Chapter Text
Our Story Begins…
“This is your captain. We’re almost to Spiral Island, so please prepare for landing.” The seaplane radio buzzed. “Return your seat to the upright position and make sure your seatbelt is securely fastened.”
Alec leaned forward in his seat, peeking out the seaplane window. He caught glimpses of the island below as they flew overhead. Only a handful of structures scattered between the lush greenery of numerous trees. He noticed there were some patches of colourful flowers that had been carefully planted, though only a few.
It was fairly basic, clearly still a developing island, but also reflected the care that was being put into that process. It looked peaceful and warm. And like a good home.
Alec’s antler bumped against the window frame as he tried to lean too far forward. He sat back, feeling the seaplane begin it’s descend to the water.
Alec stepped out of the airport, his hooves clicking against the wood of the dock. Readjusting his quiver, he saw a green ram standing at the shore’s edge, a pleasant smile on his face.
“Hello.” The ram greeted, extending his own hooves in welcome to the deer. “And welcome to Spiral Island.”
“Hi.” Alec answered reservedly, but not unfriendly.
“I’m Ragnor.” The ram continued. “And you must be Alec. We’ve been expecting you.” He explained.
“Our little group has been working hard on preparing the island. Improving it to make it into a good home for everyone. We were so excited to hear that you were planning to move here. That our hard work has been paying off and word of our little corner of paradise is starting to get out.” He smiled.
“In fact, we’ve been so hard at work that the one who was supposed to be greeting you got held up in wrapping up a project. We’re going to be building a bridge, and he needed to finalize the construction order.” He explained. “So, I’m filling in until he’s done. Can I offer you a tour of our budding island?” He offered.
Alec nodded. “I’d appreciate it.”
They walked together at a casual pace, Ragnor taking time to point out various spots of interest or future design aspirations. As Alec had concluded from his overhead glance, there were still only a handful of buildings that had been constructed so far.
“And over here is our shop.” He said, gesturing to a small building bearing a sign that read Cranny DuMort. Through the window, Alec could see a fanged white tiger, a heavy scowl on his face as he worked. “Raphael currently runs it on his own. He can come off as a bit of a grumpy-puss, but don’t let that scare you off. He’s harmless.” He chuckled. “Eventually, we’re planning to expand it into a much bigger space. Allow us to stock a much larger variety of products every day. We just need to make a big more money and get Raphael some help first.”
Alec nodded, noting the information.
Ragnor next pointed out the museum, explaining that he spent most of his time curating it.
“There are only a few specimens on display so far, but my plan is to fill it with an example of every variety of creature that can be found in our ecosystem.” He explained proudly. “Still a ways to go but, just like the rest of the island, we’ll work hard until we get there.”
Ragnor led Alec to a central plaza, gesturing to a large structure. “And this is our resident services. You can find Catarina here most days, happy to help with many of your island needs. Many hands make for quick work.” He laughed at his own private joke, cracking open the front door and waving to the figure inside. A smiling blue octopus waved a white tipped arm cheerfully in response.
“Is this where you register for a plot of land? And for building a house on it?” Alec asked.
“Yes, you’d take care of that here.” Ragnor replied. “Though, that actually falls under construction, so for that you’d want to speak to-”
“Who are you?” A new voice came from nearby.
Alec turned to find a beautiful golden eyed cat smiling at him.
“Oh there you are.” Ragnor said, completely unfazed by the new arrival’s sudden appearance.
“I’m Magnus. I don’t think we’ve been formally introduced.” The cat said, an eager grin on his face. “
“A-Alec.” He replied, wondering why he was suddenly struggling so hard to respond.
“Alec is our new resident.” Ragnor explained.
“Well, this is pleasant news indeed.” Magnus replied, grinning even wider, his golden eyes never looking away from Alec’s.
“I was just about to finish up the tour.” Ragnor said, looking between the pair and smiling to himself. “But, now that you’ve finished your task, did you want to take over? Help Alec get settled in?” He suggested. “I should be getting back to the museum, after all.”
“It’d be my pleasure.” Magnus purred, his gaze still unmoving.
Still surprised by his own flustered reaction, Alec was further embarrassed to find himself even more nervous when Ragnor left them alone. Magnus was still smiling at him and Alec found himself having to fight to think straight. And yet, when Magnus finally broke their eye contact, turning to lead them forward, he found himself not relieved but longing for more.
“It’s my understanding you’re staying at the campsite for now?” Magnus asked as they walked. “I hope you’re not undecided to if you’re staying on Spiral.” He added when Alec nodded.
“No, I’m staying.” Alec assured him. “I just need to get a few things sorted out first.”
“Excellent.” Magnus said, his golden eyes sparkling as he smiled brightly at Alec. “I’m all too pleased to have such a lovely new neighbour.”
And Alec felt his heart fluttering again.
He was relieved to spot the campsite not far away from them, saving him the struggle of constructing some logical semblance of a response. Instead, he was able to change the subject. “This is the campsite?”
“It is indeed!” Magnus replied. “I hope you’ll find it a comfortable spot during your transition.”
“I’ll be fine, thank you.” Alec replied, sliding his quiver off his shoulder and rummaging inside. After a moment, he pulled out a leaf. Standing before the campsite, he threw down the leaf, watching as it transformed into a tent. Satisfied, he turned back to Magnus. “I uh-” He started, gesturing to the tent behind him and finding himself nervous again. “I should probably go get set up for the night.”
“Of course.” Magnus replied, still smiling. He laughed. “And I supposed I really should go file the project paperwork at resident services. Is there anything that I can help you with before I go?”
“I’ll be fine.” Alec repeated, a bit defensively. He was immediately embarrassed for it.
“Glad to hear it.” Magnus replied, not unaware of Alec’s reaction, but not taking it personally. “You’ll make sure to let me know if there’s anything you need?” He asked, genuine in his question.
Alec nodded softly. “Thanks.”
“Well, I guess I’ll be off then. But I’ll see you around?” He asked, hopeful.
“Ya.” Alec answered, smiling softly. “That sounds nice.”
“Tomorrow then.” Magnus said warmly. “Sleep well.”
Alec stood in the doorway of his tent, holding the flap open with his hoof, watching the golden eyed cat saunter away and finding himself already eager for the next day.