11-19-2015, 03:01 PM
Her trip to the Deserts had left her with nought but a hide full of sand. So, she had ventured further away from the Jungle. There, in the shadows of the Meadow, she heard rumors of revenge. There, she felt the rising discontent of Beqanna. The peoples of the Gates were a frequent sight, rallying for support where they could. Aoi could admire that, although she could never be so humble as to ask for help from anyone other than a sister. Her mother had taught her kindness from a young age, but the Jungle had taught her strength in herself. The Jungle had taught her survival. The Jungle had fueled her desire for justice. So, when she had heard of the destruction of the Mother Tree, Aoi eagerly anticipated the reaction of the Gates. Aoi would never fight a battle for someone unwilling to fight for themselves, but she would aid in a quest for just revenge.
She eagerly returns to her Jungle home. She has been gone for weeks, but she is better for it. Her travels have pushed her stamina, and her muscles show more powerfully beneath her painted flesh. But, oh, how she has missed the warmth and humidity of the Jungle. Her skin drinks in the moisture like thirsty, desert ground as she slips quietly into the undergrowth.
Lagertha’s ululating call reaches her, and Aoi is quick to follow it. She joins her sisters, and listens to the words spoken, but she holds her tongue for a time. The talk of aligning with the Chamber for the good of their Kingdom causes her jaw to clench. She is disappointed to see some of her sisters shrink in fear of a few absent magicians. But, she must admit that the thought of their Jungle burning in the same way as the Mother Tree ignites something within her, but it is not fear.
Joscelin speaks much more eloquently than Aoi could have concerning the strength of the Dale and the cause of justice. Aoi nods in agreeance. Then, the Khaleesi speaks, and Aoi is rallied in spirit.
“Allying with the Chamber is a slippery slope.” She says. “I too doubt that they would stand with us in a time of need. They prey on the weak. Should we ever show fault, they would be the first at our throats.” There is a fleeting look of disgust on her face as she says this. “The Gates want justice. They cannot achieve this on their own. We have the strength to tip the scales in their favor. I stand with my Khaleesi in favor of the Gates.” She says resolutely.
A O I
