Tales of

"I speak to you all with a grave heart. We have been through so many hardships together, and yet it seems that the goddess wills more upon us for our transgressions. Our chief, Jaino, passed away this morning suddenly. He led us with bravery and strength. As is tradition, we shall put his soul to rest this evening as the sun sets." A murmur amongst the crowd began to grow until it eventually turned to sobbing. Despair drowned the tribe entirely, consuming everyone in its unforgiving hunger. A bell rang, suddenly silencing the desperate cries of the tribe. 

"This may be a time of great sadness for us all, however please remember that such is the will of the goddess." The voice seemed to be calm, and quiet, much like the bell which had just been rung. "We are strong, and we will not allow such a tragedy to take us down. Tears have been shed enough this year. Take pride in our strength together, and emulate the strength that our beloved chief showed us everyday." A tightness of chests. The pain of hearts broken could be felt throughout the crowd, however the crying had calmed to a mere dull hum. The graceful figure that stood before everyone raised her pale hand as if to reach out to us all. The white fabric slid down her slim arm, revealing the deep red tattoos decorating her body. Symbols and images of the goddess herself, of her struggles and rise, all of it etched out carefully on her body. The bolded lines of the tattoo seemed to glow as pale white snow began to fall around her. The cold flakes seemed to melt instantly upon hitting her outstretched hand, like ash from a fire disappearing into nothingness. 

"Our tribe has survived through this horrific year. The cold is setting in, and with it more hardships are to strike. Yet our people must prevail. We will survive through this, as our ancestors have done before us, and their ancestors before them. We are loyal followers of the goddess, and she will reward our loyalty. We must stay true to that belief. Take yourselves and continue your work. Do not let fear take hold of your hearts. Should you need counsel, I will be with Jaino. Hold fast, my dear friends and family. We will prevail." The crowd thanked her, raising their hands together in the shape of a circle. The priestess did the same, bowing her head low before she walked away, towards the makeshift house where Jaino's body was being housed. The rest of the tribe began to disperse after that, snow beginning to coat the cold forest ground and turn to mud. The trees blew in the wind, creaking and moaning as a threat of the storm to come. A lot had to be completed before it came, and not nearly enough people were here to complete it all. 

The cold crunch of the ground underfoot was a familiar feeling to the tribe. Kumako was familiar with the bite of the wind, the threat of the frost, as well as what it meant to be living in these times. The tribe was dying, slowly but surely. The elders had been trying to hide this, to keep things together. Yet it could be felt within the earth itself that the tribe was slowly getting hunted by an unseen force, something that was far deeper than what any one of them could understand. At least, that is what Kumako felt. They followed their older sister to help her finish spinning the wool they had harvested from the sheow. They had almost gotten through everything together, though it had taken nearly all fall to complete. From here, it would be sent to the weavers who would create fabric, and then it would be turned into clothing for the tribe. 

Each family had a job to do within the tribe. Kumako's family were herders and spinners. During the warm months, milk and other goods were produced by the family's sheows. Their mother had been quite talented at making cheese. Kaeruko was incredibly talented at creating dyes, though with fewer hands to help she had to focus mostly on spinning the wool. It was tedious, but essential. Especially as the winter months were beginning their reign. Clothing was the backbone of their survival, a shield against the unforgiving winds and snow. Without it, they had little to nothing. Even more so than they already had. 

"Kuma, can you start a fire up for us?" Kaeruko set up the spinning wheel inside, gathering the basket of unspun wool and setting it next to her. She carefully spread the fibers thin, connecting it to the already started spool before placing her foot against the petal that caused the wheel to spin. Like that she began to systematically pull the wool tight to create beautifully spun fibers, with few inconsistencies. Her long thin fingers seemed almost one with the wool, a natural part of this beautiful and life saving process. Kuma grabbed the bundle of wood from outside of their makeshift yureta, bringing it inside the stone circle at the center of the living space. There they took a small amount of wool and two black stones, striking them together to create a spark. The spark settled on the wool, growing quickly with a bit of gentle air from them. They threw the burning wool into the pile of wood and dried sticks, watching as a fire grew and settled into place. "Thank you. I swear it is already far colder than last year. Mind warming some tea before you settle in?" Her hands didn't waver as she spoke, her foot pushing the petal in perfect time with her, like a dance. 

"I can do that." Kuma moved quickly to put the clay pot over the fire, making sure it was filled with the fresh water that had been gathered more recently. The winds seemed to push and pull against the fragile walls of their yureta, making the leather pulse back and forth angrily. Kuma sat on the cold ground and outstretched their hands towards the warm fire, allowing the cold to melt from their hands as they waited for the water to boil. They eventually began to pick at the peeling skin around their right pointer finger, flinching as they pulled it slightly too much and caused it to begin bleeding. They put the finger in their mouth, sucking on it until it felt better. Kaeruko sighed loudly, beginning to hum to herself to occupy the time. Everything seems to move so slowly these days. A single hour could last a week, it felt, and the days felt like months. Winter was always a difficult time to live through, and yet this year felt particularly tedious. So much loss already had plagued their small tribe, Kuma couldn't help but struggle. 

"Is the water done boiling yet?" 

"No. It is so cold out that it is taking longer than normal." Kuma stood up and checked the pot just to be sure. Only a bit of steam drifted upwards from the mouth of the pot. It wasn't bubbling at all yet, though, which was quite disappointing. Kuma also really was looking forward to a warm cup of tea given the circumstances. 

"You are quieter than normal, Kuma." The spinning of the wheel continued to creek as Kaeruko spoke. She didn't have time to truly stop and talk. No one really had that sort of freedom during these times. 

"There is just not a lot to say." They replied, though that was a lie. There was far too much to say, and none of it felt good. All of it was a stabbing pain in their heart, each one worse than the last. How could one even begin to talk when such heartache dulled all of their senses? It felt like an impossible task, and being quiet was so much easier than trying to detangle all of those needles from within. 

"If you need to, I am always here to listen to you. We do not have much right now, so we must depend upon each other." Kaeruko's voice sounded as sagely as ever. She always had been wise, even their parents had believed so. It was a blessing to have one like Kaeruko in such a cold world. Beautiful, talented, capable. Many of the men had shown their interest in her. Kaeruko however maintained her duty to her family before all, much to the dismay of many. Her silken black hair pulled back neatly in a bun, her pale skin and beautiful grays, all of it was in the likeness of the goddess. At least, that is what the priestess had said when she had her coming of age ceremony. Kuma had been incredibly jealous of the compliment, though as they aged they grew thankful not to have such a pressure put upon them. 

"I am fine, Kae. As fine as anyone can be. I just wish time would pass faster." Kuma went to the small chest they kept, pulling out two small satchels of tea before placing them within the two cups decorated with a frog and then a bear. Their parents had made these for them, each with their namesakes painted on by hand. 

"Time is unforgiving as ever. How are you after hearing the news? I know you were rather fond of Elder Jaino, and after father and mother.." Her voice trailed off, as if taken by that vicious wind outside. Kuma bit the inside of their cheek, placing the two cups down by the fire and kettle as they waited for the fire to heat the water enough. 

"It is what it is. There is nothing that can be done. We all knew it was coming." A face of bravery, or sheer willpower, attempted to hide away the tears that threatened to spill. They burned their eyes, though it almost felt nice given everything. "Be careful, Kae. The tea is rather hot." They poured the water into the cups once it bubbled, carefully bringing over the frog painted cup to their sister. "I thought that the more mild tea would be nice. Since it is so cold outside." They noted, smiling as best they could. Kaeruko smiled back and gently took the cup, leaning up and kissing her sibling's cheek affectionately. V 

"Thank you, Kuma. You can start spinning once you feel warm enough. Maybe I will tell you a story to pass the time." 

"That would be nice. I haven't heard one of your stories in awhile." Kuma hummed, sitting themself down and pulling up their basket of unspun wool before they started. They were not as graceful as their sister, at least, they didn't feel as graceful. However that was okay, since it was somewhat relaxing to spin. The tea was nice and warm, and felt pleasant going down their throat. It smelt relaxing too, a gentle mix of mint and chamomile. 

Snow began to fall more aggressively outside. Yet inside, it was warm and comforting, and for a few hours everything melted away from their mind. A calm, happy feeling, one that most definitely would not last nearly as long as it should have. It never lasted long enough. 

-

The chiming of the bells brought Kumako and Kaeruko back to the cold reality. The sun had gone down and torches outside had been lit. The protection around camp was cast long ago, to prevent wildlife or humans from entering or leaving. Kaeruko put down the wool and stood up, stretching before she pulled on her cloak and hat, pulling fur lined gloves on to protect her hands from the biting winds that seemed to only grow in anger. She looked back at Kumako and motioned for them to put on their outside clothes as well. They did just that of course, although they already felt themself shivering from the cold. It was warm in here, and they did not want to go out in the dark for this ceremony. Yet it was necessary. 

The moment that Kaeruko opened the door of the yurta, snow began to flutter in. The small draft that had begun forming on the door fell in and made the dirt floor wet and muddy. A low hum of song could be heard rising up from the center of their makeshift village, and Kaeruko offered a hand to Kumako. Kumako gladly took their sister's hand, moving closer to her to stay warm. They held her arm tightly and slowly began to walk with her with the rest of the tribe, their face reddening from the cold. Slow steps made the snow crunch underneath their weight, a somewhat satisfying sound. Their footprints would be gone within a few hours, of course.

Familiar faces around them shuffled together. Hitsugaiya with his massive frame, the result of his work as a lumberjack, walked alongside his wife Himeko. Their small child, Chihiro, clung onto her mother's leg, tears streaming down her face. She didn't cry aloud, though. Even someone that young knew better than to interrupt the song. Alongside Hitsugaiya was Minamori, the older woman who was incredibly good at weaving. No one was as good as Minamori, and Kumako highly doubted that anyone would ever be able to ascend her in skill. Everyone around them was skilled, or learning those essential skills. The people that Kumako had grown up around were all incredible people, which perhaps was why it felt so wrong that tragedy had befallen their tribe. 

The mourning rites were to be read once everyone gathered. The priestess stood above Jaino's body, covered in a white cloth so his body could not be properly seen. It was clear who was underneath that cloth though. His unmistakable large frame, strong arms, and long braided hair were outlined in the cloth. The tribe surrounded him, torches placed within the ground that kept the light present despite the neverending dark of the winter. Everyone hum together until the priestess raised her hands, everyone growing silent at once. 

"My dear family. We are gathered together to celebrate the life of our beloved chief, Jaino. His strength and kindness touched us all and led us through some of the most difficult times our tribe has ever seen. We pray together now that the goddess may take his soul into her arms, so that he may become one with the earth once again." Her voice sounded like the chimes of a bell, rhythmic, gentle, and yet the sound stayed far after she had ceased speaking. Everyone bowed their heads, listening to her speak. The lines along her arms began to glow as she doused Jaino in a special ointment, one only she knew the contents of. She then raised both hands towards the sky, the snow which fell upon her turning to steam upon impact. No one dared look upwards at her as the light from the fire grew, becoming so hot it almost felt like summer for a brief moment. Then it died down, and she sang out a single note. Everyone looked up after her cue, the body of Jaino now ash under the white sheet. "The goddess has happily taken him back to the earth, and we vow that his memory shall not be forgotten." Her hands gently moved down and clasped together. "And now we have the difficult task of moving on. It is far easier to die than it is to live, and we now face that challenge together. Our elders have gathered and picked a new chief to lead the way. This was not an easy decision, nor one we took light. In face of the war, the winter, and the illness that has been impacting our tribe we needed someone who was strong and yet flexible.That is why our new chief will be Renatsu." A sudden murmur grew amongst the crowd. Yet the new chief walked up to the priestess. Renatsu was a younger man with an intimidating appearance and serious face. He was hard to speak to, however his skill in battle was unlike anyone had seen previously. He stoically turned and shed his coat, revealing the mark of the chieftain tattooed upon his skin. The Sun surrounded by water, the symbol of who we were, burned upon his skin. 

"I will not mince my words. Jaino succumbed to his injuries. He was a good man, and a better leader. I am not him, however. My leadership will be different, however I will lead us all to safety and security regardless of what the costs are. We will survive this winter. Our tribe, our family, depends upon everyone to make it through this mess that we are in. I ask you to believe in me and that you believe in our strength as a tribe." He bowed and went upon one knee, raising one hand which the priestess took. She then cut his palm. His blood dripped down into the pure white snow. The crowd cheered in unison for him. His face remained unchanged as he stood up, however his gaze softened ever so softly. "You all must be cold. Please, go back inside and stay warm. Sleep. Tomorrow we will begin our next move, so be prepared for the long days ahead." Everyone thanked him and slowly shifted off. Kaeruko and Kumako however stayed still, waiting for the crowd to disperse before they walked up to Renatsu. 

"Renatsu…" Kumako began, however the words left them. They simply ran up to him and wrapped their arms around him, hiding their face in his chest. The silence hung heavily over them. He stood there for a moment before he too wrapped his arms around them, holding them close and leaning closer to them. 

"Please don't… I am well aware." He said, looking up at Kaeruko who stood quietly by, her eyes wide and wondering. "Kaeru, Kuma… Both of you, please forgive me. I have a duty that I must perform, as all of us do. I don't intent to leave either of you behind, though." He gently kissed Kuma's head before he walked up to Kaeruko and put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We are still family, regardless of my new status. Come, let us get you both home. I will stay with you both tonight, if you would like." 

"For how long as it been decided that you would take over for grandfather?" Kaeruko gripped her sleeves tightly. 

"Just today. Or at least, I was only aware of it today after the announcement." 

"I see…" A quiet fell over the trio. Only the snow underneath them made any noise. Kumako still held onto Renatsu, though their tears were more obvious now. 

"Is there no way you could have refused?" Kaeruko's voice did not break. 

"I tried to, Kaeru. I would not have accepted it if there was another way." More quiet. Once they were inside the yurta, Kaeruko walked over to the fire to ensure it rose, only to put on the clay pot of tea once again. 

"So why are we moving already? You must know something now that you are chief. What is really going on." Kaeruko asked as she began to make the futons up, already nervous about having to move once again. It felt too soon. It was way too early for that. 

"I cannot tell you. If I could, I would have told everyone." Renatsu sighed deeply, his gaze falling to the side. "We are in danger. I will tell you that much. None of what is happening is natural, and we need to escape this area as quickly as possible." 

"Danger..?" Kumako asked, their eyes wide as they poured three cups of tea. "You mean more than we have already been in?" 

"Unfortunately I cannot speak on it more. I am sorry, I would if it was possible." Renatsu sighed. Kaeruko paused after a second, however she quickly continued making the futons. Renatsu bit his cheek in turn. "Thank you for the tea. Was this your mother's blend?" 

"Of course it is. Though I suppose that has changed now." Kaeru said before she stood up and brushed off her dress. "Natsu, I am sorry. I know this must not be easy on you either. I just… If we were to lose you.." 

"Don't even suggest such a thing. You will only put it into the mind of the goddess. I will do my best to maintain and protect everyone, including you two. I won't abandon you, no matter what happens. We are family." 

The winds knocked the sides of the yurta. Renatsu sighed deeply, putting a hand over the insignia on his chest. Kuma gently reached forward and put their hand over his. Kumako then tilted their head slightly and smiled up at him. 

"We are family, regardless of what happens. So please both of you stop looking so sad. We will get through this. I strongly believe that the goddess will not abandon us all." Kuma said, trying their best to remain optimistic. Renatsu seemed to smile, though as usual it was hard to tell. 

"Thank you Kuma. You know, you really are growing up to be the brightest little fire. You better not be giving your sister too much trouble." Renatsu hummed and leaned back, and Kuma quickly punched him in turn. 

"I was trying to cheer you up and you simply insult me! I don't care what happens to you." They stuck their tongue out before moving to go get into their sleeping clothes. "Kaeruko, have you been telling people I am trouble again? You need to stop treating me like a child! I am not a child." 

"Then perhaps you should not act like one, Kuma." 

"I am only three years younger than you!"

"And yet you act like you are merely 10 years old. Was it not just two days ago that the priestess caught you sneaking extra sweets from the reserve?" Renatsu raised his eyebrow at this statement. 

"You were stealing sweets? Kuma… you are nearly 20. I would expect that behavior from a child… no wonder your sister is treating you like one." He said, earning himself a groan from Kuma. 

"That old bat lied!!! I was returning the sweets after Chihiro took them! Goddess help me." They groaned, stomping over to their futon and throwing themself onto it. "You both are insufferable. I bet you are going to get even worse now." Kuma grew quiet after that. Renatsu took a deep breath and looked down at his cup of tea. 

"Would I really be Renatsu if I didn't annoy you?" He asked, after a second. Kuma groaned and moved their head to look at him. They stuck their tongue out as they sat up, taking their cup of tea and drinking it down quickly. Laying down, they grumbled something that wasn't quite audible. 

"Good night Kumako." Kaeruko said, moving to sit next to Renatsu. She sighed deeply as they sat in silence together, thoughts unspoken seeming to swirl around them like a thick fog. After about ten minutes she finally mustered the strength to speak. "Are you going to be okay?" 

"I sincerely hope that I will be. It is hard to say, given the circumstances. However I will do all I can to protect the two of you. I don't think your mother would forgive me if I did not." Renatsu put his arm around Kaeruko, though she seemed stiff and less affectionate than normal. "Can you forgive me?" 

"I do not know if I can. We have been through so much… If we lost you as well, I do not know what else we would have here. Kuma is barely holding on as it is. I am barely holding on. We have a duty, so we both are doing it but there is only so much we can do if we have no family left." Her tears began to fall down her cheeks. Though she did not allow her voice to raise, since she didn't want to wake Kuma. Some issues were for adults, and Kaeruko wanted to hide them from those issues for as long as possible. 

"I know. I promise you with all of my heart I will not be foolish. For both of you. My sister meant the world to me, and you both do as well. The tribe needs me as well, but my heart will always be on you both. Trust in me, Kaeru. We will get through this. Winter does not last forever. Why don't you go and get some sleep? We have a long day tomorrow, and you worked a lot today." 

The storm got worse over night. It did not cease, and by the morning, a foot of snow had covered their makeshift village without mercy. It would take hours to dig out.