Bunkmates!
In reply to Melissa Mim (msg # 25):
Too much happened for Gisela to be able to address it verbally. Instead, she reached a hand out to lightly touch the rabbit's arm reassuringly. It was only there a heartbeat, though, to keep from overstepping too far. Gi wasn't worried about AJ's reaction, AJ was strong and already mellowing. Besides, it would only undermine AJ's attempt to stand up for her, misguided as it was. She was mildly annoyed at most, but not hurt and certainly not defenseless.
"Correct, Missy. The barrier blocks all magic and is miles out yet. I suspect it'll be later tonight or early in the morning before we pass through it. It only really affects those who are magic-born, but I believe that is most of us here." Gisela's mother had been magical, a sorceress with a spellbook. Gi had never tried a spell in her life - at least not off island - and hadn't displayed any other affinity for magic. However, she could feel the difference between the island and the mainland. It had taken her a long time to understand why.
She pushed aside her bag and balanced the hammock enough to sit in it. "As for stories... Once upon a time there was once a young man, setting off on an adventure. He'd always been a leader, surrounded by followers. On this journey, however, things were different. He could only be joined by his two most loyal friends. Along the way, he would also come across his enemy, out on his own journey with own his two closest friends." She opened her bag, looking into it and sighing. "They formed an uneasy truce as the were forced into each other's company during the journey. Others would also be forced into their company, all making similar journeys. Most maintained a sort of peace among themselves, either being mildly companionable or ignoring each other as needed."
She fished out a book, closed her bag. "The first young man, however, hadn't learned the wisdom of this. Instead, he was used to being in control and surrounded by those who would follow him without question. Or at least those that would fold and give in with the right bait or insults. Among the fellow travelers, he met a girl with something he wanted. Expecting her to be like the others, he turns to insults and the like to get her attention. She was not like the others, however. His insults were neither new nor unexpected, and the bait didn't work, for she refused to take it. Instead, she posed a question: 'What is my name and that of my friend?' It was a simple question, as both were known in the land they all hailed from."
Gisela shrugged, placing the book in her lap and put her hand upon it. It was a historical narrative written in a tongue other than the common language. "Now, I've heard two different endings. The first, he let his arrogance and pride take the lead. He continued to insult and pick at the girl. He never gained what he sought - information that might make his journey easier. Nor did he gain the allies that a little respect and if not kindness, than civility would have granted him. It was his choice, but he did seem to choose to make it harder than needed."
"The other ending I'd heard is the one I prefer, but..." She shrugged again. "He swallowed his pride and remembered that one gained more with honey than vinegar. His tone became more respectful and he answered the question easily. He was able to easily gather the information and more. Over time, he also gained a neutral ally with knowledge and resources that made his journey and adventures simpler and more enjoyable. Which ending do you like best, Heart?"