Private Finished Hunters in a Bountiful World

Bracken reached out and summoned his deceptively simple dark-wooden spear to his hands. Holding it casually, but in an unspoken gesture of comfort for himself. This was certainly a concerning development. And also a hit to both his pride and sense of self worth, in a way. The skill he had with the Meld was what he was known for, in addition to his persistence and dedication of course, but if it was blocked or less useful... was he also less useful?

But he kept up the mental conversation, opting not to let the possibility of spies nearby keep them from talking. "I.. have not told him the extent of it yet. I mentioned noticing some strangeness with the Meld when we first started integrating with people here but I wasn't sure until yesterday."

Bracken shook his head, opting to let a frown cross his features. He continued mentally though, "No. I will tell him now. I would not like you to keep my secrets from Val. He should know about this." It was firm but not angry. His loyalty was unquestionable even if he had worries.

Bracken couldn't allow his worries and feelings to get in the way of his efficacy as a hunter. Not ever. Not ever.

To the rest though he nodded, not caring that to an outside observer they were kind of just looking at each other and nodding or gesturing randomly without a spoken word between them. "Yes, we cannot rely on our special skills too much here. There seems to be people able to counteract or work through them. To an extent we never had to deal with before."

And then he attempted to stoically add, "And if Val finds someone better qualified for his party..." He wasn't able to finish that statement though. That would lead to doubts and that would lead to mistakes and distraction.

He glanced down at his arm as she squeezed it but made no effort to stop her and then met her gaze as she tried to reassure him. "I do remember that conversation, yes. Your brothers were incorrect and we all knew that. But that is not quite what I mean. If Val finds more effective teammates I won't stand in the way if it means better protection against his father and a more effective hunting party."

And then he allowed a wry smile to cross his lips. "But of course they would have to be quite adept to outmatch me or any of the rest of us. I don't intend to go away anytime soon."

Bracken allowed another smile to pass his lips as he twirled his spear and then desummoned it. "I think that would be a good plan. We should make him aware of the threats. And see if he would like to join us for dinner." He gestured in a straight line from where they were as if to guide them back to the city.

"And yes, I believe he is currently still hanging out at the academy." Of course he knew. And of course she knew he knew. "Should I go ahead and let him know we are coming?"

Bracken thought about it and then shook his head. "I will just tell them to meet us there. It should be quicker that way." And with that they headed towards where Val was, as Bracken made contact with the rest of the hunting party mentally.