A Second Chance (Redwall Fanfic)

Otter Scouts

"I think that is something we need to discuss after we find the little ones as well as work on mending the Abbey. It is quite worrisome that some of ours may be dibbuns and infants." The adult beasts headed out in hopes of finding the young ones in the rain, but it was quickly found that the ones they were looking for were nowhere in site. Thus the "worrisome" Abbess Germain spoke of simply became more worrisome.

Their actions turned to repairing the abbey, which first meant looking over the damage. One of the things they noticed right away was the leaking roof as well as the orchard that happened to be filled with decay both of rotting fruits and dead limbs that had to be trimmed from the tree. The algae needed to be cleared from the pond and the moles decided to go and expect the walls in order to find places that needed repair.

Bella and Germaine stood at the table in the great hall, discussing the problem. The old abbess let out a sigh. "If only we had Martin. He was always good at sorting out this kind of thing. For now though we'll do what we can. Which to be honest is very limited. The moles can of course take care of the job that they are taking care of and we can take care of the orchard. The other problems are in fact a problem. Most of the leaking spots will need Amber and her squirrels to fix and the algae will need Skipper and his otters to clear out."

"Chances are they are out in Mossflower where they previously lived. This said, I can't help but wonder if this is secluded to only the Abbey, or if there are more out there. If the otters and squirrels haven't come back, we'll have to negotiate with this Moss Town."

Delbert shook his head. "They'll want to trade for services rendered. If there wasn't a catch we would in fact have asked them for help repairing the Abbey a long time ago. They're catch is slowly releasing control of the Abbey to them."

"It wasn't always like that." A rather quiet voice spoke up. The two elders for the past turned to look at Jupi the recorder. "There was a time when Moss Town took care of the Abbey, helped us out at times. However, we also had a trade back in the fact vermin were still around and the Abbey provided the best kind of protection, all things considered."

Delbert sighed. "Jupi doesn't usually speak up much."

"You said that if Martin were here the repairs wouldn't be a problem? I thought he came after the Abbey was built."

"Jupi's main interest is the legends surrounding Martin I'm afraid. As I said... he usually doesn't speak much, but this subject..."

Germaine smiled. "It's all right. Actually... it was Martin who designed the entire Abbey."

A silence fell over the room. Jupi placed a hand on his chin. "Really... that's interesting. The records say you were the one to design it."

"I simply drew what I wanted the Abbey to look like. Martin took that and began drawing up blueprints after watching me draw a few sketches. I honestly don't know where he learned such a skill, but I do know that whatever he puts his mind to he excels at."

Bella snorted through her nose. "That includes singing though he would say otherwise. The reason he's not down in the history books as being the original creator is because he was... is always one to brush off his natural skills. A lovely young mouse to be sure, but quite... odd you could say."

The others who had reappeared nodded their heads. Ben Stickle nodded his head. "Since the only thing we can do really is mend the orchard the majority of us should start in on that. Abbess and Bella can supervise while the old ones can prepare food as it's going to be a long days work."

"If they feel up to it. I could prepare food if you wish me too." Goody smiled.

"Actually..." Delert smiled back. "...it would be nice if you could take charge of bringing me som fruit from the orchard that is suitable for the meal." He then turned to Collum. "Young hedgehog. Do you think you can go out with Mr. Stickles and help him as well? I think he may be able to teach you some things you don't know yet."