09-07-2009, 07:15 PM
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Sorry for the wait - the university is ambushing me >_< Word Count: 573 He nodded silently as she briefly explained the rank mentioned; there was no need to comment on it. And he was perhaps lucky. Surely, a clan of creatures who were feared everywhere had strong family ties. Hopefully, her word would mean something to their leader, the Aquila. After all, what kind of son did not consider his mother's opinion? In AniWayan tradition one should respect one's mother above all women, and all women should be respected for their ability to put children into the world. Family was everything, and they were the key. Without women, there could be no life. In that sense, they were similar to the river, for also that was needed to sustain life. They were cradles of life, and they should be treated as such. One moment his hesitation lasted, when she suggested they relax on a nearby log, instead of inviting him in. Then again, his hopes had been naïve, and he knew it. But, it would certainly have been something, to be invited to their packlands. Perhaps in time, he would be able to visit them as a guest. Certainly, he would accept a visitor of their clan with ease, soon as the two settlements had some form of agreement in order. The two moved towards the recently deceased tree, his form closely following hers, letting her lead the way. His body language was humble, but not quiet - it was clear that he was a figure of authority, but also that he understood what he was here: a guest, here under the rules of others. They sat, and as she explained, his gaze traveled to the rabbit at their feet, nodding. Flooding was certainly an issue he was glad to have avoided thus far, although Mersey Lagoon was looking very.. wet indeed. Luckily, for all the streams that flowed through their claimed lands, few had been flooding a lot. Also, the wapiti seemed not to mind the flooding enough to leave, so their supply of fresh meat was still quite good. He suspected that would change winterstime, however. Flood is no laughing matter. We've been lucky to avoid any severe effects of the rainfall thus far, but I suspect it might reach us soon. Water fell constantly these days. The words she spoke made him nod again, now in agreement. His eyes wandered over the ground as he for a moment took in her message, digested it, and found a suitable answer for himself. Of course, that was no conscious action, but an automatic one. Still, their conversation maintained some depth that differed it from regular small-talk. The subject was, after all, quite grave. I believe family to be the pillar of everything, and to us the tribe is our family. We offer what we have, and take what is offered to us, but we would not cross anyone intentionally. Safety of our family comes first, and I can only hope that the burials of children and young are a thing of the past. For a moment, his mind touched a subject he rarely thought about. He had buried six of his own children so far, and had come close to bury Noir and Oceane as well. Now, the eagle feathers that protruded from his mane were well earned; he had protected those closest to him, and now - some time later - he bore them with pride. There was no shame in demanding justice. |