The Southern Shore was much more beautiful than Kalika could have imagined. Rather than becoming the face of destruction in light of the early spring's storms, it chose a look of tranquility and peace which the young Siren appreciated dearly. Nosing around curiously while she marched down the coast, she would often times get lucky in finding a hidden, sea-drenched crab. The inital pinchings they put up in defense were one thing, though she was pleasantly satisfied once she'd figured out the wonders a stone could work on a rebellious seafood platter.
Once she'd acquired a fair pile, Kalika took her seat beside the water and stared out to Sea.
I need guidance
, she whispered to Her,
I need you to help me. Please.
It was no secret that her temper had been pushed far beyond its limits during the past few days, but it was never her intention to bring anyone harm.
Especially not Gabe; she worried that he would never trust her again. Then again, perhaps it was for the better, as Akantha was right in saying that Kalika needed to learn her worth.
Having avoided the bulk of the Nereides since their forming, it was no surprise to find Hemithea hiding out in the old grotto or snapping at the ocean's waves upon the coastline; today, she wove between massive stone henges that jut from the surf, baring her teeth at the foamy water — although it was a playful gesture. Never would a sister show malice towards the Mother Sea, not even the vengeful Hemithea, who thought the Mother had tricked her.
Being here among the Nereides was a blessing, for already she had begun to regain some semblance of girth. Weight, strength, a sense of belonging - albeit vague - were returning to her. Hemithea was still too nervous to speak among her sisters, or to grace Akantha with her presence. Having met under such strange circumstances made Hemithea extra cautious and more than a little embarassed.
As she came to a halt, bracing for the oncoming wave with a scowl on her face, Hemithea turned in time to see the familar figure of Kalika nearby. She felt the waves push against her, drench her chest and legs, and then pull back — and her stare was unwavering.
Kalika heard the wave crash. Not only that, but she heard the break in its rhythm, coaxing her to turn and see the source. The woman was familiar, though she could tell that they hadn't seen each other for quite some time. Her hackles bristled in response as she slowly stood and made her way over. Nearing the woman, her scent drifted into the young ambassador's nostrils, giving way to an identity — Hemithea. A smile immediately bounded across her maw as she went from her normal walking pace to a slow trot.
I'm glad to see that you've made it. Welcome.
Kalika offered a slight nod of her head as she lowered her gaurd hairs and placed a kiss on Hemithea's forehead.
The pale women were together, but Hemithea couldn't have felt more distanced from the rest of her sisters even if she was on the other side of the planet. As the other girl approached, boastful and filled with cheer for having reunited with her, Hemithea instantly regretted traipsing along the beach; surely this was a test from the Mother, and she was not about to pass it.
Yes,
she murmured over the crashing of the surf — but the girl was crowding her, kissing her face, and Hemithea couldn't stop a low drone from rumbling in the back of her throat. She pulled back, away from Kalika's too-close proximity, and took a few steps out from the sea's embrace.
She was cold, the spring wind shifting across her damp body and making her shiver, but she kept her eyes upon Kalika. I'm -- I'm sorry, its been a long time since I've... Been around other sisters.
And a part of her was still strongly resistant. She did not align herself with Akantha for the sake of being close with the sisterhood; she did it for survival, and as it was her only option... She had to take it.
In response to Hemithea's low rumble, Kalika's smile dropped and her hackles raised slightly. Although they were sisters of a pack and Sisters under the Mothers, Kalika knew that she was higher than the other. She was the Matriarch's right hand and just close enough to becoming an Adept for her to confidently hone her strength and prowess. It's fine
, she said in a monotone retort, her eyes remaining on the other blanched woman's.
How are you settling?
Kalika asked, wondering how she was finding herself on the islands after being so keen on staying away.
The younger girl seemed intent on caring about her, or at least showing off her empathy. Hemithea could appreciate that but she was still a bit unsettled by how close Kalika had been moments ago. She rolled her shoulders in a noncommital gesture of indecision, and murmured, Well enough,
and she had no intention of delving further in this conversation. Hemithea couldn't help but put up a mental and emotional wall at this point, for she had been discovered by Akantha and now doubted herself fully. How was Hemithea to know which of these sisters were direct from Themyscria? How many knew of her, or of her situation? Hemithea had to be cautious, and her caution presented itself as withdrawal.
Kalika ran her tongue over her teeth behind tightly closed lips and huffed. It seemed as if Hemithea had no intentions in delving further into this discussion, which caused a reasonable spark of irritation in the back of the young advisor's throat. Good.
With that, she turned and began to sashay away, all the while thinking about if this was something worth mentioning to the Matriarch. If a Sister was practicing anti-social behaviors, wouldn't Akantha want to know?
Regardless, Kalika made sure to keep her ears perked should the other speak up, though she highly doubted the likelihood.