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Hejira: Sanguine Wave

By Mantrid Brizon

Episode 47: Recovery

Approaching Goldenrod around mid-afternoon of the following day, Sarvah, Gareth and their elite warriors discover an impressive but heartbreaking sight. With two full army groups and nearly half of the Feather Finger citizens evacuated, a massive refugee camp sits before the walled town of their allies. Immediately recognizing their leader, the citizens are both elated and enraged. Why did this happen? How could they not have anticipated the moves of their enemies? Why aren’t Sarvah and Gareth psychic, and able to prevent all of their ills?

Claire glances upward, sitting before her tent and writing in a leather-bound book. Seeing their return, she drops the book, rises to her feet and shouts for Emma and Rinahra. Finding the co-leaders of the Feather Fingers, they race toward their missing leader and elite warriors. Kelly hears the commotion and kisses his wife and son goodbye, also racing out to greet them. Even Vahna can’t help herself; with Zeike in her arms, she follows her husband. Soon, the formerly absent couple are greeted by many of their friends and family.

Naomi latches onto Gareth and Sarvah, while Gareth is quick to bring Travahn in with them, sharing a familial group hug. With tears in their eyes, they greet each other as if they’d just been resurrected from the dead.

“It’s so good to see you!” Naomi exclaims.

“We’ve been worried sick.” Travahn adds.

“So have we. We saw what was left of Wildwood.” Gareth replies.

“Are you alright? You weren’t hurt, were you?” Sarvah checks Naomi, dotting on her like a mother hen.

“I’m fine!” She insists, her bushy tail wagging happily.

“We have some interesting news for you.” Kelly begins.

“Now’s not the best time, my love.” Vahna says to him.

“Oh, alright.”

“Who’s Goldenrod’s leader? Is it Victoria?” Sarvah asks the group.

“Yeah. She’s probably in town.” Rinahra answers.

“Take me to her. I’d like to speak with her about our situation.”

“Absolutely!” Emma chirps.

Leaving her lover and the warriors behind, Sarvah departs with Emma and Rinahra, eager to meet with the tanned human female who leads the tribe that hosts the recently dispossessed Feather Fingers. Sarvah raps her knuckles against the front door of a relatively quaint cabin, and the chieftain soon answers. As her compatriots had thought, they find Victoria at her home, quietly cooking a simple meal.

“Sarvah! You’re alive and you’ve returned!” She chirps, a delighted gleam in her eye.

“Indeed I am. Do you mind if I speak with you? ... In private?” She asks.

“Of course. Come in.”

Leaving a disappointed Emma and Rinahra outside, Sarvah joins the human woman inside of her home, closing the front door behind them. To her surprise, Victoria appears to live alone. As young and attractive as she is, she’s somewhat confused by this.

“Please, make yourself at home! What would you like to talk to me about? Or could I venture to guess?”

“Perhaps you could... It’s about our current living situation.”

“I thought it might be.” Victoria murmurs. “Rest assured, I’ll do whatever I can to take care of your tribe until you can reclaim your home and rebuild.”

“That’s very thoughtful, but I had something different in mind.” Sarvah replies.

“Oh?”

“I’d like to come to an agreement for my people... You see, I don’t wish to lead anymore and we’ve already lost so many. Personally, I would rather they assimilate and become Goldenrod, staying here and serving you.”

Victoria stares with wide eyes. She can’t believe what she’s hearing.

“I-I... Uh... Why?!”

“I just want to be a regular woman.” Sarvah replies as she sits down in a chair beside Victoria’s fireplace. “I love a man who I want to bond myself to. All I want is to live a quiet life as his wife, have his children and grow old with him.”

“I see...”

“If I can sell this deal to my people, would you accept it?”

“Of course. If you’re people do accept, it goes without saying that you’ll be well taken care of.” Victoria answers.

“Thank you. You’re a good woman.” Sarvah grows a faint smile.

“No; you’re far greater.” Victoria shakes her head.

“I doubt that.” Sarvah sighs, glancing down at her feet.

“You gave up your homes and half of your lives to help us, because we’re part of the alliance. We haven’t even traded once since your town was built and yet you did that for us... In your position, I might not have been able to do the same. Things like that are not soon forgotten. This is the least I can do. I’d also like to add that if you can’t convince your people to join Goldenrod, I’ll still help you and whoever takes over after you to rebuild. You’re not just allies anymore; you’re our friends, our family.” Victoria says, resting a hand on Sarvah’s shoulder.

Nodding her head, a touched Sarvah sniffles. Rising from the chair, she gives Victoria a warm embrace before leaving her home. Outside, Emma and Rinahra wait a distance away to give her privacy; Sarvah is thankful for that. As she contemplates whether or not she can convince her people to drop their previous title, as the Blue Feet did when they joined Sarvah’s tribe, she knows that there is always a secondary option. Rinahra, Emma, or perhaps both could easily lead in her stead.

So long as she can step down and live out her days with Gareth, she could care less; her people simply must be looked after, however, before she can do so. Following the women back to the refugee camp outside of town, they lead her to a portion of camp very close to the main gate. It was established by Victoria and her assistant, Matthew, to house the leaders of the Feather Fingers; should another attack come, they will not have to run far to enter the safety of the walled village.

Standing beside a tent set aside for herself and her lover, Gareth, she finds her mate standing with Kelly and an unknown Sahvorai man who has the appearance of a red fox. Seeing his lover from a distance, Gareth turns and waves her over to him, his long, gray furred tail swaying happily at the sight of the monochrome she-wolf.

“Hello, my love. How is our new home?” She asks as he wraps an arm around her.

“It’s just fine. It’s much nicer than the one we had for the past three weeks.

“We slept under the stars.” She giggles.

“I know.”

“Who’s this? I don’t recognize him.” She turns to the fox-like Sahvorai.

“This is Kofahn. He’s our new best friend.” Kelly says, draping an arm over the man.

Kofahn’s tail wags and he grows a large grin, hanging his head as if embarrassed.

“Did he save your life? Or have you discovered something about yourself?” Sarvah teases.

“Ha-ha... He was one of the Silver Teeth.” Kelly replies.

“... What?”

“We captured him when our warriors attacked his camp. Turns out Kofahn isn’t very fond of the Silver Teeth to begin with, so after a bit of persuading, he joined us. Well, him and one other guy but he wasn’t as helpful; I put him in Steve’s group to help with the chores.”

“It’s alright, sweetheart. It was in my instructions.” Gareth assures her.

“Well, alright.” She says apprehensively. “So, what’s this news?”

“... We have a spy living among us.”

“A spy?!” Sarvah gasps.

“Yeah. I suspected as much, but now it’s confirmed. According to Kofahn and the other guy, there’s someone who’s close to our inner circle who also has equally close ties to Adelram and his group. They aren’t certain who, and they don’t know what race the spy is, but they know that she’s a woman and might somehow be related to the Silver Teeth’s royal family.” Kelly explains.

Sarvah stops to think about who it could be.

“Apparently, they use raven’s the same way we use horses and carrier pigeons.” Kelly adds.

Turning to Gareth, the lovers share a silent gaze, speaking only with their eyes. They both recall the soaring raven that followed them as they traveled. It wasn’t until after she arrived that their plans began to unravel.

“You don’t think...” Gareth hesitates.

“But she’s so sweet.” Sarvah remarks.

“It could be a very cruel act.” He retorts.

“I think we need to consider the possibility that it might be Madina...” Kelly says with a worried look on his face. “I know that Steve really likes her, and they’ve been very close lately. In fact, she’s living in the same tent with him, and I know the sounds of a man and woman having sex...”

“Perhaps we should speak with her.” Sarvah sighs sorrowfully.

Gareth merely nods. Leaving Kelly behind to continue his business with Kofahn, the duo walk through the tent village toward Steve’s dwelling; Kelly had described how to find it before they left. Finding the red fabric tent that’s mounted to a large ‘A’ frame, they stand outside, hesitating to simply barge in.

“Steve? It’s Gare. We’d like to talk to you about something.”

Without giving the potential occupants time to respond, they simple reach into the tent, pull open the flap and step inside. To their surprise, Steve lay on his back with Madina nearly straddling his pelvis. Though fully clothed, they were clearly in the middle of passionately kissing; a minute longer and it might have been much more.

“What the hell? I was getting up!” Steve growls.

“I’m sorry, but this is important.” Sarvah insists.

“It damn well better be.” Steve snarls.

“We need to talk to Madina about a few things.” He adds.

“Such as?” Madina asks, straightening her top as she sits up.

“Such as who you really are...” Sarvah narrows her eyes suspiciously.

“What?!” Madina gasps.

“This isn’t funny.” Steve remarks.

“Neither is having a spy living in your town and reporting back to your enemy... With ravens.”

Steve suddenly recalls the raven that had followed them for several days. He stops to think and remembers how quickly the enemy changed their tactics; Madina was present at nearly every conversation, and what she didn’t witness she could have learned elsewhere. Was her sympathy for the cruel among Adelram’s soldiers her loyalty bleeding through? His heart breaks at the prospect that she’s been using him to carry out a mission. Steve’s sense of self-worth plummets as he begins to doubt that a woman hiding in a bush would find him attractive at all, given the circumstances of their meeting.

Madina turns to Steve, clearly hoping that he’ll defend her. Her eyes gloss with tears at the realization that he too is beginning to wonder. She sniffles. Steve is taken aback; if she’s putting on an act, then she could win awards for her convincing portrayal of a heartbroken woman. Unable to stay away, even if she is conning him, he scoots closer, slips and arm around her and gives her a tender kiss upon her cheek.

“Please, answer their questions and don’t lie. I’m here for you.” He coos.

“Okay...” She mutters.

“Who are you?” Sarvah asks.

“My name really is Madina... My twin sister is Padina, and she’s king Adelram’s wife...”

The group stares wide-eyed at the white haired, black bear woman. How can this be?

“What?!” Sarvah snarls with rage.

“How could you keep that a secret?” Gareth asks rather calmly.

“Please, allow me to explain! My knowledge about Adelram’s kingdom I learned first-hand, from living there with Adelram and Padina; I was there when they married. My sister, Padina, is a greedy and power-hungry woman who pressured Adelram into marriage with sex and a pregnancy. She loves him in the same way that a child loves their pet; she’s probably the driving force motivating him, though he truly does have a twisted vision of utopia. He believes that by dominating and regulating everything, he can force people into living humble, peaceful lives, without wealth or greed, and that they’ll eventually grow to enjoy it.”

“That sounds familiar...” Gareth comments.

“While Padina is ambitious and controlling, I was the kindhearted sister. I was the one who found Faye lying near death alongside a road. I felt so badly for the poor girl that Adelram brought her along. Padina was riding like a queen in her cart and yelling at a subordinate.” Madina continues.

“Why would he do all of that for you?” Sarvah raises a brow.

“I look just like my sister, and he found her very beautiful... Unfortunately, we both cared for Adelram, though I cared for his heart while she cared for his power. He married Padina because she became pregnant with his child, but he and I were having an affair for some time, before and after. Adelram even said he was considering leaving my sister to be with me, but before that could happen, Padina talked him into convincing Faye to join them; that psychopath immediately begged to be a soldier in his ‘army’, which he didn’t have at the time, and started a violent campaign to start his utopia.

I wanted Adelram to leave Padina and live a quiet life with me, but he became obsessed with his utopia; Faye’s power and the army she was building for him corrupted the Adelram that I knew and loved. Our affair ended and I stepped back, simply living beside them. For the next nine months, I saw first-hand how cruel his soldiers were to the tribes they’d conquered... The way Adelram dominated his own people... I knew then that he had every intention of building his horrible vision, so I decided that it was time to stop them.

I had heard of the first hall from a story told by an old man from a conquered tribe, and he shared with me a parchment and the location. I wanted to be sure that it was true, so I walked alone into the wilderness to find the Crystalline Hall, looking for markings that revealed if it was truly a second device. About three months later, we met.” Madina says, glancing to Steve.

Steve strokes his cheek with his claws, his mind reeling from her revelation. He turns his eyes to her, unsure of what to think. Sarvah and Gareth stare in awe as well. They had no idea that this is what they were going to learn.

“You were with Adelram?” Steve asks with a decidedly jealous tone.

“I’m sorry... I cared for him because of how polite and charming he is, but he’s a monster, even worse than that Harbinger of his. At least Faye doesn’t hide her sickness behind an ideology; she’s open about her bloodlust.”

“... Why choose me?” He asks with sad eyes.

“I’d been away from people for so long, traveling alone along the road. When I saw a handsome, orange Sahvorai I just couldn’t help myself. After taking the time to get to know you, I’ve realized that you’re everything I thought Adelram was; you’re the one I love now. I admit that I used to love him, but I don’t anymore, and haven’t for some time. Please believe me.” Madina pleads.

“I do, and I love you too.” Steve replies.

Taking her into his arms, he holds her tightly and they share a passionate kiss. Seeing her raw emotions as Madina breaks down with joyous tears, happy that her past hasn’t ruined her chances with Steve, both Gareth and Sarvah believe her.

“I’m so glad you’re not mad at me!” Madina happily exclaims.

“How could I be mad at you?! You’re such a loving person, with a warm heart and a gentle soul. I love you.”

“And I love you too.”

“Besides, have you seen how good you look?” He teases.

“Shut up, you sexy cat.” She giggles.

“We’re sorry for upsetting you.” Sarvah says softly.

“We’re just trying to figure out what’s going on.” Gareth adds.

“It’s alright. I understand.” Madina assures them.

“You’re so amazing. When this war is over, would you be my wife?” Steve suddenly blurts out.

“OF COURSE!” Madina squeals happily.

Hugging him even tighter, he loses balance and falls backward atop his bed.

“This still leaves some unanswered questions.” Sarvah turns to Gareth.

“Someone’s spying on us. If it’s not her, then who?” He asks.

Madina pauses for a moment. With her chin resting atop Steve’s shoulder, she appears to be deep in thought. Pulling away from him, she turns to the pair who stand before the tent flap.

“Who suggested using pigeons to send messages?” She asks.

“Emma.” Sarvah answers.

“She loves being in charge; I’ve seen that look in my sister’s eyes too.” Madina suggests.

“I doubt that she would endanger the very tribe that she wants to lead.” Sarvah shakes her head.

“Maybe Adelram made her a better offer?” Gareth retorts.

“Do you think that’s enough?”

“Adelram has a half-sister... I’ve never met her, but I know that she’s an older human and that she was part of another tribe.” Madina adds.

“Let’s have a chat with Emma...” Sarvah growls.

Quickly leaving the tent, the four of them wander throughout the camp, in search of the blonde woman. After finding Rinahra first, Sarvah asks her friend to help them find the human who co-rules when Sarvah is away. It isn’t long before they find her near a group of Feather Fingers who are organizing their cache of weapons, preparing them for any upcoming battles. Carefully and quietly pulling her aside, Sarvah waits until they have a modicum of privacy before promptly confronting Emma. Asking her point blank if she’s a spy, Emma is visibly offended.

“How dare you think I would settle for being that foul bastard’s bitch! Why would I ever betray a tribe I would so gladly lead?!”

“I’m sorry. This is a stressful time and you and Sarvah haven’t had the most amicable relationship.” Gareth quickly intervenes.

“You found a very good man, Sarvah. If I didn’t respect him so much, this encounter would be drastically different...”

“Alright... I’m sorry.” Sarvah says through clenched teeth. “Let’s start over.”

“Okay.”

“If you’re not the one, do you know who it might be?” Sarvah asks.

“No.”

“Who suggested using carrier pigeons?” Madina interjects.

Emma begins to speak but suddenly stops. With her mouth agape, she stares in horror, struck by a frightening epiphany.

“Take us to them...” Gareth sternly demands.

Sitting before her tent and writing on parchment that sits atop a page of her journal, Claire turns her eyes to the group of six as they approach her. At first pleased to see them, she begins to worry as she sees them growing closer, stern and upset looks on their faces. Sarvah, Emma, Gareth, Steve, Madina and Rinahra march toward her, with Sarvah and Emma looking the most enraged. Standing to her feet, Claire sets her journal aside, placing the inkwell above the parchment and her opened diary.

“What’s going on?” She asks.

“We need to talk.” Sarvah grumbles.

“What are you writing?” Emma asks.

“A message to the chieftain of Orange Veil.” Claire quickly replies.

“Somehow, I doubt that.” Emma growls.

“What are you saying?”

“Come with us!” Sarvah snarls.

Immediately running away, Claire kicks the book with her foot. Rinahra dives toward it, cupping her hand over the inkwell and saving the note beneath before it can spill and be blotted out.

“Get her!” Sarvah shouts.

The remaining five chase after her. Seeing their leaders trying to capture the fleeing woman, several citizens join in. Ducking around a tent and swerving between them, the group races by. Steve stops to catch his breath, so Madina joins him, standing a couple of meters before him and with her back toward him.

“Tired already? I was hoping you’d have more stamina.” She teases, glancing over her shoulder at him.

“I’m just tired. Just wait until I’m rested; I’m more than a match for you.” He winks.

“I certainly hope- LOOK OUT!”

Before he can turn around, Claire grabs him from behind and cups a hand over his mouth. Pulling his head back, she brings a hand to his throat. An aura user of some skill, six-inch-long, salmon pink aura blades crown her fingers like knives. Bringing them to his throat, he can feel the tickling as the magical blades brush his fur. Hearing Madina’s cry, Sarvah and the others promptly return, weapons in hand. Sarvah and Gareth aim their pistols at Claire, who hides behind Steve like a living shield.

“Let me go, and you can have him back alive and unharmed. If you don’t I swear I’ll cu-”

A cyan holy bolt pierces Claire’s skull, fired from Sarvah’s Kahr CT9 pistol. As she drops to the ground in a lifeless heap, Madina grabs Claire’s wrist, keeping the blades from slashing Steve’s throat; even a weak aura is powerful enough to cut flesh to the bone by sheer force of gravity. Clutching his throat and staring with wide eyes, he first looks to Claire’s corpse as she stares lifelessly at the sky. Turning to Madina, he can only blink.

“Are you okay?” She asks.

He throws his arms around her and kisses her over and over again, while the others step closer and inspect Claire’s corpse.

“Now we’ll never know what she was doing...” Emma sighs with frustration.

“I wouldn’t say that.” Rinahra chirps.

Turning to the sound of her voice, Rinanahra steps out from behind a tent. With one of the feline Sahvorai’s palms is covered in ink, her other hand carefully holds the undamaged book and a note sticking up like a bookmarker.

“You’re something else, Rin.” Sarvah chuckles.

“I know.” She grins.