Takeko took the teen's hand with a smile, relieved to hear her respond favorably. She didn't exactly look 'okay', but anyone was likely to be deeply shaken by such an ordeal. It was a moment before Takeko realized, however, that she was still too weak to stand, even with assistance, but before she could rise to help further, the winged male interceded again. He bodily lifted the teen from the hole and moved away with her, leaving Takeko alone at the edge of the crater, outstretched hand empty once more. She took a deep breath, then let it out slowly, attempting to release this latest wave of irritation with it. It was clear the dark winged one wanted none of her help. And if it had been solely for his benefit, she felt she'd have gladly kept her altruistic notions to herself. But, there was more at stake here than some rude...jerk.
She drew her hand back towards herself, folding her wings back down as well as soon as her center of balance was safely back on the crater's edge. She instinctively tensed when the teen's heart-wrenching wails burst forth, the innate reaction to soothe and comfort was strong, but felt natural and it took pointed effort for Takeko to hold her ground and only watch. This wasn't her place. Clearly. Even if in a way, she was responsible for what had been done to rectify the situation...she clearly wasn't wanted here. The kidnapper monster had made that abundantly clear himself. Even the strange faun, though they'd never met before, had reacted to her presence with hostility. Fear. Why? What had she done?
She recalled the blissful moments of pure peace, the stranger's presence. It wasn't a far stretch then to assume that that had been 'Mother' and that this had been exactly what she called her here to do, given the strange changes she discovered in herself afterwards, new abilities she'd never had before. But that still didn't give her a complete answer. Who was 'Mother?' Even if she had a face for the name, there were still so many questions left unanswered. Like, where had these new abilities come from, and what exactly was this odd change she felt in herself?
The weight of all the exertion, the stress, and the emotional turmoil had settled down on her shoulders now that she'd been given a quiet moment of reflection. Well, semi-quiet, interrupted only by the teen's sobs and the quiet reassurances of the Queen. The earlier rush of energy and power had begun to fade, though she still felt physically better than she had in the cold previously. With a sigh, she began to reflect on everything that she had learned today. It was still fairly overwhelming, and the earlier confrontation had left her with just as many questions as answers, prior to the mad chase that had led to this tree...
She blinked and turned her gaze from the grass towards the elder winged female upon realizing she was being spoken to. Make everything right again? How? How could they possibly make things right? If she could even trust anything that this 'Lisian' said, and she wasn't sure if she believed that as it were. He certainly hadn't been speaking the truth when he'd said all those horrible things about her. Who knew what other falsehoods he'd spun? She wanted to be angry; she had every right to be! She had every right to be furious, and she had even managed to justify the brief violent urges she'd felt motivated to act upon, or at least to attempt to, earlier. And yet...now, hearing the raw emotion in the Queen's voice, seeing the emotional turmoil playing out between her and the younger teen, the angel couldn't find it in her heart to be cruel. Instead, her own fears and sorrows were resurfacing, questions plaguing her mind that she desperatedly needed to know the answers to...and yet also remained afraid to ask, fearful of the answer.
It was her turn to consider the offered hand. After a moment, tears pricking her eyes, she reached up to return the gesture wordlessly, only nodding as she grasped the other's hand and wrist, as one would when making an agreement. She didn't have the energy to argue that she could see little way to 'make this right' now after all this time. She didn't even know if Xiulan was still alive... She swallowed hard at the thought, briefly squeezing the other's hand lightly for a moment before releasing and withdrawing in thought once more. She'd been nearly ready to cut her losses and leave, but perhaps...she'd wait and see this through.
The high emotional states of the Flutters were to be expected and Vanya had prepared herself for dealing with those. Another Queen, this one belonging to this Tree...it only went further to support her growing hypothesis and she had kept quiet to allow the Flutters to deal with the outpouring of emotion during such a tramatic event. She had not expected, however, the surge of emotional energy from the Blood Pae. Unprepared and unguarded, Vanya had been surprised to note the rush of emotions coming from this fourth source. She wasn't trying to probe and she hadn't taken precautions to purposefully block them out, so the feelings of elation, then sadness washing over her like a wave were disconcerting. Just what was she thinking? What was she doing here in the first place? That was still unclear to her. Better yet...what did they do with her now?
Vanya's sharp hearing had caused her to lay her ears back and wince during the teen's keening wails, but as she quieted, it allowed her to hear her soft words. Alora, hmm? Before she could focus on this revelation, the seed in her arms began to wriggle. The shell cracked audibly, then several more times, as the seed's outer protective covering began to fall apart. A squirming form wriggled free of the shell, and to Vanya's momentary alarm, quickly nestled itself in her bosom.
Oh, this was a problem.
Veryan peeked from his hiding place in Vanya's hair, where he'd had a wonderful, safe vantage point to watch all the previous events unfold, and looked down at his bonded's new attachment. Vanya attempted to send a momentary glare at the spot on her shoulder where she heard muffled snickers of amusement. Not funny.
Clearing her throat for attention, the Seer awkwardly tried to hold and also remove the clinging tot from her chest. It was harder than she might have thought for some reason. "Err...excuse me. Some help please?"
Antidia
Irish Night Fox
Posted: Thu Aug 17, 2017 7:16 pm
DaemonGabrielle
Username: DaemonGabrielle Flutter of Choice: Cream, Purpler Ice, snow, winter sky (I know used "she" in this app, but if it's a he i win, that works too. I'm not set on one gender or another. She was just easier to use at the time. I'm all for a male too.) Future Flutter name: Firenze
Why do you want to participate in the Flutter sub-plot the Meta-plot? because as ya'll know, I'm always online. You guys are my light and I am fanatical about RP. Plus, despite my jokes about responsibility, I really do wanna take on more of it. I wanna feel more a part of the shop and have more important charrys.
What animal would your flutter's Gudi be? And why? A hermit Crab. With her personality, it should fit. She would avoid flighty, hard to care for things and get something easy and warm living. Like a hermit crab. Who requires heat and sand and only water and some nutrition drops every few days.
What does your flutter want? Not want? Need? +If they need something, why? +If they don't want or need something, why? +Does the thing they want require sacrifice? --[examples include Equality, Privacy, Power, Virtue, etc] Hmmm.... I would say she wants equality amongst flutters. Just because they work lesser jobs like housekeeping and kitchen staff, doesnt mean they should be thought less of. Every flutter should be praised for their job. And no one should be discriminated against because they clean or cook. She feels that everyone should be equal. I think that this is also a sacrifice cause if she doesn't play into power roles, some people might dislike her. I'm not saying she's going to be rude to say...Vanya or Rais. But she won't put their request before....a tailors. Or a window maker's.
She needs warmth. Sometimes that means she'll do extra chores to avoid outside in winter. She'll bargain her way to having someone retrieve things from the freezer. She will bake extra cookies in hope that someone will always make sure her drinks are hot and her room is always heated. No matter what. Heat is a requirement for her.
What does your flutter like? Dislike? And why? -[examples include Art, Smells, Chores, etc] cookies and jam, tea at noon, giving people cookies, baking/cooking for the tree, the feel of flour against her hands. The way things come together before they go in the oven. The smell of things baking and the way it permeates thru the air.
She just likes the fact that she can create beautiful masterpeices with precision and grace. Cakes, roasts, veggies, etc. She just likes to be able to put her heart out there on a plate.
She prefers cookies cause she can make a cookie to fit her feelings. And tea at noon is a time to relax. To unwind. She prefers tamarind to watermelon, and pineapple salsa to plain pineapple. She likes warmer flavors. The heat warms her. The hotter the better.
Firenze dislikes cold. Meaning anything from the temperature to attitude. She trys her hardest to be open and loving and feels everyone should be that way as well. So she naturally avoids closed off people or people with a colder, meaner disposition.
And she has an intense fear of being frozen again so she does her best to avoid any situation that requires a drop in temperature. Even a trip to the freezer will wind up with her trying to pawn that job off of on someone else.
What does your character believe? She believes that at the end of the day, as long as you can go home and have a cup of tea by the fire, your life is good. No matter what went on during the day, no matter who said what or did whatever, as long as a flutter can sit by the fire in her own room and recharge, she will make it thru another day.
Firenze also believes that cake flour is not a testament to the baking world. Regular flour has shaped the world and regular flour should always be used. Yes, it creates denser cakes and whatnot. But that density is what makes or breaks the flavor. Cake flour is Strife's evil upon the world. She supposes this also applies to life. Things that have worked for eons should always stay the same. Just cause "better" things come into play, doesn't mean you should go messing with them. It's the things that have remained that flavor life.
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Simple and sweet yet it shapes her way of thinking. She would never act unkind to someone out of fear of it coming back to her.
She looks to Alora as a big sister. Not so much a mother. She respects her but isn't afraid to argue with her either. Alora's word is law, though. She won't argue if Alora puts her foot down and Alora knows it. She believes in loyalty and obedience to Alora first. No matter what. But she will argue a point until Alora either stops her or agrees with her. Especially if it has to do with the kitchens. Or winter preparations. Specifically winter preparations.
What are your flutter's habits? +Voluntary? (routines) she tends to hide in the kitchen. She naturally gravitates toward warmer people and situations. She avoids fights if possible. She's overly friendly in any situation. She also fidgets. A lot.
+Involuntary? (they kind of habits that get on others nerves) when I say gravitates, I mean literally. Even if you ignore her, she will wind up almost in your lap if you don't watch her closely. She tends to be a touchy/feelyl kind of person. She also takes her time when making decisions so that could easily get on people's nerves. She has no concept of time unless it is baking time. And she often forgets about her appearance, so she tends to arrive in court with flour smudges. And lastly, she likes to have everyone's opinion when making a decision, so if you complain to her about someone/something, she will not give you an answer until she has investigated every side of the story first. Even if it means ruling against you. Even if it means a ruling 3 days from your complaint.
What is your flutter's self-assessment? -[What does your flutter think of themselves?] Firenze considers herself to be one of the flutters. Not really about glorifying her position, she tends to overlook people's views of her. And that's OK. Cause she knows who is truly important. Alora and the tree. In that order. She considers herself to be a good negotiator and just and fair in her train of thought. She likes to think of every angle. She knows she may be considered slow by others but she would rather take that extra minute to preview all options/angles. And she is fine with that. Her way of thinking is hers and no one else's.
What does your flutter do? Do they have a job? +Who will your flutter apprentice under? +If no one, how will your flutter learn their job, if they have one. +If you flutter does not have a job, why?
Kitchen. She loves to cook and be with the kitchen staff as much as possible. Where else is she gonna find out all the latest gossip? As well as explorring the culinary arts in her own time, she can always be found to have a cookie on her somewhere.
She discovered at a young age that the kitchen was warm. Alora was always having to drag her away from the large ovens in the treee's kitchen. She often was found asleep, curled up by the stove. As she grew, she became an integral part of the kitchen. Not a day goes by that she doesn't enter the kitchen. So the staff have become used to her. So it's only natural that the head chefs would eventually put her to good use. It started off slow and small, such as peeling potatoes, and eventually grew until she knew every job in the kitchen.
What is your flutter's fatal flaw?(This isn't fatal as in something that will kill them right away, but it will if there is no character growth. - this is the flaw that drives the character, for example: weakness to sweets, or jealousy, or anxiety for being alone.) Firenze is terrified of returning to coldness again. She goes out of her way to stay near a fire. Or other people. Or carry blankets. Or knit things like mittens and scarves. This leads to many awkward situations as she may press upon someone too closely, or try to bribe her way out of outside chores in the winter. Or attempt to give everyone a pair of socks for christmas. Those darn socks....
But she is TERRIFIED someone will find out she is scared of cold. She considers it a shame upon her soul. A secret she would rather die than expose. So she has wrapped her personality around this need for warmth. And grown into it.
Purple Jellyfish.
A couple of notes:
*Firenze can be a cook and a baker; however, milled flour and certain other ingredients would not be indigenous to the trees. Thereby, this would be a skill she would develop as trade routes are established and/or with alternative ingredients. Also with knitting and fabrics, she would be limited at first to just what is on/around the tree. At first she'd have very limited resources and knowledge of life outside the tree.
*Flutters are considered equals with the exception of the queens, but it would be interesting to see if her feelings of equality come into play in the future as their world expands.
*Otherwise, please ask any questions you may have about flutter to one of the staff. We look forward to seeing her in action!
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Posted: Thu Aug 17, 2017 7:18 pm
Daisicle
Username: Daisicle Flutter of Choice: (List your preferences) Snow -> Winter Sky -> Purple Ice -> Cream Future Flutter name: Male -> Amihan Female -> Rhona
Why do you want to participate in the Flutter sub-plot the Meta-plot? I already have two flutters belonging to Forn, so I am already involved in the subplot. Perhaps I shouldn't be trying for another when others have none, but I am excited for the prospect of getting to play in the other tree, particularly given their unique circumstances and what that could mean for their development.
What animal would your flutter's Gudi be? And why? Squirrel: Planner, gatherer, preparedness, awareness, sociable, playful, energy, prudence, resourceful.
Despite their fatal flaw, or perhaps because of it, they are a complete socialite and make a great effort to be around someone else during most of the day. Additionally, she tries to be as helpful as possible, often doing small things to help make others' lives easier, regardless if they are aware or not. She also tries to act in a rational manner based on the information at hand.
What does your flutter want? Not want? Need? +If they need something, why? +If they don't want or need something, why? +Does the thing they want require sacrifice? --[examples include Equality, Privacy, Power, Virtue, etc] They need meaningful relationships, as they are afraid that they may one day be forgotten. It is a piece of anxiety always chiding at them from the back of their mind.
Likewise, they want to find something to make them stand out, to make them unique, in some way.
What does your flutter like? Dislike? And why? -[examples include Art, Smells, Chores, etc] They actually do not mind doing tedious chores such as dusting or cleaning a room, or anything else that might be considered menial busywork. They also like following a set routine and grow anxious when someone else causes things to not follow the planned course of action (they don't notice when they are the one causing it to be so, but may still become stressed if they end up realizing things have gone astray).
Their favorite food is fresh strawberry, though they are also partial to any sort of sweet, fresh fruit. Even so, this sweet tooth does not extend to other desserts, such as cream tarts or pies.
They absolutely cannot handle the sight of blood, even their own. Even a small, actively-bleeding cut can cause their pulse to quicken and them to grow light-headed. It would not be unheard of for them to pass out from seeing a bad injury.
I'm not sure if this is a piece of produce found on the isle, but they abhor cabbage and related vegetables (i.e. cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts). It does not matter if they are cooked or raw, they will not touch them. Even the smell of it cooked is enough the have them wrinkling their nose and complaining loudly.
In fact, they are not a fan of anything particularly strong-scented and prefer the more subtle varieties. Items such as a mint extract can trigger a headache.
What does your character believe? They believe that problems can be solved rationally with a bit of thinking and cooperation, and that getting a lot of perspectives can help. To that end, they believe that building positive relationships are the foundation to finding happiness.
In some sense, this causes them to also believe that loneliness or depression is, at least in part, one's own fault for not taking the initiative to be around others.
With regards to more religious or political beliefs, they have no reason to not take whatever Belwen or the other elders say to heart, and thus take it all at face value.
What are your flutter's habits? +Voluntary? (routines) +Involuntary? (they kind of habits that get on others nerves) They like to start every day with a series of stretches and small exercises before leaving their room for the morning meal. Likewise, as they prefer set routines, they tend to pick the same options in these instances; it would not be strange for them to have the exact same set of meals each day for weeks if it was there.
They are easily distracted while carrying out a task and prone to sudden changes in behavior if they notice something they could do to aid someone else. It isn't that they forget whatever they are doing in the process, they just put it on the back-burner or multitask to do the new thing as well.
Since they like routines so much, they are also very hesitant to try new things without some sort of clear rational argument from the other party as to why they need to do so. If forced into it, such as having a meal where none of the items are something they've previously had, they compulsively mumbles complaints to themselves and are more prone to critique that they would have otherwise been.
What is your flutter's self-assessment? -[What does your flutter think of themselves?] They think of themselves as a pretty decent worker and well-liked enough by those around them. However, they also wonder if what they do couldn't be replicated just as well, or better, by someone else in the tree were they to disappear. In short, they don't think themselves as anything special in a good or bad manner; just wholly average.
What does your flutter do? Do they have a job? +Who will your flutter apprentice under? +If no one, how will your flutter learn their job, if they have one. +If you flutter does not have a job, why? Given their detail-oriented nature, they would like to become a wood and flora mender for Harn. If I am correct in interpreting her speech from the Coming-of-Age Ceremony, this position should be currently held by Nova. As such, they will apprentice under her.
What is your flutter's fatal flaw?(This isn't fatal as in something that will kill them right away, but it will if there is no character growth. - this is the flaw that drives the character, for example: weakness to sweets, or jealousy, or anxiety for being alone.) Inability to connect with others emotionally.
By this, I mean that while they are capable of experiencing a full range of emotions - and quite strongly most likely - they struggle to express these emotions to others in meaningful, understandable ways. Their body language may show they're happy, but they would find difficultly expressing this if someone asked.
Likewise, they find it difficult to pick up on other's emotions and empathize with them in that manner. So they would probably not realize someone is having a bad day from subtle body language and, if they were bluntly told of the fact, would struggle to figure out the proper way to comfort them.
Purple Jellyfish
A couple of notes:
*Amihan's app implies that he is a social butterfly but hates new situations. It will be interesting to see if he is just social with Pae he knows or how it would otherwise emerge.
*Having a hard time reading other Pae's emotions is a good fatal flaw to have him work through. It could be imagined that he would have a hard time being social if unable to communicate emotion. If not played just right, this Pae could end up being a Sheldon cooper.
*Otherwise, please ask any questions you may have about flutter to one of the staff. We look forward to seeing him in action!
Posted: Thu Aug 17, 2017 7:21 pm
Twitchapher the 3rd
Username: Twitchapher the 3rd Flutter of Choice: Winter Sky, Snow, Purple Ice, Cream Future Flutter name: If a girl, Eira. If a boy, Enlil(I will write this form for Enlil)
Why do you want to participate in the Flutter sub-plot the Meta-plot? Flutters are amazing and I'm excited to see the development of Harn, who hasn't been devolved like it should have. More rp, more learning about how the island works and it's secrets, MORE TARGETS FOR DIA TO EXPLODE!
What animal would your flutter's Gudi be? And why? Enlil's Gudi would be a turtle. With the representation of security, protection, steady, and supportiveness, it would fit Enlil. Though the turtle is also slow, and shows that we have all the time in the world. The turtle is also believed to carry the world on it's back. Enlil will really need to learn that he can't take on everything by himself, his own little world on his back if you will. He also needs to come out of his shell.
What does your flutter want? Not want? Need? Enlil wants to protect Harn and his fellow flutters. He wants them to be happy. He needs them to be safe so he can be happy. Due to this protective need of his, he tends to hide who he is, taking on this serious persona while on watch. He really sacrifices himself for the Sheedhiels and deep down, he hates who he has become.
What does your flutter like? Dislike? And why? On patrol? Quietness and knowing he's protecting his kin and he hates when the alarm goes off. If someone can crack his shell, he likes dweeby things. If there was a pae to invent DnD on Telrunya, it would be him. He also really enjoys cooking in secret. There's something about creating he can't get enough of and during those moments he wonders if he should have been a tree tender instead. He's allergic to shellfish but doesn't know it....Hopefully he never does. If he does well he'll avoid it like the plague.
What does your character believe? Enlil believes in Alora, his Queen. He was sprouted because of her after all. She's like...His mother. His Queen is his family and after learning the state Harn was in he'll want to help better Harn to the likes of Forn. He does hold Queen Beliwen to the utmost respect as well. He also wants to believe the newer generations can also help the Elders past their fears of the outside world and some of their shyness.
What are your flutter's habits? Enlil is RIPPED. He works out a lot and keeps himself in shape. You never know when he'll be needed to fight off intruders. He also has a habit of practicing his cooking, not finishing the meal and leaving the left overs in the chill box(I'D IMAGINE THEY HAVE SOME WAY TO KEEP FOOD FROM SPOILING). Mystery meals for the early bird to find.
Enlil scuffs his hooves on the floor. Someone should teach him to lift and wipe his feet more. He gets dirt from his patrols all over Harns nice floors and doesn't clean it up.
What is your flutter's self-assessment? Out on patrol he hates his mask and some days he feels like he made the wrong choice in life. Yet he has this odd sense of pride too. It's really a love hate relationship with his job. Due to this serious persona it's hard to get close to anyone in the colony and he's become afraid if they knew he was a deep down dweeb they wouldn't like him.
Long story short he has a lot of self hate to deal with which would be lovely to devolpe him out of.
What does your flutter do? Do they have a job? Enlil's life revolves around wanting to and protecting the colony and the Sheedhiel's so naturally he is to apprentice under Tegeirian and become a Tree Watcher.
What is your flutter's fatal flaw? Enlil has a hard time socializing. When he's a serious, he's a boring buzz kill that not many are going to want to be around. When the colony manages to get him to drop his seriousness...He can't talk to girls. This is in no way shape or form a romantic instacrush omg I've fallen head over heels for you thing. This is a 'holy crap I'm a little blushy dork who can't get over my teenage phase of GIRL! and I want to go hide in the corner until my face stops being beat red because I'm so embarrassed with life right now'
Purple Jellyfish
A couple of notes:
*Eira's focus on exercise and regimen at the sake of social skills seems like it will be fun to read in RP. Here is where you can be totally unpredictable and really stretch your Pae's limitations with lots of room for character development. Maybe she bests all the males in arm wrestling. Maybe she knocks over the table at a ceremony cuz she's bulky and clumsy and socially awkward. Who knows?!?
*It would be more likely flutters would store food deep in the ground like a root cellar, which would not do well for leftovers. Being too wasteful could get her some unwanted attention. Feel free to torture your character in this way!
*Otherwise, please ask any questions you may have about flutter to one of the staff. We look forward to seeing her in action!
Guardian_Iris Captain
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Posted: Thu Aug 17, 2017 7:23 pm
shadica
Username: shadica Flutter of Choice: Winter Sky, Snow, Purple Ice, Cream. Future Flutter name: Mie(?) (I can change the name if needed <3)
Why do you want to participate in the Flutter sub-plot the Meta-plot? Because I enjoy the flutters and their storyline, and am excited to learn more about the trees and colony life. I’m very intruded by the appearance of Alora the true Queen and wonder what that means about Queen Indilwen and if she will be found and what will happen if she is and how the other flutter of Harn Sheedhiel will react to the new queen. What animal would your flutter's Gudi be? And why? Armadillo because it represents safety, boundaries, medicine shield.
What does your flutter want? Not want? Need? Mie does not want to fail the tree and her family by not being able to help them. Mie needs to learn more about how to heal paeple and is ready to learn. Mie wants peace between the trees, friendly rivalry is good but Mie would like the trees to get along.
What does your flutter like? Dislike? And why? -[examples include Art, Smells, Chores, etc] Mie dislikes being late, people being rude to Alora and people moving their stuff around. Mie likes sunrises/sunset, things being where they should be and sweet peas.
Mei hates wasting peoples time and hates her time being waste, time that could be used for more productive things instead of waiting, hence the dislike of being late.
Alora is queen you have to respect the queen! How dare anyone talk to her in a rude manner, shame on you shaaame! Mei won’t stand for people slandering the queen or being rude to her. Mie hates rudeness in general but when you insult the queen it’s on. As an extension of this Mie also frowns upon paeple bad mouthing Queen Belwin, however this is considered a lesser offence than dissing Alora due to their fondness of their queen.
Mie gets infuriated when people move the supplies around without informing them. Mie likes to make salves and such out of herbs and other ingredients as well as using their druid powers. Mie does not like it when stuff is moved around because they put it where they could find it and it is in a specific order!
Mie is fond of the sunrise and sunset because it is pretty, Mie does like landscape paintings and such. Mie likes it best when things are where they go so that they can be found quickly when needed and not waste time looking for them. Sweet Peas have a lovely scent and Mie finds them pretty. The chore that Mie likes best is cleaning up the medical stuff and cleaning out the mortar and pestle as they find repetitive tasks soothing. Mie also doesn't mind helping wash the dishes since it is also repetitive.
What does your character believe? Mie believes that the Sheedhiels are a mysterious and powerful force that shapes the lives of the flutter and protects them. Mie believes that they must do the best they can to protect Harn and Forn. Mie also believes that the queens are chosen by the Sheedhiels and thus they are to be respected and protected.
What are your flutter's habits? +Voluntary? (routines) Mie's routine is simple get breakfast, check on patient (sometimes its the other way around if they are really sick.) Tend to wounds and start mixing whatever is needed due to an ailment or the supply is low. Mie tends to spend a lot of time in the healers area or out collecting things that would be useful for their work. When there is nothing to do Mie might hang out with another flutter or read. +Involuntary? (They kind of habits that get on others nerves) Mie's involuntary habits are tapping their fingers when bored and fiddling with things.
What is your flutter's self-assessment? Mie doesn't think too highly of themselves nor do they think down about themselves. Mei sees themselves as a normal pae, who is trying to improve themselves.
What does your flutter do? Do they have a job? Mie is a druid and spends their time taking care of the injured. Mie is hoping to learn more from the other druids. Mie also spends time mixing various herbs to see if they can make something useful from it.
What is your flutter's fatal flaw? Too over protective: Mie will quickly jump into battle or in front of a fellow flutter despite being a healer and having no combat experiences. Mie wants to help and protect all flutters so despite healing them Mie also tries to prevent injury to start with. Which is bad in a fight and if you’re on a high self and Mie yells at you to be careful or get down.
PURPLE JELLYFISH
A couple of notes:
*Mie's concept seems to be pretty grounded in Flutter culture. You left a lot of room for development we are interested to see what direction this little guy takes.
*This was not exactly a fatal flaw. From reading the app, a suggestion would be maybe a short temper where loved ones (or queens) are concerned. Maybe this flutter jumps to their defense without first listening to see if the complaint is valid. You have room to develop and add another dimension this character. It will be fun to see what you do with the possibilities.
*Otherwise, please ask any questions you may have about flutter to one of the staff. We look forward to seeing him in action!
Posted: Thu Aug 17, 2017 7:25 pm
With the twinkling sound of shattering glass, one last icicle crashed into a root. A seed rolled on the ground and stopped at the feet of the new queen. Upon opening, instead of the snoozing face of a paeterpillar, two small faces blinked out of protest of the new light. These two flutters were smaller than the rest and identical.
((Twins are known to the flutters but are rare. Whenever two share a seed, they are frailer and smaller than normal flutters. Twins are seen as good omens, however, and are often spoiled.))
Quote:
Username: Antidia Flutter of Choice: (List your preferences) I like them all, so judges choice Future Flutter name: Riyo
Why do you want to participate in the Flutter sub-plot the Meta-plot? Because I want to be a part of a group of players where RP is the focus, not breeding or pet collecting. The setting and story intrigue me and I would like to explore it with my own character and challenge myself to try something new.
What animal would your flutter's Gudi be? And why?Woodpecker. They are sensitive and emotional, but still know how to put their big boy pants on.
What does your flutter want? Not want? Need? My flutter wants security and peaceful living conditions. Because sometimes flutters are noisy with all that flitting about in the tree. My flutter does not do good a job dealing with and caring for the young, because the grubs are hard to handle. +If they need something, why? My flutter needs constant reassurance that they are doing a good job, or their work is appreciated. Because they want perfection. +If they don't want or need something, why? My flutter doesn't like working with the youngin's because they intimidate them a little and they're hard to handle and bratty. They also don't like a child's candor and being reminded about their physical flaws. +Does the thing they want require sacrifice? Dodging the Queen when she is looking for someone to look after the flutterpillars. There is no real sacrifice with wanting reassurance. I suppose if they don't get it, it just makes them sad. But they do know how to put their big girl panties on. Build a bridge and get over it.
What does your flutter like? Dislike? And why? My flutter dislikes babysitting duties. But to not be redundant, they don't like Tegeirian or Marigold, either. They're snobs. My flutter likes sitting in the tallest branches and relaxing as the breeze blows over. They also really, really like nectar. Like, nectarholic. Nectarwasted, son.
What does your character believe? They believe that everything that is done, is for the success and survival of the colonies. Queen Belwen and Queen Alora say that a lot. The elders practically drill it into their heads. They all pull their fair share, no mooching or being lazy. It's not mooching or being lazy if they don't get caught.d Also, my flutter believes there might be something going on between the Forn queen and sentry. Nova's Gudi must be a humming bird because fairyhell Catbug, slow down and shut up.There is also the belief that one hoof is just a little bigger than the other.
What are your flutter's habits? +Voluntary? (routines) They will check the berry patches regularly for new buds and introduce it to the bees. Sometimes, they get stung, but it's worth it for the berries. They also like to take notes for the queen during important events, like Shaylee. Only, these are for personal reasons. +Involuntary? (they kind of habits that get on others nerves) They pick their nose a lot and just flick it away no matter where they are. They also absentmindedly pluck a few petals off flowers as they stroll past them. There is an uncontrollable eye-roll whenever they see the Harn elder that carries the giant blade.
What is your flutter's self-assessment? My flutter thinks highly of themselves. They love themself. But in the platonic way. Sometimes. They also think they might be above average on the hotness scale. Like a 8 or 9.
What does your flutter do? Do they have a job? My flutter is a gatherer. Gathers food that naturally grows in the wilderness around the tree. +Who will your flutter apprentice under? Likely no one. They'll just start doing it when the queen tells them to get off their butt and do real work. +If no one, how will your flutter learn their job, if they have one. My flutter will be just wandering when they're smaller and find berries and nuts and mushrooms and wild bees and sometimes they'll stumble on a treasure trove with exotic food, furs, textiles, wood. Just out in the middle of nowhere (pae camps and homes near the clearing. They will likely loot them until caught) +If you flutter does not have a job, why? It will only be till they are teen likely because the youngin's don't have jobs unless they want something to do other than chill and and have freedom from work. He will gain a work ethic later in life. As a grub and newly hatched teen, he will not like doing things attached to the word "work" He'll learn though. Compliments will be like a drug, when it comes to his job.
What is your flutter's fatal flaw?Procrastination and perfection. Many won't ever know that my flutter puts a lot of weight on themself to ensure a job well done. The procrastination plays in to that because if they can't do it right the first time, they don't want to do it, so they wait till they have no choice.
Tariel's purple jellyfish
Quote:
Username: HelMel Flutter of Choice: (List your preferences) ALL OF THEM scream Future Flutter name: Soyal
Why do you want to participate in the Flutter sub-plot the Meta-plot? With the flutters being so new to connect with other Pae'il species, they are a very closely knit group. Since my other flutter Vail is a scout and spends most of his time watching the tree from the outside, this flutter would be useful to society as a whole. I would find it fascinating to get in the head of one of these homebodies as they get over their culture shock and learn more about the really large world around them.
What animal would your flutter's Gudi be? And why?Soyal was a little disappointed that she didn't awaken to a Falcon Gudi and with it a natural leadership role. Instead she found herself staring down at a blue jay totem. "Blue Jay?" she had asked, looking at it skeptically. Once her queen had explained that the blue jay embodies the spirit of vibrancy, determination, and assertiveness, the girl could no longer deny her true calling. She was flattered just to hear those words. The little flutter wondered just how those traits would impact her life.
What does your flutter want? Not want? Need? +If they need something, why? +If they don't want or need something, why? +Does the thing they want require sacrifice? --[examples include Equality, Privacy, Power, Virtue, etc]
This little flutter wants the thrill of adventure without leaving the safety of her colony. She would love to be someone who is respected but is unsure how to make that happen. Those superficial things aside, deep down in her heart all she really wants is happiness for herself and everyone she cares about. Once she starts forming bonds with other flutters, I can anticipate her going out of her way and her comfort zone to fix everyone's problems. She's never one to really think things through so she'll end up in some pretty compromising situations if not careful. (You know I'm going to do these things to her on purpose, because I'm evil.)
What does your flutter like? Dislike? And why? -[examples include Art, Smells, Chores, etc]
She likes pretty things. She loves dainty, lacy things and pretty wings, like Belwen's wings. She feels like Hyperion is too pretty to look at for too long. Lisian, she calls his color Lisian blue, and she is waiting patiently for one of the artists to create the pigment that matches him so she can use it on all the things. Between those two flutters, she wonders how dudes can be that pretty. As tomboy as Soyal wants to think herself, she is very attracted to anything that is visually attractive. Thereby she has keepsakes, a collection of colorful objects. There are some shiny and/or colorful rocks, a clipping of someone's rainbow mane, some dried flowers, etc.
Soyal dislikes being told no. She's a brat that way. She has respect for her elders but it bugs her when she can't do something. In her mind, instant gratification is better than careful planning. She also hates slimy things. She shudders just thinking about accidentally grabbing or, worse, stepping in something slimy. The most important thing is that Soyal hates to be too hot. She embraces the cold and winter. If a flutter hears loud complaining about the temperature from across the tree, that pae already knows it's Soyal complaining/whining. If a flutter hears loud complaining that sounds like "BUT WHY NOOOOT?" from across the tree, that pae knows. It's her again.
What does your character believe?
She believes emphatically that too much nectar will give her a big butt. She tries to eat clean but when she can no longer stand it has a massive sugar binge and then hates herself for a couple of days. She believes the Queens are not perfect but that they have the best interests of their subjects at heart. She can find no reason to think otherwise; it's a natural feeling that she can sense in other Flutters as well.
What are your flutter's habits? +Voluntary? (routines) Soyal routinely spies on the Queens. She's not being malicious, they're just pretty... so pretty. She also enjoys using the clay at the base of her tree to fashion pottery; it's not great pottery. It's not even pretty good pottery. It's hers, however, and it does end up inevitably bowl-shaped which is good enough. She also whines. A. Lot. It's really annoying. +Involuntary? (they kind of habits that get on others nerves) She bites her nails and leaves hoofprints on everything. Why she can't sit with her feet on the ground is a mystery to all.
What is your flutter's self-assessment? -[What does your flutter think of themselves?]
Soyal thinks she could be the greatest flutter than ever did flut... BUT, everyone is holding her back. You know, so she stays humble and safe. She can see why they'd do that (especially the safe part), but she has great ideas, dammit! She doesn't recognize that most of them do not work. Those are not setbacks, merely successes that are scaled down. She doesn't know she's a brat. She recognizes she can be irritable, but who isn't? It's not a very realistic self portrait, but I hope to torture her in RP... I mean help her recognize and work on her flaws.
What does your flutter do? Do they have a job? +Who will your flutter apprentice under? +If no one, how will your flutter learn their job, if they have one. +If you flutter does not have a job, why?
Soyal is a Flora mender in training. She is not very good at it. She does not have an existing master. I would like to think there is a class where flutters are learning to be menders and that they have some sort teacher who is a little scattered but very smart. If this will not work, I can change it. It will take Soyal a long time to master this skill, because she is impatient and easily flustered when she cannot master something right away.
What is your flutter's fatal flaw?(This isn't fatal as in something that will kill them right away, but it will if there is no character growth. - this is the flaw that drives the character, for example: weakness to sweets, or jealousy, or anxiety for being alone.)
This girl is impulsive. She is not irrational, but she has an "Act now; ask questions later." attitude. She makes judgments based on first impressions of Pae, situations, etc. She sets herself up for failure this way; often, she misses out on new experiences or even richness of experience by being quick to dismiss. She can also put herself in danger by not weighing consequences before rushing headlong into a situation. I hope with RP to teach her some patience so that with time she will form lasting and meaningful relationships with other Pae'il. I hope as well with time to teach her prudence and sound judgement. Maybe one day she won't be so bossy and spoiled.
Zee jelleh of purple
Change of plans, these two do not exist.
Guardian_Iris Captain
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Guardian_Iris Captain
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Posted: Thu Aug 17, 2017 7:27 pm
So there are a few points I want to make in relation to all of the apps we received.
A lot of apps used mental illnesses as fatal flaws. Typically a fatal flaw is a character defect like being stubborn or a jerk or too trusting/naive; these sorts of defects can be worked on and/or improved if the character wants to change. We do not have big pharma on Telrunya, so whereas a Pae may have a disability we should be mindful to make it respectful and realistic so as to not insult any player who may actually suffer from the disability in real life. The other issue we saw with fatal flaws is that there was more than one app that took a positive trait and down-spun it into a flaw. Being so perfect that it's a bad thing is not a good FF or realistic. FFs are more selfish in nature and would affect the character's judgement.
As per the listed rules, these "flutters will have a special bond with Alora, the queen of Harn Sheedhiel, as they were sprouted because of her. They are not allowed to hate, dislike or disrespect her in any way." There is no exception on this. It is possible to be annoyed or to have a disagreement with her as rp dictates, but there will be no flutter rebellion or secret flutter espionage. Queens are benevolent rulers and make decisions for the best of the group. She is a flutter to be respected. With this group especially, the grubs have imprinted on Alora and will be more fiercely attached and protective of her than normal flutters are of their queen; most flutters imprint on the seed tenders. Again, no exceptions. The rules state "You will be expected to follow the RP guidelines and rules, to maintain the integrity of our plot. If you cannot agree to the setting of these characters then don't apply. We aren't looking for a special snowflake or a rebel." If you feel like your Pae will have to Han Solo it, this is not the Pae species for you.
It would be a good idea to read the suggestions and comments we listed with each of the winners. Critique helps us grow. Please do not be offended.
Also if you did not make it this time, please please PLEASE keep trying. This took forever for us to judge because NO ONE could agree on who the winners were. We literally discussed it for days. If you would like some tips/critique for future apps please let us know. We and especially Teigra, RP manager extraordinaire, love to discuss plot and setting and RP cohesion.
Thank you guys so much!!! More fun things are coming up soon!
Posted: Sun Oct 15, 2017 6:51 pm
"I want Alora to come home with us, Lisian. Mazarine is capable of helping and healing the Harn flutters. But Alora needs healing and knowledge he cannot provide." Belwen couldn't help but notice the new little grubs inching their way towards their new queen. It filled her heart and brought back memories of the Forn elders when they hatched and attached to her. Alora will have her own close-knit group to protect and nurture in the special way a queen does with her first seeds. The moment was bittersweet however as she remembers the first Harn seeds attaching to Indilwen, and then losing her. The southern tree has been through so much. But they're about to experience a time of joy and change for the good of the colony.
"Lisian, will you help Alora?" She loosened her hold to allow her sentry to help the girl stand and prepare for the short journey home.
Addressing Vanya's calls for help, the queen tried to lift the baby from her arms but to no avail. The little guy was strong. "I'm very sorry" Belwen was able to pry the baby from the Seer's bosom but it cried. It cried like a baby has never cried before. (any flutter baby, except Xuilan) The tiny hands reached out for the dark faun and the little tail stretched with all its might. Belwen returned the baby momentarily and the baby stopped crying, however this time, it clung tight and the little suckers on his feet secured his body. The queen was unable to pull the baby without wanting to cause harm to either. "I'm so sorry, Lady of Laisidhiel I think he's attached. You were the one there when his little eyes opened." It was making sense now. All of it, everything the tree said and all the babies she saw attaching to the tenders. The babies imprinted just like baby birds to their mom. And Xiulan. She'd taken the knowledge for granted but everything clicked. She thought only flutters attached to the tree or those dwelling inside. It didn't click that it happened outside of their world. "He thinks he belongs to you. He thinks you are his "mom"." she used the term Xiulan had used so frequently in her tantrums.
Dusting her hands off on her thighs, the queen then stood tall. As tall as a small (in comparison) flutter could be. She approached the one she once called a monster and kidnapper. "I know now, why Xiulan was so persistent in returning to "mom". I understand the term better now. She wanted nothing more than to return to you. But you see, she was bloomed and nurtured here. She's of our colony, as these grubs are." The Queen hesitated, not sure if she wanted to open this can of worms. "If you can see it through our eyes."
Vanya was all too willing to help, or at least try to, hand the newly hatched tot over to the Queen. It took some effort to get him to let go, but relief washed over her as she was freed...for about an instant before the tot began to scream. Oh Great Spirits, the boy had some lungs in him! The Seer's ears were laid back flat, the noise painful to her enhanced senses. In addition to that, the boy's panic and fear hit her, assaulting her otherworldly senses as well. Under such a barrage, Vanya wasn't sure freedom was worth it and when the Queen quickly placed the tot back in her arms, though trapped once more, she felt some relief that the assault had ended.
Growing calm and quiet again, the toddler squirmed and nestled himself once more in her bosom and even before the Queen tried again, Vanya felt there would be no dislodging the boy this time. The toddler's tiny fists clutched at her clothing, but an even stranger sensation came from the boy's feet...not hooves, but almost like...suckers, attaching to fur or fabric, whatever he could latch onto. Yes, he was indeed attached, as the Queen put it. Even if the toddler was doing a good job of clinging to her on his own, Vanya kept an arm around him for support so he wouldn't fall and gently stroked his head and cheek, her fingertips serving as her eyes to try and create a picture of the little one. Not...exactly a faun toddler. Her puzzled expression from studying the tot's form was shaken again by the Queen's last declaration.
His...'mom'?!?
Vanya swallowed hard at the implication. Oh...no. No no no. This just...wouldn't do. Her? A mother? Oh no, this was not going to work. She couldn't-- How would she--? She'd never thought herself the type to be a mother, except when Takis had raised the topic that time... She bit her lip, the thought of her mate sobering her further. Their own relationship was up in the air, this wasn't the time to be focusing on that problem, not when she had a new one at hand. What was she supposed to do about this now? She couldn't be a mother, not even for an adopted child. She just couldn't--
While the Seer had lost herself in her thoughts, the toddler had stirred at her touch, leaning into her hand fondly. He blinked, let out a squeaking yawn, then made a clumsy grab at her free hand. He wrapped his tiny fist around one of her fingers, and pulled it closer as he nuzzled into her chest sleepily.
Vanya paused, the toddler's actions pulling her from her growing panic. Well...crap. Nothing to do about it now. No use panicking. She'd just have to wait and see how this all played out; handle it as it came. Surely these people who seemed so strongly set in keeping to their own as she had gathered thus far wouldn't actually consider the crazy idea of Vanya as a mother. Nah. It might be upsetting to the boy, but she was fairly sure that maybe if he drifted off to sleep, then maybe they could try again to transfer him over to the Queen.
Takeko couldn't help but notice the odd way that the word 'mom' passed through the delicate winged woman's lips. As if she were sampling a strange word from a foreign land. But how could she be so unfamiliar with it? Of course, if these Pae came from the seeds that came from the Tree, that could explain it...but did they have no children of their own? No word for the role that one played as a mother? She tried to remember what Faroth had told her...they came from acorns, she'd seen that herself. But hadn't he had a son?
The puzzles of vocabulary and logistics were preferable to what Takeko was hearing right now. It's as if they finally acknowledged that she and Xiulan shared a bond...but then said that didn't matter. It wasn't as important as the fact that Xiulan came from one of these trees. No, she was being bitter because this was all too personal. Still, it made her heart ache with every word, being told that what she shared as Xiulan's mother meant nothing simply because she'd been born of these people...
Her next breath froze, Takeko not sure she believed what she'd just heard. Replaying the Queen's words in her head, she turned and looked up at the standing monarch. Only because the angel was sitting did the flutter queen stand over her...yet with a single sentence, she'd gained more power over Takeko than she could have imagined. Tears pricking the corners of her eyes, Takeko reached out to grasp one of the queen's hands with both of hers.
"Please."
Antidia
Posted: Sun Mar 11, 2018 4:37 pm
Queen Belwen of the Forn Flutters and her sentry Lisian, led the trek with an angel, faun and the missing queen with her young circle across the Fae Clearing to Forn Sheedhiel.Who would have thought this could ever happen?
The tree was abuzz with the sights and sounds of spring. The shimmery purple bark reflected the sun and warmth; a stark contrast to the situation the group had been in just hours before. The silver leaves rustled in the breeze. Belwen knew Vanya couldn't see the beauty (Belwen may have a bias) of Forn Sheedhiel, but she wanted to describe it.
"Lady Vanya. This is our home and my colony. Our tree grows bright and healthy, alive with the activity of a thriving colony. Can you smell the light scent of the flowers that are blooming? Those flowers will turn into more seeds and our colony will grow.. The beginning of Spring is our growing season, so you might be able to meet some of the other flutters as they buzz about preparing the gardens. Soon, Harn Sheedhiel will be back to normal, a mirror image of her sister tree."
"Takeko, I misjudged you. For that, I am truly sorry. This is where Xiulan now lives, but..." The queen stopped and motioned to the tree to show the angel all the little entries with butterflies coming and going and flitting around, "It was never her home. For as much as I tried to change it, you are her home."
The lesson the flutter queen learned this day was intense. She experienced every emotion and even had a change of heart. The's not stupid, and will still have security, but Mother showed her something precious. Mother loved the angel Belwen had so much hatred for. Guilt and shame underlay all the relief and gratitude. As a measure of trust to herself, she had asked Takeko to carry a couple of the grubs as they walked away from the thawing tree, towards Forn.
"Just say her name."
Belwen gave Lisian a wink and little chuckle as she watched him try to hold Queen Alora with all the little grubs trying to cling to her. Belwen had carried the twins along with her across the clearing. She was so in awe to see the first twins.hatch from a seed. It was a lovely surprise among all the wonderful chaos.
The walk to the other side of the meadow allowed the angel some time to attempt to calm the storm of emotions she'd been attempting to weather. It had been something of a wild ride, and all indications were that it wasn't over yet. Was she really going to be allowed to see Xiulan again? After all this time, would her little girl still remember her? That one hurt to consider. The memories had risen strongly to the surface when she'd been asked to help with a couple of the newly hatched tots. Takeko well understood the level of trust that had required, given the circumstances, and while relieved at that display, it was also tugging at her heart once more. She remembered when Xiulan had been this small. It seemed like both forever and only yesterday somehow. What would she look like now? Not like these little ones anymore, most likely. It had been too long. Would she...really look like the others? With lovely wings and hooves and flowing hair?
As the Queen spoke to the faun woman about the trees, Takeko beheld the tree before them with wonder. It was a glorious sight, reaching up towards the sky with silvery leaves that sparkled and danced in the breeze. The trunk shimmered, as if one could see the very magic it surely held within. For magic it had to be, to have grown so large in such a short time. Yes, she recognized the two sister trees. She'd found them as mere saplings years before. There was no mistaking those colors and she remembered the location quite well. "They've grown so large..." she said aloud to no one in particular, looking up into the branches.
When addressed, Takeko turned towards the Queen. Misjudged? Yes, but perhaps there had been misunderstandings on both sides. They had all acted without the full picture, making decisions without all of the information necessary. Did it make everything okay? Settle this as if none of it had ever happened? Of course not. But steps were being taken to rectify mistakes on both sides. For that, she could be gracious and do her best to meet these strangers in the middle; try to find some common ground. Never had she imagined that her day would wind up here, that the request from Mother would lead to all this. A request for help...help she had given...was this then her reward? To finally see her missing baby girl again?
She was still processing the strange new way she felt...
The Queen's words brought a prickling feeling of tears to her eyes once more, but she blinked them away with a quiet nod of understanding. She looked back at the butterflies flitting about the tree, then back to the other Pae. The tots in her arms were getting restless again and reaching out for the young teen flutter, so Takeko stepped over to try to hand them back for now. Her arms emptied, Takeko stepped towards the tree, watching the butterflies with curious hesitation before calling out, "...Xiulan?"
Posted: Thu Mar 22, 2018 8:14 pm
Vanya had followed the small group at a safe distance, keeping the golden aura of the angel as far away from her as possible. Instinct was screaming at her in fear of the Blood Pae, telling her to run, to get away, before she turned on them all...and yet, it warred with everything she'd just witnessed. The angel had helped the Tree...despite what sounded like a serious altercation or misunderstanding with these strangers in the past. And while she'd not found Earthmother here, she'd found, at least briefly, a similar sort of aura...a great, powerful presence...but now it was gone again. It had been similar enough to Em's presence to put Vanya's mind at ease, and yet it had shown favor to the angel...
She was too wrapped up in her thoughts to realize that the tot in her arms had curled up comfortably against her chest and dozed off while they'd crossed the clearing. Veryan had noticed, but didn't say anything, instead studying the tot with a thoughtful frown. He couldn't shake the feeling that he'd seen others like these strangers before...but where?
Vanya didn't respond immediately when addressed directly. Instead, she did as requested, pausing to take in the scents and sensations of the area: the calm breeze, the gentle scent of flowers on the air, the strong pulse of life and energy that radiated from this second Tree. Only after the angel had stepped away did Vanya turn to answer the Queen. "The blossoms smell heavenly. I may not see the Tree's beauty as you do, but there is a glow of life and energy that I can see in my own way. With the Spirits' blessing, may her sister rejoin her soon in that glory." A slight shift of the tot in her arms who cooed, but remained asleep. "I would very much like to meet some of the others, if possible. I believe we may have some things to discuss as well, if we might have some time later?"
*****
Oh, glorious sun!
The inside of the tree was already so confining to the adventurous young flutter, but the winter had been a particularly torturous period for Xiulan. Already she'd felt caged, but when the cold kept EVERYONE inside all the time as well, she'd discovered what it really felt like to be confined. It was so claustrophobic and stifling, the first break they got from the chilling winter winds they got, she was volunteering to go out and search for supplies. It didn't matter if it was still chilly out at times, there was sun and space and air and freedom!
Even if supplies were in scarce supply at first, it had been a good excuse to get out and into the sun at least. Just that change of light and warmth was heaven over the chill and the cold and the dreariness that had settled over Xiulan and some of the others in the Tree during the winter. She could have sworn she wasn't the only one feeling the effects at least. If the number of other volunteers were any indication, then she felt her intuition would have been a safe bet.
Today seemed like any other, nothing amiss that she noticed. A few more flowers blooming, perhaps soon they might be able to hope for honey, if the bees were out and about--
The blue and purple butterfly's wings faltered for a moment, their rhythmic fluttering going out of sync for just a beat before she auto-corrected herself. Xiulan had taken to flying as soon as she could get someone willing to teach her. And now that they were sure she wasn't just going to fly off and get lost or killed on her own, she'd found willing teachers at least. She'd become quite skilled, a natural in the sky, at least in her own opinion, for whatever that was worth. Then, why had she faltered?
A voice out of her dreams, calling her name.
No, it couldn't be.
Besides, how many seasons since she'd given up such hopes, resigned to her fate and her new home here with so many others who looked as she did?
It wasn't until she heard the voice again, more insistent this time, calling for her, causing her heart to ache terribly with the sorrow that comes from old memories, that she dared turn towards the open clearing. Her throat was tight, her eyes stinging and pricked by moisture, her voice merely a breathless whisper.
"...Momma?"
*****
"Xiulan!" Takeko called out a second time, louder, less hesitant, then she waited. She bit her lip slightly, anxious, perhaps she'd gotten her hopes up only to have them dashed. Perhaps this was all just a cruel joke. She got no further with that thought before noticing a blue and purple butterfly that had broken away from the others. It was heading in her direction, directly with far more purpose than any of the other fluttering, colorful sets of wings.
Could it be?
She had only a few moments to wonder before the butterfly seemed to rapidly multiply in size, shifting to become another of the hooved, winged creatures that practically threw itself through the air at Takeko. Even with the passing of seasons, the dramatic change of form, she still recognized those dark soulful eyes and that bright pink bouncy hair. "Xiu!"
"Momma!" Xiulan heard her own voice crack with emotion, but she was past caring. She threw herself at the angel with glee, only belatedly thinking that perhaps this action might end up with them both falling to the grass. She was surprised when Takeko was ready to meet her, swinging her around in a circle with the inertia before stopping with the tightest hug she could ever remember receiving. Not that she minded in the slightest. She could feel tears silently slipping from her eyes and she let them go. She could feel seasons' worth of weight slipping from her shoulders and she just clung to the angel, shaking.
Hands trembling with similar emotion, Takeko held her daughter close and repeatedly smoothed her hair, remembering that it always used to work to calm her down when she was little, whether she'd had a nightmare, or was having a grumpy childish fit protesting bedtime. "It's alright now, Xiu. Everything is gonna' be okay. I promise," she whispered, tears pricking at her own eyes once more. All that mattered was that Xiulan was safe. That's what was important. The rest...?
As they had turned, she stood now facing back the way she'd come. Looking over Xiulan's shoulder, she sought the Queen's gaze and silently mouthed the words, Thank you.
Belwen felt sad watching the reunion. As much as Xiulan belonged with her colony, the truth is that she had found a new home. Her strong will to escape and reunite with the winged creature was not because of coercion, but of love. Xiu had imprinted on Takeko and she wasn't keeping the young Flutter captive. Belwen was. It was no wonder the young girl fought so vehemently. The Queen sniffled a little before pulling back.
The Forn Queen watched the baby with Vanya. Her lesson with Xuilan was harsh, and she felt pangs of guilt and remorse for keeping the young Flutter from the creature that had cared for her - not kidnapped her. This young one had imprinted.
The sad reality, one Belwen did not want to face, is that Forn lost seeds. Those seeds are out there, and with love and luck, they are flourishing adults, living among the creatures of the outside world. Do they know who they are? Her hope was that she'd be reunited with them someday. And under far different circumstances than Xiulan.
It was at this moment that Queen Belwen had decided to follow Mother's advice more fully. She had been so stubborn when told to trust the island. "But my colony needs protection!" She'd protest. Truth was, Belwen only followed her own instincts. Young and green as she was.
Vanya wasn't as strange as the angel was. There was a sense of familiarity. Forn was whispering to her that she could trust Vanya. There was a fondness in the manner her tree spoke of Vanya. She can be trusted. You are of her blood."Vanya, from where do you hail? Forn has whispered of you and I wish to learn more."
Teigra
Belwen is talking to Vanya to let Takeko and Xiulan catch up. Also, I am sorry if I am being redundant because I wasn't able to go back and read it all. XD
