Chapter 9: Searching for Answers
After a quick breakfast of sour fruits, Korran and Yue Lixue set out toward the heart of the village. The Panther Tribe's village was a breathtaking marvel, woven high among the ancient trees. The homes and communal spaces were nestled within the vast hollow trunks, connected by swaying rope bridges that creaked and groaned with each step. The sunlight light filtered through the dense leaves above, casting an aray of green shifting patterns on the wooden platforms and bridges.
The air was fresh and crisp, yet Yue Lixue's mind was clouded with thoughts of uncertainty and longing. Each step on the unsteady rope bridges felt like a step further from the familiar, but she was driven by a need to understand this world and her place within it. The faint matemark on her shoulder was a constant reminder of her connection to Korran. Yet, the thought of Earth, a home she barely remembered, lingered in her heart.
"Korran," Lixue began, her voice tinged with curiosity and apprehension, "this bond between us, what does it truly mean? I feel different, but I don't understand how."
Korran paused, looking into her big blue eyes with earnest intent. "The matebond is like nothing else in this world, Lixue, its different for females than males as we can only have one mate, where females have many. It's not just an emotional or physical connection. Through our bond, you can access some of my skills—subtle manipulation of shadows, enhanced stealth, athleticism, and strength. These abilities come from me directly, my skills, my ability with those and my strength, connection to the Panther Tribe."
Yue Lixue's eyes widened in surprise, looking at the shadows of the canopy on the logs of the rope bridge. "You mean that I can use your abilities? But how?"
"It's subtle," Korran explained, guiding her carefully along the swaying bridge. "You might notice it in small ways at first—a shadow bending to your will, your movements becoming more fluid and silent in shadow. It's part of the sacred bond's magic."
They continued walking forward in silence, Korran hiding his humour as he kept glancing at Yue Lixue who was trying to manipulate shadows along the bridge and failing.
As they approached the leader's communal tree hollow, the scent of amber and juniper berries grew stronger and once they entered it enveloped them, a comforting aroma that mingled with the earthy fragrance of the forest. The space was a hub of activity and wisdom of elder members of the small tribe, where tribe members gathered for counsel and decision-making.
Yue Lixue remembered Korran telling her that there were only 5 other females in this whole tribe, the rest were male panthers. Maria, whom she'd met when Korren's father invited her for a meal, was one of them and she was Veylan's mate. All of the others she had met were male: Korran, Veylan, Zevaris the leader, Sable the Shamen and Elder. All others in this tree hollow ere males too, and there looked to be about 8 aside from Zevaris.
All male gazes landed on Lixue instantly. She felt it intensely and blushed, leaning into Korran for protection and shielding.
The sun climbed steadily over the Panther Village, casting shafts of light through the dense canopy of leaves above. The village, perched high among the colossal trees, was alive with the morning's activities. Villagers bustled about, their movements a harmonious dance that resonated with the rhythm of the forest. The scent of freshly tanned leather mingled with the earthy aroma of juniper berries, creating a heady perfume that spoke of both labour and life.
Yue Lixue followed Korran across the swaying rope bridges, her senses alive with the sights and sounds of the village. Each step felt like a journey into the heart of a world that was both mysterious and welcoming. The rope bridges creaked underfoot, a reminder of the precarious yet enduring nature of the life she was beginning to embrace.
As they approached the village square, a hub of communal activity, Lixue was struck by the sense of unity and purpose that filled the air. Villagers were busy organizing the spoils of a recent hunt—freshly tanned leather hides were laid out, ready to be crafted into garments and tools essential for the tribe's survival.
At the center of this bustling scene stood Zevaris and Veylan, pillars of wisdom and strength within the tribe. Zevaris, the village chief, was a figure of quiet authority. His eyes, deep and insightful, bore the wisdom of years spent guiding his people. Veylan, his eldest son, stood beside him, his sharp features and pale amber eyes reflecting both intelligence and a warrior's resolve.
Korran and Yue Lixue approached, their presence drawing the attention of the gathered villagers. Zevaris turned to them, a welcoming smile breaking across his face. "Korran, Lixue," he greeted them warmly. "To what do we owe the pleasure this morning?"
Korran took a deep breath, his hand finding Yue Lixue's for reassurance. "Father, Veylan, I have news. Savannah and I have formed a matebond."
A moment of silence stretched across the square, followed by a ripple of excitement and applause, this was big news for the village. Zevaris's face lit up with joy, his eyes shining with pride. "This is wonderful news!" he exclaimed, stepping forward to embrace Korran and then Savannah. "Welcome, Yue Lixue, not just to our tribe, but to our family."
Veylan, too, stepped forward, a broad grin spreading across his face. "A matebond is a sacred connection. You honor us with this union, Yue Lixue. Our family grows stronger with you in it."
Yue Lixue felt a warmth spread through her, touched by their genuine acceptance. "Thank you," she said, her voice earnest. "I am honoured to be a part of your family, Korranhas been taking care of me very well, ever since he found me."
Zevaris beamed, his joy palpable. "The matemark you bear is a symbol of strength and unity. It binds you to in ways that are both ancient and profound... not fully understood but studdied by a great many."
As Korran explained the circumstances of their bonding—the influence of the medicine and the night that had changed everything—Zevaris listened, his expression thoughtful. "The bond between mates transcends mere physical connection," he said, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "But a bond forged without clarity must be tested and reaffirmed with complete clarity. I suggest you solidify this union, again, without the influence of any elixir. A clear mind and heart will ensure its true strength."
Veylan nodded in agreement, a glint of strategic insight in his eyes. "Our father speaks wisely. A second mating, free from distractions, will deepen your connection," A cheeky grin spreading across his face he added, "...and perhaps it might even make father a grandfather before Maria and I do."
Lixue looked at them, her pale face growing very red, her heart a tangle of emotions. The prospect of solidifying this bond was both daunting and exhilarating but she was in this new world and barely understood it... did she want kids? She wasn't sure so she didn't have a response to that. Beneath her anxiety lay a deeper fear—of losing herself, her memories, and the world she once knew.
"I... I fear my memories are slipping away," Yue Lixue admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "There are things I cannot remember, things from a past I can't quite grasp."
Zevaris regarded her with empathy, his voice gentle. "Your journey is complex, Yue Lixue, especially as a snow leopard coming all the way from the snowy regions. However, our tribe believes in the interconnectedness of all life under the silver of the tripple moon godesses. Embrace the present, for it is where you will find strength. The Gorilla, Deer and Jaguar tribes are all delivering and trading goods with us over the next 5 silver moon cycles. I can mention your memory ailment to them and query any healers or shamens who may be able to help."
He paused, considering her plight. "I recommend seeking the counsel of Sable, our shaman, again if you feel comfortable after the elixer mixup incident. His wisdom is unparalleled in our tribe, and he may provide the guidance you seek on your path to understanding. If we hear anything from the other tribes, I will personally let you both know."
Yue Lixue nodded, grateful yet conflicted. She felt the weight of the secret she kept—the truth of her existence on Earth and the life she had left behind. Here, in the beastworld and amongst the Panther Tribe, she felt as though fate was forcing her to forge a new path.
As they left the village square, the air was thick with promise and potential. Yue Lixue and Korran walked side by side, their steps in sync with the heartbeat of the village. Despite the unknowns that lay ahead, they were united by a bond that was both new and ancient, a testament to the power of connection and the resilience of spirit. They headed for Sable's house.