Warning: This chapter contains family arguments, violence, and verbal attacks on children. Reader discretion advised.
We Will Hold On Forever
by
DaveTheAnalyzer
Chapter 33: Benefits of Time Part 1
Littlefoot told his mother everything. He discussed her death and the friends he made on the way to the Great Valley. He mentioned the many adventures he had. All of this was to make clear what actually happened. Then he explained how the world had been changed and Wing Father's part in it. Throughout, many emotions flickered through Mama Longneck's face, but she kept herself reserved. He didn't know if she believed him. When he got to his agreement in making this world, Littlefoot spoke haltingly but included all that he remembered. Even if the truth might lose him her affection, he wouldn't feel right to leave anything out.
By the time he finished, his throat felt sore. The bright circle had moved farther into the afternoon position. A group of clubtails had appeared on the other side to drink from the river, battered and exhausted from a hard training session. Mama Longneck stared into the middle distance. Littlefoot waited, bracing himself for however she might react.
"So that's what you say happened," she said at last. "It's hard to take in."
Littlefoot lowered his head. "You don't believe me."
"A part of me is rejecting it," she admitted. "But in spite of myself…I think I'm starting to believe you."
He jerked, shocked. "You do?"
"You wouldn't lie, not like this." Mama Longneck said. "You really seem to believe this happened. I tried to look back on my memories as you spoke but I found haziness and inconsistencies before getting to the valley. It does sound unbelievable. But Wing Father exists, so such magic is possible. "
Littlefoot shuffled. "But believing that would mean having to accept that you're – you're…"
"Dead." Mama Longneck took a shaky breath. "That was tough to say. I don't want that to be true but all the evidence seems to weigh in that direction."
"I don't want it to be true, believe me," he said.
"I know. If this is true, that means…" Her eyes moistened. "Oh my beautiful Littlefoot. You have been through so much."
Overcome with emotion she nuzzled him. Littlefoot rubbed against her, filling with so much relief. He didn't know until now how much it meant for her to believe him. After baring what he knew, it was like they were reuniting all over again. Mama Longneck pulled back, stricken.
"Oh, all those memories of being with you in the valley – they aren't real. I never taught you how to bend a tree or assure you'll grow big and strong someday. I never helped you make up with your friends. I never got to be physically there for any of you, your grandparents, Bron. You must've suffered so much after I was gone."
"You were always here with me." Littlefoot assured, touching his heart. "I admit, I didn't always believe it but whenever I needed you, you were there."
"That's good," she said, smiling faintly. "At least we were together that way."
His gaze lowered. "It was going alright until Wing Father interfered."
"Wing Father." Mama Longneck blew out a breath. "If he's as you describe, he sounds very cruel. I wouldn't be surprised if I did fight him, to stop him from manipulating your world." Her expression tightened with guilt. "Is it my fault? Did choosing to take part in that battle cause all this suffering?"
Littlefoot shook his head. "It isn't your fault at all! Wing Father took advantage of a surprise even he didn't see coming. If anything, it's my fault."
She stared. "Littlefoot, what do you mean?"
"I fell for Wing Father's plan." He lowered his head. "I was too tempted to say no. I did it even though you were fighting so hard to prevent him from coming here. I'm sorry for failing you."
Mama Longneck stepped closer, shaking her head. "No, it isn't true."
"It is."
"Littlefoot, you're putting too much blame on yourself-"
"I wanted it!" Littlefoot closed his eyes. "I don't want to believe it but I have to take responsibility! I was drawn in by what Wing Father offered. I didn't want to lose Grandma and Grandpa! I ignored all the signs saying this was wrong! In a choice between the world and my grandparents, I chose them! Now Wing Father will torment and use dinosaurs as playthings, and everyone will suffer forever! My friends gave in because of me! It's my fault! It's all my fault…"
He looked down, shaking. He was able to bare it while talking with his mother but now the weight came surging back. Anyone and everyone in the world would soon be going through terrible things because of him. It was all too much. He didn't know how he would continue living with himself. He felt Mama Longneck staring at him for what felt like a long while.
"Littlefoot, look at me."
"Don't bother," he mumbled.
"No. Look at me."
Her tail pressed against his chin, gently raising his head until he met her level gaze.
"Let your mother speak," she said. "Listen to me. This – isn't – your – fault. Anyone would break in your position. You didn't have all the right information. You aren't responsible for this."
He sniffled. "I – I thought it wasn't good but Wing Father said I wanted to make the world a better place so much, I overlooked the clues…"
"I believe Wing Father has his own reasons for making you blame yourself." Mama Longneck frowned. "He held your grandparents hostage. You didn't know everything that was going on. This is Wing Father's fault alone. He knew what he planned would cause pain and heartache to countless individuals and he didn't care."
He shook his head. "You're just saying that because you don't remember what really happened."
She smiled. "I'm speaking from the heart."
He was silent for a moment. He sniffed and rubbed his nose. "Even if that's true, my parents and everyone else in the valley wouldn't be as forgiving. If they somehow remember what actually happened…"
She raised her head in thought. "I believe you underestimate how understanding other dinosaurs might be of the difficult situation you were in. You aren't the only one who's had to make challenging choices. At any rate, let's focus our attention on finding a way to stop Wing Father."
"There isn't a way." Littlefoot said. "It's too late. Wing Father has taken over. He already has me and my friends' agreement."
"There's always a way out." Mama Longneck said firmly. "Even if it's not obvious or the chance of it working is small. From your adventure stories, you and your friends are a resourceful bunch. Despite the odds, you always survived. Think of what Wing Father might overlook or that he would never do in your place. Seek out your friends. Together, I'm sure you'll come up with a good idea."
He wavered before averting his eyes. "But they're angry with me. My surrender made them help with the ceremony. I'm not sure we're friends anymore."
"And this is the first time you've ever fought with them?" She smiled slightly. Littlefoot had the grace to blush. "You all have a strong bond. Try to make amends with them. If you gather as one, I believe you can beat the odds."
Littlefoot looked up, hardly daring to believe. "Do – do you think we can?"
Mama Longneck nodded. "I know you can."
In spite of himself, he stood straighter. He felt the first kindling of hope. If Mama Longneck thought there was a way to break what Wing Father had done, it must exist. He remembered his previous adventures when all seemed lost but he and his friends still managed to survive victorious. He didn't have any plan and wasn't sure if this hope had any foundation but Littlefoot found he couldn't stand back and watch Wing Father do what he pleased any longer. He looked her in the eye and found his gaze steady.
"I'll do it," he said. "I'll find my friends and stop this."
Mama Longneck smiled. "Good. I knew you had it in you."
Footsteps rumbled nearby. The tree line ruffling, his grandparents' voices floated over.
"Littlefoot?" Grandpa Longneck said. "Littlefoot, are you there?"
"Dear, have you found him?" Grandma Longneck said.
"Oh no, they're here." Mama Longneck glanced back. "Go, before they find you."
Littlefoot turned but paused. "Aren't you coming with me?"
Her expression became sad. "I'm afraid I can't."
His stomach squelched. "But I thought-" He had hoped she would accompany and support him.
"I'll probably forget this conversation soon." Mama Longneck said. "When that happens, I might turn against you. Leave while I still remember. I'll distract your grandparents."
"O-okay." Littlefoot backed away. "I'll find something. Thank you, Mother!"
"Remember, follow your heart!"
Blinking hard, Littlefoot turned and ran away. He felt his chest clench but ignored the feeling. He decided to trust in his mother's hopeful spark. He still had uncertainties but for now put them aside. Moving fast, he charted a course to reunite with his friends.
Cera watched tense as Verter crashed horns with Mrs. Threehorn. They were sparring but from how they dueled and cried out, it was like an actual battle. Mrs. Threehorn pushed her feet into the ground and held Verter back, lips pressed together. Clanking his horns leftward, he pushed hard and she shouted as she was thrown onto her side. Verter walked closer to Mrs. Threehorn.
"Is that all?" he demanded.
She groaned, a fresh few scratches clear on her forelegs and exhausted. Unable to keep silent anymore, Cera stepped forward.
"Mommy, no. Please, take a bre -" she began.
"Cera, is there something you want to say?" Verter interrupted.
She froze. Slowly, Verter slowly flicked his gaze to Tricia. She was backing up and bobbing her nose against a small rock nearby on the edge of the designated battlegrounds, giggling whenever she knocked some dust off. Cera could only imagine Tricia's terror if she was put through the brutal training the adult and young threehorns were taking part in. Cera bowed her head.
"N-no," she said. "It's nothing."
"Just what I thought." Verter said.
Grunting, Mrs. Threehorn pushed herself to her feet. "I can go another round. This is for the girls."
"That's what I like to hear," he said. "Cera, watch closely!"
He and Mrs. Threehorn clacked horns again. Cera barely suppressed a whimper. The air was filled with the clacks and shouts of threehorns ramming and grappling each other. Each time one was pushed down or thrown on their side, the loser got up and both partners resumed sparring. It was the second shift of training for the threehorns that day. All herds would have multiple shifts of training each day until Wing Father determined it was time to strike against the Great Valley's supposed enemies. Cera didn't want to come to watch but Verter "invited" her and she feared what might happen to her family if she turned him down. Her family was training as aggressively as everybody else. Mr. Threehorn crashed his pale green opponent to the ground, their interlocked horns pinning the latter.
"Come on." Mr. Threehorn growled, bending his horns. "Say it!"
His opponent yelped, horns groaning. "Alright! Uncle, uncle!"
Cera flinched, not liking the pain her father inflicted on his sparring partner. Tria staggered, her and her opponent pushing into each other with equal force.
"Remember, Cera!" she called. "Always put strength in both your head and legs when battling horns with someone!"
"Should you be shouting out advice when I'm pushing you back like this?" demanded her orange sparring partner, shoving her away and nicking a cut into her frill.
Tria cried out, staggering. "I'm doing the best I can!"
Over to the left, the threehorn children were training just as hard. Rica threw her pale grey opponent onto his back and stepped on his stomach, growling into his face.
"Listen to Tria's advice, Cera!" she called. "I'm sad you're not joining us!"
"I was hoping to see you in action!" Duane said, pushing nose horns with her opponent.
"Why're you on the sidelines?" Horen asked.
"Cera doesn't want to join the training regiments." Verter cut in, parrying a strike from Mrs. Threehorn. "She's too scared to go out and defend the valley. She thinks it isn't important."
"I know!" Mrs. Threehorn said, sending a glare. "I'm still not happy about that, Cera. I thought you've become braver. After the latest threehorn training shift's over, we're going to have a talk about your nonparticipation."
Verter laughed even as she sneaked a scratch onto his frill. Cera's gut curdled in shame. This wasn't right, she thought. Even if threehorn training could be serious, it shouldn't be this brutal. Already, Cera saw many cuts and bruises on her parents and sisters. Her family were just echoing Verter's platitudes and losing the traits that made them who they were. Cera was near despair. Her family were never going to be the wiser on what was going on. They were going to use threehorn strength on Wing Father's behalf to invade and subjugate others. Cera wasn't sure she would recognize her family in several days. She couldn't protect them or be brave enough to help. There was nothing she could do but watch it all happen with an increasing sickening sensation.
"Psst, Cera!"
She jumped. Whipping her head around, she spotted a shape laying low in the long grass and half in a bush. She recognized those red-brown eyes. Baffled, Cera slinked closer.
"Littlefoot?" she asked. "What are you doing here?"
"Careful!" Littlefoot replied. "I don't want Verter to see me. How are you doing?"
"What do you think?" Cera retorted. After that rush of temper, guilt began to seep in. She remembered how she had been treating Littlefoot lately. "Listen, about what I said to you before, I'm-"
"I'm sorry, we have to make this quick!" Littlefoot said. "I'm getting the gang back together. Come with me. We're going to fight Wing Father."
Cera started, not sure she heard right. "What did you say?"
"We're going to fight Wing Father." Littlefoot repeated. "You, me, and the rest of our friends. We should go somewhere and put our heads together. I'm sure we can think of a way out of this."
"There isn't." She lowered her head "Verter and Wing Father control everything."
"We don't know for sure," he said. "If there is a way, we should find it. Do you like standing around and watching Verter injure your family?"
"Of course not," she whispered harshly. "I hate what he's doing to them. But Verter might hurt me or Tricia if he catches me leaving!"
"He looks like he's too busy with the training regiments to do anything like that," he said. "You hate not being able to do something like I do. I know you're feeling terrible. But it'll be better to talk and plan with our friends than wallow in despair."
Cera hesitated. She looked at her family, who continued to fight, inflicting cuts and bruises on their sparring partners. Cera hated seeing them like this. She remembered her friends and missed being with them. At very least, it would help to have someone to vent to. Verter pushed Mrs. Threehorn back harshly. Fear cooled Cera as she imagined how he might react if he caught her sneaking away. Caught between that and the urge to do something, she closed her eyes as the latter desire became too overwhelming to ignore.
"Oh, alright!" she said.
Ignoring the cold clench in her chest, Cera and Littlefoot waited until Verter had angled his head to the right and the pair shot into the foliage. Mrs. Threehorn's grunts echoed out and there was a crash on the earth.
"This is going splendidly." Verter said. "Now Cera, let's see if your skills are up to…wait, where did she go?"
Cera waved at Littlefoot and the pair pattered to a stop, stances low. They heard shuffling from where Cera had been standing. Littlefoot stood breathing quietly, looking back warily.
"Ran away?" he said. "Still a coward. Ah well. Training's more important."
"Everything alright?" Mrs. Threehorn asked.
"It's all good," Verter said. "Now everyone, switch sparring partners!"
Footsteps rumbled as threehorns moved about the designated battlegrounds. Cera was relieved Verter had no interest in pursuing her or hurting Tricia by proxy. Looking around, she and Littlefoot resumed slinking off.
"I hope you know what you're doing," she muttered.
"Don't worry." Littlefoot said. "Come on. Let's find the others."
"Did you get the sweet berries for the kids like some asked for?" Mama Flyer asked.
"Why?" Papa Flyer said. "They can have them later. It won't benefit their training."
She sighed. "Oh come on, dear. Let them have something nice."
"No, don't give me that look. I'm not going to bend on this. Other families regulate their kids' diets for their health…"
Petrie felt a sense of sad resignation as his parents bickered again. He heard some of siblings sigh or whimper. No matter how many times the family forgot about their previous argument, Mama and Papa Flyer always fell back to fighting. He accidentally wiped his family's minds a few more times when he spoke too strongly and now he was very hesitant to speak. He hated this power but didn't know how to get rid of it. And that wasn't accounting for the training regiments his family already participated in and were going to do another round of. He had watched his family whip about in the air and do flying exercises, unable to join knowing the training regiment's purpose. Petrie was being ground down by the arguing. Couldn't his parents find common ground on anything?
"Do you always have to blow up when I make a call?" Papa Flyer demanded.
"Hah, that's rich!" Mama Flyer retorted. "You blow up whenever I disagree with you! At least we agree on Wing Father's cause. We don't have much else in common."
Papa Flyer harrumphed. "That makes the two of us."
"Uh Mama, Dad." Petrie said timidly. "Me sorry for interrupting but can you please stop fighting."
"Don't get involved, Petrie." Mama Flyer said. "This is between your papa and me."
"But if you just talk…"
She and Papa Flyer glared at him so steadily Petrie feared he was influencing them again. He dropped his hand.
"Never mind."
Papa Flyer shook his head. "I love you dear but you can be too accommodating. I'm tired of this…"
"You think I like arguing?" Mama Flyer sighed. "Oh, why can't we agree on anything?"
They continued bickering. Petrie shook his head, filled with sudden guilt. He felt responsible for this. If he hadn't wished for his parents to get back together, his family wouldn't be this miserable. No matter what way Petrie looked at it, there didn't seem to be a way to fix Mama and Papa Flyer's relationship. It almost made him nostalgic for the time when they were separated. He just wanted his nest to be a happy place again. He wished to fly away so he could avoid this conflict he caused.
"Petrie! Hey!"
Petrie jerked. Looking around, his eyes trailed the path that led to the ground and found Littlefoot and Cera standing some distance away, uncertain if they should intrude on this family strife. Petrie stared until he was flooded with relief and sadness. He didn't how much he missed his friends until now. Taking off, his wings were a blur before he flung himself onto Littlefoot's muzzle.
"Littlefoot! Cera!" he cried, hopping from Littlefoot to Cera. "Oh me so happy you here!"
"Hey, give my nose some room to breathe." Cera said gruffly but didn't appear much put out. "Heh, glad to get some good welcome."
"That nice of you, Cera. A bit too nice." Petrie's eyes widened and he flew back in panic. "Oh no, did me mess with others' minds again?"
Littlefoot was puzzled. "Mess with our minds? What are you talking about?"
"I have an idea." Cera said grimly. "We can bring it up later. What are your parents fighting about?"
Petrie was relieved his friends retained their wits but the reminder of his parents brought down his mood.
"Everything," he sniffled. With an outlet for his emotions, he found his eyes watering. "They like this last few days. They can't get along at all! Me made a big mistake. They going to train again and fight for Wing Father. It horrible!"
Littlefoot's expression was full of sympathy. "I'm sorry, Petrie. That is horrible. That only settles it. We must discover how to fix this."
Petrie sniffled and wiped his eyes. "What you mean?"
"We're gathering our friends to find a way to stop Wing Father." Littlefoot answered. "Can you come with us?"
Petrie blinked, struggling to process what Littlefoot just said. "You think this can be fixed?"
"We have to try." Littlefoot lowered his head to Petrie. "It'd be great if all of you can be present for this."
Petrie stared. A sliver of hope seeped into him. That sounded great. If there was a way to stop, even reverse Wing Father's changes, Petrie wanted to help. But as his chest cooled, he looked down.
"Do you really need me?" he said. "Everyone smarter than me. Me no sure me can help."
"That's not true." Littlefoot said. "You contribute a lot to the group. We'll need everyone's help to figure out what we should do."
"You just being nice." Petrie said.
"This is going on too long." Cera said impatiently. "Look, trust it from me. Your quick thinking and keeping a careful eye out in the sky has saved us more times than we can count. Come with us and help. Worst comes to worst, we'll be hanging out like old times again."
Petrie stepped back, caught off guard by her verbal deluge. That it was Cera who was saying this made him consider her words. He remembered the many times he helped his friends in spur of the moment crises. In those moments, he didn't think, only trusted his instincts. It wasn't always perfect but the memories encouraged Petrie enough to try to trust his instincts again. He looked back at his family, where his parents continued to argue and his siblings cringed. He thought he knew what was best for his family but it was wrong. They couldn't be like how he wanted them to be. Though it hurt Petrie, to make sure his parents and brothers and sisters were really happy, his mother and father should separate.
Petrie stood straighter. "We might as well try. Let's go."
"Great." Littlefoot smiled. "Thanks for the help, Cera."
Cera shrugged and averted her gaze, uncomfortable with the praise. Waving his tail, Littlefoot led them down the path away from the nest. Petrie followed high in the air, buoyed by the talk. Even if he still has some hesitations, at least they were about to try to do something about Wing Father's plans.
"Petrie, where're you going?" Mama Flyer asked.
Petrie jerked. His parents were staring at him. He was flying high enough that they spotted him leaving. Quickly, Petrie thought of an explanation.
"Me just remembered me and friends have meeting with Mr. Thicknose." he called. "Don't worry, me will be back!"
"A meeting with Mr. Thicknose?" Papa Flyer frowned before shaking his head. "Oh alright but make sure to learn a lot from him."
"And don't be late for our turn in the training regiments!" Mama Flyer called. "You really need to practice with us this time! I still don't understand why you chose not to join!"
Nodding hurriedly, Petrie flew fast to catch up with Littlefoot and Cera. His cold chest prickled. He felt guilty for leaving his family behind and wondered if the gang would actually come up with any solutions. But with a wince, he shook it off. Right now, he trusted his gut and his friends. It was time to stop comparing his intelligence to others. It was time to do what was best for him and his family.
Ducky found it hard to get into the latest game. Everyone was running about, laughing and chasing each other. Tuo from the youngest sibling batch giggled as she doubled her speed and evaded Bill's grabbing hand. Eda laughed as she was caught and the others crowded around to wiggle their feet on her. It was fun chaos and normally she and Spike would be all in for this kind of game. But the name "war game" sucked any fun out of it. Ducky was still filled with guilt for manipulating her family's minds two times. She joined the game because she thought it would somehow make up for her mistakes. In contrast to the others, she was slow to run or dodge. Ducky yelped when she was pushed to the ground and Bill loomed over her, grinning.
"Ha, now you're my captive, Ducky!" Bill declared.
Many siblings hopped onto Spike. He grunted and made a token effort to struggle before he let himself be claimed. Bill and Bitty's team cheered, jumping around and high-fiving one another. Those captured were let go and milled with the victors, laughing and with no hard feelings. The cheery chatter and giggles lasted until Ducky and Spike got to their feet and slunk off with down expressions. Their siblings became quiet as the pair sat down nearby. Many stared, expressions filled with worry.
"Are you two alright?" Eda asked.
"Why're you so out of it?" Bill said.
Ducky averted her gaze. "I am sorry. I cannot be into games now."
Spike nodded, gaze low. "Uh-huh."
"Not even with a Wing Father game like war game?" Bitty came over, scratching her cheek.
Ducky squirmed. "I just cannot be excited for it yet."
"Huh, that's weird." Fussy said. "But different strokes for different folks, I guess."
"Not everyone can be into everything." Osber said. "You still sick? Make sure to feel better and join the next training regiments. It didn't feel right that you and Spike to sat out."
Ducky and Spike's brothers and sisters didn't look exactly happy but were appearing to try and be understanding. They remembered how the pair said they didn't feel good and just watched while their other siblings participated in the training regiments. Shrugging awkwardly, the siblings resumed chatting amongst themselves.
"So should we play war game again?" Bill asked.
"Definitely." Norkel grinned. "I'm not bored of it yet. Do you want to be on my team again, Osber?"
Osber looked guilty. "Actually, I can't. I'm going to meet with Cora in a bit."
"What?" Norkel cried. "No, can't you stay? Maybe this time we can have Bitty on our team."
"I can't join either." Bitty said, looking guilty. "I have a play date with Cen."
"Oh come on!" Fussy said. "Couldn't you put it off? We were having so much fun."
"Sorry. I need to make up for missing our meetup a couple days go." Osber said.
"The same for me." Bitty said. "I feel bad for standing Cen up."
"No!" Tuo said, eyes wide and morose. "Don't go. Don't go."
"Yes, this game is supposed to help with Wing Father's training." Loch said. "Please."
The other siblings clasped their hand and echoed her, looking sad and pleading. Osber and Bitty faltered. They scratched their faces and looked about, pulled in two different directions. Mama Swimmer observed with a frown. Ducky felt a rise of sympathy.
"Let them go meet their friends."
Many brothers and sisters whirled to her in surprise. Mama Swimmer paid close attention but didn't interfere.
"They promised to meet them at a certain time." Ducky continued. "It is important they keep their promise, right?"
"I guess." Fussy touched her lips. "It would just be sad they won't be with us during the game."
"Osber and Bitty would be sad if they cannot be with the friends that make them happy. If you care about someone…" Ducky's chest cooled and she put her fist on it, stealing herself. "If you care about someone, sometimes you have to let them go, to do what they want."
"You…have a point." Norkel said, rubbing his head and looking down sheepishly.
Bill nodded faintly to herself. "I guess it wouldn't make them happy to make them stay."
Spike smiled softly in agreement. The siblings murmured, reluctant but warming up to Ducky's argument. Seeing this, Ducky turned to Bitty and Osber.
"That settles it. Go find your friends."
"What?" Bitty jerked. "Are you sure?"
"Of course." Ducky smiled. "Right, Mama?"
"Right." Mama Swimmer nodded. "Enjoy yourselves. Just be back when it's the swimmers' second turn in the training regiments."
"Thanks, Mama." Osber smiled, and turned to start running. "Thank you too, Ducky! I'll keep watch of the bright circle's position."
"Me too!" Bitty called, also already moving. "You're a good sister Ducky!"
Eagerly, the two ran off to their meeting destinations, disappearing over a hill. Staring, the other siblings soon went about picking teams and started another round of war game. Ducky was a bit sad Bitty and Osber had left but felt that it was the right choice. Spike lowered his head and nuzzled her. No one raised objections to Ducky and Spike choosing not to play war game again. Mama Swimmer foraged picking off tree-stars, sending the pair a proud smile. Ducky and Spike were beginning to smile themselves, feeling at ease for the first time in a while.
"Ugh. What was that all about?"
Ducky and Spike froze at the intrusive voice. Slowly, they turned to find Tega walking up from their left, twirling a grass in her mouth in disapproval. Ducky was stunned. She never expected to see Tega again, particularly since the spiketail expressed no interest in doing so after the ceremony. Ducky had hoped they wouldn't meet again but it seemed Tega had other ideas.
"…What are you doing here?" Ducky said finally.
"What?" Tega said sardonically. "I thought you two would be happy to see me?"
Spike shook his head, his shock transforming into a glare. Before anyone could say anything, Mama Swimmer walked in.
"Hello Tega!" she said warmly. "It's been a while since we've seen you around the nest."
"I'm been here and there." Tega said. "What was that business with Ducky and her brothers and sisters?"
"Oh, Ducky was being very mature." Mama Swimmer said. "She persuaded her brothers and sisters to let two of their number go so they could meet with friends."
"Did she now?" Tega appeared unhappy about this.
"I'm so proud of her." Mama Swimmer continued. "It's not easy to let a brother or sister go to be with others. But you shouldn't hold those you love back from the people and passions that make them happy."
"So they say." Tega murmured. "Don't expect kids like her to always be this…charitable. Looks like there's a reason I was summoned here. Go off and look after your other spawn, Mrs. Swimmer. I want to a word with Ducky and Spike."
"Of course." Mama Swimmer waved, strangely unbothered by Tega's tone. "Enjoy chatting, you three."
She sauntered off to watch her other children running about and giggling. Once she was out of range, Tega stepped closer to talk in an undertone.
"Don't think you're being a good person with this," she said. "We all know you're doing it just to make yourself feel better."
"No, I was not!" Ducky replied. "Where is all of this coming from? Why are you here?"
"None of your business." Tega said. "Do you think your mama and your fellow spawn would be so forgiving if they really remembered what you did to them?"
"What I…?" Ducky stilled. "Wh-what are you talking about?"
"That time you forced your brothers and sisters to stay with you in the underground caves." Tega smiled. "Also when you tried to make your family flee after hearing about the training regiments. How convenient they all forgot about it?"
Spike inhaled. A lump appeared in Ducky's throat, cool spreading in her chest.
"H-how do you know about that?" she asked.
"We Anchors have our ways." Tega said. "So, do you think being 'nice' to your two siblings had nothing to do with what you did to your family the last few days?"
Ducky pushed herself back, the cold in her chest growing tighter. She remembered what she had done, keeping her family from the friends and passions they loved, making them pliant even when they had the right to be upset. Ducky had messed with their minds and made them forget. She had been awful to her family. Spike looked down, rubbing his chest and appearing shaken. Tega smiled as though knowing what they were thinking.
"See what I mean by everyone being selfish?" she said. "Even seemingly selfless actions have a self-interested component. No one is ever truly kind."
"If everyone is self-interested, then why are they taking part in these training regiments?" Ducky found herself asking. "This cannot be what you want for the world. Wing Father is making everyone fight for him. You might get caught up in his battles. Are you not worried about that?"
Tega shrugged. "Self-interest for me means not caring whether others can exercise their own. Wing Father using others for his own gains is perfectly in line with that. He says I don't have to take part in his plans. As long as I can do my own thing, who controls or fights what isn't my concern."
Spike choked. Tega's slight amusement but general indifference made Ducky step back.
"Th-that is horrible." she said, voice shaking.
"And you think you're any different?" Tega turned to leave. "Everyone's always been selfish, manipulating others for their own ends. Anyway, can't stay here. I'm off to relax and snack by myself."
She walked off, expression full of satisfaction. Ducky and Spike laid there filled with guilt, weighed down by what they did the last few days.
"Have we changed, Spike?" Ducky asked. "Are we good? It does not feel like we are..."
Spike opened his mouth but frowned unsure if he had an answer. They pressed into each other, taking comfort in their mutual warmth. They had been doing fine until Tega reminded them of their crimes. Ducky wondered if she and Spike could ever take those things back. Bitty and Osber were able to choose to be with their friends but would they have that autonomy in a few days when Wing Father sent everyone off to war? They might soon not be able to choose at all anymore. Miserable, Ducky and Spike sat together, a world away from their brothers and sisters' happy yelps and laughter.
"Ducky! Spike!"
The pair slowly turned, almost fearful for who wanted to chide them this time. Those feelings were momentarily forgotten when Ducky saw Littlefoot, Cera, and Petrie hiding in nearby bushes. Spike gasped. Ducky worked her mouth before she became overcome with a great, blooming joy.
"Littlefoot, Cera!" she cried. "Petrie!"
She and Spike bounded over, hugging each of the three in turn. Ducky hadn't realized how much she had missed her friends. Even with Spike, she felt lonely, since he was the only one in her family who remembered what was really going on. Now she and her friends were together again, and it was wondrous. Spike nuzzled Littlefoot and the others in the opposite order of Ducky, beaming with relief. Stepping back, Ducky looked between them with wet eyes.
"Oh, I am so glad you are all here," she said. "I should have thought to meet with you sooner!"
"I should have been the one to think of getting us together first." Littlefoot said, smile apologetic. "Are you and Spike okay?"
Ducky wilted. She exchanged glances with Spike, who was filled with uncertainty.
"We could be better," she said. "I did some awful things to my family. I hurt them. I am scared that they will get hurt further since Wing Father is going to make them fight."
Spike nodded rapidly and lowered his head, indicating his own regrets. Littlefoot, Cera, and Petrie shared a surprised look.
"Me not only one with family problems." Petrie murmured.
"I know the feeling." Littlefoot stood straighter. "Why don't we make up for that?"
Ducky threw her hands up. "How can I make up for what I did?"
"We band together and take the world from Wing Father's control."
Ducky and Spike's mouths dropped open. They looked at each other, to check if they heard it right.
"Take the world from Wing Father's control?" Ducky repeated. "You mean break Wing Father's control over the world? Is that possible? Can it be done?"
"I don't know but let's find out." Littlefoot said. "We can't just let our families and others be hurt like this."
Silence. Spike's gaze wavered to the grass, struggling to contemplate. Ducky touched her mouth, worried and unsure.
"It sounds dangerous," she said.
"It probably will be." Littlefoot admitted. "But it's better than being sad and not doing anything. Maybe we can protect our folks by coming up with a plan."
"My family's already getting hurt." Cera frowned. "They're in the training regiments with Verter."
"Me family arguing and be in training regiments again soon." Petrie said. "Me sure we think of something."
Ducky thought it over, her spirit rising. Spike perked up, almost ready to move now there was a goal in mind. Ducky agreed it would be great to do something. She raised her head and almost assented when she felt the cool in her chest again and remembered Tega's words.
"I do not know." Ducky said at last. "I do not think I might be able to help."
Spike nodded, his encouragement fading to a downcast look. Littlefoot and the others blanched.
"But why would you not help?" Petrie protested.
"We can't just let him do what he wants." Littlefoot said fiercely. "We have friends all over the land. They might be among those the valley fights if Wing Father has his way. We have to work together and stop this!"
"But do we have the right to decide that?" Ducky closed her eyes. "Would we be any better than Wing Father and the Anchors to decide for others? I do not think I can help with that kind of decision. I am scared I will hurt lots of people again. You might be better off figuring it out without us. It sounds selfless but it does not need someone like me whose selfishness might get in the way."
The others stared, horrified by what they were hearing. Cera looked down, discouraged. Petrie fidgeted, eyes full of sympathy and wondering if there was anything he could do. Spike shuffled, letting out a sigh. He made eye contact with Littlefoot, indicating however he regretted it, Ducky might be right. They also wouldn't need someone unmotivated like Spike whose whimsy sometimes took him in unkindly directions and he wasn't always motivated for adventure. Littlefoot was silent, not sure what to say. Ducky regretted speaking. She didn't want to make her friends feel bad too. At last, Littlefoot let out a breath and met their gaze.
"I don't know what happened to you two," he said. "But you aren't as bad as you're saying. You're among the nicest friends in a bunch of already nice people. If any of us get scared or makes a mistake, we can cover for each other. Not to mention this will give everyone their free will back. Maybe doing this without asking is a bit selfish but they can't decide that either way now. Sometimes you have to make yourself and others uncomfortable in order to do the right thing. We did that on our adventures. We want you there. It wouldn't be the same without you."
The others nodded, gazes beseeching. Ducky and Spike were caught off guard and moved in spite of themselves. Uncertain, Ducky frowned and thought back. She remembered adventuring with her friends to help or rescue others. Their families and friends were often angry and worried about them taking huge risks or breaking social taboos. Yet more often than not, people were saved and helped because of what they did. Not long ago, she persuaded her family to let Bitty and Osber go to be with their friends. True, it might have been to make up for her mistakes but she had meant it. It had hurt. But to be truly nice, sometimes you had to sacrifice some of your happiness for the sake of others. Spike nudged her and nodded, appearing to say taking action might really help. Even with their doubts, both were long passed the point of doing nothing. Becoming determined, Ducky looked at Littlefoot.
"We will go with you." Ducky said. "You are right. We should stop Wing Father's selfishness."
"Thanks." Littlefoot smiled. "I'm glad you can join us in this mission."
"But what about your brothers and sisters." Petrie asked. "Me thought you wanted to spend more time with them?"
Ducky hesitated and looked back. Her brothers and sisters were chasing each other, giggling and calling out in joy when they caught each other. Ducky was sad she couldn't spend more time with them like she wanted to. But maybe there were other ways to value the time she did have with her siblings that would make them all happy. Reading her look, Spike nodded and the pair looked back at their friends.
"They are having fun on their own," she said. "Let's go and make sure they do not have to fight."
Chomper winced as his parents struck their muzzles against boulders embedded on small mounds. Mama and Papa Sharptooth practiced nearby a designated battleground. The two alternated with raking at the huge rocks with their claws and teeth. Nearby, the practicing domeheads snuck nervous glances, as though wary they might be asked to spar with the couple. Chomper had never seen his parents practice to such intensity and wasn't sure he liked it. Papa Sharptooth struck his target with his tail, which rocked before crashing to the ground and cracking in two. Mama Sharptooth did the same to her boulder but it remained on its mound.
"Strike it quick and hard with a whipping motion." Papa Sharptooth suggested.
"Don't tell me how to break boulders!" Mama Sharptooth snapped. "It's good to have different strategies. I'm trying to break it from the side."
"What was that?" He growled. "You always make things too complicated! What's the point of doing different strategies when one would do?"
"Don't be lazy! What if we run into an opponent where that strategy doesn't work! You see why I often have to take the lead in the hunts?"
"Mommy, Daddy, don't fight again!" Chomper cried, running up behind them. "I don't like seeing you be cruel to each other."
"What are you talking about?" Papa Sharptooth said. "We've always been like this."
"No, you haven't!" Chomper said desperately. "You're nicer to each other than that."
"Who are you to tell us how to behave?" Mama Sharptooth snapped. "We're the parents around here."
"But you're getting so angry lately…"
"Are you going to chide us every time we get aggressive?" Papa Sharptooth demanded. "It's the only way things can be done sometimes. You have to accept it."
"No, I don't!" Chomper snapped back, at last losing patience.
"Quiet, Chomper!" Mama Sharptooth growled. "You're walking dangerously close to getting a strike where it hurts."
"I've had it with you two always snapping at me! Please, change back!"
"You have no right to tell us to tamp down who we are." Papa Sharptooth said. "We're preparing to defend our way of life. Why did those leaf guzzlers have to go and make you soft? Don't occupy us with this nonsense. Now are you going to join in training or not?"
Chomper closed his eyes. "I keep telling you, no!"
"Then stop bothering us!" Papa Sharptooth said. "Let us train uninterrupted."
"We're disappointed you're refusing to join," Mama Sharptooth said. "It would help improve your temperament. Being soft isn't going to help anyone!"
Chomper winced. Rolling another boulder onto the small mount, Papa Sharptooth and Mama Sharptooth resumed striking at their targets. Chomper wanted to be angry but all he felt was hurt. Slowly, he turned and marched with a lowered head, the cries of the domeheads knocking each other's heads and the sound of struck and lashed rock echoing behind and to the side of him. It was all so wrong. He didn't know how to get through to his parents. As he walked, a shadow fell over him.
"Are you alright, Chomper?"
Chomper jumped. The voice was horribly familiar. Raising his gaze, he found Patty looking down at him with concern. Chomper stepped back, turning his head away with anger.
"Go away!" he said.
"Chomper, I just want to help." Patty said.
He shook his head. "I don't need it…It's because of you Mommy and Daddy are…"
Chomper didn't want to conclude that sentence. He wiped his eyes. Patty was sympathetic.
"Did you fight with your parents?" she asked. "I understand. I've fought with my mom a few times. I'm still getting used to being back with her. You must be dealing with a similar issues…"
"That's not it!" Chomper said. "My parents can be stern but they were never this cruel. These training regiments are making everyone their worst selves. They're going to fight for Wing Father and hurt people! Doesn't that bother you?"
Patty looked uncomfortable. "I admit, it wasn't what I had in mind when Wing Father talked about his paradise. But this is the best things are going to get. The only thing we can do is protect our own families."
"Easy for you to do." Chomper muttered. "But what about everyone else? Are they supposed to be used and abused?"
She averted her gaze. "Um, it's unfortunate but…"
"What, you can't criticize Wing Father even now? What about your mother? Would she really be happy about this? You're an Anchor, do something."
"It's out of my paws!" Patty snapped. "What can you do? Grownups wouldn't be able to do anything about it, so why do you think a kid like you can?"
Chomper flinched. He felt a whoosh like he missed a step climbing. Patty's expression faltered, already appearing to regret what she said.
"I'm sorry …" she said. "I – I didn't mean…"
"Whatever." Chomper turned away. "Just leave me alone."
He continued walking, feeling Patty's gaze at the back of his head before she rumbled off. He stopped in front of a bush, sitting down as his chest cooled. Even at their sternest, his parents still laughed and comforted him. But those aspect were disappearing and replaced by anger and pettiness. Chomper couldn't do anything to help or protect his mother and father, who were there but no longer how he knew them. His mind brought back Patty's words a kid like him couldn't do anything. Was he going to be helpless as his parents became enthusiastic enforcers of Wing Father's rule? He sat down and started to cry, frustrated tears running down his muzzle.
"Chomper!"
Chomper turned his head so fast he nearly cricked his neck. Rubbing it, he found five pairs of eyes staring back at him from the bush. He started, wondering if he was going to be pounced by an unexpected enemy until he caught their scent and almost collapsed with relief.
"Oh, it's you guys," he said. "Don't scare me like that."
"Sorry." Littlefoot said, having called Chomper's name. "It's just not exactly safe to walk openly with everyone following Wing Father's lead. Are you alright?"
"I'm-" Chomper hesitated. But he didn't have the energy to hide his troubles. "No, I'm not. My parents aren't acting like themselves. They're becoming very mean. No matter what I do, I can't stop it."
"I guess now wouldn't be a good time to talk to your folks." Cera muttered.
"No!" Chomper said, then clapped his muzzle. He looked around before saying more quietly. "Even if you can't die, you're probably not going to be safe with them. I'm sorry. It might be best for you to leave before they notice you."
"We're not leaving without you, Chomper." Littlefoot said firmly. "We need your help. We have to find a good hiding place."
Chomper sniffled and rubbed his eyes. "What for?"
"So we can talk about stopping Wing Father." Littlefoot said. "It would be best to have a private place where no one can see or interfere with what we're doing."
Chomper stopped and stared, needing a moment to register Littlefoot's words.
"Did you just say…stop Wing Father?"
"That's right." Littlefoot nodded. "It's time we take action."
Chomper blinked. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. His friends were going to oppose Wing Father? In previous adventures, their determined stares would have drove him to hope or action. In spite of himself now, though, he couldn't help being skeptical.
"Can someone like Wing Father be stopped?" he asked. "He controls the whole world."
"We no know." Petrie admitted. "But we supposed to do nothing if something bad is happening?"
"Of course not!" Chomper shook his head. "I wish we could do something. But can we really do anything against someone so strong?"
"We will not know unless we find out, Chomper." Ducky said. "I hope we think of something that will work. But if it does not, at least we did something, oh yes, yes, yes."
Chomper was silent, turning the message over in his mind. What his friends were saying felt right. He hated standing by while his loved ones were suffering. But his chest cooled as he remembered Patty's words…
"I admire what you're trying to do," he said, "but you don't need me. I'll just slow you down."
"But you can help." Littlefoot said. "You can use your sniffer."
"Spike can do that." Chomper said.
"Maybe but you're better at it." Cera said. "Uh, no offense to Spike but we need you."
"Eh! Eh!" Spike nodded, widening his eyes in a pleading gesture.
That was encouraging. Still, his heart remained cool and heavy.
"That doesn't sound like it'll help much." Chomper mumbled.
"But it'll make all the difference." Littlefoot said. "Finding a good hiding place and sniffing out for danger would keep us safe in this mission. Your nose mightn't be big or flashy but every bit helps. Remember the role everyone played in our adventures in making it back alive. Come on Chomper. We need you."
He and the others all stared at him beseeching. Chomper was stunned by this effort to persuade him. It wasn't an attempt to be polite. His friends wanted and needed him. He recalled what happened on their adventures. Everyone helped, some of it small in isolation but it all added together to help them survive and even thrive. Rubbing his chest, Chomper still had doubts but watched his parents spar with the rocks, wincing yet continuing even as they became exhausted. Chomper ached at the sight. He couldn't stand what was happening to them anymore. Wincing, he shook off the cool feeling. His friends were here and they needed his help. Chomper would feel much better if he tried to support them even in a small way. He turned to them and his gaze was determined.
"I'm in," he said. "Let's find Ruby."
Next time…
Part 2
Note: Part 2 will be posted next Friday.