His paws padded the earth with great haste. With the leaves and branches of low lying brush slapping his face, Argus jumped through bushes heading for the Elder Circle. He knew he would be punished for his lack of ability, but he had hoped that by retelling the events, he would be spared from the harshest of treatment.
After nearly six miles of travel, Argus slowed his canine gallop as he approached the scared grounds of his forest Elders. The refreshing and tell-tale smell of jasmine wafted past his delicate nose has he walked slowly, passing the threshold.
The three foot thick ring of white granite stones marked where the Elders called home. It encompassed a huge swath of the forest and the greenery changed from one side to the other. The trees and shrubs inside the Circle were much older, but so very vibrant compared to the younger forest. Strange and exotic flowers grew over the forest floor, all smelling strong and unique. What was more amazing than just the sight was the fact that the plants would bend and move, allowing those permitted to pass to do so. If you were not welcome, it was easy to find yourself forever lost as the trees would guide you in circles.
Argus stood at the very edge of the Elders' Circle, looking at the delicate white flowers nearest to his paws. Sure enough, the vines recoiled, making a path for the cooshee. He always felt like he would be one of the less fortunate to walk themselves to death, but was surprised each time when he found himself in the Elders' company.
As the ancient forest thinned, he knew he was rather close. He could see the large white stones forming the Council's Circle. With his head held low, Argus pushed past the last vestige of safety into outer ring of small round stones. It was not long before the Elders began combing his mind. Their warm sticky tendrils ran through his thoughts has Argus came to sit near the throne of the Supreme Elder.
Before he opened his mouth, he was addressed in an unpleasant tone. "Argus, your constant failures wears thin my patience. You know of this and the failure continue. This is fact." the low and raspy voice came in heavy breaths. The cooshee shifter hung his head in submission, knowing full well he needed to refrain form speaking.
Tarmanth spoke once more in his aged vibrato. "Yet, you bring us the warning of Bleeders attempting destruction. For this, your punishment shall be lessened. Leave us to debate our thoughts and returned once summoned. Begone, Argus of Failure." he hissed at the end. Feeling humiliated, Argus tucked his thin tail between his hind legs, skittering from the Circle.
Once more relived to find himself on the opposite side of the threshold, he drew a deep breath, darting back where Raelin had been abducted. He wanted to be there if the Bleeder returned. He had a few traps to arrange and some spells to prepare to welcome him back.
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