Sweeptail

They made their ways to the fields, it seemed peaceful, the sun shone blissfully overhead and nothing seemed to be amiss, so they settled down to start camp. “We’ll be here awhile,” said Saturn. “Might as well make the most of it.” Athena didn’t share his thoughts, but countiued helping while Elua practiced battle moves on the poor trees nearby.

Suddenly a loud screech was heard, and three large birds flew down. Beaks of steel glistened in the light, and they charged at Elua who had her back to them. Her screams went up into the air, and she suddenly fell down, dying.

“Athena! Get the one on the left, I’ll get the other two!” She nodded. They both took many hits but lived, and rushed over to Elua. She felt the small power the fight warm inside her. “I’m useless,” she said. “I can’t make it through the first turn.” “Don’t say that,” said Athena. “Saturn-do you have anything we can use to heal her?”

“I don’t,” he said regretfully. “The birds dropped some things-Athena, see if you can make something out of them.” Athena successfully crafted a healing potion and gave it to Elua, reviving her. “That was close,” she said. “Let’s keep a better eye out from now on.”

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This time they were the attackers, not the defenders. The risk from last time taught them the harsh reality: this isn’t some game, it’s your life. They defended each other, and kept together as they fought the next battle. Minimal damage, only a hit or two each!

Athena felt very proud. She’d been doing better than she thought she could, and was really enjoying it! It wasn’t like the other games she’d play as a hatchling... this was the real deal.

Saturn wasn’t as happy about this as Athena. He felt like the risks were to great, and that he regretted ever accepting this. The promise of glory had been an addictive lure, and he knew he wouldn’t make it already. His body was sore, he was trying to keep up the presence of being strong-but he had a Dessise, and that was greatly affecting his skills.

Elua was still healing-she was shocked by what happened and now felt she owed Athena a large debt, which she didn’t like. She didn’t like debts or favors-to messy. Too unnecessary.

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“OH MY GOD ITS SO CUTE!” Shouted Elua-and then coughed. Before them was a baby mouse, glowing. They’d just rescued it from a badger’s den accidents. “I mean-that’s nice. It’s mine now.” She picked him up and snuggled her cheek against him. “I love you-“

“Melon!” SAiD Athena. “Excuse me?” Elua sAiD. “His name is melon.” “And how do you know that?” “He looks like a melon, so he is a melon.” Saturn sighed. Females were impossible. He didn’t argue though-but he did warn her.

“Be careful Elua,” he said. “He might get in the way or something, you don’t want him dying, do you?” “No,” she admitted grudgingly. “I don’t. I promise I’ll be careful, I’m not letting /anything/ happen to him.” She Gave s pointed look at her companions.

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