Root Bound

Chapter 1

This book will contain mentions of death and acts of violence. Please be aware before reading that This book has a mature rating for many reasons. If anything will be explicit I will put a trigger warning at the top of the chapters. Please do not ignore these warnings. Otherwise please enjoy.

The Grove was wonderful place to grow up and experience a large family. Everyone within had a job that they do so that out way of life remained. The children were only asked to grow strong and healthy so that they can continue the grove. The adults had many jobs such as ensuring food was available to all members. Protecting the grove from any outside threats and ensuring successors were prepared should they be killed. Jobs for the successors training starts when they turn as young as 8 depending on the job. The children selected for these jobs would be separated from the other children very shortly after selection. Every member understood that while they only wanted the children to grow and become an adult before gaining tasks, exceptions had to be made and the children selected would be considered part of the adults and are expected to contribute the same. The most respected of the protecting adults are the ones selected to protect the children. They are always to stay near the children if anything happens to them the group may collapse upon itself.

Every person has different strengths and each one utilizes them to the best. Some members are gifted in the ways of magic gifted by nature. Nature provides them with protection in ways no person alone could understand. These gifts provide them with spells and the ability to change into animals to ensure safety. Everyday is seen as gift to be enjoyed to the fullest extent.

"Have you thought about your successor for the next First?" A male voice asked while sitting at a stone table. The man a greying brunette asks.

"Yes I have selected Alastair. He showed the most promise."  A female voice replied. She was an older adult one of the last of her group.

"Yes, the boy showed much promise and already has 2 babes with a third to come soon." Another male voice called out. A raven haired man sat with pride.

The Adults and Elders spoke with each other as those without successors can name one of the young who will take  their place should they leave this mortal world. There was only one male who had yet to name a successor. He had the biggest responsibility as he was the current Protector of the children. He not only ensured their safety but if any children lost their parents while they are young, He will take and raise the children. He is the only one left of them and he has the responsibility of ensuring a future.

"So old friend have you chosen a successor?" The Female voice called to him.

"Yes I have selected one, but no one will be happy." He responded. He had a forlorn expression. He dreaded this day.

"Well whom have you selected?" She asked back noticing his expression. She was unsure what could cause him to look this way.

"I have chosen Amina. She is the strongest with the will to handle the children." He said grimacing at the shouts of protest.

"The girl has just barely celebrated her 8th spring. You cannot tell me you selected a child so young." A different female voice called out. She cannot believe what she heard.  

"I must agree she is much too young for this responsibility." A male voice called.

"Everyone quiet down. We must respect his choice as she is the age the selection can begin. May I inquire how you selected Amina?" The female leader called out. She was worried but respects the man enough to listen.

"Amina is currently one of the 5 orphans we have. She shows great care to the younger children. She is the oldest of them and she takes amazing care to ensure they stay safe. She shows the promise to be the best Protector that we have ever seen. If you do not believe me let us go and watch them." He responded standing to leave. The others standing to follow him.