Remembering the Past

[blitzstreak]

As Shizuka laid there with nothing but grass around her, she realized that it was up to herself to survive in this world all alone. She knew that she would be lonely but couldn't help to think their her parents were somewhere else in this world. She got up and started to wander around the grassy meadow, noticing the little things that she had never noticed before; she noticed the tiny lady bug and the seven spots and the caterpillar which she picked up to keep as a thing to talk to.
Walking through the breeze with her hair flowing behind her and her top shirt waving in the wind. Her ears picked up the sudden rush of flowing water which turned out to be a small stream following through the meadow. It was too small to house any life but it was the only source of water Shizuka could find at that point in time. Stopping for a rest before finishing her quest to adventure through the rest of the forest, she spread out her beautiful black wings and brushed her bangs to the side of her face and fell into a deep slumber. Dreaming of her family and others like her she trembled in her sleep because she realized that her parents were gone and that in was time to actually go on a journey to look for the others like her. She woke up to the setting sun and decided she had to find a place to sleep because she couldn't bear to go back home with all her memories that would trigger the tears.

[Mint]

Tainted wings beating in perfect harmony with the air currents, Mint couldn't help but notice where her wanderings had brought her. The very place she had left in haste so long ago, fleeing from an unknown presence, was now below her once again. A feeling of unease momentarily poisoned her serenity as she looked about, expecting to catch sight of what she knew was no longer there. Despite this truth, the maiden remained cautious with her surroundings. Still scoping the earth beneath her the sight of lush grass, clean water, and towering mountains remained familiar, with one noticeable difference. There was a stranger present.

Mint's body tensed beneath her soft gowns as the memory of the strange presence from before washed over her again. Wings still beating, the instinct to flee pulsed through her being as her deep blue eyes remained on the unknown figure. Mint staggered like a broken winged sparrow before she struggled to regain composure once more. Calmed, she questioned her thoughts about what to do next.

This new stranger intrigued her as it had been quite some time since she had last been in the presence of another life form. It had become lonely for her. Still, she was unsure about the manner of this wanderer. She could not tell if they were friend or foe from where she remained amongst the sky. She would have to get closer.

Pinning her wings close to her sides, Mint descended through the twilight, intent on meeting the stranger before hesitation should arise. Falling swiftly, her hair and gowns pulsated from the wind burst given off by the sudden outstretch of her dusky feathers. Bringing her feet to the earth, she landed only a few feet from the stranger. She held her breath, waiting to be noticed.

[blitzstreak]

As Shizuka lay in the grass, she had the feeling of being stared at. When she looked, she found the outline of a shadow. She could not decide whether or not to approach the maker of the unknown shadow so she sat there pondering to herself. Shizuka thought that she could be a friend that had the same thing happened to her as Shizuka herself, that her parents were wisked away by a crystal or that this stranger could be an enemy that was after her, wanting to take her and lock her up in an unknown place far from this meadow. She inched closer to the stranger, quietly, swiftly, and still determining whether she should talk to her. Finally Shizuka had gathered enough courage to pick your heavy body up from the safety of the ground where she had been noticed. Staying on her knees, she had regreted going as far as she had gone but there was no turning back now, she had been noticed even more than before. She continued to pick her body up, regrets or not. Shizuka had finally reached her feet, standing only two feet from this stranger. She was shaking quite intensly now because she did not know this person yet it was the only one she had seen for a while now. She wanted someone to talk to her besides the catepillar she had picked up and that fuzzy little creature, whom she had named Kiki, did not talk back. Shizuka eventually blurted out the word 'hello' to this stranger even though her mother had taught her never to talk to strangers.

[Mint]

o.o.c. - I apologize for not being here. I've really been cramming for an upcoming exam. I'll post soon, and thank you for being patient with me. =)

[blitzstreak]

Its okay. I know the feeling. I have finals approaching I should begin studying for.

[weavedingold]

Kylie was air bound. Wrapped within the clouds and sky. The mist from the clouds spraying small beads of water over his hot face. He had been flying for almost three hours now. Just flying, and looking for a new place to explore. He did a flip and a spin, and then he noticed his thirst. He opened his mouth, wide. Hopefully wide enough to catch some of the water droplets in his mouth.

He was successflul in catching some, but it still wasn't enough to quench his thirst. In fact. it had just made him thirstier. He dove down, closer to the ground. He was looking for some form of water that he could fill his empty water sack in. Kylie was regretting not stopping earlier, when he spotted it. Glistening running water. It was shallow, but he could drink it.

Kylie' s flying hastened as his wings beat the wind faster. He was almost on the ground, when he noticed two women facing each other in the grass. He could see they both had wings, so their loyalties were apparently to Airos as he himself is. Still, not wanting to intrude, he flew around and hid in a tree, located across the stream from them. The sun was setting, and he needed a place to sleep anyway. This tree was perfect. Now all he had to do was sit tight and wait for the right moment to get his water.

Did they see me? I don't think they did, but on the remote chance they saw me, they might think I am spying on them. Maybe I should just innocently fill my water so they know I don't mean any harm.

Kylie debated this to himself in his mind, until finally deciding that it might be a better idea to fill his sack first. He untied the cloak hanging around him, that was tied to his kneck. He swung it over the branch, and then jumped down out of the tree. He brought out his wings to show that he was of no danger to them, and walked toward the stream. He kneeled onto one knee and pulled off the sack that was slung across his shoulder. He untied it and dipped it into the water.

I wonder if they see me. Don't look Kylie, you don't want to appear nosy. Just worry about yourself and mind your own business. he told himself.

ooc- hope I am not intruding, if u would prefer I take my character somewhere else, just let me no. thanks

[blitzstreak]

Still pondering whether Shizuka had made the correct choice by speaking to this stranger, she had heard some rustling by the stream. There, she saw another stranger with wings which seemed to be of no harm, but she was as unsure about this stranger as the other standing in standing in front of her.
Shizuka pondered if they were both enemies that had ganged up on her, if they knew each other, or they were both lonely and just wanted to be friends. Shizuka thought for a few seconds until she decided thats since she ook the chance with one person, why not do it again. She moved a few steps towards the streeam where the stranger was refilling a container. Gathering much more courage than before, she shouted towards the stranger,"Hello, who may you be, friend or foe, land what do you want here? Have no worries I won't hurt you, I am all alone in this world." Hoping that she had not said too much to someone she had never met before, she stood there between two people. All she wanted now was friends, people to talk to. So she stood there awaiting a reply from either and hoped they were positive. All she could do now is stare at her feet, because she didn't want to walk away with nothing more said between them
O.o.c. I dont mind at all, i am pretty new at this.

[Mint]

It was an unusual sight, watching a being with wings creeping so close to the ground. A sight Mint found to be slightly comical. As a modest grin graced her lips, she studied what was before her.

Taking her movements and appearances into account, the being looked to be female with an unusually slender, flexible body; not something Mint saw very often of those with wings. On closer inspection she found the girl to have more than just the characteristics that gave her flight. The girl had the features of a cat. With both her ears, tail, and wings, Mint couldn't help but think of the girl as a contradiction in both existence and nature. Taken aback by this unusual surprise, she failed to notice the young girl stand up and speak to her as she was lost in thought for several moments.

Appalled by her own rudeness, Mint tried to be swift in her response, but it seemed to be already too late. She watched as the cat girl moved away to something new that had now held her interest.

Turning slightly, Mint was surprised to see another winged form that she had failed to notice. Shock stealing her voice, she was relieved to hear the cat open the silence with this new stranger. Looking to the newcomer, she would play the role of an observer for the moment until the silences were broken.

o.o.c. Welcome! =3

[blitzstreak]

While looking at the new stranger from afar, Shizuka heard the female winged stanger behind her shuffle around. She stared downed the one by the stream. She was amused how the male's white wings with gold , which she had found beautiful, were so well matched with his honey-colored eyes. He wore no black. The girl behind her was also pretty with her eyes. Shizuka loved to look into people's eyes because she thought they could bring out that person's true personality.

Shizuka wasn't one for silence, but how could she break the silence? Should she shout something that could apply to both of them at once? Go up tyo them individually? Go up to one and not the other? Hope that one would speak before she could do anything?

she looked to the blonde-haired boy to the deep blue eyed girl. Could they be trusted? What would happen if she got involved with an enemy that went against her? If her parents would ever come back, which was near impossible so she just thought of them as dead, would they find out that she spoke to stranger without knowing their backgrounds?

Shizuka thought to herself, "Oh well, if I don't take some chances in life, then my life is not worth living. What should I shput to both of them? They both have wings, so they shouldn't be harmful to me. They are young so they might have the same situation as me. I need people to talk to and these two seem to be okay."

Shizuka finally could not bare this silence any longer. She thought she felt a storm approaching, so she quickly spoke up. "I don't know what your stories are, but I am all alone in this world. Do you want to be companions and travel around or should we all split up and go seperate ways? My name is Shizuka, who are both of you? I am taking a huge chance here, please don't just leave me hanging!"

[Mint]

O.O.C. ~ Did our new friend run off? =o

[weavedingold]

Kylie stood with his filled container, and looked directly at the cat-girl. She was standing there, and seemed to want to get the introducing over with, fast. Kylie didn't want to make her feel dumb, so he answered her questions.

"My name is Kylie Mirage, I am pledged to the goddess of the Wind, and have lived almost everywhere in the Wind territory. I am sorry to have interrupted you ladies, but I needed water and a place to stay for tonight." Kylie backed a few steps away from the stream, bowed his head, and then tied his water sack to his waist. Then he bent back over the stream, and dipped his hands into the cool refreshing water. He splashed it up into his face and then stood up. He flew up into the sky, flying low to the ground back and forth along the stream, and then landed back down.

I wonder what the other woman is like. She seems very quiet. UI myself am quiet, but not that quiet, unless I am upset of course. Kylie shed his outermost garment of clothing, and then, began to cross the stream. He was taught manners by his parents before they had died, and he had lived by them since.

He hoisted himself out of the water, and walked toward the two woman. He held out his hand to the one who had spoken to him first. "It's nice to meet you, Shizuka. he said, and then once again bowed his head quickly, and then released her hand.

[weavedingold]

I'm still here!

[blitzstreak]

Shizuka stood there, amazed at how much information the boy had given her. She couldn't believe that he had answered her before the girl considering that she had been there longer. Shizuka was also a little irritated at the fact that the winged-boy had touched her hand without permission, but she shook it off as nothing. Shizuka just figured that they were manners that a male should have so she smiled back at him. She and the boy were somewhat similar; they both had no parents, had wings, and lived in that area for a long time.

Shizuka thought to herself for a little while about the situation. The boy answered me and told me who he was, but who is this girl. Shizuka told the boy to stay there, that she'd be right back. She turned her attention to the girl. As Shizuka approached her she thought:Is she up to something? Who is she? Can she be trusted? Why is she so quiet? I think she may be shy, but I don't know. I'll go talk to her.

Shizuka approached this girl who had been staring at her and the boy. She said, "You know who I am and now you know who he is, but we don't know who you are. It would be fair to us if you told us who you are." Shizuka hoped she would answer her this time.

Shizuka appeared to be in the middle of this whole, attempting to tie them all together, taking the most action between the three. Maybe she was the friendly one who was desperate for someone to talk to besides the bugs which she wasn't to fond of. Shizuka gestured the boy to come up to her and the other. Night was upon them and Shizuka was getting bored with the area they were in. Aloud she said,"It has been hard for me lately, and I am tired of this place around us. Shall I travel alone or with one or both of you two. If you wish to travel with me (looking at the girl) I must know who you are." Turning to the boy,"You are welcome too. Either way I leave tomorrow."

[Mint]

Mint was surprised by how bold the cat had become. It had only been moments before that the same winged feline had been shaking with uncertainty, after all. She couldn't help but find her actions to be humorous and admirable all at the same time. Letting her gaze leave the cat, she looked to the one in white.

So, the boy was no enemy, or so it seemed. He both felt and appeared to be a truthful being, but Mint found his openness to be somewhat suspicious. Maybe it was the meager existence of conflict going on throughout the lands that made her unable to fully trust him now, but his honesty seemed authentic. Honesty was a trait Mint didn't encounter very often it seemed, so if this boy was truthfully sincere, his company would be very much enjoyed.

She would have to decide at a later time, for now, she would not let her guard down for either of them. It hurt her to remain suspicious, but it seemed the times had called for it. If they were to turn on her, she'd be ready. At this moment, it was her turn to speak.

Smiling blissfully to no one in particular, Mint readied her words.

"I apologize for my rudeness, winged cat maiden. My name is Mint, and I am also a being who's allegiance lies with the god Airos." Putting her right hand to her chest, she gave a modest bow before continuing. "It's a treat to meet the both of you."

Watching the boy for a moment with a pleasant expression, she looked to the cat and spoke once more. "If you are comfortable with my response, may I travel with you?"

[weavedingold]

Kylie found the winged cat, Shizuka to be quite admirable, and entertaining. She seemed, like, well, like a cat, always taking charge of the situation. Personally, Kylie would never have been able to introdue himself without the push from Shizuka. The other woman, Mint was her name, seemed interesting upon herself. Kylie was quite bewildered at the fact that Shizuka had already invited both Kylie and Mint on a journey with her, although the three had all just met.

Kylie scratched at the back of his neck as he considered his options. I haven't traveled with anyone since I was young. This is certainly an opportunity, but I don't really know either of them well, at all. I guess in this world now. it would be better in the long run, to gain more trust and friends, then it would be to push them away and have possible enemies. Kylie sighed, and picked his gaze up from the ground. He shifted his weight and then replied. "I as well would like to accompany you. How early do you plan to leave? "

Kylie gazed at the funny winged cat, and then the other woman. We will definitely be a different looking group, but what's this world if not different? Kylie smiled with this thought, and then turned his hannd to Mint. He held it out. "Pleased to meet you as well, as I said before, I'm Kylie. " And Kylie's golden locks blew in front of his melting honey-colored eyes.

[blitzstreak]

Now that the three of them at least knew each other's names, Shizuka wondered if they should rest up a bit before going on their way. She was kinda tired due to the fact that she did not sleep well on her nap because she was too worried about what was to come of her future now that her parents are gone. "Should we rest up a tad before we depart from this area?"Shizuka asked the two of them. " I myself am a bit tired, but I am perfectly fine if you two wish to travel."

Shizuka hoped that they knew where they wanted to travel, but if they didn't she guessed that the odd group could just follow where the wind blew. She just wanted to get away from this place with all of her old memories with her parents and perhaps make some good new ones with Kylie and Mint. Shizuka wondered if they would fly or walk, whether they'd stick together for a long while or become fed up with each other and depart, but she really thought that the three of them had a chance of actually becoming some good friends in this world.

Shizuka's stomach rumbled, she realized that she hasn't eaten a thing for a long while. "Ummm, could we by any chance go find something to eat? I don't know about you two, but I am quite hungry." She knew that she'd have to eat something from the wilderness which didn't exactly thrill her, but at this particular moment, she'd eat almost anything. Shizuka knew that from now on her life would be by chance and hard. At least now she had traveling companions. There was a bit of a chill in the air. Shizuka wasn't exactly what you could call happy at the current moment; she was kinda tired, hungry, and cold. Thinking to herself, Shizuka wondered what life would be like from here on, what could happen to her future plans she had such as maybe a job or family, but now wasn't the time get all caught in the moment, it was the present and that's what counted. "So what are we going to do from here?"

[Mint]

"Pleased to meet you as well, as I said before, I'm Kylie. "
A bit surprised by the winged boys actions, Mint accepted his gesture with a pleasant expression upon her face and a short response. "The feeling is mutual." Both of these strangers' kindness had made her feel so welcome to be in their company. Maybe traveling with them would do her some good. She had flew alone for so long, their presence would perhaps fill the empty chambers of her being, diminishing her feelings of seclusion.

"Should we rest up a tad before we depart from this area? I myself am a bit tired, but I am perfectly fine if you two wish to travel."
These words had broke her thoughts and made her consider the options. She herself was a bit tired, but her wings were strong and could carry her anywhere. Then again, what if they decided to walk? Her wings were certainly up for the challenge, but her body was frail. She wouldn't be able to walk very far without resting first.

"Ummm, could we by any chance go find something to eat? I don't know about you two, but I am quite hungry."
Find something to eat? With her Mint carried a small pouch containing a humble amount of fruit and bread. It wasn't much, but she didn't really require large amounts of food to survive. The saying "Eats Like a Bird" could very well be applied to her and her feeding habits. She'd be more than happy to share what she had, however.

"So what are we going to do from here?"
Although she was willing to go with whatever was decided, Mint liked how the cat consulted everyone. It was an admirable trait.

Looking to the both of them she spoke softly. "If I may, will this party be flying or walking?" Aside to the active cat, Mint offered what was hers with a serene smile. "I've some fruit and bread you're more than welcome to."

[weavedingold]

Rest? Food? Both sounded good to Kylie at the moment. As he had been flying for many hours, he would much like to have at least an hour's rest before they left. However, what was best for everyone now counted most. As the sun was setting, he thought to himself. Even if they aren't tired, it still might be best if we stayed put for the night. We can get up with the sun and take off to our destination. Where they were going, Kylie hadn't the slightest clue. He himself would not mind just roaming the lands for a few days. Exploring was always something Kylie had enjoyed. His stomach made a soft gurgling sort of noise. He clearly needed to eat first. His plan had been to fish in the stream using reeds, and the dried slugs he had in his herb pouch as bait. He offered up his ideas and thoughts. "I myself could use a bit of rest. I would not mind however, if one of you objected. I can continue to fly in this state. If we do plan to walk however I think it might be best if I rested for at least an hour or so. It sounds to me as if we are all a bit tired. That being said, and the fact that the sun is sinking fast, and our world is no longer at peace, it might be best to stay here the night, and rise with the sun to leave. Where food comes in, along with Mint's generous offer, we could catch a few fish in this here stream. I hope I do not seem bossy, I am merely offering my opnion. Please take it into some consideration. "

Kylie bowed his head, and then looked up at the two women. Both were young like himself, however he sensed different things from each. From Shizuka, he sensed confidence, and will, yet he also sensed that she was unsure of her decisions, and looked for self-reassurance. From Mint, he got the impression that she like he, had been on her own for quite awhile, and was well prepared for anything that might cvome her way. Kylie liked the two and their idea of freindship already. They were different, but somehow that made it better. He tried to picture himself down the road still being friends with them. The surprising thing was, he could. In his mind they were already friends.

[blitzstreak]

Shizuka concluded in her mind that both were seemed they wanted rest if they were walking, but were good if they chose to fly. Shizuka had not flew for a awhile so it sounded quite appealing, with the wind blowing her hair back. She wondered if it would draw attention to them , but she thought that was a chance the three would take. Shizuka wasn't one flying, well the liftoff anyways because once she was up there, everything seemed to fade away except for where she was focused on going."It seems to me that we are all strong flyers, so I propose that we fly. It is also quicker and we can see our surroundings better to keep our guard up. Ok?"Shizuka though thats he might be being a little too pushy and what you could call take charge. She would gladly listen to what the others had to say.

As for the food, fishing seemed good because that way they could all help each other get their instead instead of sharing all of Mint's food. She would feel bad if she ate Mint's food that she had carried with her. "I would prefer fishing, if that would be okay with you Mint? Maybe we could discuss where we should head over the fish and maybe find out a little more about each other."

"As for leaving tonight, I think we should fly until we can see no more that way we can have a glimpse of what is ahead of us. We could also depart in the morning so we can travel all tomorrow. There are both flaws and points toward both decisions. I for one shall not make this decision. One of you two shall decide this one."

Shizuka thought to herself, I wonder what life will be like from now on. I wonder how this group shall make out. will one of us betray the other two? In this world, one cannot be too sure of anything, but what I am sure of is that for now I shall not worry about things tonight. I am here right now being acquainted with two more people seem to be okay, they might even be friends.

[Mint]

It seemed the cat wanted very much to fly, but with good reason. Aside from the pleasure that came with flying, in her own thoughts, it was indeed much safer to stick to the skies. Although walking had many appealing qualities in itself, the whispers of war made the earth an uninviting and dangerous place to frequent. Atleast in the sky a chance encounter with a stranger would usually mean they were an ally of wind. Mint liked the idea of flying but would not so much as nod her head in agreement with the cat without the approval of Kylie. What if he didn't want to fly? Mint considered his thoughts and feelings to be just as important as her own when it came to a decision like this.

Although the skies seemed to be their best bet at remaining out of harm, Mint's curiosity also begged her to stick to the earth, despite the danger. It was a risk, and physically she was weak, but her desire for something new was evident in herself. She had done nothing but stay in the safe embrace of flight for longer than she wished to remember. She wouldn't mind a change of pace. Mint furrowed her brow slightly at the conflict she was experiencing before directing her attention to Kylie. A grin expressing her relief tugged at the ends of her lips. Shizuka had clearly stated she wanted to fly, but had left it open for discussion by using the word, "OK?". If Kylie wanted to walk, Mint would be happy with the final decision either way.

"I would prefer fishing, if that would be okay with you Mint? Maybe we could discuss where we should head over and fish and maybe find out a little more about each other."
Her offer declined, Mint nodded in agreement with the cat. This idea she liked very much. Although it was not evident in her actions and speech, she wanted to know more about her newfound companions, the peculiar cat and the golden angel.

"As for leaving tonight, I think we should fly until we can see no more that way we can have a glimpse of what is ahead of us. We could also depart in the morning so we can travel all tomorrow. There are both flaws and points toward both decisions. I for one shall not make this decision. One of you two shall decide this one."
Mint didn't understand. If they were to go fishing, wouldn't it be too late to take off this night? Or did she mean they would fly until they could see no more, and then go fishing before resting that night and leaving the next morning? Either way it would be dark soon because twilight had already been upon them. Confused by this final proposal, Mint hoped Kylie made better sense of this than herself. Looking away from the two, Mint placed her right hand on her left elbow. She would remain silent.

[blitzstreak]

O.O.C. I will be leaving for vacation on July 18th and won't be returning until late July 25th. I hope I won't be postponing anything for the time period.

[weavedingold]

Kylie looked at Mint wondering if she too was confused by Shizuka's response. It was clear that Shizuka had not traveled alone much before, especially now, but no matter, Kiley would teach her, and he thought that Mint might also. "Um, I am slightly confused, sorry. Shizuka, are we fishing tonight? Or are we traveling tonight? The sun is sinking fast and I do not think it is very safe in the night. And, where exactly are we going?" He turned to Mint too as he said this. Surely they didn't plan on doing both. Traveling at night was dangerous whether or not they were in the skies. "What I say next is not necessarily what we should do, however, it is my thoughts, so take them as you will. If we are not sure of our destination, and the sky is getting dark now, then why not just stay here tonight and rise with the sun tomorrow? That way, we could decide our destination, and get to know each other a little better, not to mention, not having to worry about finding a place to sleep in a few hours wherever we end up. Also that way, we could catch ourselves some fish and make a small fire while it's still light out. So, what do you guys think? Please tell me what you think, for this is all of our current destinations, and we have to make decisions together. " He looked at Shizuka, and then moved his eyes to Mint, as his eyes tried to reach hers. She seemed to be more of the quiet type, where as Shizuka spoke her mind. Kylie was in between them. He was usually more like Mint, quiet and contained, but every now and then, such as now, he offered up his thoughts for the taking.

He sighed, wanting so badly for one of the two to respond. Shizuka had confused him, but Mint had also confused him, by making no comment. He didn't want her to think he was bossy, but at the same time, he wanted them to know how he felt about their plans. He wasn't exactly a people person, considering the fact that he had excluded himself from people for so long, but he was trying. Surely they could see that. He looked back and forth from Mint to Shizuka and back to Mint.

[blitzstreak]

"It seems as if my words have come before I thought about what I said earlier," Shizuka said. "Let me clarify, how about we rest and eat here and start off on our expedition tomorrow when we rise with the sun?" "Where do you think we should head. I never really traveled. I stayed around here all my life" She didn't want to be the one taking control over the trio. She didn't know what the others had in mind. Mint seemed so quiet compared to the other. She didn't say much, just said what seemed necessary. Shizuka wondered about what her goal in life was. Where she wanted to go? Kylie, on the other hand, stated his opinions, but politely. He wanted to do what seemed the best for the three of them. What was on his agenda. She herself, wanted to escape all the memories around this land, leave, start a new life, have friends like Mint and Kylie, she wanted the war to end, maybe a family.

She looked down at her feet. The grass partially covered the. Her over-shirt swayed in the breeze, and she thought: Where exactly are we headed, what would happen when they got to where they wanted to go, would they break apart or stick together. Her world seemed to all end at once with that instant she chased the butterfly. She luckily had two acquaintances that were now with her. She changed her scenery by gazing into the sky. It was cloudy; hopefully those clouds would bring rain to take some of the humidity out of the air. She gazed into a patch of stars between the clouds. She continued to ponder many of her life's questions. She knew the war was among them, she knew she wanted it to end. What if the three were approached by an enemy. She would protect either of her comrades, even heal them if necessary, but would they do the same for her. On the outside, she wore a proud and confident face, but the inside had some more emotion toward the situations. She never let anyone take control, she loved leading, but she wanted to learn to trust these two, so she wanted them to lead. All she wanted was to follow.

Shizuka returned her gaze to the two patrons of wind. Her wings ruffled in the humid breeze. Her wings seemed restless, wanting to take flight into the sky. She glanced at the two, wanting to know what was going through their minds. Breezes blew under her wings. Shizuka lifted slightly off over the ground. She flew close to the ground and landed in the stream, laughing. "C'mon. Let's do some fishing. The water is so warm and the current is slow." For some unknown reason, she had had a burst of energy of a child. She sat in the water, knowing her clothing had gotten soaked. She continued to laugh at her action, waiting for the two to come over toward her.

[Mint]

It appeared their plans had been decided by the spontaneous actions of the playful cat. They would fish. Pleasure filled her manner as she watched the feline frolic in the water, releasing a small laugh that surprised even herself. Mint was taken aback by her momentary inability to control such emotions and blushed as she turned to face away from Shizuka and Kylie's sight. Maybe they hadn't heard her, but for reasons unknown to her, she remained full of glee.

It brought her cheer knowing they had a current plan. Fish, sleep, travel. It was a general plan that lacked detail, but it was a plan nonetheless. They would fill in the empty spaces at a later time, she figured. They would have to. Right now, however, she was still flustered by her small outburst and scrounged for an idea that would separate her from the other two for the moment. Thinking through the conversation that had just taken place, she remembered Kylie had suggested they make a fire; the perfect excuse for her to leave them as her embarrassment died down. With her back still facing the two, Mint tried to sound nonchalant about her queer behavior. She cleared her throat and called back to the cat and angel in a calm tone that fooled no one.

"Please, allow me to make and tend to the fire."

For a moment of shameless pure honesty she looked back at them with deep blue eyes and a humble statement.

"I lack proper fishing skills."

Looking away once more a minuscule breeze ruffled the flow of her dress as she made her way over to a sickly looking tree. Maybe some promising burning material could be found there. With this thought she remembered she wasn't very good at making fires either. She had done so before, but the result had been a poor excuse for a flame. Panic. Would she fail again? As she bent at the base of the tree and gathered remnants of what was once a branch she could feel herself twinge. An ache in her wings told her to fly so she would not have to face them, but another feeling made the earth grasp her feet as she stood upright once more. Longing. Although she wasn't fully aware of this feeling, she longed for their friendship, for their company.

As she stood up with materials in hand, she felt aggravation toward the many unfamiliar emotions that she had experienced that day. They scared her. They made her reactions to instinct dull. She had only just met the two travelers, but something about them had already had her caught. Whether this was good or bad she did not know as she acted against her better judgment and returned to a clearing near the two.

Lowering the materials to the dry earth she pulled her dress to the thigh of her slender legs as she chose to sit beside them. Looking the splintered material over as she arranged it, her new emotions would make her attempt a worthy fire.

[weavedingold]

Kylie watched as the playful cat chased a butterfly. shizuka had just confirmed that Kylie's plan was a go. She leaped into the stream and playfully splashed around. Mint laughed, and so did Kylie. Who had ever heard of a cat liking water? He turned to Mint as she turned away. Mint had announced that she would make and tend their fire, or the fire that would be. He smiled as she remarked on her fishing skills. "It's really not that hard." He replied, although he wasn't sure she had heard him. No matter, I will just help Shizuka catch us our dinner. He ran down to the water edge, and jumped in, splashing Shizuka with a small tidal wave. "Oops! sorry!" He said jokingly, and then playfully splashed her with his hands. Then he moved back up the bank after a few minutes splashing, and laid on his stomach. His hands dangled toward the creek, waiting for an unsuspecting fish to come near.

"So Shizuka, tell me something about yourself." He said starting friendly conversation. And then, slowly, a fish came swimming toward them. He got his hands ready, and then plunged them down into the refreshing water. As he did so, his weight shifted, as his chest rubbed the grass on the bank, and he toppled forward into the water. He summersaulted into the water, creating quite a large splash for a little creek. He sat up, and to his surprise, held inbetween his large hands, a medium sized trout. He sat there and laughed. He laughed so hard his stomach hurt, but he loved every second of it. For a long time he had not felt this good. at this very moment Kylie was truly happy. He looked up to see Mint on the ground with fire supplies, Near, but not too close to them. "Shizuka, Mint, I caught one! Mint, can you bring me one of those sticks, I need to spear this fish. "

Kylie was happy, genuinely happy. he had company, friends maybe even, people he could talk to. He smiled, a broad and toothy grin. I think this is going to be the time of my life with these people.

[blitzstreak]

He caught one already! Shizuka wasn’t even trying, only messing around in the refreshing water. She felt that the water cleansed her of all her bad memories. Maybe this meant that it was time to make new memories. She splashed herself; after all she wasn’t getting any wetter than she was now. Shizuka figured that since he had caught one, it was now her turn.

“Okay, if you can do it, so can I. Watch this.”

She lay down in the water, stomach on the rocks. Attempting to be still to not stir the water, she spotted a single fish. Jumping at it, she threw herself onto it, making a splash. The fish had gotten way, but not as far to get out of her reach. She chased the fish up the stream and back to where Kylie was sitting, eventually chasing it onto land and grabbing a hold of it. She threw herself onto the ground, laughing hysterically at herself. She was lying on the ground, soaking wet, and holding a squirming fish. She hadn’t had that much excitement in a long time. She missed these moments.

“See, I told you I could catch. So maybe I wasn’t as graceful as I would have hoped, but I did it! Okay, we need one more for Mint.”

Shizuka secured the one fish on land, so that it wouldn’t flop away and went back into the river where she repeated the process until she had caught another. She walked out of water source and put the fish next to the other. Her hair was drenched, dripping a trail of water wherever she traveled. Her clothing clung to her, allowing her figure to be seen more than before.

She sat down next to Kylie to answer his previous question.

“Something about myself. Let’s see. I have no family and no goal in life except that I want the war to end. I can be quite spontaneous and if anyone gets in my way, I’ll have to hurt him or her, but I love my friends dearly. I also want to find love. There I told you multiple things about me. Now I want to know about you.”

Shizuka crawled out of the water and flopped down onto the ground next to Kylie, staring into the star-filled sky. She wondered why so her life suddenly changed, for the better at least. Looking at the sky seemed to fill her soul with hope. Hope that would maybe lead her to love. Love. That was a magical word. It’s what she wanted most of life. She glanced at Mint and then to Kylie. She had found the friends she needed; now it was love that she wanted. Out of sheer randomness, Shizuka decided to ask a very odd question to her friends.

“Did you ever wonder why stars are so beautiful? They make me think of some far-off land where there is no war. Where there is love. What do you think of love? And peace. A land of peace would be wonderful.”

She sat up and looked into the distance. A place of what was once peace was now a war-filled land where you have to be on guard. Whatever. Where life was at the current moment was okay with her. At least she was talking to people instead of the unresponsive caterpillar. Life was good.

[Mint]

Mint's gaze had remained on her pile, pulled away by a request. She smiled happily at Kylie's achievement before picking out a stick for him. Her attention was grabbed by the laughter of the cat as she stood, patting remnants from her gown. Her eyes following the feline as she secured her fish, Mint carefully made her way over to the winged boy. The cat was swift to return to the water as Mint leaned to set the stick by Kylie's side, her sights wandering back toward the pile as she returned to an upright position. She frowned. Trying to delay her task, her eyes looked her new companions over in the near darkness. They were soaked. She found humor in their appearance, before making her way back to the pile. She had to make a fire now. If not for light, than for their warmth.

Mint returned to the earth's cool touch, situating herself into a comfortable position around her duty. She picked through the pile, searching for a good starter branch before deciding on two clever looking pieces; a broad flat piece and a thiner piece with a blunt end. If she remembered correctly, the people of a village she once frequented so long ago used the two together to make fire. Moving the pieces to a convenient spot, she mimicked what she had seen the villagers do to create their masterpiece.

"Something about myself..."

Mint listened as she continued her actions, the branches beneath her looking no better. Her goal in life was she wanted the war to end? Mint poked at this thought. A world with no war. Thinking through her past, she had never experienced such a thing. She couldn't imagine, but it could be nice. Being able to travel without fear or negative encounter. Of course such a thing would remain with various thiefs and murderers, but the numbers of hostile meetings would be lower with no war. It was a pleasant thought. She returned her attention to the mess in front of her. It had yet to show a promising glimmer or a puff of smoke. Her eyes narrowed, somewhat bummed as she continued.

"Did you ever wonder..."

Her hands were beginning to hurt as she rolled the stick between them with haste. The words of the cat floating through her mind. The world she spoke of sounded charming, but such a thought was only a dream. Did the cat really believe such a place existed? Mint had her doubts. But living in this world for so long as the way it was, who could blame her? She had never experienced a place of peace. Even in her home territory, every meeting was followed through with suspicion. If the war were to end, and this world became a place of love and peace, old habits die hard. She was sure she wasn't the only one who felt this way. There were probably many more who had had similar thoughts. She set her stick down, the pile looking no different. It didn't appear to be working this way.

Mint eased herself to a place were her back faced her companions, severing the view of what she was about to pull off. She had been behind them, but took cautious measures in case they looked back. Her eyes sparkled. It had been ages since she had last pulled something like this. Lifting her hands around her black orb, it glimmered with life. Her hands in front of her chest, the orb lifted from it rest against her gown and hovered with renewed energy between the center of her palms. She kept her hands close to the orb, almost enough to hide it from view. She wouldn't need much power for the task she held responsability for. Her eyes set on its target, the pile began to smoke as the molecules of dead wood heated with the wind friction. Air running smoothly through all the cracks of the pile, the oxygen soon ignited the first signs of flame into an even grander fire.

Listening to the crackling, her arms slid to her lap as her orb settled in it's resting place once more. She sat, warmed by the glow.

[weavedingold]

ooc- sorry I'm taking so long guys, but I'm really busy. I promise I'll post this weekend

[weavedingold]

Kylie watched as the playful cat caught one fish....and then another. He smiled. He could definitely get used to being this happy all the time. It wasn't often this happened. He wanted to enjoy it while it lasted. Mint brought him a stick, but as he turned to say thank you, she walked fast, back over to where she was working on the fire. He listened and smiled as Shizuka talked about her life. He could not stop smiling when she declared she would have to hurt someone if they got in her way. She sounded so sure of herself, so confident. Kylie agreed with Shizuka upon many things such as the war, and wanting love. Kylie wasn't sure if he really wanted love, but he definitely wanted friendship. In truth, although he would never even admit it to himself, he was afraid to love. He was afraid to have love, and then lose it, and he was afraid that he could not protect those whom he loved. He could protect himself, and for a long time, didn't even care that much about himself. But now he was making friends. Now he was starting over with people to talk to.

"Okay, so you want to know about me right? Well...My name is Kylie, and I am an angel. That's it. He let a couple of seconds silence pass. "No just kidding, there's more than that to me." Kylie laughed a fake laugh, hoping no one would notice just how fake it was. He looked up at the sky, and then without making eye contact, he said, "I, too, have no family. For a long time now. I've been on my own for most of my life, and am therefore pretty independent. The only friends I ever had are gone now so.... I don't talk to many people because there is usually no one around, and I can't tell you how good it feels to tell someone these things for the first time in my life. Thanks. " He gave Shizuka a serene smile that truly showed her that he meant thank you.

Shizuka talked on about the stars, and Kylie listened, taking in her every word. "To be honest with you, I think that the stars are so beautiful, because it's the one thing that no one hates, and therefore they have the chance to shine. When I was a kid, I would look up into the night sky, and wish on every one I saw until I fell asleep. It was my nightly ritual. It helped me to forget life and reality, and live in a small daydream." Kylie looked down at his fish in his hand. It needed to be cooked. "Let's get these fish cooking." Kylie rose to a standing position, and strode over toward Mint who was sitting back, on the ground near a warm, crackling fire, that seemed so inviting. He hadn't realized until that minute how very chilly the wind was. It nipped at the left side of his chin, and his wet clothes blew heavily in the wind. He took his speared fish, and knelt down beside Mint to place it atop the fire. Then he removed his wet shirt to reveal a sleeveless one beneath. It was getting cold, but he felt he would rather be dry than completely covered in wet material. His undershirt was slightly damp, so he moved closer to the fire hoping it would dry faster this way. Then he flung his shirt, and it landed on a tree branch several feet away. He rubbed his hands together, and then picked out two sticks. He handed one to each of the ladies. "To spear your fish with. If you don't want to do it, I can, I am very good at centering the fish on the stick. This is usually what I eat." He awaited the women's replies if there would be one.

[blitzstreak]

Shizuka gladly handed over her fish, after lifting her weighed down self up. The wind had a winter chill to it, unpleasant chill considering the clothing she wore was drenched as well as her hair. She stood up, ruffled her wings allowing all the water to slide off its silky feathers and approach the vibrant flames of the fire Mint had managed to get going.

She held her hands up to the fire, allowing the warmth to reenter them and cast a shadow onto her chest of them. Her stomach rumbled with a sense of hunger hinting how hungry she was. Her arms curled around her stomach, hoping that neither of the other two heard it. She would feel completely embarrassed if they did, allowing them to see her less polite, feminine side.

Her ears twitched when she realized that the cold wind meant that winter was approaching. The cold sucked. It made her ears ache and freeze. Hopefully this year would be better now that she ha friends. They would have to seek a different shelter every night if they traveled, but if they stayed in one confined place for too long, surely they would get sick of each other.

Mint sure was a quiet one. She never seemed to say more than 10 words at a time. Then there was Kylie, the very open boy who could tell his life story. Kylie was an angel? Wow, their group was truly different, a cat demon, an angel, and then Mint. Yea well, who cares? They all got along and worked together. That's all that counts.

The fish cooked over the flame, the smell filled Shizuka's nose as she knew her stomach would be happy soon. Sitting up, she rung out her hair, watching the puddle in made on the dirt ground. The tips of her clothing began to dry as the air grew cooler and the fire was even more inviting.

Her companions seemed to be at peace as well. For that moment, it seemed as though time froze, everything was perfect until something knocked her back into reality. A branch had snapped off the tree and landed on her head. Leaving out a loud 'ouch' and rubbing her head and ears, she groaned. It really hurt. Why was it always her that had the bad luck?

Night became darker and colder by the time the fish was finished. She was careful on where she grabbed the stick so she wouldn't burn her hand. Blowing the steam off form the warm fish meeting the air which seemed to be near 40 degrees, she bit into it. She was quite content. It was delicious considering hadn't eaten in over a day.

"I feel so much better. So much more awake and full of energy."

Shizuka stood up and stretched before a gust of wind made her retreat back the the heat of the brilliant orange flame. She stared into its blue center, pretending that the flames were little animals frolicking together.

She shivered from the wind, regretting her playtime in the water. If she would have known it was going to get this chilly, she would have been more careful about her actions. Releasing a sigh, she laid down close to the growing fire, silhouetting her figure onto the ground behind. She closed her eyes and imagined that the world was like this forever except when she opened them again, the world was the same. At the moment, this was as good as it could get,or so she thought.