Shauni

Animal Handler

As a sort of family tradition, Shauni's mother named her after a supposedly famous tundra warrior. She likes to meditate and enjoys hanging out with Simon while he's quietly studying. Nobody really knows why.

She also likes collecting venomous insects and animals. Nobody knows why Shauni does a lot of things.

* * *

Shauni was very upset when Simon had passed his exaltation examination and left to serve the Arcanist. She moped around in the library until Theo came and asked her what was wrong.

"I miss Simon."

"Why? He's with the Arcanist. That's super awesome!"

"But he's not here."

Theo flared out his nostrils. "That's selfish. If you really want to hang out with Simon, go and study like used to. But don't hold him back."

Shauni rolled over and sat up on her haunches. "Do you know how to meditate, Theo?"

He shook his head.

"Sit down with me. Focus on your breathing."

* * *

When Mother had gone missing, leaving behind her favorite green neckerchief, Shauni was certain she would return. But everyone was acting strange. Pryntsesa locked herself up in her room. Hodor became sullen and wouldn't look her in the eye.

Shauni tried to keep her cool, but it was difficult in the midst of the silence and uncertainty around her. Late at night, she went out for some cool night air. Sprite was buzzing by until he spotted her.

"What are you doing out so late?" he asked. "You should be inside."

"And why is that."

"It's... dangerous. That's all."

"You know what happened to my mother," she stated, staring into Sprite's shadowy eyes.

"I, uh..."

"It's okay. I'm not going to run off and find her. I thought about it, but I have my own nest to take care of now. I can't make such rash decisions no matter how much I want to."

Apparently, this was the right thing to say. Sprite let out a sigh of relief.

"All I can say is to stay away from the lightning flight, and especially Skariel's mother, Stryke. Mom and Dad have some sort of deal with them... I think it has to do with Dad's curse."

"Then what happened to my mother? Is she with them?"

Sprite's wings slowed their rapid beat. His claws sunk to the earth. "Your mother was a good friend of mine... I promise I'll protect you, Shauni... for her sake."

After Sprite left, Shauni felt a chill in the night air. She thought it best to get back indoors where it was warm and safe.