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Description
[Blue-Fire / Locke / Ezreal's Rivers]

With the heatwave over the lands, it was far warmer than a normal summer's day and the air hung almost heavy. Even so, Locke felt nothing but a cold inside him, so intense he was almost shivering where he sat by the river, near the Fallen Birch. The stress and nervosity had been eating him up inside and it was becoming very hard to deal with, and it had only been how many days since the strange illness had shown up? He wasn't sure how he was going to handle it all. The fear of more cats falling sick, the fear of getting it himself, and the strongest one of them all... his mother being sick with no cure in sight. What if she would die...? Everytime that thought rose in his mind, Locke would feel his stomach turn, and on more than one occasion he had come very close to emptying his belly. By now though, he knew how to quickly push the thought away. Still, the coldness gripped harder around his heart and he shivered at the feeling, his eyes staring down at his own reflection while his posture seemed to sag down. He was so very, very frightened.

[Pink/White-Earth ; Ace ; Ezrael's Rivers]

Everything was hot, sweaty, and sticky; truly a characteristic of summer. But it was evermore so now that everyone had a fever-- and were suffering from an unknown sickness. The thought made Ace's stomach churn, and his ears pin flat. He felt bitter and nearly lifeless as he moved away from Light Tribe territory, heading towards the closest body of water. Kaloula had just scolded him so harshly that he was in a daze, unsure of what to do with himself. He'd spent all his time with her as she pushed through the sickness, just as she had been there for him. But her concern was spreading the sickness. She told him to leave, so he did. He felt heavy and dull, tears brimming his eyes as he approached the lake. He didn't lift his head, but a thick scowl remained there. What kind of god would let their children suffer like this? His forearms plunged into the cooling water, rinsing off his fur. It made him feel as if the sickness was being rinsed away-- the bits that Ace swore held tight to his fur after spending time in Light Tribe. He felt frustrated with everything, and slowly let his underbelly brush the surface of the water. Careful not to stumble into the deeper part of the river, he waded at the shore, looking down into the rippling water.

A white blur caught his eyes, the ripples he made obscuring the image. It was a small distance from his own dark reflection, and his eyes followed it to see a familiar fluffy tom. Tears stung his eyes- a begging thought in his head. If the spirits even cared anymore— Spirits, Don’t let Prince be sick. His paws shook and he bit his cheek, shaking his head before choking back a laugh. He could muster any words, but there was a nearly pleading look in his gaze. Every other friend had fallen into illness…Locke might be the only one left. The thought made frustration stir in his chest, yet a subtle fear and hope remained.

---

The waters seemed to stir and his ears twitched as he picked up a soft splashing sound. It was with an almost blank gaze he looked up, wondering who was intruding his silence, but whatever annoyance he might have had, it faded quickly and it was as if life sprung up behind his eyes. Ace stood there in the waters, a short distance from him, appearing as if out of nowhere. Last time he had seen him he had barely been able to speak, had wearily been lying in a nest in Light Tribe. But here he was, standing steady, or so it seemed at least. Healthy? He wasn't sick, was he? With everything that had happened recently, his siblings promotions, the illness, Locke felt all those bottled feelings overcome him and his eyes filled with tears before they cascaded down his cheeks and his body shook as he silently cried. It was relief, in a way, seeing a friend he had come to care very dearly for when he was in such a weary state. "Ace," the pointed tom whimpered, his voice making an almost begging sound.

---

For a moment, Ace forgot about the sickness. He forgot about his friends, confined to the same camp that he was only a moon ago. He forgot about all the death and despair, and the feeling of frustration slipped through his paws. The Earth Triber impulsively headed deeper into the water, not thinking twice about it, despite not knowing how to swim. His broad shoulders had been strengthen even more through training in the mines, so the current didn't phase him. The swim wasn't very far at all, but Ace wasn't graceful in the slightest. He was more of lunging through the water, though, it was effective. He had acted rashly upon hearing his name called, especially with such a hopeless tone. He had to be strong now, strong for Locke.

Once he reached the Fire Triber, he didn't hesitate to bonk heads affectionately, water dripping from his chin. With his forehead against the others, he stood still for a moment, eyes closed as he shook. Even if Prince was sick, thank the spirits he was still here at all. Death was more imminent than ever, as if the sickness sucked the life out of them. "Prince..." The name came out with a breathless laugh, before snapping his eyes open. "-What's got you shakin'? Are you alright?" Ace muttered, taking a step back from the other tom, glancing him over with his own teary eyes.

---

It took him almost by surprise feeling the sudden warmth rising in his chest. So sudden was it when he watched Ace practically throw himself into the water and head for him, seeing him right there and without a moment of hesitation press his forehead against his own. It sent up another wave of sobs but there was definitely warmth within him. Whatever chill that had almost paralyze him was gone. He held the still moment with the other, did nothing but quietly sob and soon found the tension in his neck disappear, letting his breathing come far easier.

"Yes, no," he fumbled on his words, shaking his head before looking up at the other. "I'm not sick if that's what you're wondering." There was the saddest little sniffle of a laugh escaping him by the end. A part of him wondered if that would become a common thing to ask another now. What would even happen now if this continued without any progress for recovery? How paranoid or desperate would the tribes become? He pushed the thought away, feeling fear rushing up once again. Instead his eyes set on the green ones of Ace, occasionally flickering around his face, searching for any sign of sickness. "Are you?"

---

A wave of realization hit him as he watched the other tom. Of course he was upset-- Lyra was one of the first ones to catch the disease. It wasn't odd to sad these days, especially if someone dear to you was suffering. Ace knew just how much self-reflection hurt when you're powerless to help them. He glanced away for a heartbeat, sighing with relief as the other told him the news. He wasn't sick. Something foreign and odd stirred in his chest-- something alike happiness. He was so glad he had one friend left. One friend, one distraction, and one hope. A weak grin formed on his lips as he look back at the other. "No, no. I wouldn't have crossed the river if, y'know..." He couldn't bring himself to even say the word sickness. It made him feel bitter and angry at the spirits he once revered.

He was silent, standing there with a drenched pelt, watching the Fire Triber like he was the last cat in Nandryx. He was so happy. Though, seeing tears cascade down Locke's cheeks played with his heartstrings. He jumped slightly when he felt a tear fall down his own muzzle. Ace never cried in front of anyone, not even Kaloula. This came as a shock, and soon, questions filled his head. Was he so happy that he was crying? "Pah, look at me, I'm bein' a pansy--" He half-heartedly laughed, using a paw to smudge the few tears away from his eyes. His voice was hushed now, words only meant for the two alone. "I just...I'm glad to see you. Spirits--" Ace was obviously struggling by the way his voice cracked, and his face hot as he looked away and shook his head to put a stop to the occasional tear. He didn't have to ask how he was doing, as it was obviously not good. "W-what's wrong, then?" He felt as if he were pushing on the inevitable now, but he continued anyways. Locke had been there for him in his lowest; It was Ace's turn to be a support.

---

With the deepest breath he had ever taken, Locke exhaled audibly in a sigh of relief, letting out all the air inside him and found that knot of of worry in his chest release. Ace was fine. No illness. Thank the Spirits... "What am I then?" He joked quietly with weak laugh, rubbing his cheek against his own shoulder to rid himself of the tears. Still, it surprised even Locke to see Ace cry and he had to resists the urge to wipe them away himself. But, to him, Ace had never come off as the type to do that, to cry, at least not in front of others. And he wondered - his ears perking up as he heard those quiet words - if it was all for him.

"I'm glad to see you too," Locke mumbled back, the tiniest of smiles on his maw. Yet his brows knitted together at Ace's question and he looked down at his paws with a gloomy stare. "Everything." There was a short pause. "My mother is sick." It came out as nothing but a whisper, as if he was somehow afraid to say it out loud, as if that would make it much worse. And his eyes turned back up to Ace, sadness and despair filled within. "Ace, if she-- if she dies-- I... I don't know what- what I--" His voice pitched high in fear and cracked from the emotions that seemed to swallow him, panic almost gripping his heart.

---

Ace gulped down the anxiety curling in his chest as Locke spoke. He knew-- he'd seen the Golden-Water while he was with Kaloula. Neither of them looked well. His eyes lowered in respect, ears flat as he heard Locke's short sobs. Instincts told him to move forward and simply wrap himself around the other tom; mask all those negative feelings in a warm embrace. But something kept him withdrawn, and all he could do was watch with solemn eyes. "Hey, hey, no…" He nearly cooed, concern obvious in his tone. He hesitated before saying anything else, "Lyra-- She's strong. She's stronger than anyone I've ever known. S-she…" He felt breathless, and felt his whiskers flinch whenever Locke spoke in such a hopeless and high pitched tone. It sounded like claws on a rock to his ears, so he shook his head again. He couldn't take it.

"Lets get out of here." The Earth Triber proposed, eyes glistening with a certain hope. "As selfish as it sounds…" He stifled a laugh, eyes meeting Locke's amber gaze. "Lets go somewhere where the sadness can't find us. Where the sickness doesn't matter." He whispered, "Where we forget about all this-- just for a little while." Ace's voice was hushed again, a plead in his mint gaze. Something to take both of their minds off of the utter pain. "We could follow this river to Shadow Tribe, to their beach--" Ace was searching Prince's expression for something other than fear. "…to anywhere." There was a certain need to create distance between Light Tribe and himself at the moment. It wasn't the sickness that scared him off, but the atmosphere of despair looming over them.

---

His eyes darted back and forth between the green ones of Ace, listening to his suggestion. Soon he fell silent, thinking, and remained so until he nodded slowly. "Yeah..." The tom sniffled, blinking away a few tears. He liked that, that idea. To forget about it all, even if it was just for a moment, and he felt he desperatly needed it too. Letting go of any dark thoughts and to just hang around with a close friend, with Ace. To simply breathe. "I'd like that." It sprung up like a desperate urge inside him and the grief in his eyes turned almost to determination.

He wanted to be away from Light Tribe too. If that place had been any poisonous to him before, it was nothing compared to what it was now. He loathed it to his very core, even if he knew it held the biggest chance for a finding a cure, for his mother's survival. "Lead the way, Ace" Locke mumbled, taking a step closer.

---

A chuffed purr escaped him, eyes lighting up at Locke's reply. He hadn't got a moments peace since the outbreak happened, physically or mentally. The grief that loomed in the Fire Triber's eyes felt like a weight on his heart, so he gave the tom a gentle nudge with his shoulder. "Yeah...alright." Ace replied simply, nodding his head before beginning to travel down the river. Truthfully, he'd never been to the Shadow Tribe shore, but had gotten a lot of recommendations. Apparently it was a breathtaking view of a vast body of water, reaching way farther than any cat could swim. It would hopefully be a nice escape from all the horrible atmosphere.

"So, how's it feel to be an adult, Blue-Fire?" He chuckled, turning his gaze as he walked along. It was scorching hot outside, but his dripping pelt made it a little bit more tolerable. "I can't believe you're older than me!" He snorted, a playful tone in his voice now. The Earth Triber nearly sounded defeated, as his own tattoo still had a white tip. "Hm, always had a thing for the older ones." He stuck his tongue out with a laugh, hoping to make the Fire Triber crack a smile with his idiotic flirting.

---

He followed along closely, and would probably have walked pressed against the other had he not resisted the urge. Having always been the clingy cat as young and with quite the high need for close comfort, Locke's need for it had certainly grown with the current situation. He knew how to keep it in control though, for the most parts.

"Very funny," he huffed quietly at the flirty words of Ace, and though he didn't have it in him to laugh, Locke still found himself smiling, shaking his head a little too. He knew Ace was trying to make him feel better, and he truly appreciated it. A very sweet trait he had quickly learned the other appeared to be carrying. "I don't feel any different... My tattoo is blue and my mentor doesn't have to teach me anymore. That's all that has changed. And I bet the difference between us is just a few moons. Besides-" He glanced up at the other with a crooked grin. "-you're still taller than me. Which is something I have always had a thing for." Well, why not play along in the flirting game? He certainly could, and he needed fun for a moment, they both did, cracking a few harmless jokes or so.

---

His ears perked intently as Locke spoke, quirking a brow at his response. A lopsided grin spread on his face, glancing at the pointed tom with a curious gaze. Was that a challenge? He wasn't expecting the tom to send a flirtation back in his direction. The Earth Triber felt his face heat up a little, despite it only being a fun joke. Thinking too deeply about it would bring Ace into unwanted territory, so he only shook his head. "Hey, don't get my hopes up!" The tom replied with a chuckle, gaze turning back to the path ahead of him.

At this pace, it'd take them until sunset to get there, so an idea popped into his head. "Hows' about a little competition? A race of sorts." He cocked his head a little, "Winner gets, uh…" The Earth Triber glanced around, a bit unsure of what Locke would want. "…anything they want! It can only be one thing, but it can be anything. A gem, a new accessory, anything." Ace nodded to confirm his decision, content with the ambiguous prize. "or we could play it dirty and have secrets at stake. The loser having to admit their deepest and darkest secret!" He proposed with a careless shrug of his shoulders. Ace was honestly curious if the Fire Triber had anything to hide, but being such an impulsive cat, didn't realize his precious inner thoughts would be at stake too.

---

Trying to read Ace's expression wasn't easy, but Locke was curious over how the other would take to being flirted back at. Was he used to such a thing or not? In the end he wasn't sure if it had made any bigger effect on him, because the grey tom simply joked along as he always did and Locke could only chuckle at it. Yet, deep down, he also found himself thinking 'Don't get my own up' . He pushed his thoughts away from the path they were heading and turned his attention back to listening to Ace.

His brow arched curiously at the idea, for a moment thinking it over, then giving the other a smug grin. "How about we let the winner decide? Whoever wins gets to pick either a thing they want, or a deep secret from the other?" This would be fun. He had never been to high on doing physical training and getting himself all sweaty, but if anything, this would surely keep his mind off of things. Without a warning, Locke had thrown himself into the water and begun paddling like crazy to the other side from where Ace had come from. "Last one to the Stepping Stone is the loser!" He called out. Although this side was closer to Light Tribe, he knew it would be a quicker path, rather than going around Cat's Eye Lake. He also knew, with his shorter legs and physique, he definitely needed a head start if he were to have any chance of winning.

---

With a sudden splash, Ace barely had enough time to comprehend the words from the Blue-Fire. He snorted a laugh as he realized, turning his head to see the pointed tom already ahead of him. His body type was made rather for endurance and strength, and he lacked speed and agility. Though, his long and sturdy legs did give him an awfully large cheat against the shorter cats. He stood at the bank, his mind now aware of what was at stake. Seeing a competitive side in Locke sparked something in the tom, but yet he resisted the urge to jump into the river after him. It was only fair that he got a head start, since the tom was significantly shorter. He flexed his muscles, bending down into a crouching position; Ace was ready to run.

Once the other made it to the other side, Ace jumped into the chilling waters again. It felt so good on the abnormally hot day, but he didn't have time to linger on it-- He had to win! The Earth Triber braced against the weak current easily, and once again, ungracefully made his way through the water. Once he reached the bank, he took a second to shake his heavy pelt before breaking into a jog. Hopefully he didn't underestimate the tinnier tom, as the running distance at this point wasn't very long at all.

---
It basically looked like Locke had lost half his size once he staggered up on the shore. His long fur that so commonly gave him his regal look was completely slicked against his body, hanging heavy from the water, and if it wasn't for the sudden competitiveness driving him, Locke would have made a big effort fix his appearance back to it's glorious self. Instead, he just gave a quick shake, water spraying around and hair standing on end, before starting to rush off along side the river. Another splash made him look over his shoulder and he grinned as he saw that Ace had followed suit. Games and races wasn't a common thing for Locke to do, perhaps that's why he was so eager to do it now, he needed something different with all that went on.

Hearing his friend reach the shore behind him, Locke's paws began to hit the ground in a more rapid pace as he did what he could to increase his speed. Small he may be, but Locke could have an incredibly fierce determination if his mind was set to something. No way was he going to lose! And for a while, it was going great, he had come a long way in his dash. But soon his breath came heavy through his chest and his speed began to slow down. Endurance was definitely not his thing.

---

Laughter rang out from behind the regal tom, a joyous expression on Ace's muzzle. "N'ver thought--" He panted, trying to yell up ahead at his competitor. "…You'd have a body underneath all that fluff!" He commented with a laugh, his jog progressively getting faster as he went along. It took him a moment to realize he was staring a hole through the Fire Triber, almost unable to tear his eyes away from the tom. For a moment, the fur had stuck to a frame that Ace hadn't expected, and now Locke was showing somewhat of a carefree side. He loved it, and there was a huge, flustered grin plastered on his face-- he was glad Locke was ahead of him so he couldn't see the dorky and toothy grin he wore.

Training deep in the mines made his lungs strong, and able bodied for this sort of activities. Who would've thought such an impulsive tom had tactics? Watching closely, he broke into long strides one his competition began to slow down. It made his chest heave in slow pants, but he was gaining on the white tom quickly now. Through leaps and bounds, he found himself right on the tail of the Blue-Fire, but his gaze was straight ahead. The Stepping Stones was just up ahead, and the two toms were closer than ever. He thought, why not provoke him a little? It wasn't like rules were established before the start of the race. He stretched his javenese neck, playfully trying to nip at the tail not a mouse-tail away from him. Normally, he would've make a flirtatious remark or at least crack a joke, but he couldn't gather words through his panting. The Earth Triber only chuckled loudly, a ravishing competitive fire in his eyes as he steadily kept up with Locke.

---

The comment wasn't particularly big, yet Locke found his cheeks heat up. He wanted to retort back with something clever or witty, or with anything at all really, but his mind seemed to blank out from embarrassment and all he could do was huff. Couldn't even look back to give Ace a glare because it would show him his flushed expression. So he steeled his eyes on the path ahead, still feeling the weariness rushing over him fast but doing his best to not lose his pace.

He ended up so focused on his goal that the sudden nip at his tail had him yelp out in surprise. With his attention suddenly scattered, he ended up fumbling with his paws, wobbling slightly from side to side before he was able to steady himself again. Now side along with Ace, as his stumble had cost him some moment, he was able to give the other a playful glare. "Are you playing dirty now too?" he yelled out, grinning and chest heaving for air. His throat and chest, even paws and legs were in pain from the unusual exercise, hardly used to this type of thing. Yet Locke didn't mind, wouldn't even mind if he lost now, because he felt more alive than he had ever done before. The adrenaline gave him such a rush and he was happy to just be there with no other thought in mind than the goal ahead and the one beside him. No sickness, no troubles. Just him and Ace, no one else.

---

It didn't take much to get Locke a bit behind, but now he was running right along side the Earth Triber. Ace's face was heated, his wide grin obvious and laughter still spilling from his maw. He felt so unbelievably unlike himself; nearly brimming with happiness. It was this higher form of happiness, but it was almost completely controlled by the adrenaline and lack of air. The wind streamed through his fur, and just for a moment, his gaze fell on the pointed tom beside him. He was smiling too. It was an image that Ace never wanted to forget; the image of this regal tom wearing such a careless and free smile. He wanted this moment between the two to last forever. It nearly made Ace trip over his paws before he snapped his attention back to the path ahead.

He could see the Stepping Stones now, and he realized it was time to pull the brakes. He slammed his large front paws down, causing a cloud of dust to appear around his forearms. Though, having never done such a thing before, didn't realize how abrupt stops were definitely not fun. He was nearly thrown forward, the dust he caused making it impossible to pinpoint where he landed. He had rolled, hopefully onto the Stepping Stone itself. Ace groaned softly, his chest still heaving, and tired eyes batting open. Again, the dust he caused making it impossible to tell if he'd actually reached the flat stone. Slowly standing up, he shook his pelt with a wide grin before realizing he'd totally missed the target, falling short by just a few inches. He stood at the bank of the river, an unamused expression on his face as he snorted a laugh. "Huh, I let you win--" He panted, an embarrassed look in his gaze. "Yeah, that's it…" His grin grew again, as he was obviously taking the role of sore loser. "I totally let you win this one."

---

He was at his end now, all his power and strength gone and was practically staggering over the last stretch. Only through the corner of his eye did he caught Ace doing something strange before dust billowed up around them and Locke had to blindly continue on. But he was able to find his way and with enough knowledge of the place, he finally skidded to a stop at the Stepping Stones. Turning around, watching the dust settle, it dawned on him that he had won.

With the most joyous cheer, Locke laughed happily, his smile so wide it pained his cheeks, and then finally collapsed on the spot. His breath came out ragged and he panted almost desperately for air, but, again, it didn't matter at all and the small laughters continued on from the pointed tom. "Of course," he wheezed. "Though I'm-- I'm pretty sure I would have dropped out had-- hah, had the race been longer." Still laughing and feeling so alive and alert, so different from how he had been at the start of the day, Locke tried to hobble up into a sitting position. He had never felt anything like this before, even though his whole body ached from the run, he felt great, and he was so happy Ace had got that out of him. He didn't even notice he had barely let the other go with his gaze since his stop. "Guess I-- get to pick the prize then, huh? Though how about we-- agh--" he coughed, trying to clear his throat, though still kept on a playful grin. "-we walk to the beach first so I can catch my breath?"

---

Ace couldn't help but cheer with the tom, using the last of his breath to laugh and congratulate the winner. He sat down, his mint gaze locked with that of the Fire-Tribers', and his chest heaving breathlessly. He was coming down from that triumphant high, and it felt like he couldn't break his dazed stare away from the other. It was just for a few moments that he searched Locke's eyes for anything other than happiness, and he couldn't wipe the toothy grin off his muzzle. Whenever he could, he got a laugh in between his panting. Spirits, for two cats not built to run, they sure went fast!

Once he got ahold of himself, he stood and stretched his muscles. Though, If it weren't for his profession, he would've been a whole lot more sore. The tom felt drained, but realized it was time to relax. He chuffed a sigh, shaking his pelt of dust before approaching the winner. "Hah, sounds fine to me. C'mon…" He laughed softly, stepping onto the flat stone beside the lounging tom. He waited for the other, and even stepped in close just in case the other was a bit wobbly from the long run. Sometimes legs didn't want to listen after such strenuous exercise, so he just wanted to make sure no one would be collapsing. Once they reached the Trees of Killian, he knew they were getting close. The strong stench of Shadow Tribe hit his nose, but he had other things to focus on now. Weaving through the trees, he tried to clear his mind of any thoughts at all. They were filled with worries of sickness and his friends-- but now, perhaps even worse, they were filled of Locke. For the better or the worse, Ace wasn't sure-- but he knew delving any deeper would leave him with more questions than answers.

By the time they reached the beach, Ace's whole body was tired. He eagerly stepped into the soft sand, a purr escaping him. He jogged ahead of Locke now, moving forward until he got to the shore, the water gently lapping at his sore pawpads. Then, he promptly sat down, his gaze over the vast ocean in front of him. The Earth Triber glanced over his shoulder, "Care to join me?" He snickered, winking playfully at his companion.

---

Continuing their journey to the sea, Locke slowly came down from his exhilarated state during their walk. He knew he would have been whining from the triedness in his legs had this been a different time but his thoughts began to focus on other things as there was no goal to put his attention to this time. It wasn't bad thoughts, not necessarily. He was simply reminded of what he had, for a long time now, wanted to explain to Ace, ever since that meeting in Light. His gaze would occasionally shift to the other, wondering what he was thinking and what he would eventually say. It was not like he thought Ace would laugh at his fear, still, it was not something told many and in a way, he was happy he had won, perhaps he would feel better sharing his own if Ace told a secret first.

Once finally there, Locke had to stop for a moment, finding the view incredibly peaceful and for a moment it was all on his mind. Nothing but the neverending sea. Not until Ace rushed forward and came into the picture - something Locke realized he was perfectly fine with - and the Fire Tribe had to quietly laugh under his breath, sticking his tongue out at the invite but followed suit with a smirk. He sat down beside him, tail curled neatly around his paws and let the silence fall over them for a few long seconds, his gaze set on the ocean that glimmered in the sunlight. Right there, the sickness had never seemed so far away, so nonexistent.
Eventually he turned to look up at his friend, a mischievous glint in his eyes, even felt brave enough to make it almost alluring. "So, tell me then Ace, what deep, dark secret do you have?"

Description
[Blue-Fire / Locke / Ezreal's Rivers]

With the heatwave over the lands, it was far warmer than a normal summer's day and the air hung almost heavy. Even so, Locke felt nothing but a cold inside him, so intense he was almost shivering where he sat by the river, near the Fallen Birch. The stress and nervosity had been eating him up inside and it was becoming very hard to deal with, and it had only been how many days since the strange illness had shown up? He wasn't sure how he was going to handle it all. The fear of more cats falling sick, the fear of getting it himself, and the strongest one of them all... his mother being sick with no cure in sight. What if she would die...? Everytime that thought rose in his mind, Locke would feel his stomach turn, and on more than one occasion he had come very close to emptying his belly. By now though, he knew how to quickly push the thought away. Still, the coldness gripped harder around his heart and he shivered at the feeling, his eyes staring down at his own reflection while his posture seemed to sag down. He was so very, very frightened.

[Pink/White-Earth ; Ace ; Ezrael's Rivers]

Everything was hot, sweaty, and sticky; truly a characteristic of summer. But it was evermore so now that everyone had a fever-- and were suffering from an unknown sickness. The thought made Ace's stomach churn, and his ears pin flat. He felt bitter and nearly lifeless as he moved away from Light Tribe territory, heading towards the closest body of water. Kaloula had just scolded him so harshly that he was in a daze, unsure of what to do with himself. He'd spent all his time with her as she pushed through the sickness, just as she had been there for him. But her concern was spreading the sickness. She told him to leave, so he did. He felt heavy and dull, tears brimming his eyes as he approached the lake. He didn't lift his head, but a thick scowl remained there. What kind of god would let their children suffer like this? His forearms plunged into the cooling water, rinsing off his fur. It made him feel as if the sickness was being rinsed away-- the bits that Ace swore held tight to his fur after spending time in Light Tribe. He felt frustrated with everything, and slowly let his underbelly brush the surface of the water. Careful not to stumble into the deeper part of the river, he waded at the shore, looking down into the rippling water.

A white blur caught his eyes, the ripples he made obscuring the image. It was a small distance from his own dark reflection, and his eyes followed it to see a familiar fluffy tom. Tears stung his eyes- a begging thought in his head. If the spirits even cared anymore— Spirits, Don’t let Prince be sick. His paws shook and he bit his cheek, shaking his head before choking back a laugh. He could muster any words, but there was a nearly pleading look in his gaze. Every other friend had fallen into illness…Locke might be the only one left. The thought made frustration stir in his chest, yet a subtle fear and hope remained.

---

The waters seemed to stir and his ears twitched as he picked up a soft splashing sound. It was with an almost blank gaze he looked up, wondering who was intruding his silence, but whatever annoyance he might have had, it faded quickly and it was as if life sprung up behind his eyes. Ace stood there in the waters, a short distance from him, appearing as if out of nowhere. Last time he had seen him he had barely been able to speak, had wearily been lying in a nest in Light Tribe. But here he was, standing steady, or so it seemed at least. Healthy? He wasn't sick, was he? With everything that had happened recently, his siblings promotions, the illness, Locke felt all those bottled feelings overcome him and his eyes filled with tears before they cascaded down his cheeks and his body shook as he silently cried. It was relief, in a way, seeing a friend he had come to care very dearly for when he was in such a weary state. "Ace," the pointed tom whimpered, his voice making an almost begging sound.

---

For a moment, Ace forgot about the sickness. He forgot about his friends, confined to the same camp that he was only a moon ago. He forgot about all the death and despair, and the feeling of frustration slipped through his paws. The Earth Triber impulsively headed deeper into the water, not thinking twice about it, despite not knowing how to swim. His broad shoulders had been strengthen even more through training in the mines, so the current didn't phase him. The swim wasn't very far at all, but Ace wasn't graceful in the slightest. He was more of lunging through the water, though, it was effective. He had acted rashly upon hearing his name called, especially with such a hopeless tone. He had to be strong now, strong for Locke.

Once he reached the Fire Triber, he didn't hesitate to bonk heads affectionately, water dripping from his chin. With his forehead against the others, he stood still for a moment, eyes closed as he shook. Even if Prince was sick, thank the spirits he was still here at all. Death was more imminent than ever, as if the sickness sucked the life out of them. "Prince..." The name came out with a breathless laugh, before snapping his eyes open. "-What's got you shakin'? Are you alright?" Ace muttered, taking a step back from the other tom, glancing him over with his own teary eyes.

---

It took him almost by surprise feeling the sudden warmth rising in his chest. So sudden was it when he watched Ace practically throw himself into the water and head for him, seeing him right there and without a moment of hesitation press his forehead against his own. It sent up another wave of sobs but there was definitely warmth within him. Whatever chill that had almost paralyze him was gone. He held the still moment with the other, did nothing but quietly sob and soon found the tension in his neck disappear, letting his breathing come far easier.

"Yes, no," he fumbled on his words, shaking his head before looking up at the other. "I'm not sick if that's what you're wondering." There was the saddest little sniffle of a laugh escaping him by the end. A part of him wondered if that would become a common thing to ask another now. What would even happen now if this continued without any progress for recovery? How paranoid or desperate would the tribes become? He pushed the thought away, feeling fear rushing up once again. Instead his eyes set on the green ones of Ace, occasionally flickering around his face, searching for any sign of sickness. "Are you?"

---

A wave of realization hit him as he watched the other tom. Of course he was upset-- Lyra was one of the first ones to catch the disease. It wasn't odd to sad these days, especially if someone dear to you was suffering. Ace knew just how much self-reflection hurt when you're powerless to help them. He glanced away for a heartbeat, sighing with relief as the other told him the news. He wasn't sick. Something foreign and odd stirred in his chest-- something alike happiness. He was so glad he had one friend left. One friend, one distraction, and one hope. A weak grin formed on his lips as he look back at the other. "No, no. I wouldn't have crossed the river if, y'know..." He couldn't bring himself to even say the word sickness. It made him feel bitter and angry at the spirits he once revered.

He was silent, standing there with a drenched pelt, watching the Fire Triber like he was the last cat in Nandryx. He was so happy. Though, seeing tears cascade down Locke's cheeks played with his heartstrings. He jumped slightly when he felt a tear fall down his own muzzle. Ace never cried in front of anyone, not even Kaloula. This came as a shock, and soon, questions filled his head. Was he so happy that he was crying? "Pah, look at me, I'm bein' a pansy--" He half-heartedly laughed, using a paw to smudge the few tears away from his eyes. His voice was hushed now, words only meant for the two alone. "I just...I'm glad to see you. Spirits--" Ace was obviously struggling by the way his voice cracked, and his face hot as he looked away and shook his head to put a stop to the occasional tear. He didn't have to ask how he was doing, as it was obviously not good. "W-what's wrong, then?" He felt as if he were pushing on the inevitable now, but he continued anyways. Locke had been there for him in his lowest; It was Ace's turn to be a support.

---

With the deepest breath he had ever taken, Locke exhaled audibly in a sigh of relief, letting out all the air inside him and found that knot of of worry in his chest release. Ace was fine. No illness. Thank the Spirits... "What am I then?" He joked quietly with weak laugh, rubbing his cheek against his own shoulder to rid himself of the tears. Still, it surprised even Locke to see Ace cry and he had to resists the urge to wipe them away himself. But, to him, Ace had never come off as the type to do that, to cry, at least not in front of others. And he wondered - his ears perking up as he heard those quiet words - if it was all for him.

"I'm glad to see you too," Locke mumbled back, the tiniest of smiles on his maw. Yet his brows knitted together at Ace's question and he looked down at his paws with a gloomy stare. "Everything." There was a short pause. "My mother is sick." It came out as nothing but a whisper, as if he was somehow afraid to say it out loud, as if that would make it much worse. And his eyes turned back up to Ace, sadness and despair filled within. "Ace, if she-- if she dies-- I... I don't know what- what I--" His voice pitched high in fear and cracked from the emotions that seemed to swallow him, panic almost gripping his heart.

---

Ace gulped down the anxiety curling in his chest as Locke spoke. He knew-- he'd seen the Golden-Water while he was with Kaloula. Neither of them looked well. His eyes lowered in respect, ears flat as he heard Locke's short sobs. Instincts told him to move forward and simply wrap himself around the other tom; mask all those negative feelings in a warm embrace. But something kept him withdrawn, and all he could do was watch with solemn eyes. "Hey, hey, no…" He nearly cooed, concern obvious in his tone. He hesitated before saying anything else, "Lyra-- She's strong. She's stronger than anyone I've ever known. S-she…" He felt breathless, and felt his whiskers flinch whenever Locke spoke in such a hopeless and high pitched tone. It sounded like claws on a rock to his ears, so he shook his head again. He couldn't take it.

"Lets get out of here." The Earth Triber proposed, eyes glistening with a certain hope. "As selfish as it sounds…" He stifled a laugh, eyes meeting Locke's amber gaze. "Lets go somewhere where the sadness can't find us. Where the sickness doesn't matter." He whispered, "Where we forget about all this-- just for a little while." Ace's voice was hushed again, a plead in his mint gaze. Something to take both of their minds off of the utter pain. "We could follow this river to Shadow Tribe, to their beach--" Ace was searching Prince's expression for something other than fear. "…to anywhere." There was a certain need to create distance between Light Tribe and himself at the moment. It wasn't the sickness that scared him off, but the atmosphere of despair looming over them.

---

His eyes darted back and forth between the green ones of Ace, listening to his suggestion. Soon he fell silent, thinking, and remained so until he nodded slowly. "Yeah..." The tom sniffled, blinking away a few tears. He liked that, that idea. To forget about it all, even if it was just for a moment, and he felt he desperatly needed it too. Letting go of any dark thoughts and to just hang around with a close friend, with Ace. To simply breathe. "I'd like that." It sprung up like a desperate urge inside him and the grief in his eyes turned almost to determination.

He wanted to be away from Light Tribe too. If that place had been any poisonous to him before, it was nothing compared to what it was now. He loathed it to his very core, even if he knew it held the biggest chance for a finding a cure, for his mother's survival. "Lead the way, Ace" Locke mumbled, taking a step closer.

---

A chuffed purr escaped him, eyes lighting up at Locke's reply. He hadn't got a moments peace since the outbreak happened, physically or mentally. The grief that loomed in the Fire Triber's eyes felt like a weight on his heart, so he gave the tom a gentle nudge with his shoulder. "Yeah...alright." Ace replied simply, nodding his head before beginning to travel down the river. Truthfully, he'd never been to the Shadow Tribe shore, but had gotten a lot of recommendations. Apparently it was a breathtaking view of a vast body of water, reaching way farther than any cat could swim. It would hopefully be a nice escape from all the horrible atmosphere.

"So, how's it feel to be an adult, Blue-Fire?" He chuckled, turning his gaze as he walked along. It was scorching hot outside, but his dripping pelt made it a little bit more tolerable. "I can't believe you're older than me!" He snorted, a playful tone in his voice now. The Earth Triber nearly sounded defeated, as his own tattoo still had a white tip. "Hm, always had a thing for the older ones." He stuck his tongue out with a laugh, hoping to make the Fire Triber crack a smile with his idiotic flirting.

---

He followed along closely, and would probably have walked pressed against the other had he not resisted the urge. Having always been the clingy cat as young and with quite the high need for close comfort, Locke's need for it had certainly grown with the current situation. He knew how to keep it in control though, for the most parts.

"Very funny," he huffed quietly at the flirty words of Ace, and though he didn't have it in him to laugh, Locke still found himself smiling, shaking his head a little too. He knew Ace was trying to make him feel better, and he truly appreciated it. A very sweet trait he had quickly learned the other appeared to be carrying. "I don't feel any different... My tattoo is blue and my mentor doesn't have to teach me anymore. That's all that has changed. And I bet the difference between us is just a few moons. Besides-" He glanced up at the other with a crooked grin. "-you're still taller than me. Which is something I have always had a thing for." Well, why not play along in the flirting game? He certainly could, and he needed fun for a moment, they both did, cracking a few harmless jokes or so.

---

His ears perked intently as Locke spoke, quirking a brow at his response. A lopsided grin spread on his face, glancing at the pointed tom with a curious gaze. Was that a challenge? He wasn't expecting the tom to send a flirtation back in his direction. The Earth Triber felt his face heat up a little, despite it only being a fun joke. Thinking too deeply about it would bring Ace into unwanted territory, so he only shook his head. "Hey, don't get my hopes up!" The tom replied with a chuckle, gaze turning back to the path ahead of him.

At this pace, it'd take them until sunset to get there, so an idea popped into his head. "Hows' about a little competition? A race of sorts." He cocked his head a little, "Winner gets, uh…" The Earth Triber glanced around, a bit unsure of what Locke would want. "…anything they want! It can only be one thing, but it can be anything. A gem, a new accessory, anything." Ace nodded to confirm his decision, content with the ambiguous prize. "or we could play it dirty and have secrets at stake. The loser having to admit their deepest and darkest secret!" He proposed with a careless shrug of his shoulders. Ace was honestly curious if the Fire Triber had anything to hide, but being such an impulsive cat, didn't realize his precious inner thoughts would be at stake too.

---

Trying to read Ace's expression wasn't easy, but Locke was curious over how the other would take to being flirted back at. Was he used to such a thing or not? In the end he wasn't sure if it had made any bigger effect on him, because the grey tom simply joked along as he always did and Locke could only chuckle at it. Yet, deep down, he also found himself thinking 'Don't get my own up' . He pushed his thoughts away from the path they were heading and turned his attention back to listening to Ace.

His brow arched curiously at the idea, for a moment thinking it over, then giving the other a smug grin. "How about we let the winner decide? Whoever wins gets to pick either a thing they want, or a deep secret from the other?" This would be fun. He had never been to high on doing physical training and getting himself all sweaty, but if anything, this would surely keep his mind off of things. Without a warning, Locke had thrown himself into the water and begun paddling like crazy to the other side from where Ace had come from. "Last one to the Stepping Stone is the loser!" He called out. Although this side was closer to Light Tribe, he knew it would be a quicker path, rather than going around Cat's Eye Lake. He also knew, with his shorter legs and physique, he definitely needed a head start if he were to have any chance of winning.

---

With a sudden splash, Ace barely had enough time to comprehend the words from the Blue-Fire. He snorted a laugh as he realized, turning his head to see the pointed tom already ahead of him. His body type was made rather for endurance and strength, and he lacked speed and agility. Though, his long and sturdy legs did give him an awfully large cheat against the shorter cats. He stood at the bank, his mind now aware of what was at stake. Seeing a competitive side in Locke sparked something in the tom, but yet he resisted the urge to jump into the river after him. It was only fair that he got a head start, since the tom was significantly shorter. He flexed his muscles, bending down into a crouching position; Ace was ready to run.

Once the other made it to the other side, Ace jumped into the chilling waters again. It felt so good on the abnormally hot day, but he didn't have time to linger on it-- He had to win! The Earth Triber braced against the weak current easily, and once again, ungracefully made his way through the water. Once he reached the bank, he took a second to shake his heavy pelt before breaking into a jog. Hopefully he didn't underestimate the tinnier tom, as the running distance at this point wasn't very long at all.

---
It basically looked like Locke had lost half his size once he staggered up on the shore. His long fur that so commonly gave him his regal look was completely slicked against his body, hanging heavy from the water, and if it wasn't for the sudden competitiveness driving him, Locke would have made a big effort fix his appearance back to it's glorious self. Instead, he just gave a quick shake, water spraying around and hair standing on end, before starting to rush off along side the river. Another splash made him look over his shoulder and he grinned as he saw that Ace had followed suit. Games and races wasn't a common thing for Locke to do, perhaps that's why he was so eager to do it now, he needed something different with all that went on.

Hearing his friend reach the shore behind him, Locke's paws began to hit the ground in a more rapid pace as he did what he could to increase his speed. Small he may be, but Locke could have an incredibly fierce determination if his mind was set to something. No way was he going to lose! And for a while, it was going great, he had come a long way in his dash. But soon his breath came heavy through his chest and his speed began to slow down. Endurance was definitely not his thing.

---

Laughter rang out from behind the regal tom, a joyous expression on Ace's muzzle. "N'ver thought--" He panted, trying to yell up ahead at his competitor. "…You'd have a body underneath all that fluff!" He commented with a laugh, his jog progressively getting faster as he went along. It took him a moment to realize he was staring a hole through the Fire Triber, almost unable to tear his eyes away from the tom. For a moment, the fur had stuck to a frame that Ace hadn't expected, and now Locke was showing somewhat of a carefree side. He loved it, and there was a huge, flustered grin plastered on his face-- he was glad Locke was ahead of him so he couldn't see the dorky and toothy grin he wore.

Training deep in the mines made his lungs strong, and able bodied for this sort of activities. Who would've thought such an impulsive tom had tactics? Watching closely, he broke into long strides one his competition began to slow down. It made his chest heave in slow pants, but he was gaining on the white tom quickly now. Through leaps and bounds, he found himself right on the tail of the Blue-Fire, but his gaze was straight ahead. The Stepping Stones was just up ahead, and the two toms were closer than ever. He thought, why not provoke him a little? It wasn't like rules were established before the start of the race. He stretched his javenese neck, playfully trying to nip at the tail not a mouse-tail away from him. Normally, he would've make a flirtatious remark or at least crack a joke, but he couldn't gather words through his panting. The Earth Triber only chuckled loudly, a ravishing competitive fire in his eyes as he steadily kept up with Locke.

---

The comment wasn't particularly big, yet Locke found his cheeks heat up. He wanted to retort back with something clever or witty, or with anything at all really, but his mind seemed to blank out from embarrassment and all he could do was huff. Couldn't even look back to give Ace a glare because it would show him his flushed expression. So he steeled his eyes on the path ahead, still feeling the weariness rushing over him fast but doing his best to not lose his pace.

He ended up so focused on his goal that the sudden nip at his tail had him yelp out in surprise. With his attention suddenly scattered, he ended up fumbling with his paws, wobbling slightly from side to side before he was able to steady himself again. Now side along with Ace, as his stumble had cost him some moment, he was able to give the other a playful glare. "Are you playing dirty now too?" he yelled out, grinning and chest heaving for air. His throat and chest, even paws and legs were in pain from the unusual exercise, hardly used to this type of thing. Yet Locke didn't mind, wouldn't even mind if he lost now, because he felt more alive than he had ever done before. The adrenaline gave him such a rush and he was happy to just be there with no other thought in mind than the goal ahead and the one beside him. No sickness, no troubles. Just him and Ace, no one else.

---

It didn't take much to get Locke a bit behind, but now he was running right along side the Earth Triber. Ace's face was heated, his wide grin obvious and laughter still spilling from his maw. He felt so unbelievably unlike himself; nearly brimming with happiness. It was this higher form of happiness, but it was almost completely controlled by the adrenaline and lack of air. The wind streamed through his fur, and just for a moment, his gaze fell on the pointed tom beside him. He was smiling too. It was an image that Ace never wanted to forget; the image of this regal tom wearing such a careless and free smile. He wanted this moment between the two to last forever. It nearly made Ace trip over his paws before he snapped his attention back to the path ahead.

He could see the Stepping Stones now, and he realized it was time to pull the brakes. He slammed his large front paws down, causing a cloud of dust to appear around his forearms. Though, having never done such a thing before, didn't realize how abrupt stops were definitely not fun. He was nearly thrown forward, the dust he caused making it impossible to pinpoint where he landed. He had rolled, hopefully onto the Stepping Stone itself. Ace groaned softly, his chest still heaving, and tired eyes batting open. Again, the dust he caused making it impossible to tell if he'd actually reached the flat stone. Slowly standing up, he shook his pelt with a wide grin before realizing he'd totally missed the target, falling short by just a few inches. He stood at the bank of the river, an unamused expression on his face as he snorted a laugh. "Huh, I let you win--" He panted, an embarrassed look in his gaze. "Yeah, that's it…" His grin grew again, as he was obviously taking the role of sore loser. "I totally let you win this one."

---

He was at his end now, all his power and strength gone and was practically staggering over the last stretch. Only through the corner of his eye did he caught Ace doing something strange before dust billowed up around them and Locke had to blindly continue on. But he was able to find his way and with enough knowledge of the place, he finally skidded to a stop at the Stepping Stones. Turning around, watching the dust settle, it dawned on him that he had won.

With the most joyous cheer, Locke laughed happily, his smile so wide it pained his cheeks, and then finally collapsed on the spot. His breath came out ragged and he panted almost desperately for air, but, again, it didn't matter at all and the small laughters continued on from the pointed tom. "Of course," he wheezed. "Though I'm-- I'm pretty sure I would have dropped out had-- hah, had the race been longer." Still laughing and feeling so alive and alert, so different from how he had been at the start of the day, Locke tried to hobble up into a sitting position. He had never felt anything like this before, even though his whole body ached from the run, he felt great, and he was so happy Ace had got that out of him. He didn't even notice he had barely let the other go with his gaze since his stop. "Guess I-- get to pick the prize then, huh? Though how about we-- agh--" he coughed, trying to clear his throat, though still kept on a playful grin. "-we walk to the beach first so I can catch my breath?"

---

Ace couldn't help but cheer with the tom, using the last of his breath to laugh and congratulate the winner. He sat down, his mint gaze locked with that of the Fire-Tribers', and his chest heaving breathlessly. He was coming down from that triumphant high, and it felt like he couldn't break his dazed stare away from the other. It was just for a few moments that he searched Locke's eyes for anything other than happiness, and he couldn't wipe the toothy grin off his muzzle. Whenever he could, he got a laugh in between his panting. Spirits, for two cats not built to run, they sure went fast!

Once he got ahold of himself, he stood and stretched his muscles. Though, If it weren't for his profession, he would've been a whole lot more sore. The tom felt drained, but realized it was time to relax. He chuffed a sigh, shaking his pelt of dust before approaching the winner. "Hah, sounds fine to me. C'mon…" He laughed softly, stepping onto the flat stone beside the lounging tom. He waited for the other, and even stepped in close just in case the other was a bit wobbly from the long run. Sometimes legs didn't want to listen after such strenuous exercise, so he just wanted to make sure no one would be collapsing. Once they reached the Trees of Killian, he knew they were getting close. The strong stench of Shadow Tribe hit his nose, but he had other things to focus on now. Weaving through the trees, he tried to clear his mind of any thoughts at all. They were filled with worries of sickness and his friends-- but now, perhaps even worse, they were filled of Locke. For the better or the worse, Ace wasn't sure-- but he knew delving any deeper would leave him with more questions than answers.

By the time they reached the beach, Ace's whole body was tired. He eagerly stepped into the soft sand, a purr escaping him. He jogged ahead of Locke now, moving forward until he got to the shore, the water gently lapping at his sore pawpads. Then, he promptly sat down, his gaze over the vast ocean in front of him. The Earth Triber glanced over his shoulder, "Care to join me?" He snickered, winking playfully at his companion.

---

Continuing their journey to the sea, Locke slowly came down from his exhilarated state during their walk. He knew he would have been whining from the triedness in his legs had this been a different time but his thoughts began to focus on other things as there was no goal to put his attention to this time. It wasn't bad thoughts, not necessarily. He was simply reminded of what he had, for a long time now, wanted to explain to Ace, ever since that meeting in Light. His gaze would occasionally shift to the other, wondering what he was thinking and what he would eventually say. It was not like he thought Ace would laugh at his fear, still, it was not something told many and in a way, he was happy he had won, perhaps he would feel better sharing his own if Ace told a secret first.

Once finally there, Locke had to stop for a moment, finding the view incredibly peaceful and for a moment it was all on his mind. Nothing but the neverending sea. Not until Ace rushed forward and came into the picture - something Locke realized he was perfectly fine with - and the Fire Tribe had to quietly laugh under his breath, sticking his tongue out at the invite but followed suit with a smirk. He sat down beside him, tail curled neatly around his paws and let the silence fall over them for a few long seconds, his gaze set on the ocean that glimmered in the sunlight. Right there, the sickness had never seemed so far away, so nonexistent.
Eventually he turned to look up at his friend, a mischievous glint in his eyes, even felt brave enough to make it almost alluring. "So, tell me then Ace, what deep, dark secret do you have?"