Gathering Storm

Jess was on the hunt. She moved with smooth confident strides. When she had been younger she had been insecure about her height. As with all children there was that period in her life where everyone tried to establish their place in the group by putting down those they felt they could dominate. Her size and the speed of growth that resulted in that size had created an awkwardness and caution of movement that others had read as weakness. She had reacted predictably and more than a few fights had broken out. Fortunately, the caretakers had understood that the big quiet girl being pushed by bullies into defending herself was not something to be punished while the instigators got away scot free. The few fights were documented, the instigators punished, and Jess was counseled to ensure she didn’t become the troublemaker.

Now she owned her differences her time on the combat teams and the friendships built there had helped tremendously. Now she had her man and hopefully the first of several sister wives. Speaking of… “Storm!” Jess called out to her rival turned friend. The head of raven hair turned and A smile split the bronze face. As a member of the plains people Eagle Riding the Storm had the classic and distinct features of her heritage. At 7’2” she was un the upper end of the average rang for height but rather than the smooth bulk of Jess or the thick strength of Abby Storm was lead and efficient. Her bronze skin and slight epicanthic folds gave her an exotic edge.

“Jessica, there you are.”

“Yes, I’ve been looking for you.”

“Oh… ok?”

“Yep, Michael told me you wanted to talk to us about something. I think I can guess what.”

“Ah, yes, so don’t get mad I’m not trying to steal a march or anything. But, well, you have to know he’s the hottest man in out school and I don’t want to miss a chance!”

“Relax girl, I was planning on you being with us. Have you talked about this to your family? You know the plans Mich and I have.”

“Pfh, when I told dad and moms they stepped up my survival training. Told me no daughter of the people would be anything but her family's expert in the wilderness.”

“I guess that’s one way to give an endorsement. Oh just so you know Abby has already gotten her invitation to the family.”

“Steel Wall Abbigail? You and Mich recruited her? Wow.”

“More like she recruited herself and we just agreed. It’s a whole story and she can tell you when she wants to.”

“Ok. Anyone else?”

“Well, apparently Mich has his eye on June Lea apparently.”

“The nerd? I think I saw her over by the trees over there. Want to go get her? Or do we need to get to Mich so he’s not left unguarded?”

“Abby’s got Mich, let’s go pick up his little tech head for him.”

The two friends headed out to collect the next prospect for their family.