Watership down 2 - a new threat

Chapter 40

Chapter 40: The Fasting

The sun had barely risen over Watership Down when Hazel called the rabbits together for an important announcement. The air was crisp, and a sense of urgency filled the atmosphere. Fiver, still shaken from his recent vision, joined the gathering, sensing that today was different.

"Listen up, everyone," Hazel began, his voice steady but grave. "We've faced many threats, but we all know that the time for action is approaching. Woundwort is out there, and if we want to protect our home and the future of all rabbits, we need to be strong and focused. To prepare, we're going to undertake a fasting period."

A murmur of surprise rippled through the crowd. Fasting was a serious undertaking, usually reserved for moments of great significance. It required discipline and a deep commitment to the cause.

"Fasting?" Dandelion questioned, his brow furrowed. "Are you sure that's wise, Hazel? We need our strength."

"I understand your concerns," Hazel replied, "but this is about more than just food. It's about uniting our minds and spirits. We need clarity and focus as we prepare for the challenges ahead. It's a way to show our commitment to each other and to the fight we're facing."

Fiver felt a knot of uncertainty in his stomach. While he understood the importance of the fasting, the thought of being deprived of food made him uneasy, especially after the recent visions that had haunted him. Yet, he looked around at his friends—Bigwig, Dandelion, and Blackberry—all of them nodding in agreement. They were willing to do whatever it took for the sake of their home.

"I'll do it," Bigwig said, his voice strong. "If it means keeping our warren safe, I'm in. We can't let Woundwort think we're weak."

With a deep breath, Fiver added, "Me too. I'll join in. But I think we should also spend this time reflecting on what we want to achieve. Each of us should take a moment to visualize our goals and the future we desire."

Hazel nodded appreciatively. "That's a good idea, Fiver. We'll use this fasting period to connect with each other and ourselves. Let's set a timeframe of three days. During this time, we'll meet each evening to share our thoughts and visions."

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, the rabbits dispersed, each one contemplating the challenge ahead. Fiver found a quiet spot on a hillside, overlooking the meadows below. He closed his eyes and let the gentle breeze wash over him, focusing on his breathing.

With each breath, he visualized the future he wanted to see—a safe home for all rabbits, free from the tyranny of Woundwort and the looming threat of Efrafa. Images of vibrant warrens filled his mind, rabbits living in harmony, sharing stories, and raising families in peace.

The first day of fasting passed slowly, the absence of food a constant reminder of their commitment. Fiver found solace in the camaraderie of his friends. They spent their time together, discussing their hopes and fears, sharing stories of past victories and dreams for the future.

As night fell, they gathered again, their spirits lifted despite the hunger pangs that gripped them. Hazel led the discussion, encouraging each rabbit to share their thoughts and visions.

"I see a place where we can live without fear," Hazel began. "A place where every rabbit can find their home, where the scars of the past are healed, and we can thrive together."

Bigwig spoke next. "I want to see us strong enough to defend our home, to protect the ones we love from anyone who would seek to harm us. We must become a force that Woundwort will never be able to challenge."

Fiver shared his vision, recounting the images he had seen, hoping to inspire courage in his friends. "I believe we can create a new legacy, one where we are remembered for our bravery, not our suffering. We can be more than just survivors; we can be leaders."

As each rabbit spoke, Fiver felt the bond between them grow stronger. They were united in their purpose, and despite the fasting, their spirits soared.

The next two days passed in a blur of shared hopes and visions. The rabbits found strength in their unity, their hunger becoming a testament to their dedication to the cause. By the end of the third day, they were physically weak but spiritually invigorated, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

On the final evening of their fasting, as the sun set in brilliant hues of orange and pink, they gathered one last time. Hazel looked at his friends, a determined glint in his eyes. "We've shown our commitment to each other and to our warren. It's time to translate this strength into action."

Fiver felt a surge of energy within him. They had fasted not just from food but from fear and doubt. They were ready to confront the shadows of the past and forge a brighter future. Together, they would rise to the challenges ahead, armed with the strength of their shared resolve and the bonds of friendship that would carry them through.