Talyssa gazed out at the scrubland, its inhabitants obscured by the mist that draped over it like a ghostly shroud. She had chosen this location deliberately, with a purpose in mind. She wanted to discuss resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity and tie it into the discussion she led on adaptability. The sun was setting behind them, casting a warm glow across the landscape. The gentle breeze carried the scent of wildflowers and freshly cut grass, adding to the peaceful ambience. Talyssa believed that life often presented challenges akin to sinking in quicksand, and she was determined to equip others with the strength and determination to persevere through such struggles.

With a resolute howl, Talyssa called out to any nearby wolves who might be willing to listen and learn. She aimed to share stories of resilience, tales of overcoming adversity and emerging stronger for it. Her hope was to remind her audience that even in the darkest of times, there was always a path forward for those who remained resilient. As she awaited the arrival of her audience, Talyssa reflected on her own journey. She had faced numerous challenges, each one shaping her into the wolf she was today. It was her wish to inspire others with her experiences, encouraging them to find their own resilience and confront whatever obstacles lay ahead.

"Talyssa Carpathius"

As the distant howl reached his ears, Cadaver's curiosity was piqued. He remembered Talyssa from her previous discussion on adaptability, a concept that had intrigued him. With a sense of anticipation, he made his way through the scrubland towards the source of the sound, this time with his sister in tow.

As they approached, Cadaver caught sight of Talyssa standing confidently amidst the mist, her gaze steady and determined. He noted the warmth of the setting sun, the gentle breeze that carried the scent of the land. There was a sense of peace in the air, a stark contrast to the topic she was about to discuss.

"Cadaver Nightwing"

Illusion followed her brother through the scrubland, feeling something like excitement and a dull sense of suspicion. She trusted Cadaver's judgment, but this impromptu lesson intrigued her. She knew her brother's curiosity often led him away from her, but she was determined not to be left behind any longer.

As they drew closer to the source of the howl, Illusion's silver orbs sharpened into jealous knives. She cast a glance at Cadaver, noting the familiar spark of curiosity in his eyes. All this for some strange woman’s lesson? The girl inwardly seethed as she took a seat next to her brother, molding her expression into one of curiosity and soft innocence as she awaited this lesson.
illu

Didn’t that Talyssa girl have something better to do? And how the hell did she keep ending up everywhere Nimue went? Even in these desolate shrublands in the east, she was out and about calling for wolves, wanting to continue her teachings. Nimue could have ignored it - she should have ignored it - but damn, she was an ornery little thing. And she knew it would drive Quill crazy if she showed up to a meeting with Talyssa without him.

And so, she’d follow the sound of Talyssa’s voice, arriving just as other wolves were starting to gather. The male she instantly recognized, but the girl he was with, she was new. Nimue cast her gaze on the two, acknowledging them but that was it. Then, she sat down on the sidelines, waiting for Talyssa to go on about whatever she had to say now.  

"Speech"

Once a few nearby wolves had gathered, Talyssa cleared her voice to speak. She recognized the girl, Nimue, and the two-toned boy. His sister was a new face though. "Today, I wanted to talk about Resilience … Resilience is the ability to bounce back from difficult experiences and setbacks," Talyssa explained, her voice steady yet filled with empathy. "It's about facing adversity and challenges head-on, but also knowing when to seek support and take care of yourself."

She paused, letting her words sink in before continuing. "One key aspect of resilience is having a strong support system. Surrounding yourself with friends, family, or even fellow pack members who care about you can make all the difference when times get tough."

"Talyssa Carpathius"

Cadaver listened attentively as Talyssa began her discussion on resilience. Her words resonated with him, reminding him of the importance of facing challenges head-on and seeking support when needed. He glanced at his sister, Illusion, noting her presence beside him, and felt a sense of gratitude for her companionship.

Cadaver sat with rapt attention, soaking in every word that flowed from Talyssa's lips. Her message of resilience struck a chord within him, reminding him of the indomitable spirit he held within and the necessity of confronting obstacles head-on. He couldn't help but steal a glance at his sister, Illusion, who sat at his side with notable devotion, her mere presence a constant source of his predatory obsession. Yes. He would be the only support that his sister ever needed- and vice versa.

"Cadaver Nightwing"

So, resilience was today’s topic of interest; the ability to bounce back, and use setbacks as fuel to become better. If anyone knew how to be resilient, it was Nimue; she’d lost her entire family to war, and had witnessed her loved ones being pillaged before her very eyes. And yet, she was pushing through the trauma, drowning out the nightmares and living her life to the fullest.

But running around and taking out her anger on everyone, wasn’t the best form of resilience, it seemed. Talyssa talked about having a support system, and Nimue was taken back. She didn’t really have one. She could probably count on Chimera, but he was sick now and never left his den. She also didn’t know anyone in her new pack. Maybe it was time she started forming connections.  

"Speech"

Illusion listened with begrudging interest to the woman’s words, her silver orbs reflecting the bright curiosity she mirrored from the others. Resilience. She was plenty resilient, wasn’t she? All this faking. Falsehoods. Lies.

The woman spoke of the importance of a support system, and Illusion couldn't help but glance at her brother. Despite their differences, Cadaver had always been there for her, but lately he had been off without her. She hated it. Illusion turned her attention back to the teacher, her expression a mix of detachment and irritation for a moment before it was covered up with rounded eyes and a slight part of her lips.


illu

"Another important aspect is maintaining a positive outlook. It's not about ignoring the difficulties or pretending everything is fine, but rather finding the silver lining in even the darkest of situations. This positive mindset can help you see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning." She continued, glancing around at her audience, noting the varying expressions on their faces. Some looked thoughtful, others contemplative, while a few seemed skeptical. She knew that resilience wasn't an easy topic to grasp, especially for those who had faced significant hardships in their lives. "Lastly, resilience is about self-care," Talyssa continued, her voice gentle yet firm. "Taking care of yourself, both physically and mentally, is crucial for building resilience. This means getting enough rest, eating well, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation- we may face many challenges in our lives, but by cultivating resilience, we can learn to navigate these challenges with strength and grace." She finished, looking for recognition in all of those who had gathered.

"Talyssa Carpathius"

Cadaver listened intently to Talyssa's words, his mind already formulating a plan of action. Taking care of Illusion was his responsibility, and he was positive of that. He made a mental note to schedule some physical training for both of them - after all, their strength was crucial in maintaining their own resilience. As for self-care, he held zero concern for himself. Perks of being self-absorbed, really. But Cadaver knew he needed to keep a close eye on Illusion's activities and ensure they were beneficial for her well-being. After all, she was just as important to him as his own mental health. And he would not hesitate to take control of her pursuits for the sake of their safety and success. With a half-smirk in Illusion’s direction, he offered Talyssa a nod of acknowledgment in their departure before moving to depart.

"Cadaver Nightwing"

Yeah, maybe if you lived in a castle with a stable family, you’d be able to have a positive outlook on things; but Nimue, whose witnessed some pretty traumatic events in her young life, ended up being a pessimist more times than not. Finding the silver lining in dark situations was nearly impossible; the dark situations she’s been apart of, had no silver linings. She was just a a product of a harsh environment; a victim to the desires of others. Resilience was a tough topic indeed, especially when Nimue was a participant.

A little sigh escapes her as Talyssa moves onto self-care. In truth, Nimue didn’t eat enough, get enough rest, or find much joy in life; she often wandered around brooding, attacking whoever, whenever. But perhaps that was her form of self-care. It was her way of taking control of situations; a natural response, for a girl who never had control of anything, until now.

Nodding her head, she’s dismissive of Talyssa, wanting her to wrap up this impromptu lesson on resilience. What did this princess know about it, truly? She could preach all she wanted, but until she knew true disparity, her words were empty.  

"Speech"

Illusion's response to the woman’s words carried a chilling undercurrent, an unfeeling veil that subtly showed her outward expression was a mere facade. “Maintaining a positive outlook, finding silver linings…” She mused, her silver eyes gleaming with a cold detachment. To her, the idea of optimism was nothing but a delusion. She hardly felt positivity whatsoever, what was going to change now?

As she spoke of self-care, Illusion's lips curled into a cynical smirk she could not help. How convenient. Perhaps if they all indulge in a bit more self-gratification, the world will magically become a better place. She glanced at the gathered individuals with a calculating gaze, noting their varying reactions with detached amusement. Resilience. Yeah. It was not about strength or grace; it was a tool to manipulate and exploit the weaknesses of others. To her at least.

With a nod of false recognition, Illusion concealed her true nature behind a mask of conformity again, following after her brother with a cheerful smile.


illu