HOME FIRES MISTS LIFEBLOOD SPOKES
The earthquake that shook Wolfhaven ended up shaking Freeborn more...
Branch follows Suremark, a bit slowly. His right upper arm is wrapped in a darkly stained leather. Stormfist sends openly ** Better, though still weak. ** Lynx swallows the last of his broth and sets the little bowl aside, rising. He goes toward Branch, concerned. "Cousin. Come in, sit down. Our healer can see to you." Stormfist sends openly ** How goes the search? ** True settles down, starting to sip at her own bowl. Sunsinger looks over at Freeborn and smiles a little, in gratitude. Branch smiles, nodding in thanks to Lynx. Darkmane says "May I join you Sunsinger?" Freeborn follows Lynx's motion with her eyes, and looks over the new elf, checking for signs of injury. Stormfist continues sipping his broth, little by little. Suremark smiles encouragingly at Stormfist while helping Branch find a place to sit down. ** We're beginning to cover more territory. I'm going to send scouts out soon to see if they can track any game. ** Reedsnap nods to Sunsinger approvingly, sympathetically. His eyes are worried, haunted with the protectiveness he feels toward all his tribe. Stormfist sends openly ** As soon as I can walk again, I'll help search. ** Sunsinger looks over at Darkmane and nods. "Aye, if you wish. Two pairs of eyes see more than one." Reedsnap turns to Darkmane. "Look after each other," he says firmly. Darkmane nods his head at Sunsinger, walking towards him. Suremark chuckles at Stormfist, walking over to him ** You'll get better, first. ** True listens to Sunsinger and Darkmane, a worried expression on her face. Branch glances over his shoulder for a moment, softly sending probingly, then moves, sitting slowly. DarkTruth steps out of DarkTruth's tent. Lynx beckons to Freeborn. "Looks like his right arm... the upper part. Not sure about anywhere else." DarkTruth steps out of her tent, looking at Singer, "I am going too. " Stormfist sends openly ** We'll see, we'll see. I feel useless, just sitting here, being waited on.... ** Sunsinger nods to Reedsnap. "We'll be careful, chief..." He looks over at DarkTruth as she comes out. He nods. Freeborn nods, using her spear to help her up. She smiles at Branch, a little tiredly. ** I'm Freeborn.. ** Moonshyne listens, worry on her face as she listens..... Branch smiles, nodding in return to Freeborn. ** Branch. I'm sorry we could not have met under better times ** Suremark smiles softly and pats Stormfist's shoulder gently. ** Your time will come again. And Moonshyne... how are you doing? ** DarkTruth picks up a spear, and grabs a waterskin from her tent. Darkmane looks over at DarkTruth, then at Sunsinger, "Let's go then." Sunsinger looks at Darkmane, then Darktruth. "Let's go." Sunsinger steps out of the Trader camp. Sunsinger has left. In an open send, Freeborn thinks many could say that.. DarkTruth steps out of the Trader camp. DarkTruth has left. Darkmane steps out of the Trader camp. Darkmane has left. True swallows hard, making up her mind about something. She chases after Sunsinger and Darkmane suddenly. True steps out of the Trader camp. True has left. Freeborn indicates the arm. ** May I? ** Moonshyne nods, and shrugs, "Alright... " Reedsnap's brows draw together worriedly as True leaves camp. Branch nods, grimacing slightly as he reaches up and begins to unwrap the bandage. Freeborn carefully kneels down by Branch, eyes on the wound. Reedsnap kneels and pokes at the fire, stirring it to greater warmth and brightness. He rises and circles among the gathered elves, taking empty bowls from those who are finished, asking if anyone needs more to eat. Branch's wound is not deep, but it is a long gash, reaching nearly from his shoulder to elbow. Freeborn nods, and touches his arm at top and bottom. She takes a deep breath, centering herself, and closes her eyes. Branch watches, waiting patiently. Stormfist allows but a single tear to fall from his eye, in response to a send... Lynx retrieves the bloodsoaked leather that Branch had been wearing as a bandage. "I'll wash this out," he tells Branch, rising. Branch senses in a locksend, Freeborn's healing tingles at first, then settles into a steady warmth in your arm. She works from each end of the wound, pulling muscle together and urging skin to cover all as the wound closes. She takes her time, being slow and careful...not a strong healer, but a steady one. Branch looks aside, nodding to Lynx in silent thanks, not wanting to distract Freeborn. Lightstar steps into the Trader camp. Lightstar has arrived. Lightstar scarmbles into the camp, breating heavily. Suremark closes his eyes and lets out a sigh, then gets up to find his furs to wrap around him. Branch closes his eyes a moment as the healer works. Branch senses in a locksend, Freeborn weaves new muscle and old together, slowly, carefully so that you can strengthen the arm without reopening the wound. Lightstar skids to a stop, and wimpers, looking for a place to hide. Reedsnap turns as the newcomer enters. "Welcome," he says, moving through the gathered groups toward Lightstar. "Don't be afraid. You're safe here." Freeborn's hands move slightly closer together, as the ends of the gash seem shrink in toward one another. Lightstar is a small cub, 3 turns old. Stormfist eyes the newcommer oddly, wondering what wrong... Moonshyne turns to the sound of someone, light and small, running into the camp... Branch sighs at the warmth and healing, his eyes opening again, watching impassively. Reedsnap reaches Lightstar and kneels slowly. "Don't be afraid," he repeats steadily. "Who are you?" Lightstar stammors, in her high cub voice "Li..Lightstar." Suremark wraps himself up tight in his fur and snuggles against his sleeping lifemate. Stormfist coughs and shivers slightly. Lynx busies himself scrubbing out a pile of leather strips and bandages. Branch senses in a locksend, Freeborn finishes carefully, the skin coming in from the ends and the sides to seal the gash closed. Reedsnap holds out one gentle hand toward the cubling. "And where's your family, little one? Where's your tribe?" StormTossed steps out of the Trader camp. StormTossed has left. Lightstar sniffles "Papa scared me, he's mad cuz Sweeteyes not come back!" Reedsnap strokes the mussed dark ringlets. "Who's your Papa? What holt?" Freeborn sighs, opening her eyes slowly, looking up at Branch. ** It won't be as strong at first..but it will get stronger. Use it carefully for a few days, then a lot to make it stronger. Branch sighs again, smiling to Freeborn as his wound closes. ** Thanks you, healer ** Freeborn shakes her head. ** None needed.. ** She grins a little weakly. ** Strong arms are needed right now. ** Lightstar sniffles, big tears forming "FireHunter's my Papa. Whats a holt?" Branch smiles lightly, nodding. He pauses, unsure, then sends again, ** Healer, I might ask one more thing of you... ** Freeborn looks up. ** ? ** Stormfist drinks a bit more of his broth, then sets his bowl aside, still half full. Branch leans forward, wincing a bit as he does. ** Strong arms are needed, true, but strong backs as well. I wondered if you could perhaps do something for mine... ** He lifts up his furs over his back, showing that the entire right side is black and blue. ** Nothing's broken, I don't think... ** Freeborn looks at it, and her pale face flushes. ** I should have checked! Forgive me! ** She lays hands on his back, sensing to see if the kidney's damaged anxiously. Moonshyne listens, sipping her broth.. Reedsnap says to Lightstar, "A holt is usually a place where a lot of elves all live together in one permanent place." Branch smiles lightly. ** You could not have known. I don't think it's bad... ** Stormfist coughs lightly, trying to hold it back. Freeborn shakes her head in relief. ** Not deep..praise the High Ones. ** She closes her eyes again, resting fingers lightly over the nasty bruise. Lynx finishes scrubbing out the leather bandage strips and begins to hang them neatly out of the way to air-dry in the chill. Silverfur begins laping the remaining broth out of Stormfist's bowl. Branch senses Freeborn goes in again, the warmth filling your belly as she mends the broken blood vessels. This doesn't take her so long, and the pain is gone long before the bruise itself starts to fade. Branch's wounds reach slightly deeper, a few of the ribs bruised as well. Freeborn breathes deeply as she heals.. Branch closes his eyes once again, breathing shallowly, keeping things as they are while the healer works. Branch senses in a locksend, Freeborn works on you slowly as before, and this time she senses out through your body for any damage you might not have felt on your own. Reedsnap turns and half-fills one of the small wooden bowls with some broth, handing it to Lightstar. "Eat, cub. You'll feel better." Branch locksends to Freeborn, Branch is whole otherwise. Just minor scratches that are already scabbed over and healing well. Freeborn sighs softly as she withdraws her energy, leaning again on the spear shaft as she drops her hands to her lap. ** The skin is still dark, but the damage is gone.. ** Moonshyne nods slightly and finishes off the brothe, setting the bowl off to the side, not noticing when it falls over. Branch sits up straight, feeling the results, then smiles again warmly to Freeborn. ** Again, thank you ** Lightstar sniffles. Freeborn nods, smiling again. She looks over at Lynx, then pulls herself to her feet as if her own leg is bothering her. Reedsnap coaxes the cub toward Moonshyne, who's sitting among soft, comfortable furs. "Here, Lightstar. This is Moonshyne... sit with her, and eat this broth, hm? Then later, we'll talk about getting you back home." Branch watches, frowning suddenly as he notices Freeborn's own wound. Lightstar scampers over to Moonshyne. Moonshyne moves slightly to the left, hearing the cub scamper towards her.... Reedsnap brings the small bowl half-filled with broth over toward Moonshyne. "Can I hand you this broth, cousin?" he asks the blind elf. "You can help her drink it down." True steps into the Trader camp. True has arrived. Branch looks now to the other activity in the camp, unconciously rubbing his arm where the wound was. True trots into the camp, breathing heavily as she says, "They found her... she's hurt..." Moonshyne listens to Reed, and nods, holding out her hand in his direction. "Of course, cousin... " she says softly. StormTossed steps into the Trader camp. StormTossed has arrived. Reedsnap hands the bowl carefully to Moonshyne, and then turns, stiffening. "Who's hurt?" he calls to True. Lightstar cuddles up to Moonshyne, and sniffs at the broth. StormTossed walks into the camp, looking much relieved to find it still here. Branch frowns again as he notes that Moonshyne does not look at Reed as she speaks to him, nor blinks as much as seems right. Freeborn turns to look at True, worry breaking through her tiredness.. she relaxes to see Stormtossed, and automatically starts looking to see if she's hurt. Lynx slips through the crowd over to Stormy, spear in one hand, other arm reaching out for a hug. "You're all right?" True breathes heavily, catcing her breath as she says, "Dawndancer. They're on their way back." Freeborn sends openly ** Hurt how? ** Moonshyne holds onto the bowl firmly, with both hands, before moving towards the little cub at her side.... Reedsnap gives a low groan. "High Ones. Is it bad?" StormTossed hmms? blinking at Lynx, "Oh....yes....I'm fine" True swallows hard, wiping at her eyes as she shivers, "I don't know. She's not awake and I think she hit her head. Moonshyne doesn't so much as look up at Stormy's arrival. Branch watches True now, concerned. Freeborn nods, and sits back down. She closes her eyes, and begins to breathe deeply, centering herself just in case. Lynx hugs StormTossed quickly. "We were worried." He turns toward True. "Come closer to the fire before you get iced through," he urges her. StormTossed hmmms, looking around and seeming the tinest bit confused now. True nodnods, looking very frightened and goes over to the fire, teeth chattering. True isn't wearing her winter coat. Stormfist coughs, though this time a hoarse cough, as he is not able to hold it back. Lightstar cuddles up to Moon, and sniffs the broth. StormTossed stands off to the side, out of the way, looking around. Sunsinger steps into the Trader camp. Sunsinger has arrived. Dawndancer steps into the Trader camp. Dawndancer has arrived. DarkTruth steps into the Trader camp. DarkTruth has arrived. Darkmane steps into the Trader camp. Darkmane has arrived. Reedsnap quickly grabs a large, thick fur and hurries to meet the party arriving with the litter. DarkTruth doesn't look up, concerned for her niece. Moonshyne offers the brothe to the direction of the cub... "Here, sip from this... " Darkmane sets the litter beside the fur that Reedsnap laid out. Freeborn opens her eyes, recentered if shaky, and waits for them to bring the litter closer. Freeborn crawls over to the side of the litter, and looks up at Lynx briefly. Stormfist shivers slightly and pulls his furs as close around him as possible. Lynx makes his way to Freeborn's side, and kneels with her. "How are you?" he asks in an undertone. StormTossed rubs her hands up and down on her arms and sits down, frowning. Sunsinger moves to kneel beside the litter after he sets it down with Darkmane. DarkTruth slowly lets go of Dawns' hand as the healer comes over.... Freeborn brushes fingers gently across Dawnie's temple. Lynx shifts perceptibly closer to Freeborn, bodies touching, lending his strength and presence. Moonshyne is offering broth to you, Lightstar. :) Lightstar sips on it, and mumbles "Thanks!' Darkmane backs off, allowing everyone else near. He quickly goes and gets a large parka, and takes it over to DarkTruth, and places it around her shoulders. Moonshyne smiles slightly, just beyond the cub... "Easy now... " DarkTruth looks up and smiles gratfully at Darkmane.... then blinks.... Reedsnap stands and watches Dawndancer for a moment, his eyes dark smudges in his pale face, worry for his tribe almost visible in his stiff posture. He forces himself to turn away and look after the others, bringing an extra fur to Stormfist. True shivers as she sits closer to the fire, wiping at her eyes as she watches Dawndancer and the others. Sunsinger is currently clad only in a pair of breeches, his tunic having gone to help make up the litter. He shivers occasionally, but doesn't seem to consciouly notice that he's cold, his worry taking precedence. Flamebranch glances worriedly at Dawndancer. Freeborn sighs softly in relief, but without explaining why she drops into trance. DarkTruth stands up, looking at Stormy.... then runs at Stormy... ** Your safe!!!** Darkmane nods his head, backing away slightly. He notices True' and walks over to her side and sits down, placing an arm on her shoulder. Freeborn's hands rest gently on Dawndancer, one on her temple and one on her forearm. StormTossed blinks as she gets rushed, **But I. . .well yes. . .** Stormfist smiles at Reedsnap, "Thank you, but I'll only accept if you have plenty for the new commer who's injured." Lynx lets out a small breath, his thin frame seeming to relax a bit. True cries herself to sleep after awhile. Reedsnap smiles shakily at Stormfist. "There's more than enough. Don't worry." DarkTruth doesn't notice Stormy's confusion, crying more then she sends... Reedsnap tucks a fur around Stormfist and then hurries over to Sunsinger, slinging another one around his bare shoulders with careful solicitousness. StormTossed blinks, "Hey....calm down silly, I'm fine" Branch stands, moving to Reedsnap, pausing while he tends to Sunsinger, then lays a hand on his shoulder. StormTossed looks patentently confused as to why she's crying DarkTruth doesn't hear that either. :) Sunsinger glances at the fur as it slips around his shoulders, then looks up at Reedsnap. His eyes convey his thanks, then he turns his attention back to Dawndancer. Branch sends openly ** You're tired. I'll help. ** Reedsnap turns at Branch's touch and send, and offers him a grateful smile. "I'm all right. You ought to rest a bit, after that healing... You can stand watch later, if you feel up to it." StormTossed hmmms, looking at the elf curiously, then something seems to click, "Hey, stop it Squid, you know it would take more than, oh, the earth moving to kill me" Branch shakes his head a bit, half-smiling, moving his arm a bit for show. ** I'm fine. It was nothing very serious, and Freeborn tended to it very well ** Well, *that* penitrates...... Darky moves back slightly... confused. StormTossed looks a bit relieved by something, at least she seems to relax a little bit more. Freeborn's healing seems to surge suddenly, to judge by the feel of the magic. Moonshyne helps the cub sip the broth, not noticing when it spills slightly. Darkmane stand, wraping a fur aroundTrue, and moves away from the fire, and the bulk of the group. StormTossed smiles, **I'm fine silly. I told you. I found a relatively safe place to wait it out** Reedsnap looks Branch up and down, then ruefully nods. "I can't order you to get some rest, so I won't try. Any help you can offer, I'll gladly accept." Lightstar doesn't care when it spills. DarkTruth blinks... she's not acting right..... ** Why did you call me Squid....? ** StormTossed frowns just slightly, and leans over to Darky and mutters, "Though I'm a little tired" Dawndancer gasps in a shuddering breath quite suddenly - her right hand lifting to reach for something... anything... Tears slip from her closed lids and then they slowly flicker open... StormTossed blinks, "But I -always- call you Squid. What happen? You get hit in the head and forget?" Branch pauses at the increase of magic, looking down, then looks aside to Moonshyne, and looks back to Reedsnap. He smiles, nodding a bit. But his smile fades a bit again as he sends. Lightstar steps out of the Trader camp. Lightstar scrambles up her father clumsily as she doesn't watch where he footing is. Lightstar has left. Sunsinger reaches out to take Dawndancer's hand as it reaches out. Skystorm steps out of Skystorm's Tent. Skystorm has arrived. Branch locksends ** Moonshyne... She acts as though she can't see anything... ** to Reedsnap. Lynx cocks his head, glancing sideways at Freeborn, curious and fascinated. DarkTruth nods, then glances over at Dawnie, relief filling her eyes... only to stop at Stormy's words..... ** No you didn't.... ** Sunsinger looks down at Dawndancer's face and whispers, "Dawn?" Darkmane stands at the edge of the camp looking out into the forest, slightly shivering. StormTossed blinks, "Yes I did, ever since you were a tiny squirt." Reedsnap nods absently to Branch, moving closer to the group around Dawndancer worriedly. Skystorm simply slumps down by the entrance to her tent and sits. Dawndancer's hand squeezes on Sunsinger's as she looks up into his face. She is shivering uncontrollably... though her insides feel...warm. Moonshyne blinks as the cub takes off, or so she thinks.... Reedsnap locksends ** Aye... They can't find why she might have lost her sight, but she has. Freeborn says she... doesn't -want- to see. ** Freeborn's hand that was on Dawndancer's head drifts to her arm. Her face is serene, and there is no pain to Dawndancer when her fingers tighten, setting the broken arm into place. Reedsnap whirls and tries to call after the fleeing cub, but can't catch her. He looks after her with darkened eyes, then back to Dawndancer. DarkTruth blinks again.... oh high ones, the family curse..... ** No, you didn't.... you called your *sister* that.... not me.** StormTossed looks at Darktruth and frowns, "Hold on Squid, you -are- my sister. You sure you didn't get hit in the head?" DarkTruth groans and sinks down, holding her head.... Sunsinger's eyes close, not quite meeting Dawndancer's. His face shows relief as he sees that Dawn is going to be alright... Branch watches from outside the group around Dawndancer, then looks aside to Moonshyne, frowning a little sadly. DarkTruth sends openingly... ** I'm your MOTHER Stormtossed....** Chirrup steps into the Trader camp. Chirrup has arrived. Moonshyne blinks at what she's hearing.... "Is everyone alright?" she calls out to the other side of the camp. StormTossed blinks, then looks very concerned. "Oh boy. No. No, remember? Mother died, a long time ago. Are you sure you're okay?" She starts to check her over. Branch moves to Moonshyne, kneeling by her. Chirrup flies into camp with the speed of a hummingbird, iridescent colors streaking through the air. It goes unerringly straight to Reedsnap and lands on his head, clinging tightly. Branch sends openly ** Eveything's fine. Everyone's fine. ** DarkTruth holds her hand in her face..... ** I'm fine.. ** Chirrup is keening in its little voice, //Gentleleader Highthing SAFE! Chirrup so WORRIED! Got separated from its Highthings...!// Freeborn's hands rest over the break, relaxes as the energy pours forth from her, seeming sapphire. Darkmane turns and looks around at the camp, he eyes the group around Dawndancer, then finally sees Skystorm, a look of relief on his face. Stormfist cocks an eyebrow at the thing that has just nested in Reedsnaps hair. Dawndancer arches her back a little, her eyes closing again, her lips parting as she concentrates on Freeborn and her healing... lending whatever strength she can. Moonshyne tilts her head as she remembers this scent... "Good.... Branch, right?" Reedsnap reaches up to his head and strokes the chattering Preserver soothingly. "Easy, little one. We'll be all right." Flamebranch glances at Chirrup and grimaces. StormTossed hmmmms, not quite believing her 'sister'. Stormfist says "What in the name of the High Ones is that, Reedsnap?" Branch smiles slightly, nodding out of habit. ** That's right. Can I get you anything? ** DarkTruth tries again, sending. DarkTruth is holding her head in her heads, shaking it. StormTossed smiles, nodding to her 'sister' "That's right. Streamstone is my sister. That's you, you're Streamy." Chirrup burrows into the tousled curly hair and continues to burble worriedly to itself. The Chieftain glances over at Stormfist. "A Preserver," he says quietly. "You've never met one before?" Moonshyne shakes her head, looking slightly left of branch... "No thank you... " Stormfist shakes his head. "What's a preserver?? " DarkTruth groans..... **No... I am DarkTruth, once known as Divedown... your Mother.** Flamebranch points, "THAT is a preserver." Dawndancer's hand squeezes Sunsinger's and she opens her eyes again to turn and watch Freeborn, her expression dazed and grateful. StormTossed shakes her head, **No. You're not. Mother died.** Chirrup peeks out of Reedsnap's curls and gazes around with bright blue insectoid eyes. Branch settles next to the blind elf, feeling that perhaps he can help and follow Reedsnap's wishes at the same time. Stormfist blinks once or twice, "I've seen my share of Humans and trolls... but never one of those things. " Lynx swallows tightly, putting one arm around Freeborn and squeezing... perhaps harder than he ought to. Skystorm manages a small, weak smile as she notices everyone around. One hand creeps up to touch a sizeable lump on her head. She hisses, and drops the hand. Moonshyne moves over slightly as she feels Branch settle down next to her. MistyTouch stumbles into camp, eyes half-lidded. She holds a hunk of leather to her head that is soaked in blood. The leather covers the right side of her face. DarkTruth groans...... ** No she.. I didn't! ** Reedsnap gasps as MistyTouch appears, and hurries through the crowds of refugees towards her. "Misty!" he calls, alarmed. StormTossed blinks, **No Streamy, you didn't die. -Mother- died** She looks over at Freeborn and frowns at her sister. DarkTruth sighs, and just sits there... Flamebranch sends openly ** They're very odd cratures. ** Branch looks up in some alarm as MistyTouch enters, tensing slightly to rise if needed. Dawndancer swallows and continues to watch Freeborn, her hand tightly held in Sunsinger's. StormTossed hmmms, looking around the camp curiously. MistyTouch glances up, slightly bleary eyed to see Reedsnap rushing towards her, and then topples into him, eyes rolling back into her head. The blood loss has been a bit much for her and she goes out like a light. Stormfist sends openly ** They look it. Were they on Two Moons when we the High Ones arrived?? ** Flamebranch sends openly ** They came with the High Ones. ** Darkmane eyes widen as he sees MistyTouch. He scrambles quickly towards her, arriving after Reedsnap does. Reedsnap catches MistyTouch reflexively, staggering back a step. He lowers her to the ground. "Easy," he murmurs, trying to keep his voice steady. "I'll look after you." He looks up, eyes wild. "Someone? Someone go into the storage tent and get my herb pouch!" DarkTruth looks to be struggling with something, and just sits there... Stormfist blinkblinks. "WITH the High Ones?? " Freeborn shudders suddenly, violently, and leans into Lynx. Branch stands hurriedly. ** What does it look like? ** he sends to Reedsnap. Flamebranch nods to Stormfist. ** That's what I was told by one who would know. ** Sunsinger opens his eyes where he kneels beside Dawndancer and looks at Freeborn. Chirrup peeks out of Reedsnap's hair again, and mewls, //Softsilver Highthing all still quiet? Need wrapstuff? // Skystorm struggles to her feet. "I'll get it.." She wavers a bit as a wave of dizziness hits her and nearly pitches forward. ** Ooh..** She goes back down, and -crawls- over to the tent. Skystorm steps into the Storage Tent. Freeborn's healing power spikes and flares out...leaving Dawndancer almost completely whole. Skystorm arrives from the storage tent. Skystorm drops the pouch at Reed's feet. ** Think I'll lie down now. ** Lynx supports Freeborn, holding her tight with both arms, murmuring to her in soft, worried tones. MistyTouch lies in Reedsnap's arms. She groans softly and her eyes flutter open to slits to look up at him, her vision still clouded. "Who....?" StormTossed hmmms, getting to her feet slowly Darkmane grasp Misty's hand tightly dropping on both knees beside her. Dawndancer looks up at Freeborn, her eyes widening. "Freeborn?" she manages to whisper, her voice hoarse. Her once broken arm reaches up reflexively to help Freeborn remain seated... Reedsnap looks at Skystorm. "Oh, High Ones. You lie down too, let me take care of you." Sunsinger's gaze goes to Lynx. Freeborn sends openly ** I'm all right......I'm all right...Who's bleeding? ** Branch bites his lip and sits again, knowing that he would be more of a hinderance at this point. DarkTruth looks up at that, and puts all this in the back of her mind... ** Stormy, lets get some water.. ** Lynx says slowly, "MistyTouch. But you need rest!" Stormfist coughs and curls up in his furs. Lynx's eyes go to Sunsinger, and he nods quickly, earnestly. StormTossed Hmms and looks back at her sister, "Squid, where's my bear?" Moonshyne moves slightly as Branch sits down again... DarkTruth looks at Stormy, ** Bear? What bear? ** Skystorm curls up on her side. ** Okay. Lieing down is good. Yes. ** DarkTruth shakes her head, ** Come on girl! ** Reedsnap can't help but half-smile for a moment, for all his worry. He bends to nuzzle Skystorm's ear briefly. "Well done. I'll see to you." He leans over Misty again. "Lie easy. It's me... It's Reedsnap. You'll be all right." Freeborn sends openly ** I'll be all right.. ** StormTossed Hmmms, following her sister, "I hope she's okay." DarkTruth nods, and picks up a large bowl, and goes out to scoop up some semi clean snow. MistyTouch sighs almost relievedly and close her eyed again. She squeezes the hand holding hers and asks again. "Who else has me?" Skystorm smiles up at her chief. ** Tend to MistyTouch first. She needs your help now. I'll be fine. ** Lynx asks tightly, "Are you sure, Freeborn?" Freeborn nods. Moonshyne locksends ** Wh-who's hurt? ** Lynx's eyes have darkened against the pale backdrop of his face, but he stands carefully, drawing Freeborn up with him. Wordlessly, he helps her to Misty's side. Dawndancer squeezes Freeborn's arm once before letting her go. ** Take care, Freeborn? Be careful... ** Branch does not look to Moonshyne as he returns a send. MistyTouch's eyes snap open quickly and she glances about, though she cannot see too well. She rolls, struggling on her knees to crawl away. "Where? Where is he?" She heads aimlessly for what she thinks is the camp entrance. "Where... is he?" Freeborn doesn't waste energy on sending as she's helped to Mistytouch's side. Her face is drawn, her eyes looking almost black. Branch locksends ** MistyTouch. Her face. They're taking care of her... ** to Moonshyne. Reedsnap looks up from Misty for a moment, glancing over to Branch. "If you could--" He breaks off and dives after Misty, in alarm. "Easy! Lie down... wait!" Moonshyne ahs, and nods.... must be another Trader.... she whispers back to Branch, "Is she okay?" Sunsinger holds Dawndancer's hand in his, his other hand moving to touch her cheek softly. Darkmane says "Where is who?"" StormTossed hmmms, looking around. Stormfist coughs, softly ot first, but loudly soon after, as holding it back only made it worse. Reedsnap scrambles after MistyTouch. "Darkmane, help me keep her still!" Dawndancer turns from Freeborn to look up into Sunsinger's face, her head leaning towards his touch, her eyes meeting his... MistyTouch struggles still, needing to get to that entrance. "He... helped me..." She is blind with need almost. Though mostly blind with the blow to her head she took and the blood in one eye. MistyTouch steps out of the Trader camp. MistyTouch has left. Sunsinger meets Dawndancer's gaze. His eyes go wide, and he draws in a quick breath. He looks very, very surprised. Branch leans his head in a little, sending in return. ** It's hard to tell.. There's a lot of blood.. ** Freeborn leans on Lynx, closing her eyes. She can't chase after Mistytouch. Dawndancer's lips part as if she's about to say something, but she stops, utterly facinated and equally as surprised as Sunsinger. DarkTruth brings back in the snow, and stops to look over at Dawnie, checking.... Darkmane nods to reedsnap and scrambles after Misty. Moonshyne nods... Stormfist's face tightens as he coughs, gasping for breath afterwards. Branch watches still, transferring what he sees to Moonshyne. ** She seems okay. But she's left in the middle to look for someone... ** Skystorm closes her eyes for a moment, oblivious to what's going on in the camp about her. Sunsinger doesn't seem to be breathing, just staring into Dawndancer's eyes. Freeborn opens her eyes and turns to Skystorm. DarkTruth blinks as Misty runs past her, worry about Dawny later. DarkTruth runs after Misty. Moonshyne blinks reflectivly.... StormTossed hmms and sits down again, thinking her sister's gone nuts again. Reedsnap can't keep up with Misty. He watches DarkTruth head out, calling, "Get her! Stop her!" DarkTruth steps out of the Trader camp. DarkTruth has left. Freeborn drops to her knees beside Skystorm. Dawndancer blinkblinks in utter surprise. ** How... how can that be? ** StormTossed ducks inside Stormwalker's Tent. Moonshyne blinks, listening to the sound of running feet, and the conversation. Sunsinger shakes his head slowly. ** I... I don't know how it can be... but it IS. ** Skystorm opens her eyes a crack, and looks up at Free. She smiles. "Heyla." Silverfur lies down beside Stormfist curling up and falling asleep. Freeborn takes a deep breath, closing her eyes, touching Skystorm's head. Dawndancer looks about to speak again, but stops, unable to think of anything to say. Her hand raises to stroke Sunsinger's cheek, her eyes still locked on his and wide with wonder. Branch looks aside now, his eyes falling for a moment on Sunsinger and Dawndancer, looking at them in slight curiosity for a moment, then smiling as a thought occurs. Stormfist coughs again, this time holding his chest and gasping... Sunsinger places his hand over Dawn's on his cheek, nuzzling against her palm. Freeborn's magic flares again..not as steady as it was even a moment ago. Her eyes stay open now, but don't see anything as she concentrates. StormTossed steps outside of StormTossed's Tent Clearing. Lynx ducks his head, sending. Branch stands slowly, putting a hand on Moonshyne's shoulder for a moment, sending, ** I'll be right back ** He grabs one of the many waterskins lying around, and moves towards Freeborn and Skystorm, kneeling opposite Freeborn. Moonshyne nods as Branch rises. Reedsnap looks up from Skystorm, catching sight of Branch with relief. "Maybe you can look after her as she's healed," he says. "I'd like to go check on some of the others." Dawndancer smiles a dazed sort of smile up into Sunsinger's face. She slowly nods, her eyes locked to his. Branch looks up at Reedsnap's send and nods with a smile. Dawndancer nods at a Sending from Sunsinger, her cheeks flushing with much more than embarassment. Sunsinger rises to his feet, his hand still locked in Dawndancers. Then he pulls her gently to her feet. StormTossed steps out of the Trader camp. StormTossed has left. Reedsnap turns, getting up wearily. He moves to check on Dawndancer. "How is she?" he asks his Second. Stormfist coughs deeply, his face tensing up. Dawndancer is a little unsteady on her feet at first... her head still trying to figure out whether she's standing or lying down. She knows Reedsnap is near but she can't seem to look away from Sunsinger... Skystorm opens her eyes and looks up and around. She seems to be looking for someone in particular. Freeborn's fingers still rest on Skystorm.. Skystorm spots Lynx, and tries to get his attention by waggling a finger. Sunsinger manages to turn his gaze from Dawndancer, and looks at Reedsnap. He blinks. "She's... I... " His mout opens and closes, and he tries to speak coherently, but doesn't really manage." Lynx doesn't notice Skystorm's finger, all his attention on Freeborn. He begins to physically pull at her, his face going ashen. ** Stop now! ** he sends aloud, frightened. Skystorm tries feebly to push her away. **I'm fine. Freeborn..stop!** Reedsnap's brows draw together worriedly. "She's all right, isn't she? Isn't she?" Branch looks to Freeborn's face, suddenly frowning deeply, grabbing her shoulder. ** Freeborn? Healer? ** Skystorm umphs, and with effort, wiggles away from Free, breaking the touch. Reedsnap is still looking intently at Dawndancer and Sunsinger. Stormfist wheezes and coughs lightly, holding it back. Freeborn gasps and her hands go to her head. Darkmane eyes flick over to Skystorm concerned. Sunsinger nods to Reedsnap. Branch moves aside to let Skystorm move away, his eyes going to to for a moment, but returning quickly to Freeborn. Moonshyne looks over at the group where all the magic stuff is happening... "What's wrong?" her voice frightened. Skystorm sits up and looks over at Free, concerned. Lynx throws both slender arms around the healer and pulls her away from Skystorm, against his chest. ** Stop now. STOP. ** Dawndancer nods at Reedsnap's concern. ** I'm find, Reedsnap. I... really... More than fine... ** She doesn't try to speak out loud. She couldn't if she tried. Darkmane walks over towards Skystorm. Branch sends strongly at Freeborn, trying to distract her. Branch locksends ** Freeborn! Stop! ** to Freeborn. Lynx slips his chilled hands up to either side of Freeborn's face, touching his brow to hers, closing his eyes. Branch senses in a locksend, Freeborn's being roils, confused...magic flickering and dizziness making it impossible to see. Skystorm looks up at Darkmane. ** I think Freeborn went to deep when she tried to heal me. The healing was erratic, and had an odd 'scent'.. ** Stormfist closes his eyes, end falls to sleep. His breathing deep and slow. Darkmane blinks eyes shifting to the healer. Branch blinks at the response he gets from his send, shaking his head to clear it. Moonshyne locksends ** What is happening? ** Dawndancer hasn't even turned her head from Sunsinger's face in her effort to nod to Reedsnap. Reedsnap leans in closer to Sunsinger. "Are -you- all right?" he asks. Something seems to be getting through his thick head. Branch pauses, watching blankly, then tips his head slightly over his shoulder, sending. Lynx is very still, his forehead against Freeborn's, his breathing slowing, neither moving nor responding. Branch locksends ** Freeborn tired herself too much trying to heal. She can't stop. She's just... confusion ** to Moonshyne. Sunsinger looks at Dawndancer, then at Reedsnap, then back at Dawndancer. He laughs softly, a sound filled with joy, despite the recent terror of the earthshake and it's aftermath. ** Aye. Better than alright. ** Moonshyne blinks, and moves onto her hands and knees, and starts to crawl towards that tree where she left the waterskin. Reedsnap blinks. Something in his friend's eyes... reminds him of... He BLINKS. "Can it be?" he whispers. Sunsinger nods. "Aye, " he says softly, "It is. I don't know how, but it is." Dawndancer smiles at Sun's laughter. Her hand tightens in his. Branch watches still, but is suddenly distracted by Moonshyne's movements. Reluctantly, he turns, sending again. Branch locksends ** Do you need help? ** to Moonshyne. Moonshyne makes a detour around a passed out elf, and continues towards the tree. Reedsnap suddenly flings both arms around Sunsinger and Dawndancer and pulls them tightly to him. Sunsinger hugs Reedsnap back with one arm, his other arm going around Dawndancer. MistyTouch steps into the Trader camp. MistyTouch has arrived. Dawndancer blinkblinks in surprise but then smiles and hugs both to her. Maia steps out of Maia and DawnWing's tent. Maia walks tentatively. It has nothing to do with pain. She just doesn't know when the ground will dance again... DawnWing rushes into camp past Bearscar and his mother, not even really seeing them as he passes. ** Mother?! Is mother here?! ** His eyes looked paniced as he looks about at you all. Bearscar steps into the Trader camp. Bearscar has arrived. Moonshyne crawls to the tree, and manages to find the waterskin. Bearscar stands on the outskirts of the camp, once seeing that MistyTouch isn't going anywhere he starts to back away. MistyTouch stops and leans more heavily against Bearscar. The right side of her face and her right eye is bandaged tightly. DawnWing looks to Maia and rushes towards her. ** Have you seen her, lifemate? ** Reedsnap pulls back a bit from his friends, his face beaming, and notices the return of his wounded tribesmate. He squeezes Sunsinger's shoulder and hurries away. Freeborn's magic flares, then flickers out, then flares (for those with high magic feelings). Skystorm blinks as DawnWing tears through the camp and right past his mother. ** Woah, slow down, DawnWing. She's right here. ** MistyTouch topples as Bearscar moves away from her, falling to the ground like a ragdoll. Branch looks between Freeborn and Moonshyne a moment and pauses, then eventually moves to Moonshyne. Lynx's thin body arches like a bow, his eyes squeezed tight, his arms still around Freeborn. Sweat gleams on his face. Sunsinger turns to Dawndancer as Reedsnap moves away, not noticing the comotion in the camp. DawnWing whirls about as he hears the send and the body crumple behind him. His eyes go wider - if that's possible - and races to his mother's side. ** MOMMA!! ** Moonshyne lifts her head, scenting..... ah, there's the healer... and moves to crawl towads Free... is any of these running people tripping over her? Dawndancer's eyes once more meet Sunsinger's. The dazed expression on her face doesn't quite leave. Bearscar eyes try to gather and comprehend all the activety that buzes around camp, he shift self conciously so that his right side of his face is away from the rest of the camp. Maia snaps and starts. She holds onto DawnWing, but shakes her head. "No... no..." is all she says...she mouths it, voice too quiet to hear. But then he is gone so fast. It makes Maia wake from her little trance. She goes wide of eye again and rushes to MistyTouch. Branch catches Moonshyne's arm gently, stopping her. Sunsinger takes a step toward his tent, gently leading Dawndancer after him. Dawndancer doesn't hesitate in following Sunsinger... Sunsinger steps quietly into Sunsinger and Dawndancer's tent. Branch locksends ** Patience. Here... ** to Moonshyne. Darkmane looks over at the comotion at the edge of camp, at seeing Misty, he rushes over to her. Dawndancer steps quietly into Sunsinger and Dawndancer's tent. Moonshyne moves towards the healer, waterskin in hand... DawnWing begins to cry softly. "Mama..." He turn in time to see his father go into his tent with Dawndancer and frowns. "Father!!" MistyTouch opens her unbandaged eye to look up at her son. "DawnWing..." Reedsnap slips among the crowd, to DawnWing's side. He reaches out to touch the youth's shoulder. "Easy, lad. He can't help it. Come, let's look after your mother." Maia kneels and looks to DawnWing. Then to MistyTouch. And she says, "No," again and shakes her head. Her mind hurts too much to try to send, however much she wants to. DawnWing looks to Reedsnap. "Help what?" His mother speaks and he looks to her. He looks up to Bearscar and nods. "Bearscar... is that your name?" Bearscar turns slowly and walks out of the camp, ** Take care of her. ** Moonshyne stops, looking up. Bearscar nods his head, ** Yes. ** He continues his walk out of camp. Branch kneels with Moonshyne, sitting her up. ** I'll show you what's happening... ** Moonshyne sits up, her clothes all dirty... Darkmane blinks at Bearscar, but doesn't do anything. His eyes look down at Misty, full of concern. DawnWing sends openly ** Please... stay, Bearscar... You helped my mother. I owe you. SHE owes you. And she wants you to stay. ** Maia reaches out tentatively to touch MistyTouch's hair--but does not quite land the touch. "What can I do for you, mother? I don't have any magic..." MistyTouch reaches for Maia, her eye going closed again. Branch brushes Moonshyne off gently, then focuses on her. Reedsnap quickly gathers water and herbs and bandages, the kit he's been using for many wounded refugees, and kneels down by MistyTouch. "Someone... please. Show me what happened to her, and I'll do what I can." Freeborn's magic goes out, abruptly. Lynx sags against the healer. All color seems to have gone from his skin. Bearscar turns slowly, ** You do not owe me anything cubling, nor does your mother. I did what anybody would have done. ** Branch locksends to Moonshyne, Branch sends images, gently, because of your blindness. Lynx, locksending with Freeborn, their foreheads touching. The commotion going on around he pays only passing notice to. Moonshyne looks up at Branch..... Maia stands and goes to Bearscar. Now her touch does land on his arm. "Please...stay..." Her voice is warm, despite the shock on her face. Branch senses in a locksend, Moonshyne nods.. and pictures the waterskin, much cleaner then it really is, Maybe the water will help... Branch glances aside, then looks over as he sees Freeborn and Lynx relax. Freeborn's breathing deepens and she relaxes, eyes closing finally. MistyTouch's send flares, paniced at the words of her chieftain. The picture comes quickly and clearly to all near her. The hunt, trying to find a decent ravvit for the meat and the skin needed. Then suddenly the earth moves, shaking beneath her feet.. She glances about quickly, eyes wide and filled with confusion. Bearscar nods his head slightly, ** I will stay then.. ** Branch glances again to Moonshyne with a half-smile. DawnWing sighs, relievedly or elsewise as his mother's send begins and he sees Maia go to Bearscar. So much to deal with in one day. Lynx blinks fitfully, his eyes opening. Wide, pupils constricted to pinpoints. He awkardly shifts Freeborn in his arms. StormTossed steps into the Trader camp. StormTossed has arrived. Branch locksends to Moonshyne, Branch sends now the image of the two, now relaxed. ** I think she'll be okay. She needs so badly to rest.. ** DarkTruth steps into the Trader camp. DarkTruth has arrived. MeadowsGreen steps into the Trader camp. MeadowsGreen has arrived. Maia smiles then and looks to MistyTouch. She motions Bearscar to go to her, then moves in her own right. Back to her mother's side, and to her lifemate's. Bearscar becomes jittery with all the new arrivals, like a skiterish wolf he backs off slightly, sizing up the situation. Reedsnap looks up from where he kneels next to his wounded tribemate, noticing the newcomer. Moonshyne nods.... MeadowsGreen looks around, blushing slightly. Brambles whines and tugs on MeadowsGreen's hair again. Skystorm gets to her feet..no dizziness now...and goes to help out where she can. DarkTruth walks over with Meadows, looking with concern at Misty. MistyTouch sends openly, The picture intensifies as she hears something give way above her. A branch from a tree, falling. She leaps, diving out of the way, paniced and not looking where she moves to... MistyTouch's head makes contact with a large stone, careening off in a glancing blow as her body bounces slightly. The sharp edge of the rock causing the wounding of her face. Moonshyne winces as she gets *that* send.... DawnWing takes a deep breath and leans down to his mother, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. ** It will be alright mother. Everything will be fine. ** Maia looks up, seeing Bearscar back a little away. She watches...to make certain he does not leave. Then her eyes narrow. Sends make her head hurt. MeadowsGreen blushes again. Reedsnap nods grimly, one hand settling on Misty's and squeezing. He looks over to the newcomer and cubling. "Cousin... You're welcome among us. I'm Reedsnap, Chief of the Traders. Our camp is open to anyone seeking shelter and healing after the groundshake." StormTossed looks at Reedsnap, frowning slightly at something he said. MistyTouch sighs heavily and goes limp and unconscious against her son and chieftan. Branch looks to Lynx and Freeborn. ** Lynx, is she all right? ** DarkTruth looks at Bear, and also moves over towards him. MeadowsGreen nods and sets Brambles to the ground. StormTossed looks confused, muttering to herself, "But. . .but Dove is chieftess" Brambles plops on the ground and stays there, yawning. Maia reaches out, a hand to DawnWing, her other to MistyTouch. She keeps her gold eyes narrowed. It has little to do with her headache... and more to do with concern and sorrow. Lynx is shivering, his skin prickled into gooseflesh. He manages a nod to Branch, his voice haoarse and scraping. "She'll be all right. Went too deep. Too much. I've got to take her into her tent, make her rest." Bearscar backs off slightly as a couple of elves near him, his eyes darken slightly. MeadowsGreen sits down next to Brambles, pulling him onto her lap. Branch nods slightly to Lynx. ** Do you want help? You're weak as well... ** Reedsnap looks over to Skystorm. "My friend... can you look after the newcomers? There's broth, still. And furs." DawnWing looks to Reedsnap worriedly and then to the bandages on his mother's head, afraid to see what lies beneath. MeadowsGreen shakes her head. "We're fine.. We have a tent a little ways away...my name is MeadowsGreen..and this is my....cub, Brambles." Brambles sucks his thumb, oblivious to his surroundings. Bearscar sends openly ** Thank you.. Reedsnap.? I have no need of healing, I just brought her ** points to MistyTouch, ** so she can be healed.. ** Maia rubs at DawnWing's back very gently... almost can't feel it, it is so slight. She looks to Bearscar. Lynx tries to stand, and subsides a moment, drawing a deep breath. He nods shyly to Branch. "Please..." DawnWing looks to Maia, his eyes filled with worry and confusion. Reedsnap looks up to Bearscar. "I thank you. Please, at least sit and rest a moment. Warm yourself. You're welcome here." Branch touches Moonshyne's shoulder again, rising. ** I'll be right back, I promise. Stay put ** Bearscar eyes dart around, ** Thank you, I will stay a while. But I have a camp set up that I should be getting back to. ** Moonshyne nods as she listens. Maia looks to DawnWing and leans in, resting her head against his, her hand moving up to brush against his hair. Her other hand is still near to, but not quite touching her. Brambles curls up in a ball, and falls asleep. Branch moves to Lynx, kneeling beside Freeborn. ** I can get her. ** Reedsnap nods with understanding, and then bends over MistyTouch, examining the bloodsoaked bandages. Deft fingers touch the edges, preparing to unfasten it. Lynx releases Freeborn-- seemingly almost against his will, pulling stiffly away, rising to shaky legs. He looks over at his father for a long moment. Skystorm nods to Reedsnap and does as he asks. DawnWing turns back to look at Reedsnap's hands on the bandage and then turns away, pressing his face into her shoulder. Reedsnap catches Lynx's eye, and nods in return, gravely, before turning back to his task of tending to Misty. Lynx staggers into the smaller clearing. Branch shifts his arms gently under Freeborn, testing his arm, then stands slowly, supporting her. He holds her to him, watching Lynx. Maia sighs softly. Headstrong steps out of the smaller tent clearing. Branch follows Lynx slowly. Bearscar walks closer to Mistytouch, the scar on his face flickers in in the camp fire light. You step out of the Trader camp. Smaller Tent Clearing This smaller clearing is slightly separate from the main camp, and the tents are grouped on the fringes of the larger cluster. Here is where Trader tag-alongs can pitch their tents--those elves who wish to travel with the wandering tribe for a short time, but will likely not stay. Contents: Lynx FeetSteadys Tent Cloudshape's Tent Rebel's Tent Tiny Tent Copperain's Tent Caravan-type Little Tent Flint's furs Lynx tumbles into the tiny tent, falling onto hands and knees. Tiny Tent Homey, warm, with plenty of soft furs to lie on.. Contents: Lynx You step quietly into Tiny Tent. Lynx weakly fluffs up the furs for Branch to put Freeborn on. Branch ducks in and gently sets Freeborn down on the furs. Branch backs off, then looks to Lynx. ** You need to rest as well. Do you want some water? ** Lynx sits exhaustedly, head hanging low. He peers up and manages a nod. "Thank you," he says, his voice a husk. Branch nods, his face serious. Lynx swallows with difficulty. "I... could use some water, if it's no trouble." Freeborn doesn't move, apparently sleeping at last. Branch nods, ducking out for a moment, returning quickly with a waterskin, and passes it to Lynx. ** Drink, and rest... ** Lynx fumbles with the fastening, and drinks, splashing water onto his chin and chest. He closes it and hands it back, his eyes thankful. "Again, my thanks." He looks at Freeborn, and his face is troubled. "I'll stay here with her a while." Branch nods once more, standing slowly. ** If you need anything, call. Rest well, friend ** Freeborn stirs a little, turning ever so slightly. Lynx's smile flickers, genuinely. He nods. Branch ducks out with a last glance back.
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