UNNAMMED part 2 Festival

 

UNNAMED (first draft)

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FESTIVAL

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"I was beginning to wonder if you would make an appearance my son." His mother said as he entered the hall where she was checking the preparations for today's festivities.

"I would not miss such an important event mother!" He said  as he placed his forehead tenderly on hers. "What can I do to help you?"

"Nothing. Just go and get yourself ready. Hurry Cayleb. We will be leaving shortly. Your covering is in your quarters"


The festival was a lively raucous event. Food and drink flowed on every table. Laughter and music filled the air. His family sat at the center  of the festivities accessible to all, watching and participating in the events.


Cayleb was anxious. Soon would come the announcements for tomorrow. The list of those who qualified for this years' Time Trial. He had watched, with great interest each year, as the brave males and sometimes, females proudly stood on the platform as their name was called, dreaming of the day he would be old enough to participate.

Cayleb was finally old enough to participate. The Time Trials determined who would be allowed to make the dangerous trek to the dark side of the planet to harvest the precious Goa fruit. Every year they would lose a few of their citizens to the difficulty of the journey or unknowns. One cycle the casualties were uncommonly high. The ninth cycle his people were here. They were still into heavy exploration of the planet. Still unaware of all of the potential dangers and secrets the planet holds.  Survivors said they were hunted by some unknown entity. But no one knew what it looked like. No one could see the danger. His people speak of the incident as a legend shrouded in  falsehood. Bodies were never found, so it was debatable that those missing simply went off on their own to make their own way.

Wrathe and Phoenix, approached him stuffing pie made of Goa in their mouths and talking excitedly about the women they were meeting. They each took a turn greeting Cayleb's family before turning and giving him a warrior's grasp. Wrathe had participated last year in the Harvest and his brother Phoenix, was surely a pick for this year. They walked to the edge of the platform jostling some of the bystanders with their large girths. Wrathe's markings were prominent and impressive as he puffed out his chest and flexed his muscles for the ladies, which earned him a multitude of smiles and shy giggles. Wrathe was set to choose a mate upon his return from the journey. A custom, that he left no doubt in anyone's mind, he was ready to partake in.

"Cayleb, my brother how are you? Are you ready for the trials? Phoenix and I have trained hard this year to prepare." Wrathe said in his booming voice "Look at my markings, speed, agility, and this one" He pointed his beefy mitt at his right pectoral muscle, flexing it for emphasis. "Take a look at that beauty"

Cayleb's eyes widened as he saw the coveted mark of the warrior. The mark was not seen as often as it used to be on the home planet. It was believed it only appeared if you had a warrior's spirit and a danger or threat was imminent.

Wrathe whacked Cayleb on his back in a show of brotherly affection "I am sure your markings will appear soon. Thank the universe you get to go through the festival and Time Trials without them. No one quite prepares you for the pain as they appear. Phoenix yowled like a stuck boar." He said laughing, earning a punch from Phoenix and a hearty denial.

"Oh...was that the odd noise I heard earlier today?" Cayleb said smiling, joining in the fun and congratulating them both.

The ceremonial bell was struck and the sound carried over the festival like a finger being placed at ones lip, quieting everything in earshot. All eyes and ears were now focused on the small platform where his parents sat. His father rose to address the crowd reaching his hand out to his mother. Their eyes met and the spark between them was palpable.  The crowd erupted in applause and cheer as they shared a brief kiss before his father spoke. The colony was smitten with them as a couple and as leaders.

"Welcome to the naming ceremony for the Time Trials. We, along with the Tyto, and through your petition  have selected those we think that are most qualified to participate in the hazardous journey set before us each year. The Time Trials determine who will ultimately make the journey to harvest the precious Goa fruit. It has been a staple of our civilization on this new homeland and we appreciate the brave Harvesters who have made the arduous trek before you.

Those that are showing bountiful reproduction numbers, were at the top of the list.

There were over 250 volunteers so please know it was difficult choosing only the amount needed. We think we have chosen well. Please lend your energy and support as we help them get ready for this perilous journey. This cycle, we will be sending 10 support 2 mechanics and weapons and 3 analysts. So the harvesters can focus fully on their task at hand.

We have had a record number of births in this cycle and we hope to bring back more Goa than ever before. The analyst will look at the land closest to it for possible settling.  So there will be the opportunity to petition to start outer colonies soon. We will see if living that close to the dark side of the planet is a viable solution. A sustainable one that will not upset the balance of the planet. Yet more importantly, not be life threatening to the couples that wish to make a home there. We still have much to learn about this new planet and are only in our infancy here. Your sacrifices and bravery throughout have not gone unnoticed. So eat, drink and be well in kinship. "

"Eat, drink and be well in kinship" Cayleb's mother repeated before they took there seats again.

"Eat, drink and be well in kinship" the colony roared back

Musicians played. The festival was once again filled with festivity and laughter. The smell of food permeated the air and strong drink was shared.  Entertainers representing the diverse colony kept the festival goers entertained as they danced and performed for the massive crowd. A short while later, the music changed to a fanfare announcing the arrival of the Tyto.

The air  filled with the beating of massive wings as the Tyto Elders flew down  to the platform, assembled on the right side of the stage and started calling the names. Ever the efficient and no nonsense creatures that they were.

Wrathe and Phoenix were near the top of the list, as expected. 35 names were called this year. 5 more than last year. Cayleb fidgeted with his tail impatiently and looked expectantly at his mother as he waited for his name to be called. They were already on the 27th name and he had yet to be called. Did he not make the selection? He understood that he could not be just added to the list because of his birthright or whom his parents were,  but he was sure he would be called up this cycle on his merit alone. The 34th name was called and his heart sank. Would he truly have to wait another cycle? He lowered his head and his tail drooped at the realization that he may have to wait until he had gone through the change before he would even be considered. Not what he wanted, but he understood how much more powerful he would be afterward and with a sigh resigned to accept that as truth.

Finally, the Tyto reached the last name.  His name was called... last. He looked up slightly startled. Pride and relief swelled like a balloon inside his chest. Cayleb could not show pride outwardly as it would look disrespectful since he was the 1st born of the new colony and the ruling family. He gracefully and humbly took his place among the the seasoned and unseasoned Harvesters, his yellow eyes cast downward. He knew that this was only the beginning. He still had to make the final selection or this would mean nothing. The cheers of the colony erupted as he took his place. Waiting a beat he looked up and acknowledged the crowd with a smile and a wave. The older Raa-men chanted a warrior cry in honor of the chosen. The Tyto continued with a lengthy speech about  some of the changes to be expected. Cayleb heard very little as he reveled in the moment. He silently hoped that she was somewhere watching, proud of him.

He looked out across the sea of faces knowing his participation was for something larger than himself. His eyes finally rested upon his parents. The proud look in their eyes was worth all the waiting. Many races were represented and all had useful abilities. Only 5 would be disqualified. They were accepting more harvesters this cycle because of the extra births. He silently hoped that they would be able to harvest enough for everyone.

His father stood once again and the crowd lulled into a silence as he spoke

"This tradition is a great honor and a coming of age, rite of passage, for our young offspring. You have been chosen for more than your physical prowess. You have been chosen for your character, your reasoning, ability to lead, to follow, to analyze and your chances of survival under duress, were all critical factors, including addition to your species numbers." With obvious pride in his voice " I am honored that my own offspring will be a part of this sacred and honorable tradition"  The crowd erupted in applause and cheer.

After the Time Trial qualifying ceremony, the celebrating continued well into the hours of rest. His family and all of the families that had members participating in the Time Trials left early to make sure their representative got enough rest. Once home, Cayleb was so excited that he could not sleep.

"Can you believe it mother! I am going to get my chance to help the colony!" Cayleb exclaimed with excitement punctuating his voice.

"Of course you are my son, it is time. You are an excellent candidate and I am sure you will make us proud no matter what. You are of solid character and we love you. There is no doubt you will participate in this years harvest. I do plan on having a word with the Tyto however as to why they called your name last..." She broke off as Cayleb's father entered the room.

"Mother that will not be necessary. My name was called and that is truly what is important. We must not be puffed up about it." Cayleb responded "Although, I must speak truth when I say I was worried I would have to wait another cycle" he confessed

His mother smiled and inclined her head toward his father "It was all I could do to keep your father's nervous energy from flipping over the meal table"

"Rubbish" His father said smiling" I was merely enjoying the excitement of the day" He said taking her into his arms.

"Father" Cayleb acknowledged

"Come my son" and Rook embraced his son.

Rook's mind was full of the desires that a father has for their offspring. His love greater than for his own life. His pride magnified. Cayleb was his greatest achievement in his eyes. They had waited so long to be able to breed and he made every hope and fear disappear. Every cycle waiting, worth it. He knew that his son would be a profoundly wise and kind ruler in his stead when that long away day came. His kind was blessed with longevity. To some he would seem immortal. But he was humble and of sound judgement  and character. He was a warrior, a protector, a leader, a visionary. All of the things that were needed for a good ruler.

"Miyrah, my sweet, we should rest now" His father spoke gently to his mother. Turning back to his son as they exited to their quarters he wished Cayleb a good evening.

"Father!" Gayleb called out as something crossed his mind.

"Yes my son" Rook answered halting their steps. Both him and his mother regarded him patiently.

"Wrathe said the change was painful. Is that true?" Cayleb asked

Before answering, they both exchanged a knowing look. They both walked back toward Cayleb where his mother kissed his forehead and excused herself so they could talk.

Rook guided his son to the spacious, well appointed sitting area.  A few fine textiles from the home planet had been saved and were displayed prominently in this room usually only used when they had important guests. The fact that his father chose this room indicated the importance of the conversation they were about to have.

Cayleb waited for his father to sit before choosing a chair off to his right; as was the custom for the son to sit at the right hand of the father. His father looked serious as he began.

"The pain determines how strong and how powerful you are to be. Some have hardly any pain because their role is of a lesser cause. My pain for example was excruciating as was my brothers and sisters. I was delirious with it and would have taken death's invitation had it been offered at one point, but my family was there with me doing all they could to make me comfortable.  The Raa-men chanted and gave their energy to help me through. Who knew that one day I would be a ruler. Just remember,  the pain is only temporary. You are being wrought in fire so that you are ready for your destiny... what ever that may be.  Try to keep your mind settled as you have been taught.  It will help. Since you have your mother's genes as well, we will have the Tyto here and all of the colony doctors to make sure we do all we can to help you through your change. We are not sure how you will be affected with the added bloodline from your mother but she is a strong women. I cannot assume it will be of anything other than an added benefit. We will be here for you and you will have the love and support of the Raa-men in the colony. They will lend their energy and chant for you"

Cayleb smiled as his father rose "Thank you father." He once more embraced his father and hoped he could be half the warrior his father was.

"I sense your unrest my son. Go to your place of peace. You will need to be focused for tomorrow. I will let your mother know you are going out for a bit." Rook strode out of the main hall towards his quarters where his lovely mate would be waiting to receive him, leaving Cayleb alone in the sitting area.

Cayleb stood there for a time before conceding that he did indeed need to settle his rampant thoughts.

He quietly went outside and looked at the lavender hazed sky that indicated that the time of rest was upon him. He walked through the field and into the woods just beyond the family home. Cayleb climbed his favorite tree. His mother would bring him to this very tree as a youngling. She would sing to him and carry him up through the branches and they would lounge in the safety of the branches while his father went out with the discovery teams. As he grew, he continued to come alone. His parents knew where to find him if he was gone for any time too long.

The wide upper branches made a nice canopy for him to stretch along. Cayleb longed to go to the cave to hear her voice reassure him that he had nothing to worry about but he knew that she would not speak again to him this day. The training for the Time Trials would begin first thing tomorrow. A shiver of excitement took flight in his stomach as he looked across the valley from his perch in the Motter tree. The Valley would be where the first set of trials would begin.

He placed his palm on the trunk of the tree feeling the pulse within. The life flowing through it energized and refreshed him. But tonight he needed calm. He could not explain it, but it seemed liked the tree always knew exactly what he needed. He settled back against the wide trunk and closed his eyes harnessing the tree's offering.

A calming peace came over Cayleb as he rested in the Motter tree. The tiny evening Brevas singing gently into the wind, carried to his ears a wonderful lullaby. Before long he was deep in rest.

Far below the ground, running through the very roots of Cayleb's Motter tree was the black water. The UNNAMED flowed silently through the tree and from inside the tree, touched Cayleb, pouring calm and peace into him. She stayed there as he drifted off, finally letting peace settle within him and watched him sleep.

to be continued...

 © Venis Nytes