Chapter 19.
After a somewhat rough introduction between Aria and Shii, and a long formal introduction and meeting with the Matriarch, we had finally settled into yet another new norm. In the Mornings, Aria and I would have our time together before the others awoke. Then we would go over to Shiis tent, drag her out, and force her to have communal breakfast with the rest of us. Then the three of us go get the usual food and water, then Aria Shii and I all go off so that Shii can receive her lessons.
The first two days I tried to opt out, however, one conversation alone was enough to make me do otherwise.
I don't know why you need me, it's the basic stuff like you've been showing me. As we've seen, I know it quite well already.I argued.
Beh sze it's not just that. Aria replied with clear distress on her face I just...would like you there to keep me in check to be honest.
That was a surprising confession on her part.
In check how? I asked.
Frankly, her attitude does tend to send me into a feeling of annoyance. She said, It's like she knows nothing about how to broadcast her emotions or even to receive them with clarity. She lacks a filter and I think that she isn't even aware that this is a problem.
Well, alright then Ses frau. I'll tag along and support you I replied after a few moments of thought.
Honestly, I wanted to get some writing on our research done, but to be honest, Aria needs me. I smiled in concession as I slowly made to stand up. However, I barely made it off the hammock when I felt Arias hand stop me.
Beh sze, there will be dancing. She said simply.
I knew what she was getting at...
With a nod, I gave a slight tilt of the head, asking subtly for privacy.
Aria instead let out a light giggle as she leaned against the tree, idly looking at our egg.
And why, my Beh sze, would I go? She asked.
Flustered, I had no answer as I began to get changed. At this point, it should be noted that physiologically, aside from the hair color and absence of heart shard, initial glances would have deduced me being Gardevoir. Especially as I donned the gown once more along with the leg garments. Clearly meant for a male, this one did not blossom outwards as hers did. It instead draped down.
A peculiar notion, as a matter of course, is the assumption, based only upon the existence of the dawn stone, that all males in a Te Ze are Gallade. However, as I noticed to date, this was very much a misconception. The dawn stone itself seemed to be an exceedingly rare artifact. In fact, the verypossession of one was actually a sign of prestige. Only members of a Te Ze with major standing received one.
In our Te Ze, there was simply no need for one. The major hierarchies were not in evidence here due to it being a small group. If this were larger, and linked more intimately with the loose governance of Gardevoir settlements as a whole, there would be at least one Gallade.
With a shrug, I dismissed these musings before donning the outfit. While I was astonished by how easily this one felt (And did not look as unusual given the recent changes to my anatomy) I still did feel... exposed, in a way.
Still, compared to how Shii must feel around the Matriarch, I could stand a little self-consciousness...
See, that day when she arrived... she kind of nearly invoked the Matriarchs wrath...
2 days previously.
Aria, Shii, and I approached the Te Ze. With a slight sweep of my hand, I gave her an overview of the settlement.
This is called the Te Ze. Or Home, if you will. It has no formal name as Human towns do. But, it serves the same basic concept. We live in a communal environment but have individual sleeping areas. That cluster of reeds and Leaf ceiling is where Aria and I stay. The alcove along the hills face is where the matriarch and her mate stay. The lean-to like structure 120 degrees from both of our sleeping areas is where Aika and Aina stay. It's not very elaborate, but given that we don't need much, it is all we could want for. I said.
Shii gave the settlement an appraising look, then glanced idly around. Nearby, she found a scorch mark on the earth and indented grass, indicative of settlements other than our own.
"Who was here?" She asked as she pointed to a large depression in the grass.
That was where Krafft stayed during his time visiting us. That general area was where they stayed and worked while we all worked on Freeman and Sycamores experiments. Aria replied for me.
Shii gave a nod before she unslung the knapsack she had been carrying.
"So I can like, set up here right?"
Annoyance flashed across Arias face almost as fast as it flashed through her mind. Before she could speak, however, I placed a hand on Arias shoulder, then gently sent her a sense of reassurance. My mess, my time to be the "Father".
"Actually, Aria and I would like you to set up closer to the Te Ze. For now, you are part of us. We are your family until the experiment is over. We would greatly love for you to not isolate yourself. Even if it is a few feet away, how it looks is different from how you mean it." I explained.
Aria nodded, then contributed Think of it like your trainer always keeping you to a certain spot when he tries to sleep. That makes you feel a little upset at first right?
"Well... yeah sure kind of I guess. " Shii allowed.
"Same concept. We want you to feel welcome and accepted. Family doesn't get sent away. They stay close. That's part of what makes Gardevoir, Gardevoir." I finished.
Shii gave a look as her mind stumbled with this... weird explanation.
"But I'm not your family. I'm just some stranger to you two. Sent here to "Learn how to act like a gardevoir" for the sake of the Chief and his experiments" She replied.
Aria took the lead on this one.
Does that matter? You are here, you are with us. we share common goals, and no matter how immature you are as a Gardevoir, we accept you. With that in mind, to us, you are family. You may not be related to us by blood, but the bonds we choose to make are so much stronger than the ones we are born into. We do not choose our family. However, we do choose those we associate with. And given that we make a choice, then the bond we form is stronger that way. For this reason alone, you do not have to worry one bit about such things!
Shii felt herself lapse into silence before she gave a nod of assent.
"Alright fine Miss Mushy mush. You've convinced me.." Shii said with a light, joking smile evident on her face.
With that resolved though, we found ourselves before the Matriarch. It was no secret that Aria and I were anxious about this matter. Shiis attitude so far was very much like a child. She seemed to be completely oblivious to the notion of proper courtesy.
As the three of us stood before the Matriarch, I quickly glanced to Shii. Aria, however, was the one who quietly spoke to her.
Shii.. I suggest you let us do the-
"Hallo!" Shii suddenly cried out as she stepped forward to meet the Matriarch.
Cringing. I finished for Aria.
Her hand lept into mine, then squeezed it seeking comfort. We both felt annoyance in the form of Shiis impetuous attitude. Worse, there was nothing we could do to reign the poor girl in.
"Hi there! I'm Shii! Chief sent me here because he said you guys were TOTALLY awesome!" Her expression was more excited than her voice.
Shii get back- I started.
"So like, I'm gonna live here for now on right? Aria says you are the big boss but you don't really seem big so much as old. Do you like-"
Can we run away? Aria found herself asking hopelessly.
What prompted the sidebar was the Matriarchs expression. Like all women, she objected to being called "old" in any regard. Her eye twitched slightly as she gave the two of us dangerous glances.
However, when she saw the absolute horror and fear on our expressions, she seemed to lighten very slightly as her mate Aitsu stepped forward.
"So like, I've not had anything like a pomeg before do you have those here I'd totally like to try one sometime. Oh! So like, I have a tent and all! Where do I - HAUMF!" She suddenly cried out.
The reason for her sudden switch to a cry of pain was obvious. Aitsu had swept forward while Shii distracted the matriarch, then proceeded to slap her Mic tem ever so slightly. Shii instantly curled up in pain as she cradled her heart shard with a pained draw of breath.
A good Gardevoir respects her elders. The matriarch simply said with a small smile on her face.
Behind that smile was rage that was barely contained.
"What was tha- hauf!" She cried out again as Aitsu proceeded to poke her mic tem once again.
A good Gardevoir shows respect~ The matriarch said, though in a more sing-song voice.
"Well sure bu- hauf!" Shii cried out again, then gave a hurt look at Aitsu.
Won't you please say your greetings right my dear? I would love to welcome you properly... The matriarch said.
Shii looked at us in confusion as we proceeded to kneel next to Shii, then take her gently by her arms to help her up.
"What's going on?!" Shii whispered in confusion.
"Greet her properly. Say hello I am shii and I am happy you have allowed me the honor of staying with you or something. Show respect for yourgorram elders!" I whispered back fiercely.
You have upset her su don't speak like that as an adult! Aria as well chastised.
After a moment, Shii regained her footing, then gave a gentle nod.
"Fine fine... Hello to you Matriarch, I am glad to make your acquaintance. May your experience reflected in your countenance bless us all with like, prosperity and stuff. "
Aitsu made to step forward, annoyed at her implied words, but was stopped short by the Matriarch.
That is a start my dear. Please understand that you are very immature and we will see to it that you learn the joys of our Te Ze. She said levelly.
We made to turn away with Shii, but we felt the Matriarchs directed words.
Aria and Rowan mit Ginkgo, won't my children walk with me for a while? She asked.
Trepidation must have radiated as we turned around. For her expression seemed stern for a moment, then softened slightly.
With a humming noise, she tilted her head towards the water then began to walk over to it herself.
With a slight sigh, Aria and I set off in pursuit of her.
Within a few moments, we were alone with her while Aitsu accompanied Shii to settle in on the far side of the settlement circle. Occasionally, a curse word from Shii would carry accompanied by the warbling annoyed vocalization of Aitsu. Shortly, the occasional crashing noise could also be heard. However, even though Aria and I cringed with every noise, the matriarch seemed to be oblivious to it all.
We stood before the water for a while before she spoke. The sun's light was directly on our backs, warming them uncomfortably. However, the discomfort was occasionally lessened by the passing of the random cumulus cloud.
It has been a few days since you two have been directly before me. She said whilst continuing to watch the water.
Her cherry eyes met my reddening irises as she spoke those words.
8 days has been enough to change the both of you. One physically, one spiritually She said, then looked away from the water then at Aria.
Since becoming one... we have experienced much.. Aria humbly said.
This earned a humming call from the matriarch as she looked Aria in the eyes.
Much you may have experienced. However, I sense that the bond you two have forged is more durable and more dynamic than Aitsu and myself ever imagined. She said with a faint tone of approval.
With those words, she looked me dead on before her eyes graced to my sternum.
Rowan Mit Ginkgo, you too have changed significantly since the great spirits brought you into our homes. Your body alone is testament to that. You do not feel pain do you? She asked as her hand came to my chest, then tapped it ever so gently.
To be frank, only when someone keeps rubbing my chest.. I said. I spoke in a half amused half serious tone.
Aria gave me a look, then looked back to the matriarch who seemed nonplussed by my reaction.
As you've guessed, your form is changing. Entirely I suspect... She commented, then held my hand up for inspection, You are fortunate. Your ses frau is with you. But... I am afraid that your young Gardevoir is a burden I must force upon you.
We both tilted our heads in confusion. This earned the lightest laughter from her.
I am afraid that my motivations in having her learn from you are not entirely wholehearted.She said, You see... with the changing of the season, you two and your new Gardevoir will remain here whilst we go south.
Shock was expressed. However, before we could speak up, her hands fell to our shoulders.
Rowan Mit Ginkgo and Aria Mit Ginkgo, the reason for our departure and why you must stay are simple: Rowan, you would not survive the travel as you are. We can all feel the tax your body is under. While you may feel fit, your body is changing rapidly and your system is attempting to compensate. With the manifestation of your hearts power made external, this will only complicate matters. Further, your youngest would not survive the trip either. To say nothing of your Te shu, Shii. That is why I am charging the two of you with her instruction. She will form the basis of a new TeZe after Aitsu and I depart with Aika, Aina, and our children...
A look of amusement crossed her face as a humorous thought apparently came to mind.
Though, it seems that our young Asa would desire to stay with you... Such a rambunctious child...
But... do you have to go? Aria asked.
As with all things, our journey and our visitation are but temporary. We leave it to the young such as yourselves to do what we previously could not. It depends on you to turn this tiny field into a wonderful Te Fa that can truly express the grand culture you have begun to show youngshii and Dear Rowan Mit Ginkgo. The matriarch replied.
Hold on. I suddenly interjected. I get all that and it's sad. But you kind of dumped a little too much on us there! Let's go back to the original thing you said! How can you know that I am just turning entirely into a Gardevoir huh?! I asked with a heightened sense of incredulity.
In response, her hand rose, then simply brushed my sternum. A wave of sensation flooded me, similar to Arias reaction to when I would brush her mic tem. I felt my knees go weak, then buckled from under me.
That's how Rowan Mit Ginkgo... She answered, her expression was one of compassion. Your mic tem is manifesting ever so slowly. As it does, your body will change to support it. Your skin, your Body, even your face, is already doing so.
My hand gripped at my chest as I held myself up in a prostrated position with one hand. The rush of sensation was indeed great. I panted in an attempt to regain my focus. However, the feeling was too sudden.
A wave of sympathy rolled from the Matriarch accompanied by worry from my ses frau.
You can reverse it though... should you wish. She said.
My eyes snapped up, then met with hers. Already, I could all but see what was going to be said.
You, our dear child. I feel that you stand at an intersection. If you turn away from the Te Ze and were to abandon all before that manifests itself upon your body fully, then you would continue being a human.
Panting was all that was heard from me for a moment.
"You...*Huff* Know... *Ha* my answer..." I replied, under some strain from the lingering effects.
Aria smiled a uneeded smile as she rushed to my side, then gently hugged my body as she attempted to help me stand up.
Given the choice, a Gardevoir would always choose his mate. The Matriarch said, then nodded to Aria.
This is why I proclaim that you two shall take on the lead upon our departure. More importantly, you two shall impart your knowledge to young Shii. Rowan, while you have much to learn, you are now an adult in the eyes of our Te Ze. We will be with you two as you continue your transition into a mature Gardevoir. Do not ever forget the feelings you two share. I am greatly pleased to see how you two grow this new family we have granted you!
Present.
With the past events and our impending responsibility on my mind, I donned the proper attire, complete with leg guards and the likes, then proceeded to race across the field to join Aria and Shii. I found that in the past number of days, my way of running had changed. Perhaps it had to do with how light my body felt.
As I approached, I saw Aria turn to face me. Her Aquamarine hair caught slightly in the wind as she gave a bright smile upon seeing me run up to her.
Ah! Beh Sze! I was worried that you might not show! She proclaimed in a joking tone of voice.
Shii glanced me over, then gave a slight grin before she let out.
"Well if I had to wear something that embarrassing, I sure would try getting out of it!"
I blushed slightly then looked to Aria. She, however, smiled simply. I could see myself suddenly from her perspective. At full awareness of how she was feeling, the embarrassment seemed to fade.
Had it not been for my brown hair and more chiseled face, I would likely pass easily as Gardevoir. My body seemed to fit the outfit readily. Likely because of how much I had changed physiologically in the interval of time since I came here. I saw myself grip the outfit, then glance away, simultaneously looking at the ground, yet at myself. From that angle, I could see the progression of the ear clippings. The cartilage of my ears seemed to have expanded outwards, and a series of indentations seemed to be forming, granting 3 budding prongs which would, I knew, in time match the distinctive clippings of Aria.
Just a peach colored Gardevoir Aria soothed.
"L-let's just get this done... your appraising looks are kind of embarrassing..." I replied aloud for both of their sakes.
Aria nodded brightly then turned to Shii.
Do you know how to tap into your emotions to create a dance? She asked simply.
Shii gave a slight shrug as she seemed to stretch out her arms. They made a light popping noise as she stretched out the muscles themselves, then let them quickly rotate back towards her chest.
"Of course!" She cried.
Aria nodded for Shii to demonstrate before she took up a position next to myself. I gave Aria a curious look. She seemed to be confident in something. That, I could feel. However, what she was so confident about eluded me.
Shii took up a stance, then Plié'd once before she allowed her body to move as if led by some invisible beat. she gave, admittedly, very precise moves which seemed fluid whilst spinning once before assuming a different pose. The dance continued but... there was something off.
Her expression did not seem to emote much. While the moves were flawless, I had the distinct impression that she was doing just that: Going through the motions.
Aria gave a light clap of her hands, thus bringing the performance to an end.
Alright ses Shii, that wasn't bad, but I could tell that you were just reciting moves. How emotionally connected to your mic tem were you? She asked.
"Um...what?" Shii asked in a flustered tone of voice.
"When you were dancing, where did the moves come from?" I asked in an attempt to clarify.
Shii gave a small shrug as she considered what I had asked.
"Like... memory and stuff I guess. Isn't that like, what you do?" She asked.
Aria gave a tiny groan of annoyance before she answered.
Well... no Ses Shii, when you dance, you are connecting to your heart, the seat of your emotions, and then allowing it to flow forth from there... Here, watch as Beh Sze and I do so.
Wait what? I suddenly asked as Aria grasped my hand, then pulled me closer to her.
Aria gave me a confident look as she then let go of my hand, then took up a position about 5 feet away.
We... will keep this PG rated right? I asked.
P what rated? What is that? Aria asked.
I sighed in mock annoyance, then shook my head. Let's just not go too deep this time alright ses frau? I asked.
Of course Beh Sze! She answered brightly.
With a confused expression, I decided to let it go, then closed my eyes.
Shortly, I felt our hearts begin the process once more. Due to the proximity of our thoughts, and the ease with which our minds could thus become one, it seemed like it took nearly no effort this time for our minds to link. Our moves once again began to slice tenuously at feelings that began to grow slowly, the waves compelled us as we expressed our combined emotion.
As we danced, admittedly in a lower state than the depths we had gone the first time, I was aware of a growing heat in my chest. However, it seemed a radiant, comforting heat. One which seemed to unshackle the barest of restraint that held me back.
Like a shackle falling away, I felt the heat within my chest grow as our dance became more complex. The emotions we seemed to tap as our source for this dance seemed to grow more powerful. As if everything was being seen through extremes despite us being in a fugue state.
With our final step. I felt myself panting more intensely than I previously was aware. My eyes opened to Shii clapping then saying something. However, her voice seemed muffled and her appearance seemed wrong somehow. Her mic tem seemed to glow brilliantly, yet it hurt to look at. I felt my head turn to look at Aria, whose heart seemed radiant and comforting in comparison. Confusion registered on my face in that moment as the heat continued to build. It felt centralized in the front, along my sternum, and along my back as well.
If it weren't so vivid, I would have called it a painful heat.
Instead of calling it anything though, I simply felt my eyes seemingly become encased in red for an instant before I saw no more.
Sometimes when I pass out, I end up in a weird in between world. Usually, Aria is there as well, and we share time alone. Other times, I am dreaming, or aware, in a way, that I'm asleep. This time around though, it was a blackout. I was conscious one moment, then the next, I am waking up many hours later.
That's what happened when my eyes snapped open to Aria holding my head in her lap. Humming soothingly at me as I faced her stomach. My eyes had difficulty for a moment focusing. However, when they finally did, I noticed that she was looking at me in a worried manner.
Beh Sze... She whispered to me through telepathy.
What.. the heck happened? I asked her with some difficulty.
Instead of answering me directly, she instead took my hand in hers. I was expecting an onrush of emotion to be fed into me. She had taken to supplementing my meals with them after all. However, she gently flexed my arm, then slowly guided my hand to my chest.
There, protruding from the middle of my sternum...
My hand graced a small object. It seemed to be half an inch in height, about an inch wide, and 4 inches in length. I couldn't see it, what with my vision so heavily distorted. However, I knew that something was essentially growing outward from my chest.
I became aware of Shii standing off to one side. She looked on with a sense of deep-seated confusion. It nearly seemed to border on denial.
"What the heck is this..." she seemed to say, though her words were heavily distorted.
From the vague depths of my delirium. Arias hand removed my hand from my chest, then closed around it once more.
Beh sze, I need you to focus. This is a painful time for you... She seemed to call from beyond the haze.
Painful nothing... I think I'm gonna be sick..." I said.
A gentle laugh sounded out which sought to slowly begin drawing my focus back. As my vision began clearing, I realized that with renewed vision of Arias Aquamarine hair, I was distinctly aware of a gentle ruby pulsing that came from her chest. I felt my eyes travel down then behold her mic tem for a moment before I realigned my eyes with hers.
She gave a light, playful grin, then, with her right hand, slowly angled my head down to see my own chest.
In perfect synch, there came the same gentle pulsing from my chest. Though it was fainter than hers, it was still in evidence. I was momentarily overwhelmed by this onrush of emotion, yet I felt the iron grip of Aria seek to restore my mental balance ever so slightly.
It's ok. The rush can be disorienting. Keep focusing on me. Aria commanded gently.
My breath ran ragged as I fought the immense over wash of emotional awareness. From this mess of overloaded information, I felt Arias presence begin to grow more prominent. The more I focused on it, the more apparent in my mind it became. From that island of stability, I found myself able to finally focus on the world around me.
From this focus, I realized that I was more keenly aware of everything that was happening around me. My mind threatened to wander into the deeper recesses of my own body. It felt like I could detect the individual changes in my body as they were happening. However, I managed to keep my focus external. On Aria.
Are you alright now Beh Sze? She asked.
The rush of concern was almost too much for me. However, I managed to process it. Without even realizing, I was then broadcasting the nebulous feelings I was experiencing. My very emotions spoke of awe yet confusion. A sense of horror that was quelled by a feeling of inevitability.
I think I am. I just... this was a bit sudden... I managed, then felt my hand run along the ruby sliver that ran perpendicularly down my sternum.
She gave a nod, then extended her hand.
Let's go back. She suggested.
I found myself shaking my head. In the instant of my refusal, an emotional interplay took place that was so sudden I almost was unaware of it. Confusion at my resolve, a sense of urgency, conscientiousness, understanding.
We smiled in sync
You're right. If nothing else is going to happen to you, then there is no reason to stop instructing young Shii. She replied.
I gave a slight grin as This new dynamic of conversation opened up to us. It was a strange new sensation. I felt a little drunk off of the feeling. Yet the strangeness threatened to overwhelm me. No matter how mentally resolved I was to see this through, I still felt the threat of reality trying to crush down. Yet, as I watched the two of them, the feeling subsided.
Alright Shii, so without collapsing like my Beh Sze, please allow yourself to become calm. Seek out the source of your emotion at this moment... And so, Aria began teaching.
I sat like this for some time, simply watching them. Aria was entirely engaged in this act of instructing, and she seemed to be enjoying it. Occasionally Shii would ask a question which would require a more elaborate answer from Aria.
Finally, one came up which brought me back into the lesson once again.
"So do you two kiss often?" Shii asked.
Aria blushed slightly, then looked to me. I felt her affection rise as she formulated her answer.
We do so in both manners. She replied.
"Both manners? What is that?" She asked
Aria beckoned me slightly. Her tiny hand extended to me, then curled invitingly.
After a moment, I slowly began to stand up. I kept my motions gentle and hesitant. I was uncertain about my actual condition, so I felt reluctant to just go running off. However, as I stood, I realized that I actually felt quite good. I was tired and very hyper aware of my surroundings. However, I was keenly able to see her more clearly than anything. The world might have carried a gentle pulse to it as I walked towards her. But these things seemed irrelevant as I reached out my hand as I approached her, then took her hand in mine. I felt the coursing emotions stream between us happily. My eagerness to assist became mingled in her desire not to only show Shii how Gardevoir kiss. But the desire to also hold me close and experience the sheer joy that our contact brought her.
Let's try to keep it at just kissing huh? I asked her with humor evident.
Her cheeks flushed red before she replied.
O-Of course Beh Sze!
With that, our cheeks came gently into contact with one another. We essentially nuzzled one another as her mic tem then began alighting upon the sliver of ruby that now was present on my own. With the gentlest of gracing touches. I felt a rush of sensitivity that nearly sent a crashing wave towards Aria. However, whatever wave might have swept from me was instantly deflected back by the shared sensation she felt.
Our bodies naturally adjusted one another as we hovered at the very edge of deeper indulgence. Our perception threatened to collapse down to just the two of us with no awareness of the outside world. In fact, if we were back in the te ze, in our bed, I suspect we would have collapsed into this shared emotional world with no desire to ever emerge.
Instead, we hesitantly broke our embrace. I felt as if I were reinvigorated, and Aria seemed as fresh as the noonday sun that hovered over our heads. Her smile was certainly brilliant enough to.
Th-that was... how Gardevoir share an emotional physical expression of our affections.. She managed in between tiny breaths.
Shiis eyebrow raised slightly at our display, then gave a small grin.
"Wow, that was... hot and heavy. Are all your kisses that way?" She asked.
Aria blushed again, then buried her head into my shoulder. I glanced at her in worry before I felt her express entirely through emotion her sensations.
"Well no... it's my fault this time... I'm...having issues keeping emotions in check because... it seems like they are amplified somehow. Do ya understand?" I asked.
Shii nodded.
"Of course! Because I go through the same thing, they give me meds to keep me calm and mellow! Without them I'm prone to sending the Chief and the others into these weird emotional fits. " She said.
Aria darted her eyes to the gardevoir, then scowled slightly.
Distasteful, denying yourself the rapture of your feelings with little pills... She remarked.
With a sigh, the two fell into something of a small argument.
And so our day continued.
As the sun began to sink, the three of us rounded up our things, then returned to the Te Ze. Aria and I split off to join the others as Shii happily slunk into her tent. Upon seeing her do this though, I turned my head towards Aria as we sat facing the setting sun.
Oh, she just wanted to get a few cups and something else called Apple Juice. She said that we would both like it and she noticed that you only had the one cup that you use to drink your water. Aria answered the unasked question.
How did you know? I suddenly asked.
With a smile, she reached out, then gently stroked the chest sliver. A chill ran up my spine as the feeling seemed to register strongly in my mind.
You asked without fully asking the question. Being aware of the curiosity allowed me to answer the question you had yet to ask. She replied.
I nodded in understanding.
Is this how a fair amount of communication takes place between Gardevoir? I asked.
Only those as closely linked as us! She chirped then latched onto my arm before pulling me closer to her.
Alright you two, Aika spoke up as she passed out the pecha berries. Predictably, Asa still had the most, yet interestingly, Shiis pile was larger than ours. Our pile, it turned out, seemed to be equal to the Matriarchs, and Aikas piles.
A new waypoint had been reached in our standing. We were no longer seen as the youngest and most immature. We were now in the same social standing as the other two pairs. In time, this would also end up changing. We would become the most senior and Shii would be the junior. If more Gardevoir came, for whatever reason, they would then be the youngest, and the ritual would dictate them as having large quantities of food.
Ah, thank you Ses Aika I thanked her, then held up a fruit for the both of us. This was simply too large to eat without help. Clearly, we should share it.
Aika gurgled a melodic sort of acknowledgement, then sat with Aina before they too dug in.
Within a few minutes, Shii finally emerged from her Tent. She had donned an orange hoodie which she wore zipped up. It looked strange in retrospect. She wore the same garments that Aria and I as well as the others wore, yet decided to add extra insulation.
Cold? I asked as she sat down, depositing a few cups and a large bottle of amber juice.
"Not really" She answered as she began pouring the juice.
From her pocket, she produced a small vial which seemed to hold vitamins, if the label were to be believed. She popped one in her mouth, then handed one apiece to us.
This is? Aria asked.
"Vitamins! We have to keep our hair shiny and our skin healthy! Also, Chief thinks that it would help us to have additional nutrients supplement our diets just in case!" She hummed her answer, then rocked back and forth before she seized a piece of fruit from her pile, then joined us in eating.
You seem happy. I noted.
Shii nodded at us, then resumed eating. After a few bites, she swallowed her food, then finally answered us.
"Well... I dunno! It's the mood I guess! You two are looking all warm and cuddly and are you seeing this sky?! It's all red and there are so many colors!" She said, then swept a three-fingered hand through the air as if to emphasize her point.
I smiled but Aria answered before I could formulate a proper answer.
Of course! Why else do you think we all sit like this? We enjoy watching the sun go to sleep beneath the Horizon! Aria brightly smiled at Shii, then glanced behind us.
We all turned our heads in the direction she indicated.
Rising behind us was a full moon. It was golden in color as it rose through the dense, moisture rich, atmosphere.
Tonight too.. will be a wonderful night... For a dance of high summer! She said, then gently nudged me with her elbows.
Tonight as well? That dance today did take it out of me. I calmly objected.
Aria gave a dejected look, precision designed to weaken my resistance.
You... don't like dancing with me? She asked.
I extended my free arm, then gently wrapped it around her. For a moment, I held her in this close embrace. Our hearts gently graced one another.
Of course I do... I'll join you in the dance I replied.
From off to our right came the slightest, exaggerated retching noise.
"You two get a room! Or... oh never mind." she muttered then furiously bit into the fruit once more.
Later, with the sun well beneath the horizon and the moon above our heads, Shii took up a seat to watch us dance. In the middle of the field, we had only the moon as a light. Yet it was bright enough that we were able to see clearly. As Aria and I took each others hands, we felt ourselves begin sliding into the rhythm that guided our hearts to express themselves in motion...
Meanwhile.
Santalune woods.
Amelia gave a light groan as she crashed into the wood line, then nearly lost her footing. It was a night like this a month and a half ago that she found herself walking this very same path that led to their campsite. This time, however, she was trying to cut a direct path. As a result, the little branches and bushes seemed to be obstructing her more than she remembered.
Finally though, she emerged near the ruins of the hide. From her vantage point, she could see the Gardevoir settlement. 4 of them seemed to be reclined, indicating them to be asleep. There seemed to be more Ralts though. That was odd.
She glanced around, then saw three figures out in the field. From a distance, she could make out a figure wearing a sweater. Her smile spread across her face as she set off towards the three in the field, oblivious to the fact that something was off about all of this.
With a crash, she emerged from the treeline and into the clearing. Her ecstatic cries suddenly rang out across the clearing.
"Rowan!" Came her voice.
Aria and I suddenly stopped our dance, then looked across the field in confusion. Shii slowly began standing up as Amelia darted towards her, then swept her up into a hug.
Aria and I looked at one another then I felt her confusion give way to rage.
However... I just wanted to savor this moment of awkwardness.
Shii looked confused and her embarrassment was palpable from our vantage point. Her expression curled into absolute confusion before she suddenly raised her hand, then brought her closed, three-fingered fist, down onto Amelias head.
We could hear the impact clear as day. It sounded comical actually. Amelia crumpled to the ground, clutching her head as Shii suddenly cried out.
"What the heck is the matter with you?! Get off!"
Amelia crouched on the ground, grabbing her head in pain, then stood up in anger.
"The heck's the matter with you I-" She stopped suddenly, then backed away a step.
She gave a confused look at Shii, then gently reached her hand up, then poked Shiis chest, causing a light metallic clinging noise to ring out as she flicked Shiis mic tem.
"Um... what's..." She asked in confusion.
"Amelia?" I asked in confusion.
Hearing my voice, she pivoted, then met my eyes with hers. Then, a greater look of confusion crossed her face as she took in my appearances.
Aside from my hair and most of my face, I no doubt appeared to her as just another Gardevoir. Her lips worked to form words before she finally failed in this action.
"Yeah, it's me. The hells are you doing here?" I asked.
No words came from her for a solid minute. Instead, her voice made weird gasping noises.
Finally, she seemed to regain the ability to speak.
"You... you... what the hell happened to you?!"
"Um... It's a long story" Was all I could say.
Amelia gave a faint nod before her eyes rolled up and she fell to the ground in a dead faint.
Aria and I looked to one another, then looked to Shii. Shii looked enraged still at the now unconscious girl who was laying in between us.
"The hell was that all about?!" She screamed out.
With a helpless shrug, Aria was the one who answer.
Well clearly she thought that you were my Beh Sze. Aria replied in a deadpan manner.
I hiked an eyebrow, then looked at Aria.
Deadpan snark? Really? That's cute.
"So... what should we do with her?" Shii asked.
I gave a shrug then looked up at the moon for a moment as Aria walked over, then sought my hand. Our emotions played across the physical link as we mutually thought of a plan.
Alright, so first we take her back. Then in the morning we hear the Matriarch give us hell for allowing her to come to us. Then we take her off and we- I was cut off from the joke I nearly made.
Sit down and have her explain why she came. Aria finished somewhat sternly.
Shii gave something of a nod, before a thought occurred to her.
"Where's she gonna sleep?"
Aria smiled brightly.
Thanks for volunteering Ses Shii! I know you will not mind sharing your tent with he for one night! Aria replied.
With a groan, Shii regarded Amelias prone form, then kicked it gently.
"You two hate her don't you?" She asked simply.
Well you aren't wrong.. I answered. We just.. regard her with distrust. She sought to Kill Aria and nearly killed me by accident. Had I not leapt in front of Amelias companion, Aria might well have been killed.
Aria suddenly piped up, then explained what had happened.
Beh Sze was attacked by those deplorable dark types. I saved his life and he began healing under my care. A few days after the attack, right as we realized our caim duc, this woman appeared and tried to kill us. Had it not been for my Beh Sze, I would have died. Since then, she is not seen as a friend of Gardevoir.
More to the point,
I said, Why is she even here?
Shii regarded us for a moment, then looked at Amelias form. With a sigh, she walked over, then glommed onto us in a tight embrace.
"Glad you're alright... I'm sorry I saw you two so negatively when I got here..." She said in a muffled, quiet voice from our chests.
We felt the range of emotions she was feeling, then gently returned her embrace. She was sorry that she misjudged us, and horrified that Amelia had tried to kill in cold blood.
"Why'd she try to kill you?" Shii asked.
Amelia thought that Aria and the others killed me. She was enraged. She wasn't thinking clearly... I replied.
Shii shot a look over at Amelia then looked at us two.
"What's to say that she won't try again?" She asked.
Aria smiled, then patted Shiis head placidly before she responded.
Because she came here this time with honest intentions... She has something she wants to tell us...
Aria looked at me, then nodded once.
She can be trusted this one time. Though I hope that whatever she has to say is damned important. It's our hides on the line, not hers...
With that resolved, the three of us lifted Amelia, then carried her back to the Te Ze. The next day would be the start of something bigger... A fight of sorts.
That I would only kind of win.
Finally! A return to fun!
I actually meant to have this posted by Friday night, but well, that didn't happen. As it stands, this marks the transition into the final act. The last chapter has already been pretty much written. At 20K words, it is a monster.
I wanted to include some light humor here and there. Shii and Arias dynamic has been a blast to write. They are so different that watching their interactions take place has been a real joy.
Also, this marks the largest change in Rowan. I've been building this for a while, but the emergence of a heart shard like Aria and Shiis marks... Well, the next stage in a transformation that I never originally intended to write about. Everything beyond this point is more clear, though there is a confrontation scene I am honestly scared to write. I want to capture this scene perfectly. It is going to be the climax of the story I've written, and I want to make sure that I don't screw the pooch, as old fliers used to say.
I'm giving this a hard call of 25 chapters. That means with 6 or so to go (At an average of 7K words, ) The end result will be around 200K words.
When I began this story, I never saw it getting past the 40K word mark. That I would finish the story at that range, and that would be it. I could resume my focus on the prime story I originally intended to write (Now removed as I have no interest in telling it anymore) and this one would be a good warm up for a 400 year story of love and rebellion. However, what this story turned into... was something I never expected. Thank you, I have to say as we move into the final arch of the story, for sticking with me through it all. Had it not been for the occasional PM and encouraging review, this story would never have happened.
Hold onto your butts folks. The next few chapters will be a wild ride.