Chapter 4 - Returning

"Well, what are we going to do about it?"

This was Seele's quiet voice, and not the first of many similar questions. Aeros and Vipin stood in front of the rest of the mob of deer. Many had worried expressions, and those that had known Tabithaaa wore expressions of shock. Vipin was stone-faced, but Aeros spoke out calmly. "We cannot hide from this. If we ignore it, some fawns will eventually cross that barrier, and who knows if they'll come out in one piece?"

Vipin finally spoke up. "It's my opinion that..ehem...we should send out a group to investigate the death." A general outcry greeted this. Taliene, Jared and Rutilus roared in unison to quiet the crowd. Vipin nodded appreciatively as Aeros continued. "Vipin and I have decided not to continue on this venture. However, any other adult deer may volunteer. Are there any who wish to go along?"

Most were silent, but he could pick out a few bellows. Rutilus was the first, his loud call echoing around the Oak. Vipin smiled at him as he stepped forward. Toukan was next, murmuring that he did not want any more of his friends to die. Swiftkill, a younger doe, followed, and Loop trailed after her. "You're my friend, but if we die, I'll kill you,' she muttered. Corsair gracefully slid into line after his sister. Lastly, Aspen stepped into place with her head held high. Vipin's expression turned into a worried one. "Asp - "

"Shut up, Vip. I'm going." She was final. The young stag bit his lip, but Aeros nodded. "Very well. I see that this is all the help we will get...go."

Together, the seven of them sped off into the dawn.
~
It took them very little time to reach the Triangle, and all were silent along the way. When they approached the three stones, all skidded to a halt. After a moment, Aspen broke the silence. "Oh, this is stupid. We can't just stand here! Come on!"

Together, they stepped inside the borders, and were plunged into blackness.

(I'm having a little trouble fitting everyone in, so don't maul me if your deer only have a few speaking parts! D: I'm getting a little sick so I'm not sure how much more I'll be able to do before I can't get on. Hopefully it'll just be a little head cold, though.)