Static Shores - Short Story Part 2

As I stared at the odd interaction along the beach, Meadow shifted next to me and turned away, growling. Her growl didn't mimic those of other beasts—it let out a very low hum that made my skin vibrate at a fast frequency.

"What is it?" I whispered.

Bright colors flashed from the edge of my vision. Pivoting away from the odd people I wanted to observe for longer, the colored Elderkaw the people rode landed down the hill in front of me, colors burning in so many hues. Its feathers shimmered with impossible intricacies. A curved head primarily covered in red feathers allowed the beast's bright yellow eyes to glow as the beast fixed its gaze on me, ignoring Meadow.

My partner beast moved long grass blades toward the Elderkaw. I moved my Aura toward the beast in the same way.

"What are you?" I asked as soon as my Aura touched the Elderkaw's Aura. An instant push forced my Aura away, making me jolt back as if shocked. "You're partnered?" I asked, eyes wide.

I didn't know others could partner with beasts. The few people I interacted with hadn't. Unless you counted the Vigorists overtaking the Waldabears or Darkened Elderkaws.

"Where did you come from?" I asked.

The rainbowed Elderkaw didn't move, eyes still on me. Meadow pushed her blades forward in a sudden flurry of emerald streaks. In a burst of color, the Elderkaw zipped away from Meadow's attack attempt, flew at my beast, and knocked her back with its massive colorful wings. Then, the beast landed in front of me, bright eyes blazing. Flashes of yellow light flickered within its irises. The beast's Aura pushed against mine, a surge of energy I'd never felt before coursing through my veins. A sweet aroma flooded my nose. My skin prickled, hairs standing on end.

"What is that?"

Suddenly, another force of energy pushed at my mind. The colored Elderkaw turned its gaze past me. Crackling static buzzed from behind. As I pivoted, the gray-and-yellow Static Elderkaw—the one that got away—held Meadow within its talons, sparks dancing over her skin.

"Meadow..."

My partner didn't respond to my soft plea. A deep burn pulled at my heart, ripping the air out of my lungs.

Before I could reach out to Manipulate the Static Elderkaw's Aura, the beast took off, carrying my partner into a cloud toward the sea.

I lurched forward, gasping for air. "No..." In a sudden rip, my heart flew away with my beast.

A gust of wind came from behind me as the prism-feathered Elderkaw took off in the opposite direction, leaving me all alone.

I faced the sea, unsure about what to do next. One certainty anchored me: I would find Meadow. Her Aura would guide the way.

To be continued...