiled brat.” He mumbled.
With Bastul soaking up the attention Gael could only give a saddened smile. He had more than enough attention to give to the beast since there was no one else to take it. Which was something that bothered the man. It was one of the reasons why he had taken to working on a ship. He didn't have to think about it then. He was kept busy and was surrounded by people. That didn't take away the lonely feeling but it did serve to help in a little way. “I might have to think about letting someone in boy.”
His familiar looked up at him and listened but when the hand that was petting him stopped he moved one paw up to set on Gael's lap. When that didn't gain him the attention back he moved to place the other there as well.
Gael grunted as his companion started to slowly climb into his lap. “You know you are far too big for this, right?” That didn't seem to stop Bastul from hopping the rest of the way up and sitting on his person. All the man could do was grunt again and shift so that the weight of his water feline was evenly distributed. “You're not a kit anymore. How about you get down and we get you some food?” He didn't wait for the beast to move on his own, Gael gave him a shove to dislodge him from his perch then got to his feet. One hand reached up to go through his short hair and he groaned, his hand ending in his beard. “It would be nice to have some life in this house.”
Without thinking he turned to look at the empty room. He always kept the door closed because the empty gap seemed to make it more noticeable that he was missing something in life. For a long moment he just stood there staring at it. Could he invite someone into his home? Would anyone want to live with him? Gael had to think long and hard about that one. There were several things stopping him from doing that. First, he wasn't so sure he would be able to allow just anyone into his house. Second, he wasn't so sure he was ready for anything romantic. There was a small part of him that was holding out in the hopes that Kani would still be interested in him. Her silence on the matter so far was not a good indicator.
The longer he stared at that shut door the more he felt the emptiness within himself. It wasn't until Bastul nudged him with his head that Gael blinked and looked down at his familiar. “We're going boy, sorry.” He offered up a small chuckle before making his way across the open floor plan of the house to the kitchen area. In one of the baskets there was dried fish and he plucked a few pieces out to give to his companion. “Here you are.”
With the Zanteer happily eating he turned his head to look at the closed door once more. It caused him to sigh but after another moment he gave a half smile. “What about a little one? You think I would be an alright dad?” He questioned his familiar. When Bastul looked at him and only tilted his head a little Gael laughed and nodded. “Yes, I'd like to have a kit of my own.” He used the baby term in regards to a baby. There was an orphanage not too far from his village. He could at least stop in and see.
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Posted: Sun May 27, 2018 7:36 pm
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ F i r s t || D a y ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 1964
6 pts - Massif
Gael stood outside of the orphanage and stared at the door. It wasn't a large place but to him it was imposing. He felt as though when he walked through the door he would have no chance of going back. It was a decision that had him taking deep breaths and trying to calm his heart rate. So focused on his task that he didn't hear when someone approached him.
“You know standing there staring makes you look creepy.” A feminine voice broke through to him.
Gael jumped and turned to look at the woman with surprise before looking back at the door. “What? Yeah.. I mean no.. No, I'm..” He sighed and ran a hand through his short hair. “I'm sorry I just.. I'm trying to get the courage to go in.” He motioned to the door in front of them and then dropped his hand back to his side.
“Ah.. well you know they don't bite.” The woman seemed amused by Gael's plight.
“Y-yeah, I know..” He nodded then looked at the woman with worry on his face. “It's not weird, right? Wanting a child? I don't have a wife and..” He felt his cheeks burn and he looked back at the orphanage. “I've always wanted a family. I thought I was ready now.” Of course now he was wondering if he really was. The walk over had been easy. The thoughts in his head full of finding his child and going home but now something was stopping him.
“It's not weird. Why don't you come in, the children will love the company.” The woman reached out and took Gael's arm so that she could gently pull him toward the door.
He allowed himself to be pulled, telling himself that if it didn't work out, if his child was not behind that door, then it was not his fault. The heartache would be easier to deal with that way. After all, he had not gone inside on his own.
The moment they were through the door the sounds of kids playing and arguing reached his ears. It reminded him of his home when he was growing up. Gael came from a large family and the sounds made him feel perfectly at ease. When the children started to notice that she was back they squealed and gathered at her feet. The sounds grew louder and Gael grinned.
“Did you get it?” Came the collective question from the kids, some at the same time, others delayed.
“Easy, easy!” The woman laughed as she addressed the mass of kids around her. “I got it, you hungry pack of kits!”
It was only then that Gael noticed that the woman held a bag in her other hand. He curiously tilted his head as she reached in and when she pulled out fresh baked bread to hand out he felt shame. Should he have brought food for the kids? Were they all starving?
“Oh, it's their favorite treat. The fresh baked bread goes good with the honey that we harvest.” It was like the woman saw it written all over his face and decided to let him off the hook.
“Honey?” Gael looked confused.
“We have three hives in the back yard. Instead of getting rid of them the children wanted to plant flowers for the bees and then harvest the honey.” The woman grinned proudly at her gaggle of little ones.
The pride that swelled up inside him just knowing that the kids didn't lose sight of the good in the world was unimaginable. It told him that even they had hope in the world. It made his smile return and when he noticed the kids run off to where the honey was being hidden, or at least that was what he assumed, he looked at the woman.
“They are amazing.” It was the only thing he could get out. There were so many other things going through his mind that he wasn't sure what to say really.
“I know. I love them all and I hope they can find parents that love them just as much.” She was busy staring after them but when she was done speaking she looked toward Gael. “So.. do you still think you want to be a parent?” She was hopeful that since he hadn't left the place screaming he was still interested. At least that was the impression she got.
After a deep breath he turned his attention to the kids. “If anything hearing them and seeing how lively they are has made me want to be a father even more.” The smile that lit his features was all but plastered on his face. “The only thing I think I would be worried about is... they might not want to come home with me since they have you.” The woman clearly knew what they liked. She knew everything about them in ways he could only hope to learn.
“I'm sure they would love to go home with you, it would mean they would have a chance at a normal life. A family all their own.” The woman turned her gaze toward the kids again but this time her expression softened.
“Would it be possible for me to meet them?” Gael had transitioned from scared and frozen in place to happy and eager to meet the child that was meant to steal his heart.
“Of course!” The woman was only too happy to hopefully match a child with Gael so that one more could go home to a family that loved them. She motioned for him to go in after the kids before she herself started that way. Once they entered into the main room the sight that greeted them would be a group of little ones sharing a jar of honey for the delicious bread they each had.
Gael could only stand and stare at them all enjoying the little treat. That was until he felt a tug on his hand. Blinking for a moment he looked down and noticed that one of the kids had broken away from the group to approach him. It was a beautiful little girl.
“Are you my daddy?” The question was so innocent, so pure coming from her.
Yet Gael didn't know how to answer it. If he told her no then it would break her heart and dash her hopes of finding a family. However, if he said yes he would be committing to that and how was he to know if this child was his or not? He was gripping for words when the woman stepped over and scooped the little girl up into her arms.
“And just what are you trying to do little miss? Stealing attention?” She booped the girl on the nose affectionately then hugged her close before setting her back down. When the little girl ran off giggling the woman shook her head. “Hevia has been here since she was a baby. Her mother died in childbirth and no one knows who her father is.”
If Gael had had a child out there he never would let them out of his sight. He would make sure they knew who he was and that they were loved. His gaze moved from the little girl who had tugged at his hand to another that was sitting away from the rest and looked as though her hair was knotted. It even looked as though she hadn't been bathed in a while. Judging by the way the woman took care of the children he didn't think she would let one go without being cleaned.
“That is Brexxa. She.. she hates people.” The woman had followed his gaze to the little girl in question. “She was found all bruised up a few months ago. I've only ever gotten her to say a few things and she won't let me near her to brush her hair.” It was clear that the woman was bothered by the state of the child but she didn't want to force her to do anything.
“May I?” Gael figured it best to ask before he just walked right up and tried to talk to the child.
After he got the okay from the woman in charge he walked over to Brexxa and gave her a curious look. “Hello.” He tried to get her to at least know that he was there before he startled her. When the girl looked up at him he saw the anger hidden in her eyes and he frowned. “I was told your name is Brexxa, is that true?” It took a minute but he got a nod from her and that gave him a little hope that she didn't hate him completely.
“Would you mind if I sat here Brexxa?” He pointed to a chair that was across from her and when she nodded again he sat down. “Why don't you let the nice lady brush your hair sweetheart?” He was curious about why she wanted to look the way she did. Gael was worried that she didn't think she was pretty and in his eyes she was a pretty little girl. Reminded him of his sister. It made his chest hurt that she didn't let her beauty shine through.
“My sister was like that when she was little. She said she wanted to be a boy because we got to do all the fun things.” Gael smiled as he thought about those times. “It took me and my brothers to convince her to wash up and brush her hair. Now she loves to brush her hair. She keeps it looking pretty all the time.”
Brexxa blinked up at him for a long time before she reached up and pulled at her hair. It was in a knot and she looked at it for a moment before pointing at Gael. “Brush?” It appeared as though she wanted him to brush her hair.
He smiled at her and shook his head. “No, sweetie, I don't have a brush but before you brush your hair you should take a bath and wash it. Make it shine.” He nodded his head. “You have some nice highlights of color in there. I'm sure they are lovely.”
For a minute he thought his words would upset the little girl but when she got up from her chair she moved just close enough to touch his hand for a fraction of a second then she ran to the woman in charge. Gael caught the very loud demand of a bath before he got a surprised look from the woman and the two of them disappeared into the other room. He assumed that the little girl was off to get a bath and clean herself up so that she could brush her hair.
“Brexxa never touches anyone” The astonished voice of another child reached his ears and he looked toward them.
“What do you mean?” Gael figured that the girl didn't want anyone to go near her but surely she must had friends among the children that she hugged or something.
“She never touches anyone. She's usually always mean.” The kid shrugged his shoulders then walked off to go play with his friends.
His words about his fellow orphan caused Gael to really think about that. Maybe that was his sign that Brexxa was his child? Or maybe he was just really friendly? It would be hard to tell. For now, though, he would leave and come back another time and see how Brexxa was doing. He had a feeling that he would need more than just one day to figure out if she was his child.
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Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2018 10:01 am
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ T h e || D e t a i l s ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 2339 Words
7 growth pts - Massif
It took him a few days to return to the orphanage since he wasn't sure when an appropriate time to go back would be. While he had enjoyed his time there, even though it had been brief, he didn't want to seem as though he were being weird. Gael imagined that the process was much less awkward when a woman was involved. Still, he found that being in that environment and hearing the little voices all at once made his chest feel lighter. It opened up his eyes to the fact that he was missing it in his life.
So he went back. This time with bread enough for all the kids. He made enough working as a dockworker that he could afford it and still be alright for himself. Besides, he could always go fishing if he really got hungry. Gael did have those skills available to him.
“Oh good, you came back.” The woman that ran the orphanage said as she opened the door before he could knock. When he gave her an odd look she chuckled and pointed to the window where several kids were pressing their noses against the wavy glass.
He nodded his head in understanding then handed over the bread in his hands since he didn't want to be the one that got attacked for it. “I am happy to come back. I really liked seeing the kids the last time.” And that was no lie.
It took a moment for everyone to get their bread but when they had it they moved to where they could sit and enjoy it with the honey they collected. In between bites he would get a question or two from the kids and Gael did his best to answer as honestly as possible.
“Are you married?” Came the voice of a girl who looked to be around nine or ten.
The man shook his head and smiled a bit sadly. “No, I'm not.” Gael just hoped that wasn't a requirement in order to adopt and start a family of his own.
“Do you have your own kids?” This time it was a boy who asked.
“No. No kids.” He would have thought that if he had his own he wouldn't come to the orphanage but seeing the kids here and looking into their faces, he imagined that even if he had his own children he would be willing to adopt.
“How many kids do you want?” Another little girl asked.
That one made him pause. Gael had never thought about it much. He only knew that he wanted kids. Not just one. Being that he came from a large family he wanted to have a large family. Having the joy of so many together, a home full of love, was wonderful and he wanted to show that kind of joy to his kids. Natural or adopted.
“I'm not sure. I would like to have more than one, but for now I should start out with one since it's just me by myself.”
The woman in charge smiled at him and nodded her head. “A good idea.” That and she didn't want to be concerned that the man was growing a hoard of little ones with no means to care for them. “Alright kids, you eat your bread and I will talk with our guest.”
To the disappointment of the children Gael was led back to the “office,” which consisted of a large desk and a chair in the far corner of the room. He took the seat in front of the desk while the woman took the one behind it. “I never did get to introduce myself, my name is Tiia.”
“Oh, I'm Gael.” He replied a bit awkwardly. “I'm so sorry I didn't think of that the last time I was here.” Now he just felt foolish.
Once the introductions were done and out of the way the woman picked up her writing stick and toyed with it as she smiled at him. “So what can you tell me about the type of child you are looking for?” All Tiia wanted to do was find someone that would be a good fit for him.
Being asked what he was looking for made him feel as though he was shopping for a kid. It brought on an altogether uncomfortable feeling and he shifted in the chair a bit. “I'm sorry?”
Tiia noticed his comfort level dropping and she gave him an apologetic look before explaining herself. “I only meant to learn what it is you want. If you want a son then I obviously wouldn't suggest a girl. If you have familiars then I wouldn't point you toward on of the children who has a fear of beasts.” Feeling that saying this would help she watched Gael for any signs that he was still confused.
“That.. that makes sense. Sorry, this is still new to me.” When he saw her nod and lean back in her chair he took a deep breath and did the same. Gael had to really think about what he wanted. A son or a daughter. Though he didn't favor one over the other so there was that. “Ah, well I do have a familiar. A Zanteer.” Since he wasn't going to give Bastul up he wanted to make sure that he didn't end up with a kid that hated or feared animals.
“Good to know. Do you have room for a child in your home?” Tiia was now curious about this.
“Yes. I have a spare room that they can have all to themselves.” The very room that invoked an empty feeling inside him whenever he walked past or looked toward it. “I do work so I wouldn't be able to care for a very young child.” So that took any baby babies off the table. Not that he minded really. “Apart from those things I don't think I have a preference as far as gender or personality. I would want the child to be themselves, not who I wanted them to be.” He nodded his head absently.
A large smile seemed to light up Tiia's face. “That is a very good response. Sadly, I won't be able to give any actual suggestions on kids but that just means that you get to enjoy spending time with them to figure out who steals your heart.”
When the woman had said “sadly” Gael thought that his heart would stop. Was he going to be denied? Had he answered wrong? Then Tiia told him the rest and he let out a breath he hadn't known he had been holding. “Thank you. I would like to spend time with them before deciding. Does it matter how long I take?” He thought he should just ask to be sure. Maybe he had a deadline.
“Take all the time you need.”
He waited for a second longer before he turned to look at the kids as they sat eating. His orange eyes searched for the little face that he had seen the last time he had come. Brexxa. He wanted to know if she had done as he suggested and gotten washed up so that she could brush her pretty hair out. He didn't have to search long since she had spotted him and was making her way toward him as soon as she knew he was done speaking with Tiia.
“Hey Brexxa.” Was all he got out before the little girl climbed up into his lap and curled up against his chest. Gael was surprised by this and when he looked back at Tiia he could tell she was just as surprised as he was. But he smiled warmly and wrapped one arm around the little girl. “Sweetie, are you tired?” He figured she might be since the move was similar to what his little sister would do when she was tired but didn't want to go to her room.
Brexxa gave a small nod but didn't seem to otherwise move from her position. “You were gone.” Her voice seemed to take on a sad tone and it made Gael lean to the side just slightly so that he could look at her face.
“What was that? I was gone?” When she nodded again he offered her a friendly smile. “I'm sorry sweetie, I figured you were getting a bath that day and I didn't want to intrude.” Gael offered his explanation but saw that it didn't seem to matter to Brexxa.
“Don't go gone again.” It was all she said.
Not sure what else to do he simply sat there in his chair with Brexxa on his lap. He kept one arm around her to make sure she didn't fall and when he felt her body relax more he figured she had gone to sleep on him. It made him feel important in some way. He was strong enough to let the little girl who had been through so much already feel safe.
The other kids would come up to him and talk and try to play but would be mindful of the sleeping girl he was holding. When a little boy came over and seemed to be shy but curious Gael smiled at him. “Hello, what's your name?”
“Lochlyn.” For a long moment the boy stared at him then pointed to Brexxa. “My sister.” It was a statement, a fact of some sorts. Though the boy was clearly younger than the girl he held. At least by three years. He was the opposite of Brexxa though. He didn't seem to hate people and it made him wonder just what had happened to the little girl.
“Can we go home?” Lochlyn asked as he gave Gael the biggest set of Zanteer eyes the man had ever seen.
Gael was stunned to silence. Not just by the fact that the little girl in his arms, the one he had been most looking forward to seeing, had a sibling, but by the differences in them both. Not to mention the question that was posed.
Home.
The little boy wanted to go home and by the looks of it he thought Gael was the one that was coming to take him and his sister to such a place. He opened his mouth to reply but quickly realized he had no reply. How did one answer that? Not now? Maybe later? No? The man turned to look at Tiia but all she could do was shrug her shoulders. That was no help to him at all. So he looked back at Lochlyn.
“Well kiddo, I...” and he thought about it again. He adored Brexxa. Messy hair and mean attitude and all. To learn that she had a little brother just meant that he couldn't separate the two. Brexxa would likely not allow it anyways. “How about we spend some time together first. Are you scared of Zanteer?” He figured he would ask now so he knew whether or not the two would even be a good fit.
Lochlyn shook his head. It seemed the little boy was not afraid and that was a good thing. Gael would not give Bastul up. As much as he liked Brexxa and Lochlyn was growing on him, Bastul had been with him since.. well forever. Tossing him aside was not an option. “Is Brexxa?”
When the little boy shook his head again Gael smiled widely. That was good. He had no worries then when it came to Bastul and the two kids getting along. “What kind of food do you like Lochlyn?” He figured he might as well get to know the kid a bit more before he decided on anything.
“Any kind. Brex says to not be picky.” He seemed so sure of his words it was like his older sister was in charge. It made Gael chuckle a little.
“Well that is nice to know. But if you have something you like more than others let me know and I can try to get it for you alright?” He wanted to make sure that the child knew he could ask for things. It wasn't like he would simply expect Lochlyn to eat anything and everything that was put in front of him. Gael had things he didn't like so he didn't buy them but if Lochlyn or Brexxa wanted them he would get them.
The little boy moved a little closer before he leaned in and rest against Gael, a poor attempt to join his sister on his lap. When Gael noticed what it was Lochlyn was trying to achieve he did his best to adjust Brexxa and make room for the boy. Brexxa moved a little and opened her eyes long enough to see her brother then she closed them and put one arm around him to keep him close and in place. It seemed like Gael wouldn't be going anywhere soon.
“You like him?” He heard the low sound of Brexxa's voice. It startled him because he thought she was asking him if he liked Lochlyn but when he looked down he noticed that her eyes were still shut. On the other hand Lochlyn leaned in closer to her and nodded his head before answering in an equally low tone.
“Yes. Can we keep him?”
That question had Gael holding his breath so that he didn't miss the reply. None came. Brexxa was either thinking it over or had fallen back to sleep. Still, he sat there with the two on his lap apparently comfy and snoozing away. When Tiia got up and asked if he wanted her to move them he shook his head and motioned that he was alright where he was. Even if he wasn't talking to them he felt like there was some kind of bonding going on. He was their protector in that moment. Allowing them both to sleep without any worries.
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Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2018 4:08 pm
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▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀ T h e || P r o m i s e ❀
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ✿ Solo - 1005
3 pts - Massif
By the time the two children had woken up Gael was fairly sure his legs had gone to sleep but he didn't want to risk waking them before they were ready. Allowing them to sleep in a place where they felt safe would mean everything to them. It would be the first real peace of mind they would have had in a long time and he was not willing to rob them of that.
“You're still here.” It was Brexxa that woke first and said something. Judging by the surprise in her voice she hadn't expected Gael to be there when she woke up.
“You told me not to leave.” He offered a warm smile to her before he leaned down and gently kissed the top of her head. “Did you sleep good?” Gael at least wanted to know if his suffering of leg tingles was worth it and as she nodded he knew it was. “That's good.”
Turning his attention to the sleeping boy he decided it was best to leave him be until he was ready to wake up. Just like he had done with Brexxa. Turning to look at her again he watched as she got out of his lap and moved to find a blanket to drape over her brother. Once that was done and she was sure he was nice and warm, she looked up at Gael.
“He likes you. Says you're nice.” It was almost like she was accusing Gael of something. It was also like she was trying to say 'Don't disappoint us.'
“I think I'm nice.” He wasn't really sure how to respond to that.
“Do you want to have your own kids someday?” Brexxa had to admit she was curious. If she and Lochlyn were to live with this guy then she wanted to know if they would be replaced someday.
“Well, I would like to but since I'm not seeing anyone at the moment that kinda makes it hard to do.” Gael wasn't going to lie. He would love to be there at his child's birth and hold them as a baby. It was something he knew he missed out on as far as Brexxa and Lochlyn were concerned. But that also meant that he would do everything he could to make up for it. He really wanted these two kids to understand what it was like to be in a big loving family. It seemed like they really needed it.
“Oh...” She looked deflated. Even though he had said he had no one to have kids with he still wanted to have his own. Which meant that eventually she and her brother would be forgotten. Brexxa looked at her little brother and debated in her mind if she should pull him away from Gael now or later.
“Sweetie.. what's wrong with that? Wouldn't you like to have more little brothers or sisters? You do such a good job of looking after Lochlyn. Even in your sleep.” He smiled at her again. It was a natural instinct for her to be protective and he knew it was what made her a great big sister. “I have many brothers and a little sister. Its fun to have so many siblings.” He reached his hand out to take hers without waking the little boy in his lap.
“Brexxa, sweetie, even if I one day get to have my own children.. I would love for you and your brother to be their older siblings.” And he would. In the here and now these two had a firm hold on his heartstrings. Gael was determined to adopt them. Both. He would have to speak with Tiia about how to go about it but he knew these two would be living with him and be his children. “You know.. I have a familiar. His name is Bastul and he's a Zanteer. He'd love to meet you both and be able to play.” Gael knew his beast was a hyper thing and he loved to play around.
Brexxa seemed to light up then. “A Zanteer?” Apparently the promise of a pet had her in better spirits. Slowly she started to smile, the first real one he'd seen on her face since he'd arrived. After staring at her brother for a moment she brought her eyes to look at Gael's face. “Lochlyn wants a brother.” That was something she couldn't give her younger sibling, but if Gael kept his word then even when he had his own kids they would still be welcome and that would mean that Lochlyn would get all the siblings he wanted. “I want to trust you. I don't want you to throw us away.”
“Oh, Brexxa. I could never do that. You and your brother, if you both agree, will be my children.” That meant something to him. He would be extending his protection, his love, his home and family to both of them. “I would never leave you somewhere and not come back. I say that because I may ask my sister to watch you while I go hunting or something but I would always come home.” And if he thought he couldn't come home then he would send word. Something so that they knew he still wanted them. “Then maybe when you are older I will take you with me so that you won't have to even worry about that.”
Hearing of plans to be watched by his sister and then possibly taken with him when they were older had her really staring at him. He was making plans for the future and that future included her and her brother. A strange type of feeling was starting and she wasn't sure how to handle it. There was a bit of panic that rose up but there was nothing to run from so she didn't move instead she ended up having tears spill over onto her cheeks. “You really won't leave us?”
“I really won't.”
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