A Heather X Kyle fanfic
Heather arose from her bed, blinking, yawning, and rubbing the sleep from her eyes. She could feel her head pulsing slightly, and she could feel a slight crabbiness rising up in her. Why do I feel this way? I had a good night’s sleep, but I feel so awful… maybe it’s from the stress.
She decided to shrug it off and think about it later. She was powerfully hungry, and she wasted no time in getting out of her room. Stumbling in her not quite awake state, she managed to ram her foot into the door frame.
“OW!” She cried, limping back and holding her foot. Her toes throbbed painfully, causing her to grit her teeth. Fine day I’m having today! She thought bitterly. She stood there stewing with her foot in her hands for a few minutes, then finally lowered it to the floor when the pain started to subside.
She headed down to the Savory Den for breakfast when she ran into Picket. He looked like his same old moody self, but he seemed well-rested, much to Heather’s disgruntlement. She immediately chided herself and forced herself to put on a cheery face.
“Hey, how did you sleep?” She asked him.
“Fine.” He replied flatly. Then with a little more consideration he added, “And you?”
“I slept okay.” Heather said, deciding to not tell him how bad she was really feeling.
They walked together in silence, Heather taking smaller steps so Picket could catch up on his crutches. He had sunk back into his sullen silence, which wasn’t helping Heather’s mood any. I wish he would snap out of it. Oh, why am I being so grumpy today?
They entered the Savory Den together, and it was full to the brim with rabbits, all eating their breakfast. The murmur was muffled by the sound of many mouths chewing their food, and at many tables cheery conversations were being held, either by elders or knots of young rabbits. Over at the other end, Heather spied Emma waving at her, and gesturing for them to come sit down with her. Heather led Picket over to the table, and sat down next to her friend. She greeted Heather with shining eyes.
“Hi! Did you have a good sleep last night?” She questioned the siblings.
“Er— fine.” Heather answered. Emma raised an eyebrow. “Just fine?”
“Yeah…” Heather was reluctant to go on. “What’s been going on?”
“Not much. It’s only morning, after all.” She winked. “Just wait until the afternoon. Things will be hopping by then.”
A white rabbit broke through the crowd to came stand by their table. Much to Heather’s delight, it was Smalls. She was very grateful to him for rescuing her and Picket (who was currently poking at his meal and trying to not look hungry) and bringing them to Cloud Mountain. She smiled and raised her hand in greeting. He smiled gently back and also raised his hand. “Hello Heather, Picket. How are things here?”
“Good.” Emma responded for them. Heather nodded in agreement, and Picket gave a mere huff. Heather was tempted to roll her eyes at him, but decided not.
“I could only come over for a minute to see how you all were faring. I have to go on another mission somewhere that’ll keep me from Cloud Mountain for a while. Stay safe, alright?”
“Sure. You stay out of trouble yourself.” Heather called.
“Don’t die!” Emma also commanded. Heather got a shiver when she heard her friend say that.
“Now, perhaps when you’re done with your meal, I can give you a tour around the place. Trust me, you’ll love it!” Emma enthused. Heather nodded. “Sure. Sounds fun.” They both looked to Picket. He glanced up at them, then back at his half-finished plate, and grunted. “Okay.”
At that minute, there was a slight commotion at the entrance to the Savory Den. Heather strained to see what was going on through the crowd. There seemed to be a young buck arguing loudly with a soldier, who seemed more annoyed than angered by the disturbance. She couldn’t hear anything they were saying clearly, but then suddenly a voice broke through that everyone could hear.
“Leave off it, George.” Commanded another buck. Heather felt a sudden rush at how strong the voice was, like it was meant to be obeyed. The young buck turned slowly, still looking at the soldier. He seemed reluctant to leave the argument, but he finally turned away and left the den, his eyes sparking in anger. The soldier sat down with a huff, and proceeded to finish his meal.
At that time, a group of young bucks were approaching Heather’s table. Leading them was a tall, muscular buck with bright, mischievous brown eyes and golden-brown fur similar to Picket’s. His eyes immediately turned to Heather, and as their eyes met, her breath caught in her throat. She could feel the world fading away, and only his eyes remained.
“Oh, it’s you.” Emma’s disgruntled voice broke through her reverie.
“The one and the same.” The buck gave a silly bow, grinning until all his teeth were showing. He righted himself. “And how goes it with you, Emma? Who are your friends?”
“I’m Heather.” Heather spoke up. The buck’s attention turned back to her. She loved it. She poked her brother. “And this is Picket.”
“Howdy.” To Heather’s surprise, Picket sounded much more jovial and warm to the stranger. She turned to see a mellow expression on his face, though his features were still solemn.
“Why are you here, Kyle?” Emma questioned him. She didn’t seem to like him much, though why Heather could not understand.
Kyle spread his hands wide. “Just being neighborly, like the good rabbit I am.”
“Yeah, right.” Emma gave a condemning smirk.
“Well, I just decided to come and introduce myself to these two newcomers.”
“Sure. Well, Heather, Picket, this is Kyle, the biggest nut-head in the mountain.”
Kyle grasped his chest dramatically. “Oh! You wound me so!” The bucks behind him chuckled and nudged each other.
“Cut it out, you fake. Anyway, you introduced yourself. There’s no reason to stay.”
Kyle glanced back at his pack. He gestured to them with his head. “Beat it.” The bucks scattered like grass-seed in the wind, leaving him alone with Heather, Emma, and Picket.
“Actually, I have something to say.” He began, but then was cut off by Emma as soon as the words left his mouth.
“Oh no! Not more about that imaginary world of yours again!” Emma groaned. Kyle chuckled good-naturedly, making Heather’s heart pound. She could feel her cheeks burn, and she was sure the red would show through her fur. She looked down to hide it.
“Come on now, Emma. Let him finish at least.” Picket snapped at her. Heather didn’t say anything, but she couldn’t help but think the same.
“Well,” Emma stood, shoving her empty plate into the middle of the table, “You can stay here and listen, I have heard his fairy tale too many times, and I have better things to do. I’ll wait for you in the main hall.” And with that she stalked off.
“Huh. What’s gotten into her?” Kyle asked.
“Dunno.” Heather replied, staring at him.
“Well, no matter. Now, have you two ever heard of Terralain?”
********************************
Heather exited the Savory Den a while later, the tasty morsels she had been served not nearly as delicious as Kyle’s stories of adventure. She was fairly bubbling inside, her bitterness from the morning forgotten. Picket had already gone on ahead of her, and was now talking to Emma. Heather couldn’t stop thinking about handsome golden-brown fur, and sparkling brown eyes that stared into hers while telling magnificent tales that could very well be true.
“You didn’t actually fall for that liar, did you? I can see it in your eyes.” Emma had her arms crossed, glaring at the two of them.
“How do you know?” Heather spat, her warmth immediately dampened by Emma’s sour attitude.
“There’s something that you have to understand, and that is Kyle is a natural-born story teller. He tells good stories, but that’s all they are: stories. Oh, he’ll try to convince you they’re true, like he’s some prince or something, but they’re really nothing.” She raised her hands, “I’m not saying he’s a bad person, he’s good as far as his kind goes, all I’m saying is to not be too convinced about what he says.” She met Heather’s eyes, then looked away. “Now, I’m tired of talking serious. Let’s go have some fun!”
Picket cocked his head and shifted his weight on his crutches. “Where do you plan on going?”
Emma smirked, then turned and beckoned invitingly with her finger. “Everywhere!”
********************************
After Emma had taken them all over Cloud Mountain, Heather was exhausted. She couldn’t wait to get back to her room and crash on her bed. Her eyes were starting to blur, and her feet were dragging, but then she was suddenly awoken when a figure bumped into her.
“Ah! My apologies!” He quickly apologized. Heather’s heart nearly stopped. She recognized him.
“It’s alright. I should’ve been watching where I was going.” Heather responded, not managing to keep the tremble out of her voice.
“Did I hurt you?” Kyle looked back at her, concern furrowing his brow.
“No! No, really.” Heather backed up, realizing how close she had been standing to him. She was suddenly filled with curiosity. “What were you off in such a rush to?”
“Heh. Oh, you know…” He winked, “Business.”
“Kyle…”
“Me and the guys were just gonna go out and scout around. Nothing harmful, honest.” Heather could see the gleam of truth in his eyes.
“Alright, I believe you. Also, what you said before this morning, about ‘Terralain’, was it really true? Emma said it was just a story.”
Kyle sighed, taking Heather by surprise. He looked back up at Heather, his gaze solemn. “What do you think, Heather?”
Heather narrowed her eyes. “I would hate to think that you’re a liar. But… I trust Emma too.”
Kyle leaned in close, and his words were low and deliberate. “Heather. I tell these stories, because I believe what I say. I know what I’ve seen and heard, and so I tell others to let them know of what options they have as well. However, others like Emma think that I have a big imagination. I cannot blame them, what I speak of does sound fanciful. I’m not going to tell you what I have told is truth. That is for you to decide. I’m not going to try to convince you of anything. That is your decision to make.”
Heather couldn’t speak for the longest time. She was shocked by his words, and they sent her mind into great tumult about what she thought and believed. Kyle looked at her as the silence stretched on, allowing her to think.
“I— don’t know. I need to think.” Heather stammered at last.
Kyle leaned back and nodded. “Have a good sleep. I’ll see you at breakfast, hey?”
Heather beamed. “Sure.”
Kyle grinned back, then brushed past her on his way to whatever night activities were ahead of him. Heather went to her own quarters, and fell asleep in her bed dreaming sweet dreams of warm fur brushing her own.
The next morning Heather woke up late, and when she realized what time it was she was all in a flurry to get down to the Savory Den in time to get something to eat. In her panic, all thoughts of Kyle fled her mind.
She rushed in through the entryway and saw to her dismay that almost all the tables had been cleared of food, and only a few stragglers were left behind from the breakfast crowd.
Suddenly she saw Emma coming towards her, bearing a plate of food in her hands.
“There you are, lazybones. Sleeping the morning away?” She smirked good-naturedly and handed her the plate.
“I don’t know what happened! I just slept in so late!” Heather explained in between mouthfuls of her food.
“Well, best get out of that habit. It won’t help in the future.” Emma told her in a friendly way. Heather paused in her eating and stared at her friend.
“All right, no need to lecture me.” Heather was slightly hurt.
“I didn’t mean to lecture you, I just want to help you.” Emma placed her hand on Heather’s shoulder. “Come on. You could help me at work today, and we can talk for a while.”
“What’s up?” A new voice broke into their conversation. Heather could see Kyle coming up behind Emma. Emma turned, and her face immediately darkened.
“What are you doing here so late in the morning? Aren’t you supposed to be at work?” Emma questioned him.
“Who, me?” Kyle stuck his hands in his coat pockets. “Why, I told Heather here I would come see her this morning, and I’m not a buck to break his promise.”
“Oh, thank goodness! Then maybe you’ll keep your promise to return to your little dream-land Terralain, and the sooner the better!”
Heather couldn’t restrain a gasp. She had never heard such poisonous words from her friend before. What is going on? But when she gasped, she choked on the food she was swallowing, and started to cough violently. Emma leapt into action, swiping the plate of food from her hands and shoving it into Kyle’s chest for him to hold, then began pounding Heather’s back. Heather coughed up the lump of food that caused her to choke, and it splattered on the floor.
“Eugh! I’m so sorry!” Heather took the plate and fork from Kyle and scraped the lump onto the plate. Kyle knelt beside her and wiped up the area with a handkerchief.
“No worries. Happens to everybody.” Kyle patted her shoulder comfortingly. Heather thought she heard a low growl from Emma. The place where Kyle touched her was tingling.
“Well, we must be going on. Doctor Zeiger will not be happy if I’m too late for work.” She briskly whisked the plate out of Heather’s hands and the handkerchief from Kyle and deposited them over by the kitchen for the washers to clean. While she was out of earshot, Kyle leaned over to Heather and whispered, “Lighthall, at noon. Come with?”
Heather was startled by this, so she didn’t reply fast enough before Emma came back over to where they were standing. She delivered a cutting glare over to Kyle, then motioned for Heather to follow her out. Heather came along, wondering if she should accept Kyle’s offer.
While they were walking down the hall, Emma pulled Heather aside. Her eyes were glittering with shame.
“Heather, I’m sorry. I’ve been acting so moody, and there was no call for me to be acting that way.”
“Hey, it’s fine, we all have our days. But… why were you so moody? Is something troubling you?”
Emma shrugged and looked at the ground. “I don’t know. Jealous, I guess.”
“Jealous? Whatever for?”
“It’s just that—!” Emma’s temper spiked, “You’ve been making such big eyes at Kyle, and you do anything to talk with him, and planning secret meetings, and… I wish you would stop spending so much time with him! I feel like I’m losing my best friend to that fake rabbit!” Emma ground her teeth, and her eyes were starting to become wet with suppressed tears. Heather was shocked into silence. How long has this been building up inside of her? I don’t want her to feel this way!
Heather swallowed, then placed her hand on her friend’s shoulder. “I’m sorry Emma, I don’t want you to feel like you’re losing me. I just really want to be friends with Kyle too. I know you have misgivings about him, but if he does anything, then I’ll stay away from him for good. We’re still going to be good friends, it’s alright!”
Emma sniffed, then tried to wipe her eyes without it being too obvious. “Y-yes, thank you. Just be careful, alright? I don’t want you to get hurt by him.”
“I won’t Emma. I promise.” Resolved Heather.
********************************
Days passed by. Picket’s foot had healed, and he was romping around with Helmer the Black in his training sessions, coming back each day with new wounds, knowledge, and skill. Emma continued in her training, and received much praise from her mentor and saved the lives of many rabbits.
As for Heather and Kyle? Heather’s affection for Kyle grew by the day, and they would see each other more and more, and they talked about pretty much anything, no matter how personal or secret. Kyle knew much about Heather, and Heather was learning much about Kyle. While she learned and grew, her skill in medical work also blossomed, bearing the fruit of a whole career. She and Kyle told such wonderful tales to another, that her mind never once went to the story guild. Her place there was filled, and each forgot about the other.
Then, one day, Kyle revealed to her something that dramatically changed the course of her entire life.
Heather was wandering along the village green, weaving aimlessly around the statues of famous rabbits that have passed on. She touched the bases of a few, but her mind was not on past battles, deaths and glories at the moment.
She went over to a nearby bench and sat there, reveling in the peace and quiet that had fallen over the whole place. This was where she liked to get away. Lately, everything had been in turmoil. Soldiers from many other citadels had come to reinforce Cloud Mountain and keep the peace within. Kyle always commented on those “power-hungry troublemakers” and Heather couldn’t help but agree. They always stared in a cold way when she passed by, and many openly sneered at her when they thought she wasn’t looking… or when they thought she was.
Her ear twitched. She could hear someone creeping up behind her. And she already knew who it was.
Suddenly, warm furry hands clapped over her eyes from behind. “Guess who?”
“Lord Rake.” Heather guessed teasingly.
“Nope. Try again.”
“Uhhh, Helmer the Black?”
She could hear him spit over his shoulder. “Definitely not.”
“Hmm… I don’t know.”
Kyle swung around her and plopped down beside her on the bench. He chuckled in his usual, jovial way and rested his arm on the back of the bench behind her head. “Is it that hard to guess?”
Heather giggled. 😈
“Well, how is life?” Kyle asked.
“Good. And how is it for you?”
“Well, I’m glad to be back. Not that those soldiers make a good home-coming, though.”
Heather nodded sadly. Kyle had been away for a few days, off to visit his home city and make some transactions. That was all that Kyle would tell her. “I’m sorry Heather, but there are some things I can’t tell, even to you.”
Heather still kept a little distance from him, after all, it was the proper thing to do. And she tried to restrain herself for Emma’s sake. But at this moment, Heather just wanted to be with him, no matter how short of a time it was.
Heather looked back into his soft, cheery brown eyes, reflecting a perfect image of herself. Kyle smirked, but then his smirk turned into a full smile, the kind that made you want to laugh along with him.
“You’re a special rabbit, Heather. I’m not even joking this time, too. Just…” His hand reached up as if to touch hers, but then he refrained at the last minute. “Be careful, okay? You never know who to trust.”
Heather’s breath caught in her throat. His words seemed more heavy than what she was used to.
“What do you mean? Are you talking about someone in particular?”
Kyle’s expression sobered further. He took a glance back at the stairway entrance, then around the park. He leaned in close to Heather, until even she felt uncomfortable, and stared into her eyes as he whispered urgently.
“You know about my kingdom that I have been telling you about? I don’t know how to say this, or even how to convince you, but for now, can you just take my word for it that it’s true? That whatever I say from now on is true?”
“Yes! I can!” Heather gasped, almost frightened by his intensity.
Kyle leaned back. “Heather… the rumors are true. This mountain is going to be attacked.”
Heather put her hands over her mouth and gasped. “What?”
“Now, listen to me carefully. Now Heather, I like you. Like, really like you. As… more than a friend.” He laid his hand on hers. “When this mountain gets attacked, I don’t want you to get hurt. I want you to came home with me. To Terralain.”
Heather’s breathing quickened. All her senses were alert, and she could hear every word Kyle was saying.
“Yes, it’s a real place. And I am the real heir to Terralain. I must do one more mission here before I go back to my kingdom, and I want you to come with me. Well, will you?”
Heather’s mind reeled. All this information and the shock were too much for her to register. She looked at the ground, trying to settle her whirling thoughts.
“But… Picket. And Emma. What about them? They’ll be in danger too! I can’t just leave them!”
“Heather, I understand you care about your brother. I don’t blame you. But Emma… she’s against the heir. She wants nothing to do with him, and she’ll do anything to oppose him. To… oppose me.” He gulped and turned away. She could see real sadness in his expression. She understood. Emma… no… she wouldn’t, would she? I called her my friend… was she really the enemy?
“I… don’t want to believe it about Emma. But… if you’re telling the truth…”
Kyle looked up at her. “I’m only telling you what I know as truth. It’s up to you to trust me.”
Heather thought a couple more moments. “Yes. I trust you.”
Kyle gave a relieved sigh.
“But, I still don’t want to abandon my brother! Can’t we take him with us?”
Kyle stared at her with dejected eyes. “It’s his choice for him to come.”
“I’ll talk to him! He has to be safe!” Heather cried desperately. Kyle nodded.
“I have some last things to prepare. We’ll leave at dawn.”
“So soon?”
“We have to, the battle is almost upon us. Stay safe while I’m gone, alright?” Kyle pulled her close with one arm, and she embraced him.
“I promise.” She told him, her words muffled by his clothing.
They parted ways, and Heather rushed to find Picket and tell him of the news. She bolted down corridors, ignoring the enraged yells and jeers of the extra officers, and finally found him limping down a corridor, having less wounds than he usually did after a training session.
“Picket!” She yelled.
“Heather! Slow down! What’s the matter?” He held out one hand to halt her.
“I have to talk with you! It’s urgent!” She insisted.
“Alright, just calm down. We’ll talk in my room.” He swung open a door and Heather followed him into his tidy small room. He sat down on the bed, and Heather sat in the only chair in the room.
“Okay, now tell me what’s going on.”
Heather wrung her hands together and told him everything that Kyle had told her. With each sentence, his eyes grew wider and wider, and his expression grew heavier and heavier.
“And won’t you please come with us?” Heather implored at the end of her speech.
Picket got up from the bed, then slowly limped around the room, gazing at the intricate designs on the walls and the sparse furniture. He was silent for the longest time, and Heather could fairly hear her heart pounding in the quiet.
Picket slowly turned around to face her. He looked older than he should’ve. “You really believe everything he says with all your heart?”
Heather nodded, to tense to speak.
Picket sighed, and closed his eyes. “Heather, I really can’t just go off of a buck’s word, especially a buck who is a known tale-teller and a prankster.”
“He is not!” Heather exclaimed hotly. Picket held up his hand.
“And even if what he says is true, I wouldn’t leave my place here when there’s a battle. It’s my duty to fight for my community, and I can’t just run when others need me here. I thought you felt the same way.” His eyes grew slightly cold.
Heather stood also and approached him, desperately trying to think of the right words to say. “Picket. I know that we have a place here, and that you feel that it’s our responsibility to defend this place. There will come a time for that, but not here. Not now. For now, we must do all we can to stay safe, and stay alive. And we must stay by the heir! We have to protect him above all else!”
“You really think he’s the heir?” Picket’s lip curled. “Helmer denies it.”
“Oh, Helmer would deny it if you said the sky was blue! Aren’t you listening? Our heroics will come another time, we have to go, now! We’re leaving at dawn.”
Picket hesitated. “Won’t you stay? Please, can’t you stay here, Heather?”
“No. I can’t stay. I need to go with Kyle.”
A sudden fury burned in Picket’s eyes. “Oh, is that it? You’re willing to leave your community, your home, your own brother for a footloose buckling that never had a lick of work in his life?! I expected better from you, of all rabbits!”
“Picket—!”
“You would jump off a cliff if your precious Kyle told you to! How can you be so gullible? So… weak!” Picket spat out the last word. “Are you sure you’re going with him because you think he’s the heir, or because you’re in love with him?”
Heather could stand it no longer. “He is the heir and… and… I do love him! And I thought you loved me too!” She screamed at him. She then bolted out of his room, tears streaming from her eyes, and ran recklessly through the many corridors. She didn’t care where she ran, she just had to get away.
Finally, at a certain corner, she collapsed. Nobody else was around, and she cried without restraint. Great heaving sobs took over her, and her misery seemed endless.
He won’t come. I tried to save him, and he won’t come. Why Picket? Why do you hate me so? Why is this even happening? Why won’t anyone believe me?
Out of nowhere, a hand touched her shoulder. A soothing voice spoke above her. “‘Ey, there, s’alright missy. Shh, calm down ‘ittle missy.”
Eventually, Heather’s crying ceased, and she managed to look up at the rabbit who spoke.
He was a fine-looking buck, a soldier by the look of his attire, with a handsome-looking ebony face and white points on his muzzle and above his eyes. His expression was serious, but his eyes were deep and kind.
“‘Ere now, how d’ya feel?”
“Better, thank you. Who are you?” Heather sniffed and wiped her nose. The buck dried her cheeks with his handkerchief, then gave it to her to blow her nose.
“‘Ey call me Forsythe. It be tha’ name o’ my mam’s uncle.” He grinned gently. “An’ ‘oo might you be?”
“My name… is Heather.”
“‘Eather. ‘At’s a purdy name, ‘at be.” He slowly raised her up onto her feet, then bowed respectfully. “Peached ta meet’cha.”
“Yes, and you too.” Heather managed to smile. She liked this soldier, not only was he friendly, but she also took a liking to how he spoke.
“Now, wha’ be ailin’ a missy like you so ya’re awf in some cawner a-cryin yer eyes out?”
Heather was reluctant to explain her situation to anyone, but after a minute of biting her lip, the whole story came flooding out. She couldn’t hold back a few tears, but by now she was beyond embarrassment. It felt good to share her feelings with such a kind and understanding buck, who hardly knew her, so he couldn’t judge her.
After the torrent was over, she pressed her lips firmly closed and waited expectantly for what he would say. He rubbed his nose for a little while, staring intently at her with his deep eyes. He finally sighed and lowered his hand. “I ‘uno wha’ to think about that, Missy. It be a lot ta take in.”
Heather was silent. She lowered her eyes, waiting for him to speak again.
“Well… it’s not up ta me ta tell ye wha’ ta do. The best thing for ye ta do is ta trust in yer own heart, an’ let it tell ya wha’ is best. Ye know wha’ ye want mor’ an’ I do. Jus’ follow yer heart, Missy, an’ ye cannot do wrong.”
Forsythe spoke with great gravity, and Heather took everything he said to heart. I must go by my heart.
Heather grasped both his hands. “Thank you, so much! I know what I must do now.”
Forsythe grinned awkwardly. “Ah, it’s nuthin’. Jus’ givin’ some friendly advice, s’all.” He retracted his hands and patted her shoulder, “now, you best run along an’ see that buckling of yours. E’ll be wantin’ an answer, I reckon.”
Heather flashed one more smile back at the soldier before turning and jogging her way through the maze of tunnels to try and find Kyle.
After taking two wrong turns and asking for directions, Heather finally found herself in familiar surroundings. She hummed a lullaby she could remember her mother singing to her when she was younger, but now instead of bringing sad memories, she could feel a joy sweeping through her. I must follow my heart. I know what I must do now. I will go with Kyle. He will be so happy! We’ll be so happy.
Somebody brushed by her, breaking her train of thought. Heather looked up to see an old familiar face.
“Hi Heather!” Emma said. “How are you? Where have you been today?”
Heather didn’t know how to reply. She knew her friend would be upset if she told her that she had been with Kyle. Heather also felt an unnatural coldness toward Emma, something she had never felt before. Kyle’s words echoed in her mind. “But Emma… she’s against the heir. She wants nothing to do with him, and she’ll do anything to oppose him. To… oppose me.”
“I’ve been out.” Heather replied, trying to not sound too cool. “Emma, have you heard? I hear that there will be an attack on Cloud Mountain soon. I’m worried that it might be true.”
Emma’s face sobered. “Yes, I’ve heard the rumors too. It’s possible, but I’m not going to put complete trust in some gossip. Maybe there will be a battle, maybe there won’t.” She shrugged, “Whatever comes, we must be ready.”
“Yes… I do agree, but…” Heather struggled to find the right words. Emma cocked her head, and waited for her to speak. Heather didn’t want to turn her back on her so quickly, and she wanted to be able to convince her to come with her. But she doesn’t like Kyle. Would she not listen out of pure spite?
Heather made quick resolve in her mind, then slowly and carefully began to explain to Emma. She kept her voice low, as soldiers were darting to and fro, and eventually came to the end of her persuasion.
Emma didn’t hesitate. “And Kyle got you to leave your community, your place, and your own brother, by just saying that?”
“He had convinced me, and I see sense in his words. I was hoping you would also feel the same.”
“Heather…” Emma trailed off, then shook her head. “I see so many things wrong with that. This is not sense— this is acting out of emotion.”
“As if you wouldn’t feel the same!” Heather spat back. “I thought you would trust me!”
“I trust you! I just don’t trust Kyle enough to let you go with him.” Emma’s expression softened slightly. “You’re needed here, Heather.”
Heather cut off Emma before she could continue. “We’re not trained for battle, Emma! We would die! You want me to stay and perish, just so that you could have me to yourself?” Heather’s eyes narrowed, “Or maybe there’s another reason? You don’t like Kyle because you’re against his side? Is that it?”
Emma gasped, putting her hand over her heart. “Heather… what are you saying?”
“You know that Kyle is the heir!” Heather whispered ferociously, “And I see how you feel about him. I don’t want anything to do with the enemy! And if you want to stay behind and suffer from battle, then so be it!” With that, Heather spun on her heel and stomped away, leaving Emma gaping, her eyes wide with disbelief. Heather was livid with rage, and her hands began to tremble from withheld emotion.
“He’s poisoned you against me!” Emma cried, running after her, and catching her arm, “Won’t you listen to me?”
“No! Get away from me!” Heather growled, yanking her arm out of her grip, then dashing away to her own room. She burst in through the door, now too angry to cry, and packed her special possessions. I have to travel light. I have to see him soon. I must go with him. I must follow my heart. My heart is with him.
After pulling closed the bag with all her clothes and special items, she finally took the time to stop and look at her surroundings. She took in the beautifully made bed, the intricate carvings on the pillars around the walls, and the silence that enveloped the room now that her frantic packing was done.
I’m going to miss this place. The thought stuck her for the first time. She could remember many good times spent in the mountain, the joys and sorrows, friends, neighbors, and how she would probably never get to see many rabbits again.
I still have hope. We will all meet again… in the Mended Wood. She threw the strap of the bag over her shoulder, and after one more forlorn glance over the place she had slept in for many months, then turned around and strode steadily through many corridors, searching for the one place she was sure she could find Kyle.
********************************
Early morning light shone on the mountain, beginning to warm it from the chill of the night, reaching through the windows and chinks to smile warmly upon the rabbits below. The place was nearly silent, most still asleep in the early morning hours, and the soldiers quietly scuffling around as shifts changed and soldiers retired or took up their post. The whole mountain seemed asleep, resting as much as it could before the coming storm of battle. Then, seen darting out of a small exit, were two rabbits, all of their possessions backed in bags on their backs, hands held, and looks of grim determination on their faces.
Heather was nearly breathless at the pace she and Kyle were going, but she never asked for him to slow down, as she could also feel the tingle in her whiskers that urged her on at a rapid pace. One fleeting glance back at the mountain was all she needed. She was completely with Kyle, body and soul.
********************************
Gasping for air, the two young rabbits stopped to rest under an oak tree in full leaf. Heather collapsed on its rough roots, leaning her head back against the strong trunk and closing her eyes. Kyle crouched beside her, then spoke through puffing breaths.
“We’re almost there. Should be in the next valley.”
Heather opened one eye. “I don’t know how you can manage this every couple weeks.” She wheezed.
Kyle smirked his good-natured smirk. “Aha, well, I never really went at this pace before. And recently I’ve… been taking it easy.”
Heather snorted. “More than usual?”
Kyle chuckled. “Yup. Amazing, huh?”
“Yes, you are.” Heather went along with the joke, smiling. She closed her eyes, then took a deep breath. She could hear Kyle settle down in the sun-beat grass, then sigh. Her ear twitched when she could still hear rustling coming from his direction. After a couple minutes, Kyle’s voice broke the silence.
“Hey Heather, look!”
Heather opened her eyes and looked over to where he was lying. He held up his hand, his fingers clutching several stems heavy with purple-blue flowers. He continued in a joking tone, “It’s you!”
Heather laughed merrily, accepting the sweet-smelling wreath. Her eyes focused on the flowers, then on the country before her, with rolling hills and trees in every direction. There were many more flowers next to Kyle, and now he was busying himself by plucking the best stems at the bases, and holding them close to his nose.
“You know… this is the first time we got to be alone.” Kyle mused. “Without anybody nearby, waiting to spoil our time together,” Kyle wrinkled his nose, “no nosy and grumpy guards.”
Heather nodded. “It would be a little more bearable if they weren’t around.” The more she was looking around her, at the bright, clear sky, the fresh grass and towering green trees… the more appealing her decision seemed.
“Well,” Kyle hopped up to his feet, handing his handful of flowers to Heather, “I guess we should get moving along now. Wouldn’t want to be late to meet Father.”
“Your father?” Heather couldn’t help but ask.
Kyle stretched out his hand for her to take. She put her hand in his, and he gently pulled her to her feet alongside him. “Yes, my father. He’s the ruler of this humble citadel, Terralain.”
“Ah, well of course, Princeling!” Heather curtsied jokingly. “Of course, I’m pleased to meet his honor.” She was giddy with happiness, making her slightly lightheaded.
“Pleased to accommodate you, M’lady.” Kyle teased back. Heather’s whiskers twitched in merriment.
They continued on, climbing the steeper incline, and having to jump over a few ledges. Kyle, being the gentleman, lifted her over each one, and while a small part of Heather knew that she could do it herself, she was happy to just let Kyle help her. After one final jump, Heather crouched to catch her breath.
“Well, how do you like it?” Kyle swept out his arm majestically. Heather’s eyes roamed over the valley in front of her, stunned at the beauty of what she saw.
Buildings, towers, strongholds of stone stretched as far as the eye could see. There were tiny rabbits hurrying along the cobblestone streets, walking in and out of shops and homes. Watchtowers of stone bricks encircled the whole city, connected by a sturdy stone wall. From the busy hive of activity, banners flapped in the breeze, all with seven silver stars woven into them. While Heather stared at the secret city, Kyle scanned his eyes around for something. Finally, he touched Heather’s shoulder.
“We should get going.” He reminded her.
“It’s so… beautiful!” Heather breathed.
“I know, and if you want to get a closer look, we’ll go in.”
“Okay.” Heather said cheerfully.
The pair strode down the hillside, then encountered some stone stairs leading down to the lower valley. As they descended, Kyle recounted some of the history of Terralain to Heather.
“My Father told me that he founded this city with what Kingsbucks would come with him — only about a third would — and their families. He had already met my mother then, and they tried to flee to a safe place where they could raise a family in peace, away from the rabbits who might try to look for them. It took five years to carve the city out of stone, one reason being that the hard winter had taken its toll on so many good rabbits. There were accidents, of course, but no matter what trials Terralain went through, my father and his subjects always remained strong. Then, in the summer of the sixth year, my mother became pregnant with me.
“I only remember a few things about my mother.” Kyle’s eyes became misty, and he stopped on a step. “The feel of her fur, the sound of her voice, and I think… her smile. My father always told me that I had her smile.” Kyle smiled sadly. Heather’s heart throbbed as she could feel sympathy for his situation. At least I can picture my mother. He barely remembers his own. Heather sighed. I don’t even know if mine is dead or alive.
Kyle interpreted her sigh to be one of pity. “It’s alright. I only have good memories, and it’s all I need.” He smiled convincingly. Heather nodded, and she took his hand in hers. In that way, Kyle guided her down the last few steps.
A couple bucks guarding the gate caught sight of them, but they recognized Kyle after a couple moments and stood at attention.
“Good to see you, soldiers!” Kyle greeted heartily.
“And you as well, Prince.” One of the soldiers replied. Heather was impressed by how muscular they were. The soldier that spoke to Kyle looked like he could take down one of the soldiers at Cloud Mountain with his bare paws. Their armor shone blindingly bright in the mid-morning sun, polished to perfection, also wearing the emblem of seven silver stars.
They passed through the gate, and right inside, seemingly waiting for them, was the most majestic rabbit Heather ever saw. His fur was glimmering gray, shining like his armor, and his figure was lithe and muscular. He practically radiated power, but also gentleness, he had his arms crossed over his chest, and on his head he wore a gold crown embedded with many jewels. His eyes were fierce, yet kind, and his smile was like the sun breaking through stormy clouds.
“Well, my son. This is the young doe you were telling me about?” He asked teasingly in a strong, rolling voice.
Kyle chuckled, almost in an embarrassed way. “Yes. Father, this is Heather. Heather, this is my father, King Bleston of Terralain.”
“Good to meet you, though you can call me ‘Father’ if it makes you feel more at home.” King Bleston extended his hand. Heather accepted it, feeling his strong grip. “I’m happy to meet you King— Father.” She corrected herself. Bleston grinned the same irresistible grin as his son. “I know we’re going to get along fine, Heather!”
Bleston led them along the city streets, introducing them to some rabbits, and finally leading them to a splendorous castle with banners all around and carvings in the stones.
“This is my humble abode.” King Bleston joked. “I just live here with my son now, but there are plenty of other rooms where you can stay with us.” Bleston winked at Heather.
“Oh, I don’t want to put you out—“
“Nonsense, my girl! You are most welcome.” Bleston then leaned in close and whispered conspiratorially, “What will you name him?”
Heather was taken aback, and she shared a confused glance with Kyle. “Uh, pardon?”
“Well, when you raise your little prince-buck — or princess-doe, equal opportunity— you must have a name for them, right?”
Heather immediately realized what he was saying, and her cheeks burned a fiery red. She looked over to Kyle, and he was coughing into his handkerchief, his cheeks also flaring red. Bleston couldn’t speak for his mirth, chuckling silently into his hand.
Heather finally turned back to him, stammering. “W-we haven’t gotten that far yet.”
********************************
Heather hummed happily to herself while preparing a simple soup for her and Kyle. They had been living alone for a while, and she was as happy as a bird could be. Little did she know, her days were about to be shattered.
Kyle rushed into the house, his eyes wild. Heather startled, dropping the spoon in her hand.
“Heather, we have to leave, NOW!” He shouted. “They’re after us, everything went wrong! He’s trying…” Kyle gasped fro breath. Heather panicked, then gripped him by his arms. She had never seen Kyle so frightened before.
“Kyle, pull yourself together! What’s happening?”
“I— I betrayed him! Smalls, he’s… he’s dead!”
Smalls… Smalls? Dead? Heather immediately went into shock. She stared at him, her mouth agape. Smalls. I knew him from Cloud Mountain… he’s dead? How?
“You…” Heather could barely form words. “Explain.”
Kyle winced from her shortness with him. “It’s a lot to explain, but wolves and birds are coming towards Terralain this instant! We have to—“ He was cut off. He was cut off. He will forever be cut off.
The wall of their house collapsed from impact. The screams of the local rabbits rang around outside as they fled or died in agony. The raptors were circling all around, breaking through years of work and sweat and tears. The wolves flung boulders from the mountains around, crushing homes and civilians. Heather was not aware of this. She blacked out on impact.
********************************
When Heather woke up, she was faintly aware of two wolves on either side of her, gripping her arms.
"Uhhhhh..." Heater moaned. Her head was throbbing.
"Ah, you're awake, sleeping beauty." A sneering voice called out. Heather looked up from the cobblestone floor to behold a sight that could only be described as her worst nightmare.
There crouched a huge bird, black as night, with cruelty emanating from every feature. On his head was a golden helmet, clearly marking who he was.
Morbin... Blackhawk.
******************************
The story is simple to tell, my dear children. Morbin hated Heather with a fiery hatred. Just as he hated all of rabbit kind. He offered to have her alive, if she would bow her knee to him. She, heartbroken over her family, her town, and her dead loved one, she refused. She refused again and again. Morbin, full of cold fury, swung his weapon and performed the dirty deed.
As she lay on the ground, her tears mixing with her blood, she couldn't help but be left to wonder, what could have happened differently? What could I have done to prevent this? If I were to go back in time, what could I have changed?
Sadly, she will never know.
Do you really want to ship Heather and Kyle now?
Yay a new Scribe! "Hopping by them" nice phrase. Also, question, what are the numbers on the side for? I hate to ruin your Keather shipping,but genetically there cousins because, WAIT WAIT WAIT, DIDN'T WILFRED ADOPT SMALLS.THAT MEANS HEATHER IS ALSO COUSINS WITH SMALLS. PLEASE SOMEONE TELL ME IF I'M WRONG, PLEASE!!! Oh yah, that would make them cousins. I feel like someone said this on the last page. Dude we have grown so much since Wingfeathersaga. #ThankyouforstartingthisIanG.