fall for a shooting star [green tekivisk’s run]

[Avu]

“I told her she shouldn’t. I did,” Vix murmured quietly to Rook, brow furrowing between the eyebrows. His fingers tapped a restless pattern along his biceps, the greenhandler sitting cross-legged and stiff-backed on his bed, back to the wall but not touching, gaze riveted upon Tekivisk—the center of his world, a world rapidly spinning out of control. The greenhandler wet his lips nervously, teeth scraping against his bottom lip. He’d almost entirely taken apart the little—for lack of a better word, toy—that Kostya had given him, before he’d just completely lost focus on it and put it back into his trunk again. And so it had been for the last hour.

Vix’s foot twitched in an erratic rhythm, and then something bright suddenly overrode the sick feeling in the pit of his stomach, foot and fingertips stuttering in surprise. Rook huffed in surprise, nuzzling against his chin in surprising concern—the blue was usually much more abusive when he hadn’t gotten his sugar fix. Vix supposed that having Tekivisk so shiny made Rook behave, and he was almost starting to think that if maybe Tekivisk just stayed glowing and didn’t actually do anything, he could be okay with it. But judging by the stirring from the green, she was definitely about to do something.

And so she was.

The green uncurled, jaws opening in a yawn that flowed into a cat-like stretch, wings rustling before gleaming curious eyes turned to Vix, Tekivisk offering a confused chirp—just what was he doing up, silly VixLove, didn’t he know that dusk was for sleeping in?

“You’re up, hypocrite,” Vix replied dumbly, because sometimes his mouth got stuck in cranky sarcasm mode and it was hard to switch it off, especially when his brain stopped working. Because Tekivisk was stunning—her hide was usually immaculate, but now she was positively shining, and her eyes were…blue. Not purple, but a clear blue, as cheerful and pleasant and polite as Tekivisk always was, not…lust. And somehow he wasn’t surprised, because lust seemed to be so terribly out of character for the green. She’d flirted, maybe, but it was casual, friendly and happy, not really because of impending Runs.

But she had been sleeping, Tekivisk reminded him, padding up to his bed and nudging her head against the edge of the mattress, a soft chrrrrp sound emerging from her throat. But now she wasn’t, because she wanted to run. Didn’t he want to run too? The green’s tail flicked restlessly; she could feel the shivery energy beginning to twitch in her muscles, the warmth spiraling through her body, so warm, it’d be so much nicer, cooler, out where she could feel the wind on her wings, wouldn’t it…her eyes flicked to the door of the room, closed. Why…didn’t VixHers want to go out and run?

Vix gradually became aware that he was clenching his teeth together so tightly that the strain had started to lance down his jaw, and forcibly wrenched his mouth open, stammering, “Ah, I don’t—yeah, yeah. Okay. Crap. Okay.” He uncurled reluctantly from the bed, grateful for the short trip to the door, fumbled the doorknob twice before he managed to get it open and step back to let Tekivisk through. The green didn’t just go, though—instead, as Rook slipped quietly to occupy Vix’s pillow, she grabbed the hem of Vix’s shirt in her teeth and pulled, come with her, VixLove, she didn’t want to run alone. Please. It would be so nice outside, it would.

His feet carried him outside, Vix’s hand resting feather-light against Tekivisk’s muzzle, the handler blinking in an attempt to clear his vision from blurring over. It was so warm, why was it so hot…the coolness of the wind earned a shiver, Vix hesitating in the doorway of the wherhandlers’ apartments, one hand pressed against the doorframe. He blinked again, tongue flicking out over his lips, trying to gather scattered thoughts. Didn’t notice Tekivisk releasing his shirt to pace restlessly further into the night, whining softly, her mental touch tentative, didn’t anyone want to run with her…

[Ruby]

Pidesk was a little lost. He'd been up early this morning, years of watching Greens glow brighter and brighter giving him a good sense of timing. Tekivisk would be running any day now, the first of the new Whers that he loved so much. Why they held a special place in his heart (even the males) was something he couldn't recall, but he knew they did, so he was particularly excited about the little sister's first run. As usual, the bronze didn't expect to be fast enough to catch her - the only Green he'd managed to snag was Naustk, and she hadn't had a lot of choice - but he'd be there, every long, sandy bronze inch of him, to make sure the rest of the Whers had plenty of competition. Stretching one long wing out far enough to clobber his over the head, he huffed a little, pleased. They would have their work cut out for them.

But when Tekivisk's call had come, it wasn't the one he was used to. Nothing about it hinted at lust, or desire, or any arousal at all - she simply wanted to move, to stretch her legs in the early evening air. She could do that any time. But... well, if that was what she wanted, Pidesk would comply.

Piden had turned over, pulling a pillow over his head to shield it from rogue wher wings. He'd slept poorly; since the invasion, his three bonded mandyrs and one adopted one had taken to sleeping not just in his bed, but literally on his face. All of them would fight over the favored position for hours, then eventually settle out to pin Piden to the bed. Eventually he'd simply thrown each one at Pidesk, where they'd settled in comfortably enough. Approximately one hour ago. Then, as soon as he'd closed his eyes it seemed, the baby bronze who had been plaguing him all week had come in and broken a bunch of his cologne. Served him right for not locking his door. He'd have to talk to Darmori about replacing that stuff - it was expensive - but he was not ready to get up yet.

With a disgusted snort, Pidesk sunk his teeth into the pillow, ripping it in two and scattering feathers all over the room. Come on, Tekivisk would not wait. "You want her so bad? Get her yourself, bring her back here. Handler's sure to follow," the sleepy handler moaned to his Wher, pulling the blankets over his head this time. Pidesk cocked his head to the side, thinking. That could work, and it looked like the best he'd get, for now. Oh well, that would have to do.

Smelling vaguely of smoke and manly spices (although nowhere near as fragrant as Darmosk), Pidesk nosed the door open, allowing it to swing open into the room. If Piden wasn't going to get up and close it, Pidesk wasn't worried about who saw His sleeping. Padding up the corridor on nearly silent paws, he reached out for Tekivisk's mind, returning her touch warmly. He would come, he loved to run, and he was fast. Fast for a Bronze, anyway, he'd just have to see how he stacked up against her agile frame! Once he cleared the Apartments, he dropped a knee and bowed his head to the Green, standard procedure for the beginning of a Run. If this was, in fact, a Run. He still wasn't sure.

[Rei]

Darmori was outside for once and not in his room. He had needed space. Space from both his mindmates. Darmosk had been restless as of late. Very restless. So the teen had decided to go for a walk however, not liking to be alone, he had decided to ask Ximera to go with him. The girl had happily accepted. The teen had chalked Darmosk's sudden anxiety up to worry about the invaders but he also had a suspicion that that wasn’t the only reason his bronze was restless. Some of the other whers seemed to be to. It was odd. Maybe his bronze just worried about Harmony as much as Darmori himself was? Yes that had to be it. Or not..

Darmosk had been restlessly pacing in the darkened hallways almost all day. His sister had been glowing. He had noticed it days ago and at the time it had both excited and unnerved him. The large bronze had given the smaller green space. He hadn’t crowded her or acted possessive. To do so would have been very, very, rude and Darmosk was not a rude wher not at all. Upon awaking today he had noticed just how lovely and beautiful the glowing Tekivisk had been. He had also noticed the difference in her scent and had even lightly brushed his muzzle against her sleeping form before catching himself and fleeing in embarrassment. He couldn’t chase her as is. He had to be worthy of her presence.

In fact in the desire to be worthy he had been watching the humans all week. Noting what they did to impress the opposite sex. Darmosk had watched what had failed and what had worked and now he had a plan. A glorious plan! Tonight was definitely the night and the bronze hadn’t much time so he lurked through the hallways of the apartments. Rummaging through the rooms that where unlocked with the desire to make himself presentable. First he had found one of Nautic’s scarves and did his best to fix it about his neck. It hadn’t worked out so well at first. However with some rubbing and ingenuity, as well as some indulgent help from a very weirded out wasteland guard, Darmosk had gotten it about his neck. Next came one of the most important steps. He had to smell nice. It was Piden’s apartment that provided that. The bottles of smelly stuff the bronze handler had where easily in view and he only needed one.

The bronze’s overlong tail however he hadn’t quite gotten complete mastery of and he managed to knock quite a few of the bottles onto the floor where they shattered upon impact with the stone. Whoops. He would apologize later. Surely Piden would understand. Rolling in the mixed colognes the wher got up and shook from head to toe. There he was ready. Peeking his head out from around the doorway Darmosk caught sight of the lovely Tekivisk and ducked back out of sight. He needed a present! How could he forget that! Peering around the corner again he watched the green till she was out of sight and then raced back to his room. Rearing up on hind legs the male nosed over the vase full of flowers Darmori kept on his dresser. Rummaging through them to find the ones that where the prettiest (and least wilted) he picked them up carefully in his mouth and gave a soft croon of goodbye to the unmoving pale gold who lay sprawled out on Darmori’s pillow. He would be back.

Prancing down the hallway towards the exit to the handler apartments he caught Tekivisk’s tentative touch just as he exited the apartments with a soft rumble for Vix. Striking what he hoped was a confident pose he crooned to his glowing sister. Such light she shown with. The moons themselves paled in comparison. With soft steps her approached and stopped just a length away laying the flowers at the green’s feet before just barely raising his head to be level with hers. His eyes, whirling in bright blues and soft purples, fixed themselves on her form. So beautiful she was. He flashed her a toothy smile as he had seen some humans do. He would be beyond honored to run with her this night. If she would so permit.

Somewhere on the path to the apartments Darmori stopped in his tracks, Ximera bumping into him due to the abruptness of the lack of movement. An all to frightening and familiar sensation was suddenly coursing through his veins. “Oh shit….Uh Xi? I think someone is running.” Eloquence thy name doth be Darmori.

[Requiem]

They were out on an ooouting. Now, mind you, Ximera was keeping an eye on the hair snatcher, just in cause he was trying to be tricksy. (She liked him, though, even if he did have a rather weird hobby.) The girl bounded along at his side, occasionally darting off the trail to pluck particularly pretty flowers. She even had a small spade with her. Ximera was very careful not to damage the roots as she gathered her flowers, fully intending to plant them around the door that opened up onto the top of the cliff. A flower garden around their back door would just be perfect, wouldn't it?

The young wherling knew, of course, that there were sometimes-not-so-nice men running the Weyr now, and she was sad that a few had died. She was. Truly, though, it was hard to be that upset when all her friends and family were fine! No one had so much as gotten a scratch. Her brother was a little bit withdrawn, presently - no, she was not completely oblivious - but he was definitely okay and that was what was important. Nor was he upset. Ximera was just glad not too many people had died. She wanted to see Orena again sometime though, hm. Must make a note of that.

The other part of the wherhandler pair was just as happy as His. Even if the drudges decidedly weren't. Xelena recognized her daughter's wher, and had even sent one of the younger kitchen workers to go fetch her, but it didn't help with their current problem. The male was neck deep in a huge metal cask of milk, and no amount of pushing seemed to be able to dislodge him. In fact, all it did was tip the cask around, spilling some of the milk onto the floor. His tail slid back and forth happily. Milk, milk, milk, what a lovely substance. (His sleeping had been fitful lately, so yay for his dam's wild ichor! Although maybe it wasn't so good for the kitchen staff.)

Once he could lap no more from the cask in its upright position, he naturally tugged it down, crouching in the spreading milk and lapping it as quickly as he could. Trying to run away from him! That was when the brooms started hitting him, the male whining softly and backing up. The drudges shooed him fully out of the kitchens and slammed the door closed. Ximesk dropped to his haunches and let out a sad howl. Not nice.

Ximera was too busy listening to her wher's howl and rearranging the shoots in the basket to notice that Darmori had stopped, and ran fully into his back. "What is he doing out? I left him-" Her eyes flicked to Darmori, squinting in confusion. "Running? People are always running, Darmori," she stated, still giving him a confuddled look. The slightly older teen looked almost sick though. Ximera touched him lightly on the arm. "Are you okay?"

Now, Ximesk's howl had faded at his sister's invitation, his head cocking slightly to one side. Tekivisk, Tekivi, Vivi, pretty green was lonely? Well, he'd rather be drinking milk, really, but since the meanies wouldn't let him he wouldn't mind running with her. Ximesk brushed her mind lightly to say that he'd run with her, just so long as she didn't go too fast. (If she did he might be sick with all the milk sloshing around, and that was no fun at all.)

[rii]

Absolutely stunning tonight.

The wher equivalent to a purr sound as Konstask made made small whuffs in Kostya's direction. She sat in the open doorway to their shared room, absently rubbing the side of her jaw against the wood and stone. Her tail swept slowly as she watched the others further up the hall. The green's love for beauty was enough today that Kostya finally glanced over from where he stood buttoning up his shirt. What is it this time?[/b]

Tekivisk.

"Oh," Kostya dismissed it – the other green had been glowing for days and Konstask had been obsessing over it the whole time. Nothing new there–er, wait. "She's running?" The wordless, loving, affirmation from Konstask all but hummed as it came across the bond. A good sign. The corner of Kostya's lips quirked. "A shame none of them deserve her, isn't it." Indeed. They were all so ugly in comparison. "I always felt that beautiful things belong together." They do. "Just like you and I." He was the best looking there - after the woman - and hers.

Konstask was already in the hall, half-way to the door and staring after the others. She paced in the narrow passage, tail curling around her in impatience to – well, she didn't know why she was stalling. "To give them a headstart, lovely." Kostya chimed where he remained inside of his room, checking his reflection. "You're better than the rest of them - wouldn't it be a shame if Ki got stuck with one of the uglies?"

Yes.

Nimbly springing forward, the jade and emerald green raced out the door only after the other whers had given chase to her sister. Her sister. Konstask trotted around them, light and graceful in her step as she swept ahead – shamelessly touching at Tekivisk's mind. Remember sister? One of them would be the night sky, the other the moon and stars. They were night, they belonged together, they did.

Kostya hummed to himself, waiting to see just how far this would take. He had been interested with the idea of bending the social standards ever since Konstask had crawled up to him. A small, but no less feisty, green hatchling. It was a simple curiosity, then, since his wher only seemed to chose things according to physical beauty. Maybe, if he appealed her enough to Tekivisk, she might, well, chase. An experiment, if anything.

Still back in his room, Kostya smirked.

[Avu]

Smelled…strange. Tekivisk’s head swung around to peer inquisitively at the first to approach her. Pidesk—a bronze she didn’t know well at all. But nice, she was sure, and she was ever so glad he’d decided it was okay to run with her. His bow was met with a hesitant chirp, the green edging forward until she could bump his shoulder lightly with her muzzle—to thank him, for coming. But he needn’t bow to her, not now and not ever; she was only a green and things like bowing…that should be reserved for queens, shouldn’t it. But—another bronze, this one considerably more familiar to her. A quiet whuff of laughter at Darmosk’s appearance, Tekivisk much less shy about approaching him.

The flowers she nosed at contentedly, before she twisted up her neck to snag the end of the scarf between her teeth, tugging playfully before she tossed her head to send the scarf slithering down Darmosk’s back. Such formality, brotherlove. She’d take care of the flowers, she promised (and Tekivisk recognized them too; they did share a room, after all—how cute), and nudged them out of the way so they wouldn’t be trampled. But she couldn’t run with flowers, that would be silly.

A touch of the mind—Tekivisk turned her head quizzically to look for Ximesk. Couldn’t find him. Well…that was okay. She reached out to brush against his mind again, she’d wait for him if she could find him, promise—come back home, yes? Then they could all run together; everyone was being so lovely and kind…the mental touch trailed off, Tekivisk’s tail swishing. Hoped he wouldn’t take terribly long—she was itching to run until dawn, and the sooner she started the better. But wait for Ximesk she would. It would be so terribly rude to leave without him when she’d asked for someone to run with her…

A gleam of green, and Tekivisk, far from being upset at the intrusion of another female into her Run, made a delighted sound in her throat, eyes brightening into glittering blue. Light and shadows, she crooned, and, reaching Konstask, rubbed her head against her sister’s shoulder, wing opening to brush down Konstask’s side. Of course she remembered—wouldn’t ever forget. Darker than the night, brighter than the moon and stars, lovely. If it was strange for her to accept Konstask so easily, Tekivisk didn’t care; she’d always loved her sister’s company.

She turned, addressing Pidesk and Darmosk now too. Just wait for Ximesk, and then they could go…but maybe they could just get away from the Apartments a little, so they could feel the wind. It was so terribly warm out and she wanted to run…come, just a little towards the jungle. Tekivisk’s wings quivered against her back, almost restlessly, as she paraded lightly out away from the Apartments, brushing close to Konstask as she went, night and stars must stay together.

He wavered. The world was dipping and spinning dizzily under him, rushes of delight surging in his throat. Couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt so happy, just happy because he could be, because he liked someone that much. His eyes were wide, unseeing, one hand still grasping numbly at the doorframe for balance. So glad, but wanted to run, he just wanted to keep running and running forever until the sun came up, and maybe even then, maybe he could just keep going. Stop, whispered quiet and uncertain in the back of his mind—you have to come back, I need you here, but she didn’t seem to feel it, feel him, only felt the warmth and restlessness.

[Rei]

Darmosk kept completely still as Tekivisk approached, a quiet caressing rumble starting in his chest. Tongue lolling out, he watched as his sister grabbed the scarf and proceeded to tug. With a happy wuff his tail wagged, thumping loudly against the dry ground. Front feet pranced against the ground and he have a soft bark. Formality yes. But she was beautiful this night there was no denying that. Her acceptance of the flowers had the bronze tossing his head back and dancing in a quick excited circle. Stilling again as she drew away Darmosk watched her greet the others. There was no possessiveness in his stance or manner merely happy acceptance that so many saw the beauty that was his sister.

Tekivisk’s invitation had the male tossing back his head in a joyful howl before he leapt forward, small wings spread to their fullest. He raced past the small grouping of whers to skid and double back. Once Darmosk circled the greens in a trot before breaking away in a leap and tossing his head back, cavorting like a wild runner. Suddenly the bronze pulled up beside Pidesk and pawed playfully at his sire before dancing back to prance behind his two green sisters. Blissful he was and it showed in the color of his mostly blue eyes. This was so lovely was it not? All of them running together. A loud bark was given tot the wind. Ximesk should hurry he should. He needed to run and play as well. Oh the fun they would have!

Darmori swallowed and rubbed one of his temples, trying to fight off Darmosk’s quickly growing influence. “No Xi. Running as in. You know. The whers are running. I think maybe Ki, she’s been glowing all week and.” He suddenly doubled over hugging himself as a tidal wave of emotion crashed over him. Ki where was she? He needed to run with her. Play, dance. Yes. No that was wrong. It was Vix not Ki. Daaaaaamn it.

“Xi I’m fine don’t worry.” The bronze handler managed to choke out, knowing that he was likely scaring the girl and feeling terrible about it. Darmosk. Dang. Of all the times why now? “Just you need to…get away from me probably.” Darmori didn’t trust himself and he didn’t want to hurt Ximera accidentally. That would be really, really bad. A few deep breaths had him almost getting himself together but just as rapidly his control was slipping again.

[Ember]

Eikask hated it when the greens had their Runs. Hers had taken to leaving the weyr just before them to avoid any gold interference. She really only had intentions of interrupting if one of her favoured males joined, which only included Dmisk and Pidesk at that moment. For all she loved attention, she could survive on Eikane's and tended to stick with him at all times. Considering he didn't go out often - paperwork, weyrmates, no desire to all contributed - neither did she. Shame, really, since her beauty ought to be seen by all.

She was all set to simply grumble in her apartment with Hers when Tekivisk's odd call went out. Her daughter - oh, yes, she remembered they were her babies, though that might have more to do with Eikane reminding her - ought to have been ready though. When she sensed one of her claimed males ready to chase she growled darkly. Oh, no. Not happening. Pidesk was hers and hers only. She didn't trust Tekivisk not to take advantage of the kindly idiot bronze (such was the impression the gold had of him).

The gold picked herself up from her graceful position and quickly glanced about. Hers still couldn't tell what she was about to do...she brushed agaisnt his mind purringly before pushing open the door that was always left a little bit open for the resident critters. Eikane looked up startled and his brows furrowed as he sought out her intention. "Oh shit!" Was his less than eloquent reaction when he realized what was up. His first reaction was to try and stop the gold but...she was considerably stronger than he was and he really didn't want to be caught out amongst a bunch of whers mid-Run. Or whatever it was Tekivisk was doing.

Eikask settled for a half-run, concentration too shot to stop her stumbles as she sought to reach the whers before they left. Her strength was in the air, not running. Of course, that just made her better than everyone else. Land bound fools.... She caught up as the whers started moving towards the jungle and she let out a growl as she pushed through anyone in her way. She registered who else was present besides her Pidesk and Tekivisk. Interesting. Darmosk and...Konstask. She didn't know how that last one would turn out at all but neither did she care.

The gold moved close to Tekivisk and barked. Wait just a minute! She growled and spread her wings - clearly a threat. Claws off of Pidesk. Had she not been extremely pissed off she might have been pleased that her stunt msot likely got everyone's attention. To steal all the attention during someone else's Run? Yes, she would have been ecstatic.

[Requiem]

Hurry, hurry, hurry...said the Tekivisk. Darmosk wanted him to hurry, too. Ximesk usually didn't bother to hurry for anyone, as that was far too much effort and how were you supposed to enjoy the beauty of the world around you if you were always hurring everywhere? This time, though, something not fully him made him want to please the Tekivisk enough to put a little speed behind his paws, and he was off at his ambling run. (Not that Ximesk ran very fast, either, even when he tried.) One thing could be said for the plodding gait, though; the pale blue who often got everything mixed up was graceful when he ran, even if he was slow.

The male was quite contentedly closing the distance through the trees when he realized that the Tekivisk who said she would wait for him...wasn't. A sudden surge of distress had Ximesk attempting to run faster - which he couldn't - and he began to use his wings - which he could, but decidedly less gracefully. Bouncing off a few trees on his way (and getting stuck for a second or two in a space that looked decidedly larger at a distance) the blue finally crashed through the forest to the point that Tekivisk had taken her small entourage of marathon runners, and the male gave a little yip of greeting. He was here, he was here, see!

Of course, rather plump little blue whers did not stop instantly, oh no, and Ximesk was no exception to that. He very definitely didn't manage to stop at all until his momentum carried him directly into his not so graceful dam and they both sprawled on the ground in a mess of limbs. The round blue writhed, whining his apologies to both his dam and Tekivisk and rolling around in a scramble to find his feet. When he did, though, he stopped still in awe at the very beautiful glow his sister had, and quite completely forgot his wronged dam. Oh how beautiful, so beautiful, and they were running, yes?

Ximera was staring at Darmori in a mixture of - very willful - confusion and outright horror. "Running? Y-you mean whers...Run?" Her dark eyes had gone wide with fear, and she backpedaled swiftly when Darmori doubled over, her basket of flowers falling from limp fingers. Oh no, this was not good! Much as she liked the bronzehandler, she did not need to be told twice to go, and go she did, running much faster than most would have thought possible toward the apartments where she could shut herself up in her room and no one could touch her.

Upon reaching the apartments, however, what she found was a young man leaning in the doorway who made her stop in her tracks. Tears began to gather in her eyes. He was just, just...so beautiful. He always made her fears go away. Ximera took a tentative step toward Tekivix, but then she paused, uncertain. Something really did not feel right here at all.

[Rowana]

"Roisk?" Roivao looked up from the small table where he was working. He needed to get the information for the wherling's graduation finalize. His last act as Wherling Master it seemed, unless things changed soon. Roisk was distracting him. The bronze was unusually restless this evening and it wasn't like him. Loud noises down the hall alerted Roi to something happening outside. Confused, he open his door to see. Roisk blew past him, nearly knocking him over. A flash of gold had just gone past the hallway. Eikask couldn't be Running already, could she? Yet here was the familiar tickle of feelings. The chase was on!

Riosk's large bulk charged down the hall and out into the open air. Despite the present of the beautiful gold, it was not her that had this bronze's attention. Eikask was lovely, yes, but she had Pidesk and clearly intended to keep him. It was the delicate green in the center of the group that Roisk went to. He caught up at an easy run, side stepping Ximesk as he fell. Poor little fellow. It was good he had come though. Roisk rumbled a low, pleasant greeting to Tekivisk, apologizing for his lateness. He hadn't realized how lovely she was. Running with her would be both a joy and a pleasure. Still calm and alert, Roisk also offered Eikask a polite greeting as well. Surely she could share? It was such a fine night for running and he was sure no one was in the mood for a fight. He certainly wasn't.

Realization came to Roivao, even as he fought down the urge to run as well. So it was Tekivisk, not Eikask who Ran. Roisk didn't often chase greens, probably because he was so much bigger than them, but he had been cooped up a lot lately. Perhaps a good run was just what they all needed. Even so, Roi didn't really relish the idea of Roisk chasing someone who had been his student so recently. What if he won? That would certainly be awkward. With a sigh, he let go slowly and drifted down the hall to get a better look. Tiida curled up his arm to his shoulder, frilling with annoyance. She hated when the big, shiny one took command. Roi was her precious too! No one would touch him without her say so!

Outside on a tree, a lone fire lizard sat, his pale brown hide easy to see in the dark. He was watching the collection of whers and humans with passive interest. Such a silly thing they did. Why did they bother? It would all end in tears and heartbreak after all. That was the way of the world. It was why he had never chased. He wasn't silly enough to think any female would find him attractive. It was a waste of energy and emotion to try. Puddleglum yawned in a bored manner. They would see come sunrise. Then they would wish they had his foresight.

[Ruby]

Pidesk lifted his head when Tekivisk brushed his shoulder, eyes whirling a bright blue-purple. She was so beautiful, he'd bow to her because today was hers, even if she wasn't going about it in quite the same way as most Whers. The touch of shyness in her mental tone, though, kept his thoughts gentle, restrained, and that carried over to his movements when she started off, not running yet but soon. He'd feel terrible if he startled or scared her, although what about him made her feel shy was beyond the Bronze. Hides had never mattered much, in his eyes.

One hide did, though, and of course it was that hide that made its appearance next. Being the Wher that he was, Pidesk greeted Eikask with the same respect he'd given to Tekivisk, then shrunk in on himself a little when she made her intention clear. He wasn't a Wher prone to violence, but he also didn't know what to do. Trying to assure Eikask that he wouldn't catch no matter what he did while keeping that information from Tekivisk was a difficult balance of emotion and projection, something that kept the Bronze rooted to the spot...

Long enough for Eikask to be bowled out from in front of him by a little ball of blue Wherflesh. A touch of humored green entered his eyes, quickly eaten up by purple now. Eikask's invasion seemed to have kicked the Bronze into high gear, run-wise. He'd leave if she made him (which she almost certainly would), but until then, he was ready to go already.

Back in bed, Piden pushed himself up, arching his back like a feline before swinging off the mattress, crossing to the door where he leaned against the frame. He'd slept in socks and underwear (not necessarily common, but not that uncommon either), so he wasn't showing off to the entire apartments, but that didn't mean he was anything but a half-naked Handler leaning out into the hall. His eyes flicked between Vix's direction and Eikane's door, but no decision had been made. Yet.

[rii]

Konstask half coiled her slender frame around Tekivisk in return to the touch, her eyes slitting with pleasure. The dark, cool hide in her darker shades slid affectionately against Tekivisk's warm, lighter body. Konstask didn't care about the others present. Her brothers could admire to their heart's content, because none of them would ever match up to what a beautiful pair her and her sister made. Konstask's tail playfully curled through the air as she spun around to trot alongside her sister.

At least she did, light and sure-footed, until the rush of gold bull rushed them. The jeweled green whipped around to face her, hissing her own threat back at the bumbler! (Mother – how could that be her mother. She wasn't pretty enough). A claw raised in silent threat, all in Tekivisk's defense. Respect was given to those most attractive, and Eikask wasn't at the top of that list. Konstask jaws parted, a growl coming forth only–

She snorted at the pile of limbs, a mix of blue a gold, before pivoting to spring back after Tekivisk, kicking out leaves and dirt in her wake.

Kostya shouldered against his doorway. His pale gaze sweeping over those present; those lost to the run and those that remained apart from their whers. He half-wondered if he could just grab Vix and drag him away from the others (he didn't like the way they were looking at Vix). He doubted his sister would mind all that much. That and Konstask constant stream of affection for her sister, and the very powerful thought that Tekivisk was hers, was enough to draw Kostya down the hall. His brow rose in the bronze handler's direction as he passed.

[Avu]

She drifted to a confused stop at the flash of gold hide, the green’s head dipping to bump her muzzle against Konstask’s shoulder. Tekivisk came to a slow stop until she was a few feet from Eikask, eyes bright with confusion. What was Eikask doing—she flinched back at the growl, the threat of the queen, before a surge of irritation that was not entirely all hers flashed forefront in her mind. Konstask’s defense of her urged on the prickle of feeling, that this was her Run and Eikask shouldn’t have any right in it at all, had no control over what the males who wanted to run with her did. Her wings flared, a mixture of nervous energy and upset, eyes flashing towards yellows.

Roisk received no answer, the green too concerned with her mother’s unwelcome presence, but Tekivisk’s head snapped sideways at Ximesk’s approach, and the blue’s tumble earned a yelp of anxiety. Not for Eikask, but for Ximesk—she darted forward to press her muzzle against his shoulder when he regained his feet, he didn’t need to hurry quite so fast, she would’ve waited just as soon as they got somewhere the breeze felt good…oh, Eikask. Tekivisk shot an uncertain glance at the gold, then to Pidesk. He was the one she wanted, the polite one, the one who treated her like she was good enough to be bowed to…but she didn’t want to give him up just like that.

Well, it didn’t matter. Konstask would stay with her even if nobody else did, she was sure, and Darmosk always had, too. And Ximesk and Roisk had come, too, even if Pidesk thought the gold’s interference meant he couldn’t run with them anymore. And—and she wanted to run so badly, ached for the feeling of ground and wind…

Tekivisk whirled on her back legs, spinning away from Eikask, and took off. Perhaps it was rude to her dam, but she’d worry about that at another time. All she cared about now was the feeling of wind streaming across her wings and back, the rhythmic patter of paws against the ground, and it felt good. It came with a thrill—she could do this, she could outrun Eikask if the gold tried to chase her because she was—was what, jealous? She didn’t go far before she gave an odd little hop-skip that turned her around to face the Chasers, though, tail wagging slow and happy, a little breathless—wasn’t running lovely, didn’t it feel good…

She took a step back to brush her wing across Konstask’s side again. The males were Chasing the night—sky and stars and moon—and they could run until dawn broke if they wanted, never get tired and never stop because they were the night, they were, they could keep dawn away forever. Her tail grazed Darmosk’s side affectionately, tongue lapping gently at his shoulder, favorite clutchbrother, bronze though he was, before she turned again to slip back into the foliage, using her tail to swipe a vine out of the way for everyone.

He remained in the doorway, but Vix’s eyes narrowed onto Eikask in a look of actual fury, a mix of Tekivisk’s confusion, her concern and upset, and his own protectiveness for the green. How dare she—it wasn’t like Tekivisk would want her little pet bronze anyway. The expression vanished at Ximera’s approach, though, melting into a pleased little smile. So glad she’d made it. Vix’s gaze didn’t linger long, though, flicking back to the gathering of whers and then back into the darkness of the Apartments, to the others—Piden, Kostya, Roivao.

Mumbled, “Where’s Darmori,” because even if his mind supplied Darmosk, his mouth still warped it into the handler’s name, mostly to himself before he looked at Piden, and said, clearly if not exceptionally articulate, “Don’t have to stay.” There was an edge of disapproval to his tone that was not Tekivisk’s at all, Vix peering further down at Eikane’s door, “Hers, aren’t you.” Didn’t wait for a response, eyes settling on Kostya and remaining there, another pleased smile crossing his face, head tilting, “Love,” an endearment that tasted wrong in his mouth but felt right when it came out.

Vaguely unsettled by it—but why should he be, they were siblings, weren’t they, the closest, the best—he stilled on the doorstep, blinking curiously at Kostya.

[Rei]

Darmosk had fallen into an easy trot his hindquarters swinging happily as he feel into step slightly behind the two greens. A low happy croon bubbled from his chest until a blur of gold injected itself into the group. Stopping in his tracks the bronze dropped his head and gave a confused woof. What was going on? Couldn’t everyone get along? A tentative step forward towards his sister. Concern for her protection momentarily overriding the fact that Eikask was in fact a gold.

But before the male could address his dam a bouncing blue mass had hurled into the large female knocking her off her feet. A concerned woof was given, Darmosk's front paws spanking the ground as he tossed his head back. Fortunately however everyone seemed to be fine. Tongue lolling out the bronze blinked and then sent reassurances to both Ximesk and Eikask. They where okay yes? His head titled toward his green sisters. The tension in the air had a shiver tracing down his spine, but thankfully Tekivisk took that moment to rear and take off again.

With a final respectful bow to his mother Darmosk was off again. His stride lengthening, till he caught up, before falling again into an easy stride behind the glowing green. He tossed his head and gave a few yaps of agreement to the female. Yes! He agreed. It did feel good. The warmth of his muscles was doing wonders for keeping the chill wind at bay. His blood burned with the need to run. To chase. To play. Stopping the bronze wiggled his entire back end in excitement when Tekivisk approached him. A low and husky rumble started in his chest at the brush of the green’s tail. Her lick causing his eyes to whirl faster in blues and soft purples. He longed to reach out and touch his sister back as he was used to. However it was her right to touch not his, and the wher would not take the liberty unless it was asked of him.

Rearing up on hind legs as his lovely entered the foliage Darmosk gave a joyful howl and bulldozed after her. No elegant entrance for him. Nope. cavorting through and breaking the undergrowth under his weight he leapt onto a log and threw his head up, his eyes focused on the glowing green.

Darmori didn’t really noticed Ximera leave. The last of his shreds of control had just about slipped and his feet, almost of their own accord, had him heading back to the apartments. Finally as he neared them the handler broke into a trot and gave a joyful howl. Racing closer the teen did a cartwheel out of pure joy when his siblings came view. Then tossing his head he trotted towards Vix with far more grace than he had ever shown as himself. A wide grin shown on his face, one that matched the amount of happiness his bronze was feeling. Drawing only a bit closer the blonde gave a soft croon towards his roomate. No to Tekivisk. “Right here dearest sister.”

[Ember]

Realization that she had quite effectively stolen the show caught up with Eikask and her posturing diminished greatly. Still angry, yes, but the attention - bad or not - mollified her some. Tekivisk and Konstask's annoyance was met with private pitying humour from the gold. She didn't broadcast it - she was smarter than to aggravate a pack of whers about to Run with no back up - but it was there all the same. She was about to respond to Pidesk when he brushed her mind when she was hit by something from the side.

She let an indignant bark as she toppled over with Ximesk and quickly proceeded to try and extract herself from his limbs. Hmph. Stealing the show, was he? By the time she got her ungainly limbs under control and managed to stand back up Tekivisk had just started the chase. Ignoring her? Fine. She knew Pidesk was hers and that put him at a disadvantage, unless Tekivisk deliberately intended to spite her, and - what? Oh, yes. She did intend to let Pidesk chase as long as she checked one thing with him.

Before the bronze could run off she stepped up to him, trailing her tail along his side. He wanted to chase, yes? To be nice to the green? It was a bit hurtful that he wouldn't stay just with her but she should have known, him being so kind to the greens. If he msut chase, though, couldn't he promise her not to catch? He himself had said he wouldn't. Manipulative, who, her? Guilt, she had discovered, was a lovely little tool.

She stepped out of his path direct path, tail lingering near his front feet. She'd let him go if he agreed...let him go and taste a run that she had asked him not to win. She tilted her head in such a way that the scars from the feline attack on a silly human were more visible. They were hard to see on her pale hide, but they lacked the almost-glow she always had. She thought she was being rather diplomatic given the situation. No one liked others taking what was theirs and Pidesk was hers. Tekivisk hadn't even asked to borrow him, had no right trying to steal him from her.