Take a moment to breathe

The fight between herself and Gilgamesh had ended in her defeat and, while she had retreated from the battlefield proper, Haydée continued to linger in the area and watch events play out. Green eyes darken as she watches her mother maim a pup, only to be attacked by another Raider and maimed herself. A colorful Raider launched themselves at Dorian and she winces in sympathy as he retreats with a large, ragged wound on his cheek. Even hurt, he summons the injured to himself and retreats towards the caves and the young Leader couldn’t be prouder of him.

Haydée watches for several more minutes as fights end and begin and she sighs to herself, knowing that there is much she will need do in the morning. Finally, she abandons the field, retreating to where Dorian had disappeared so that she could check on him. Furs, herbs, and various equipment are laid out in the cave and the muddy young woman finds her older sister tending to her brother. Grit still stings her eyes but, other than matted, dirty fur, the Leader is unharmed. Quietly, she moves up to the pair, and settles near them, silently offering her paws if they are needed.

With a warm smile at her injured sibling, Hay gently says, “You did great Dorian! I am so proud of you.” Red, irritated eyes sparkle with genuine love and gratitude as she gazes up at him, the beaming smile that she offers, meant as encouragement. Green eyes slide over to Lucy and her smile falters as she tries to think of how to explain the situation that had happened to her sibling. Finally, she softly says, “The Raiders attacked and Ethne answered. Bae-Syl fought valiantly but I think you should tether him to your den for a few days.” Brows lift in unvoiced laughter as she suggests tying the male down, knowing that he shouldn’t have been on the frontline but still grateful that he had been.

After a few moments, Haydée drops a bombshell, “Mom maimed a pup.” She gives voice to the issue that will occupy her waking moments for the next several days to come as she attempts to figure out the proper course of action. A sigh falls from her lips as looks to her siblings, ready and willing to help tend the wounded as they come.


"Haydée Kedieo"