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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 15, 2008 17:46:48 GMT -5
((Yes, the Guardians and Tyden can thought-send & receive with all the unicorns, and vice versa. Some unicorns are better at the act then others, of course. And it does tend to give Tyden a bit of a head ache, but he'll live ))
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Post by angelofmusic on Sept 15, 2008 18:42:58 GMT -5
(is not totally dead, is just watching and reading)
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Post by Delicious on Sept 15, 2008 21:21:34 GMT -5
Marta, red with embarrassment, hesitantly took Tyden's mug. She tried to plaster on a smile in response, but blushed when she belatedly realized he was no longer paying her any attention. She sighed, mentally kicking herself for being such a klutz and started to walk towards the well. However, at Tyden's address, she turned and wrinkled her nose in confusion. "Looking for .... Lana? Why ever for? Are you sure? I mean .... are you she's the right person? She can't even hear you, y'know. She can barely talk to us, and that's only if you talk slow - she can read lips. And just ... are you SURE?" Marta asked, looking back and forth between Tyden and Lana with growing bemusement. She eyed the horse that had apparently decided Lana was her new best friend, and wondered if that had something to do with it. Possibly they really WERE circus trainers...? Spirit, reveling in the quiet contentment of close contact with her new Companion, fairly glowed with happiness. While almost completely oblivious to the goings on outside of their little pair, she managed to catch a few snippets of Marta's little speech. Couldn't hear? She opened an eye and wuffled softly in Lana's hair. 'Is that true, sweetling?' she sent, eyeing Lana thoughtfully. 'Mmm?' Lana lifted her face, and smiled with muzzy contentment at Spirit. 'S'what true?' Spirit nosed her gently, concern growing slowly. 'Did you not hear that? Your sister?' Lana shook her head. 'Can't hear anyone. Was sick when I was a little'un, haven't been able to hear anything since then... ... ... except for you.' she sent back, and smiled blindingly before wrapping her arms around Spirit's neck. 'It's hard sometimes, but I do alright.' Spirit quivered slightly, and let herself be pulled into the hug. She tried her best to radiate calm affection, when in truth she felt anything but - she tried to catch Tyden's eye, arrowing a frantic thought his way (hoping that Lana wouldn't be able to catch it). 'She's deaf, Tyden. Can't hear a thing, what do I DO?' ((Feel free to pull the rest of the group outta the front door. Dad n' brothers would probably be about ready to get to the regular chores and out to the fields))
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 15, 2008 23:13:58 GMT -5
Xanthe had moved aside as Spirit melted into Lana's embrace, and she now stood with her head jolting back and forth like someone watching a sport match, listening in on the conversation and broad thought-casting with keen interest. Deaf? How strange not to have working ears, she thought to herself, more intrigued by the notion then anything else. But no matter... at least you could always cast back and forth with someone for a conversation.... who really needed to speak out loud anyway? She wondered why Spirit looked so alarmed; it hadn't quite dawned on her that most humans held little aptitude for even the simplest casting, if any at all. She bounded over to Tyden, hoping for an explanation. Tyden was momentarily lost for words as he absorbed the information. That would explain it, he frowned; the pieces fell together quite tidily in retrospect. He listened to Marta's explanation, his eyes remaining on Lana, and reproofed himself for not seeing it earlier. His headache had returned something fierce, and he squeezed his temples absentmindedly as he tried to determined the best thing to do. Spirit's distress was radiating even if she hadn't sent her thoughts his way. And at the moment, he didn't entirely have the answer. It wasn't that Lana's being deaf was real problem - but it did present a new and unexpected challenge to this gamut of events they were already stumbling through. He looked up, and saw Xanthe, Marta, and Spirit all looking at him expectantly. Lana alone seemed momentarily sated, her arms wrapped tightly around the bright bay mare with obvious delight. "Well..." he began formally. At that moment, the door swung open on the little farm house as Mr Madsen and Thom emerged brightly for the morning's chores, a tin pail in Thom's hands full of slops for the pigs and Brute the dog running joyful circles around them. When he spotted the group he stopped, but only let out one reserved "woof" to let them know he had his eye on them, and fell into a neat stride beside the boy. Thom whistled to him, his own eyes observing the fine horses almost wistfully but his sense of duty kept his feet moving , heading down the the sty with his offerings. Mr. Madsen tipped his hat genially. "Morning, Mr. Tyden," he smiled. "Good morning, sir," he gave his head a small bob instinctively. "I wanted to thank you and your wife for the wonderful breakfast - it's been some time since we've had a home-cooked meal. And your daughters have been so kind and courteous. Marta must be such a big help," he glanced at the younger girl briefly. "And I'm so happy to have made acquaintances with your Lana," he turned to the elder daughter in full, up to her arms in equine goodness. " Spirit seems to have taken quite the liking to her as well. I'm really quite glad we came upon her when we did - the timing could not have been more ideal." Mr. Madsen had begun by smiling, but now he was looking almost a bit confused. He glanced at Marta, who seemed to offer no explanation, and back to his eldest again. "Why, you are quite welcome, Mr. Tyden.... but pardon my not followin'... what's this you say about Lana? She's a special girl, our Lana is... not the kind of girl most people are lookin' for." His eyes were on Tyden now, and they had hardened, protectively, evaluating the man before him with weariness anew. Tyden saw the look and flushed, and jutted out his hand in formal greeting. "We were not properly introduced last night, Mr. Madsen. I... am a teacher... my cousin and I are headed to my new post - a school for the blind and hard-of-hearing, sir... We teach people - just like Lana - to communicate. Speak. Read. It's not impossible... I've seen it work a hundred times over, with... the proper instruction. I feel, we could do a lot for your Lana..." he could feel the gaze from the others like sharp teeth to the back of his head, but kept his eyes fixed on Mr. Madsen and sincere.... it wasn't a whole lie, after all.... and he had absolute faith that once Kalidore, with the help of Spirit and the others, Lana could learn to compensate for her disability completely... ... if he could figure out how to get her there without having her fine and upstanding father run the lot of them off with his shotgun.... ((Hmmm... not entirely sure where to go with this, lol.... can you work with that Del? I can always try adding to it tomorrow evening if it really doesn't make sence ))
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Post by Delicious on Sept 16, 2008 11:49:09 GMT -5
(( Makes enough sense to me. I'll try to post when I can today - but if you get a chance to add before I do, that's fine too.))
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 16, 2008 21:20:05 GMT -5
((yeah... my brain's toast... been up for 17 hours on about three hours sleep... spent the whole day scince 5 am inside an arena shooting a hockey promo. My brain is *frozen* toast...))
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Post by Delicious on Sept 17, 2008 16:22:11 GMT -5
(( Wahaha. Finally time to reply - meant to last night, but got back home late from work to find myself a sick pup, and a lovely mess on the carpet to clean up. Didn't get much writing done as a result - but at least the fuzzball seems to be feeling better today!)) Geoffrey Madsen's eyes narrowed as he listened to Tyden's monologue. Upon its finish, he rubbed his chin pensively before replying. "I've heard of a school up north that does that sort o' thing, but we're not rich folk - and sending her that'a'way would've us cost a prettier penny than we've got." he glanced towards Lana with open regret before continuing, "It's a right strange chance, you coming upon us then." His gaze hardened suddenly, and his expression closed. " 'less you been talkin' to folk in town n' came on by after - you'd not be the first to try an' sell us some sort o' snake oil cure for my girl. I don't mean to be unneighborly, Mr. Tyden - but how do I know I can trust yeh? This ain't just a bed for the night that we're talking about now, this is my girl." He paused here, and awaited Tyden's reply. Spirit shifted slightly, and nuzzled at Lana almost absentmindedly - her ears flicking back and forth as she listened to the conversation between the two men. She had to commend Tyden for his quick thinking - she hadn't thought that far ahead, so caught up was she in the simple finding of her Companion, and the startling revelations that had accompanied it. Lana, mindlessly reveled in the strange and wonderful feeling of completeness that whispered through her in warm waves. It was several minutes before her mind finally caught up to the initial shock, and started processing again - the questioning thoughts fairly burst from her, and she would've laughed to realize her similarity to Marta minutes earlier. 'Are you truly what I think you are...? Truly a unicorn? Where did you COME from? Are you staying? Why can you hear me? And what .... what exactly did you mean you said you'd 'found me'?' Lana gave Spirit's neck a final squeeze before raising her head, wanting to meet the mare's eyes while they 'talked'. However, as she backed away slightly - she caught sight of her father and Tyden engaged in what looked like fairly serious conversation. She frowned, and looked back up at Spirit. '.... Spirit? (I can call you that, yes?), what's going on? Is everything okay? Have I upset your ... owner? Companion? That man?' she nodded her head slightly in the direction of Tyden. 'Mrrhm?' Spirit tore her attention away from the conversation at hand, and focused back on Lana. 'Owner? Whu...? Oh! Tyden!' Spirit choked on laugh, trying desperately to muffle it into properly quiet and non-disturbing horse-like sounds. 'Ahm, no dearheart, he's no owner. Traveling companion, yes. He's not upset with you at all, he's trying to convince your father to let you come with us....' she cut off abruptly - belatedly realizing how much of the situation hadn't even been broached - much less explained. 'That is, if you'd WANT to come, after I've told you everything. We don't have to go, if you truly, truly don't want. I could stay here, or at least visit often - although, if you came with us, you could visit just as often, so you don't have to worry about THAT...' Spirit trailed off a bit nervously. Lana smiled relievedly at Spirit's use of 'we' in her nervous monologue, and reached up to pat her cheek softly. 'As if I'd let my first real conversational companion in fifteen years escape me that easily.' She wrinkled her nose in thought before replying. 'I'd like to know more, obviously - about where, and what exactly is going on. But as long as you'll let me tag along, I think I'd like to come. You can tell your 'traveling companion' that too, if it helps. And I can try and help with Papa, too.' she nodded decisively. Spirit whuffled her hair again, her anxious nerves easing slightly at Lana's easy acceptance of the plan to return to Kalidore. 'Oh, I'm sure you'll love it there, sweetling. It's gorgeous! And 'phaë! She'll be wild to meet you, and we can come back here and visit whenever...' she bubbled, fairly prancing in place with excitement. Lana hid a smile, amused at Spirit's barely contained antics. 'True, but first, let's get Papa and ... Tyden, was it? ... out of their mess.''Ah, yes!' Spirit replied sheepishly. Quickly she arrowed a thought at Tyden, 'She wants to come. And to help. Just tell us how.'((Oh goodness, the COLORS. I'm going to start just talking to rocks, so I don't have to color them all, hahaha. Edited:On second thought, just doing non-me, not-here characters, I've made it too flashy otherwise, and it drives me batty. Hehe.))
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 17, 2008 19:10:40 GMT -5
Spirit's message came to him with a slight headache but an overall twinge of relief. At least they were on board; that made things simpler in one regard. However, explaining this to Mr. Madsen in a way he would understand and accept was a different kettle of fish entirely. *Help me convince him this is a good thing...?* he thought back warily. *Here I am trying to be an honorable and upstanding citizen, and I don't even know what year we're in, what customs are exsist, let alone what part of world.... so really, anything you can give me would be most appreciated....* He turned back to the rugged farmer and spoke carefully, his eyes remaining on Spirit and Lana. "Perhaps it's providence... I don't begin to understand how we are all drawn together in this big world; such are things best left alone by us mortals," he shrugged apologetically. "But I agree... the cost for the schooling can be expensive. That's why we've been working with families and the community to try and place those who need it most, too - not just the wealthy. We offer time payments and work-placements for those who are in need. In fact, we think it's a great boon to our students to be able to feel that they are supporting themselves - and are no longer a burden to their family. It's about building independence. Lana seems... very in tune to the animals, sir. Perhaps she would welcome the opportunity to work with our horses...?" Xanthe had crept forward, and Tyden moved instinctively to put his on her back, hoping she had no brilliant ideas of her own to let loose on the situation. "We breed horses at the school," he gave her neck a firm pat, a firm suggestion to stand still. "Some of our students help train them, and we raise funds through their sale. We believe a kind hand is the best way to teach an animal - and a person. The results you can see here in our horses." He gave Xanthe another firm pat for good measure. ((you're right... so many colours.... like a christmas tree!!))
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Post by angelofmusic on Sept 18, 2008 2:08:11 GMT -5
(*starts humming The Spectrum Song from Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color*) The hours passed on and Trinity, still astride the horse she had taken from one of the thieves, continued on her way. She knew not where she was going, but wherever it was, she wasn't home, thinking of where she should belong. Soon she stopped near a small stream to let the horse drink. In the meantime, she checked the saddle bags the horse was carrying. Finding some food she said a silent thanks. Digging in more, she found jewelry, obviously stolen, and a couple of daggers. She knew that at the next village she could sell the items for coins. As she looked through the jewelry though, one piece caught her eye. Looking it over, it was made of peweter it seemed, circular with a celtic knot trimming the edge, a unicorn in the middle. She placed the black cord around her neck and tucked the pendant away. She wouldn't give that one up, even though she knew it wasn't hers really, but sheseemed drawn to it. After a few more minutes, she repacked the saddle bags and would continue on her way, feeling as if something were going to happen, but she wasn't sure just what. (Note: Necklace looks like this- ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51F0P5CKTXL._SL500_AA280_.jpg hope the link works)
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Post by Delicious on Sept 18, 2008 4:04:24 GMT -5
Mr. Madsen stood silently for a few moments, pensive and solemn, obviously mulling over Tyden's words carefully - running his hand through his hair as he thought.
"You seem sincere, Tyden. I'll give you that. And I can't say that a chance to set up my Lana good n' proper isn't dear to my heart. But it's something that will take a bit of talking - and I've got some work to do yet, this morning. So, here's what I'll can do - sit with her 'til lunch - if you have the time, and see if you can't work some of your teaching magic." he gave a wry chuckle at this, and shook his head, before continuing. "I'm not expecting miracles - but if you're true about this teaching business, I'd have you at least explain it to her - and convince her yourself. She's not dim, not my Lana - she can do some readin', and can watch your lips if you speak slow enough. Marta an' Mia too - they have some hand words they use, that might be of help. And in the meantime, I'll think on your offer, and come lunch we can talk a bit more. Fair?" he held out a hand, offering to shake on the deal.
(( Gah! Just came up with a PERFECT way to convince Dad come lunch time! *pokes Lady W repeatedly* Hehehe. And it's late, so I'll leave the rest of the planning for later. Also - gorgeous pendant Angel!))
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 18, 2008 11:52:16 GMT -5
((*uses Tyden as a human poking shield* Oooooh, that's brilliant!)) As they shook on it, Tyden tried not to smile too widely until Mr. Madsen had started after Thom to the barn, pausing only to give his eldest daughter a light squeeze of her shoulder in passing. Then Kalidore's first designated school master turned to the pair grinning like a fool. "Well, what do you think of that?" "Are--" Xanthe began, then realized Marta was still with them and clammed her mouth shut with a cough. *Are you going to sell me?* she looked positively alarmed. "Good grief, no sweetling!" Tyden threw his arms around the Korè as he laughed. *Well, if it meant Lana could return to Kalidore... I'd have gone along with it,* she replied primly. *Sacrifices must be made by all, you did say... and I'm willing to do my part for the good of Kalidore. And besides, sure I could have snuck away later, and made my way back alone--**No one is leaving anyone anywhere* he assured her with a sigh, *so I'm afriad you'll have to save your selfless sacrifice for another day.* Xanthe could be an odd one, that's for sure. In some ways, she was kind of like her sister. Xanthe shrugged indifferently, obviously still quite pleased by her own willingness. *If you say so. Would you like me to do something about that headache for you instead?*It was his turn to frown slightly, because in the moment's excitement he'd almost forgotten. Thought-casting always did that to him, and he'd done more of it in the last hour then he had in the past few weeks. Besides, Xanthe was still too young to have governance over a unicorn's innate healing abilities... *Am not,* the indignation rattled his brain. She peered up at him determinedly, and pressed the blunt end of her horn against his forehead, tongue pursed through her teeth with concentration. There was a sensation, a slightly vibration, and suddenly his head cleared. "Ha!" Xanthe blurted out before she could stop herself, but pleased as punch as she was it didn't matter. She bounced away kicking up her heels in exuberance, leaping and prancing, very much the young korè frolicking across the meadows at home. Tyden rubbed his hand across his brow as if he didn't quite believe it was true, or maybe action was in response to Xanthe's antics, or maybe his own. He shook his head, and turned to Spirit and Lana in full. "So are you two up the challenge?" he asked ((Woot! hope that does it for you.... feel free to fast forward us to lunchtime Del, and reveal Lana's new and amazing grasp of spoken language
Oh, and Angel of Music, can you PM me? - Lady Whimsy on PI - so I can work you into the rp. I pm'd you weeks ago but wasn't sure if you ever got it, thanks!))
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Post by silentmoon on Sept 18, 2008 16:11:14 GMT -5
((I just have to comment, man, Xanthe just made me squee! So freakin adorable in my head! "Are you going to sell me?" x3))
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Post by Delicious on Sept 19, 2008 5:19:17 GMT -5
The morning passed for Lana in a blur. After seeing Marta back to the house, and a quick nod and a wave to Mrs. Madsen - Tyden, Spirit and Lana set to their little plan with a vengeance. It was frustrating at first, Lana admitted to herself ruefully, but with the boundless encouragement from the little group (and especially little Xanthe), she managed to surprise even herself. 'Do you really think I'm ready?' she asked Spirit for the umpteenth time, as she leaned against the sun warmed bark of the old apple tree behind the barn. Spirit rolled her eyes and chewed at her latest apple. 'You know I do. And so does Tyden. And Xanthe, and anyone else you'd care to ask.' she swallowed, and leaned her head forward to nuzzle at Lana's cheek - her muzzle sticky with apple juice. 'You'll do fine.'Lana snerked, and pushed back at Spirit's neck. 'Hrmf. Well, I suppose I'll trust you then, at least not to ask for another few minutes.' she grinned at Spirit. 'You know, you should probably stop eating QUITE so many of those. I've lost track of the count so far!''I've not eaten THAT many. Only ... six. Or so.' Spirit sent, and harrumphed in her general direction - accidentally blowing bits of apple that clung to Lana's face and dress. Lana threw up her hands and glared at Spirit in mock exasperation. 'Oh now there's a way to impress Papa! Let's cover me in apple bits! He'll be laughing so hard he wouldn't be able to agree to anything even if we ASKED!' she stuck out her tongue at the mare, and tried her best to brush off the apple from her face and dress. 'Marta is coming.' Spirit suddenly sent quietly, and Lana looked up sharply from her brushings - the small knot of anxiety reforming suddenly in the pit of her stomach. 'I think she's come to call us to lunch. It's time, dearheart - if you're still up to it.' Lana steeled herself, and took a deep breath. 'I am.' she replied, 'Let's get Tyden and the others.'--- The little house and yard was a bustle of activity - the boys having just returned from the fields, and washing up by the well. The two younger girls had returned from their errands in the barn (Lana felt a small pang of guilt at having skipped at assisting with her usual chores. Even with permission, it felt ... awkward), and were now assisting her mother table settings, and final food preparation. Her younger brothers finished their latest task of finding a place for a bench at the table. The bench, a make-shift arrangement of a plank of smooth-hewn wood on top of a pair of milking stools, had been enterprisingly wedged into the already cluttered seating arrangements around the rest of the table, indicating that the family obviously expected their two guests to join them inside for the daily meal. Geoffery Madsen - fresh scrubbed from the well, walked up behind Tyden and clapped him heartily on one shoulder, the expression on his face a slightly tired, if pleasant grin. "Well, Mr. Tyden - about ready for that talk? Figure we can have a bit'o a bite first - and then chat a bit about this school of your'n, an' try and see what Lana thinks about it all. Yeh did explain it my girl a'rights, yes?" He arched an eyebrow at Tyden - his curiosity and expression giving his question a bit more heft than his otherwise pleasant demeanor implied. While he waited for a reply, he pulled Lana, standing nearby, into a rough hug - but kept his eyes on Tyden. 'Lana, sweetheart - do it now.' Spirit sent hurriedly. 'It'd be best if you do it before your father tries to have his 'talk' with Tyden.'Lana wrinkled her nose and closed her eyes - burying her face against her father's chest momentarily as she took another deep breath. "Papa?" she whispered, the word tickled her throat, but she ignored the strangeness and tried again. "Papa?" she spoke louder this time - less awkwardly. Her father went still against her, still holding her tight in his heavy arms. "Papa. Papa - listen." she said, and pushed herself away from his chest, just enough to look up into his weathered face - which stared down at her in stricken wonder. Lana gave him a big (if nervous) smile, and closed her eyes to concentrate on the task at hand. "Kind... ness is ... the ... lan...guage... that ... the ... de..af ... can .... hear ... and ... the ... bl..ind ... can ... see."* she took a deep breath and smiled, opening her eyes again and looking up at her father who, strangely enough, had tears running openly down his face. "Papa." she said again. "Papa, I ... want to .. go." and she hugged him fiercely - and was surprised to find her own face wet as well. 'Well done, dearheart.' Spirit's voice in her mind whispered. 'Well done.'((* Totally time, and subject appropriate quote - Mark Twain! One of the few authors with which the Madsens have any acquaintance (yeah, okay, not that anyone knew that before - but now you do! Geoffrey Madsen is a big fan of Twain. Lana knew this - having been taught some reading from the book or two of his they have in the house. Yes. She helped find/remember the quote, or something.)
And now Mr. Madsen is appropriately mush in Tyden's hand. Also, Mama Madsen may or may not have overheard and dropped a plate of food in the kitchen in sheer shock. >.>
Hopefully that wasn't over awkward to read. And it was HARD not to try and puppet Tyden around a teensy bit, but I resisted the urge. But hey, I think we're at the point where you can basically just pat Mr. Madsen on the head, and we can get on outta here!))
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Post by angelofmusic on Sept 19, 2008 17:18:28 GMT -5
As Trinity contunued along the path to the next village or town, she let her mind wander of little things she often thought of. She thought of unicorns and where they could be hiding. Thought of faeries and how she had often snuck from her house at night to leave a bowl of creme near a thorn bush for them only to find it empty the next morning. She had always thought that they had taken the offer....or perhaps a cat had gotten to it, but a cat would have known better...wouldn't it?
She thought of the items in the saddle bags, then of the necklace that was now around her neck. Taking it out, she looked over it, looking at how regal the unicorn upon it looked. Tucking it away once more she smiled softly. I'm sure you're out there somewhere and perhaps I'll find you. she thought to herself as she looked over the great rolling green that was land.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 19, 2008 18:22:27 GMT -5
((Weee, that was awesome! And I agree - couldn't have found a more perfect quote ))Tyden watched as the family converged around Lana, each hugging her in turn, talking so quickly she must have been having trouble following, but she didn't seem to mind... that look on her face.... he smiled, for it was impossible not to be swept up in the feeling that filled the room. Lana's mother had come running from the adjoined kitchen upon hearing Lana's words, and after she had hugged everyone in turn, she threw her arms around Tyden, too. "Thank you for giving my daughter back herself," she whispered in his ear. "It was Lana who did it all," he shrugged, blushing boyishly. "I only helped her find the way." Mrs. Madsen gave him one more squeeze and then released him, turning to dab the corner of her eyes on her apron. "Lana must go to the school," she said. "Whatever it takes. And you, Mr. Tyden, you must stay for dinner. You are no longer a stranger here, and are welcome to stay as long as you want." "That's a very kind offer, Mrs. Madsen, but I'm afraid I've stayed about as long as I can spare," he bobbed his head apologetically. "Indeed," Geoffrey Madsen clapped him on the arm again. "I reckon you have some ways to travel yet, and we have held you up nearly half a day. Let Adele pack some food to take, it is the least we can do. And we will try sendin' Lana to you as soon as my brother has done use with the horses this fall...." "Sir," Tyden broached carefully, " Lana is more then welcome to accompany us now. She will be in good company with my cousin, and she can ride Spirit. She's bonded with the mare so well allready, I have no concerns for her on the ride." "But Mr. Tyden--" Adele Madsen came to stand beside her husband. "Your own horse! And you walkin' - we could never impose on you like that!" "Walking is good for the soul," he smiled lightly at Lana, who he was sure would delight at the idea. "That is of course, if Lana is ready to go now...." The excitement that followed was even more frenetic then the first, but just cheerful, as the whole family leapt into action to get Lana packed and ready. Mrs. Madsen packed the biggest picknick sack of food Tyden had ever seen, while her husband fetched his map book and discussed travel routes (to which Tyden played as intuitively as he could). The boys had gone to gather eggs and fetch a cheese wheel from the cellar (Tyden hoped this was not for him... there was seriously enough food to feed himself, his traveling companions, and the guardians for the better half of a week) and Marta and Mia flew to task, sorting and packing everything they thought Lana might need into a worn but functional carpet bag. Xanthe meanwhile had been sent to collect Silent and Fiera from the excursion into the orchard, (with the amount of apples the two of the ate, Tyden hoped no one would be complaining of a tummy ache later) and soon they were all together, gathered outside the front pouch of the little farmhouse one last time. Mr. Madsen had lifted Lana upon Spirit's back as if she were one of the little girls, and was whispering something in her ear. Her siblings were gathered around their mother on the stoop, having said their goodbyes and wish-you-well's a hundred times over. The old farmer turned at last to Tyden, his voice gruff from the emotion and he found it hard to speak. "I..." he began, then swallowed, and scrunched his hat up in his hand. "Take good care of my girl," he said at last. "On my life," Tyden swore easily, no doubt in his soul. The two men gazed at one another a moment, and then shook on it. As different as the were, they understood each other completely. * * * "How far is it?" Xanthe whined. "Almost there," Tyden sighed. Since they couldn't believably have set off for Tyden's "school" straight through the middle of a cornfield, the little group had to take the dusty road until it meandered out of sight of the farm. Then, retracing their path as best they could, they wove their way through the crisscrossing fields towards the Gate. At least, Tyden hoped it was the way to the Gate... everything looked different in the light, and coming from a different direction didn't help much either. The sound of hoofbeats caught him off guard. "Quick -- into the thicket!" he ordered to Fiera and Spirit with their riders. "Xanthe, come now!" he called to the Korè, as always, a bounding stride ahead. But Xanthe stood on the crest of a mound, her ears pricked forward and tail raised in query. "Xanthe, now!" "Wait!" she exclaimed. Then she kicked up her heels and went bounding down the slope and out of site. There really wasn't any other option then to follow after. "Look!' she cried with delight. "It's Mare Imbrium! And Rhaine!" Mare Imbrium skidded to a halt as the little golden dun came bounding up to them, and already Rhaine was off her back and throwing her arms around the korè. "Well, they're in one piece," the black mare observed the stragglers come trudging over then hill towards. "And, they look well-fed, too," she added dryly. "How I missed you!" Rhaine buried her face into equine-sister's coat. "Never go off without telling me again, do you hear?" "Tyden said it was okay," Xanthe said blithely. "Did he," she straighten, regarding the others in full for the first time. "What, where's my welcome?" Tyden grinned. "I have half a mind to make you walk back to Kalidore yourself," she said sternly, but the relief was written all over her face and she did hug him, briefly. Her gaze was drawn to the two riders, and her eyes widened when she realized what they were. Tyden saw the look, and angled himself choicely between them. "May I humbly introduce Silent, Fiera's companion, and Lana, who is companion to Spirit. Silent, Lana, this is Rhaine... one of the Guardians of Kalidore and all that." "I'm very glad to meet you," Rhaine looked between the two. "The others are waiting for you just beyond those trees. We will have time for proper introductions and explanations when we arrive." Xanthe was already heading for the trees, and Rhaine allowed Spirit and Fiera to slip by to follow. Once they were gone she turned to Tyden again, her eyes wide. "How did you...?" He had his thumbs in his pant pockets, head cocked slightly with a smug grin. "I guess I'm just talented," he said. She considered this for a moment, then decided to let him have it. "But you should never have left on your own, without telling, with Xanthe --" "Have you tried to stop Xanthe from doing something she wants to?" But he nodded, "I should never have gone alone, I know, and I'm sorry." "Well, I'm glad everyone is okay," she relented, turning to Imbri with a sigh. She grabbed a handful of dark mane and lunched herself onto her back, turning to give Tyden a hand. "Me too," he said honestly, and followed suit. Once settled, Tyden paused for a moment and then added, "though you know... if it takes two of you Guardians to find one companion in the time it take me to find two---" "Saying things like that, is what makes Lilani throw rocks at you," she cut him off primly, and with a stolen chuckle Mare Imbrium took of in the direction of the others. (( holy cow... can I write any more.... oy! But I think it's safe to say, End of Chapter 3? Unless of course anyone wants to add anything else before we move on *is now offically sick of colour coding for that matter, too ))
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Post by Delicious on Sept 19, 2008 18:40:20 GMT -5
(( Bwahaha, I'm good to go. But I hear you on the color coding bit! >.> It started OUT as a good idea - but dang, it gets exponentially crazy as the post grows.))
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 22, 2008 15:17:45 GMT -5
Chapter Four ~ (And The Final Chapter Begins!)Under the soulful afternoon sun, the Unicorns of Kalidore basked in the bright green Georgian meadow, some grazing on the sweet grass while Korè frolicked, others snoozing lightly in the shade of the big old trees. The Gate anchored there was quiet now, but not quite sleeping; every now and then a butterfly would swing lazily through the air then get caught in a whorl - the magical equivalent to a hiccup - and go tumbling, wing-over-antenna, before righting itself and go sputtering off in search of a more auspicious pastures. Now that everyone was back together, and the new companions had been met and stories shared, there was a renewed feeling of hopefulness and achievement among the group, the unicorns less uncertain and more eager for the adventure ahead, none of this lost on the Guardians, either. While initially daunted by the Daiga's words, now they were beginning believe them a little more themselves; plus, by taping into natural Gates, they were finding new and more efficient ways to use their powers - and that was a boon. Lana's picknick basic had been spread out under one of the trees, and the human herdmates had finally eaten their fill too; some of them remained lolling in the shade, just watching the unicorns with glee. As the sun began to ease into the western sky, it would soon be time to get moving again - but for the now, it was nice just to have a moment to sit and enjoy the view... ((Allright guys, feel free to jump back in! Ember should be along shortly to nudge us in the right direction, but in the meantime, get out there and mingle, hehe ))
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Ember
New Member
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Post by Ember on Sept 22, 2008 17:59:42 GMT -5
Aquila pranced around the field happily, but something seemed missing. She nor her mother had found their companion yet! She was getting impatient, truthfully. Meadow Song knew it too and wondered when her young kore would bring it up with the others. She was such an energetic young thing. Aquila suddenly pranced over and nuzzled her mother. "We'll find ours, right? Right! But when?" The older mare nuzzled back with great amusement. "Soon, my sweet. Soon." A rebellious expression crossed the unikore's features. Very, very soon, Meadow Song thought to herself. Indeed, the young unicorn pranced over to the Guardians and their unicorns with a bit of a challenging look. "I want my companion now!" Surprisingly, there was no plaintive whine in her voice, just a startling determination. It may seem imperious, and even rude, but it didn't matter to the youngling. This was one thing she would not be told 'no' to. Still, a small twinkle in her eyes bespoke of her normal adventurous and playful spirit. Meadow Song wandered over and stood next to her foal. "Aquila, be polite now. The others probably want to rest a while longer," she said, casting an apologetic look at the Guardians. "She is insatiable sometimes, but maybe this isn't too imperious a request?"
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Post by Admin on Sept 22, 2008 18:27:52 GMT -5
Lilaini had been very quiet every since Tyden's group had rejoined them. She had been very concerned about their well-being, but annoyed with Tyden all the same for sneaking off with them in the middle of the night. Or perhaps her annoyance was more that he had returned with two companions on his own. He's trying to show up Rhaine and I, she thought to herself. Make us look bad to the Daiga. Gypsy broke in upon these thoughts, "Don't be silly, Tyden was only trying to help. He did some things he shouldn't have but it was with the best of intentions". Lilaini cast a sideways glance at Tyden who was sitting at a safe distance from her and appeared to be, as always, in good spirits. The Guardian scowled slightly at Gypsy's remark, because at heart she knew that was true. Maybe I'm not entirely cut out for this Guardian buisness she thought . Maybe I'm in over my head. She had been sitting near Gypsy, but turned and laid down on her back, staring up at the white puff clouds that danced across the sky. Her dark hair spread out across the grass and she laid for several moments with the sun's ray's warming her body. You know the Daiga would not have made you Guardian unless you were meant to be one broke in Gypsy again, You have powers which you have not yet had to show. You will prove yourself in time. Lilaini mulled over what her companion had said, but before she could respond a shadow crossed over her and she turned her head to the side, coming face to face with a Kore muzzle. The young Kore spoke and the look of determination on her face made the Guardian smile. " Aquila", she said sitting back up. "You certainly do appear determined. Do you feel the calling? Reach deep down inside you, do you feel your companion calling you?" Her green eyes sparkled because the moment the young Kore had gotten close to her she knew she felt the calling. But for one so young, she wasn't sure if the Kore would be able to dicier what she was feeling, if she would know that it was her companion's call that she she was sensing. Gypsy had turned and was intently watching Aquila as well, waiting to her what the Kore had to say.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 22, 2008 22:36:31 GMT -5
Rhaine yawned and stretched, breathing in the warm grass which always smelled, well, like green to her. She'd just lost her pillow, as Xanthe had bounded up moments before, eager to join a game of chase-the-Kore which had started up across the way. It was probably just as well; it was best they be moving again before dark. She glanced over at Lilaini, but her friend was apparently being silent and stubborn, fuming at Tyden with a good show of effort. Tyden, meanwhile, was propped up against a nearby tree, a blade of grass between his thumbs and managing a few harsh notes each time he blew. Moved on to other forms of torture, apparently, she smiled to herself, wondering how long he could keep that up before Lilaini beaned him with something. It was generally fun to watch, and Lilaini usually didn't throw anything hard anyways. She sunk back onto her elbow, half closing her eyes, watching his figure and the tree fusing and unfusing as her focus relaxed. A shadow fell across her as Imbri returned from grazing, nudging her shoulder gently. "I'm up," she sighed, straightening for real this time. "Have you noticed Aquila?" the mare nodded towards the buckskin foal. She was making her way towards them, and bounded right up to Lilaini in her enthusiasm. "The pull is strong...." "But she's so young," Rhaine turned. "Age matters not," the old mare chuckled. "And how old were you when Muse was first met to you?" "I was older then that... wasn't I?" she frowned. "Grows up so fast," Imbri sighed, and Rhaine wasn't sure if she was talking about Aquila or her. But she decided she ought to see what it was all about, and the pair made their way across the grass towards them. Imbri gave Gypsy a small nibble as she approached. *How is Lilani holding up?* she queried gently. *They can be so hard on themselves, the two of them. Do you think we're ready to go try again?*
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Post by nightpaw on Sept 23, 2008 8:31:14 GMT -5
Llamrei would enjoying grazing the sweet grass. Ears flickered hearing the butterfly and would look at it with amusement. Feeling a little unusual with built up energy she decided to run around, the day was good and warm and running around in this field wouldn't hurt. Thinking about it she would explore this field a little feeling like a little kore` all over again.
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Post by Admin on Sept 23, 2008 17:10:53 GMT -5
The bronze coloured mare had been awaiting Aquila’s reply when she sensed Rhaine and Mare Imbrium approaching. Diverting her attention away from Lilaini and the Kore, she reached out and touched Mare Imbri’s muzzle with her own, returning the other mares greeting. Her tail flicked back and forth, lazily shooing flies off to find another source of entertainment. ”She is a alright, full of self doubt as always, and if Tyden pulls another stunt I’m not sure I’ll be able to intervene in time to save him. She really misreads a lot of his actions.” As she spoke, her eyes traveled across the field to where Tyden was sitting. He appeared to be rather impressed with himself as every few minutes or so he managed to make a blade of grass produce a rather obnoxious noise. “Yes I think we are about to be on the move again”, she said, returning her attention to the black mare next to her. “I know you’ve sensed it too, the calling is strong in Aquila. But will one so young be able to find her companion? Even with such a strong calling?”. Gypsy was glad that they were going to be moving off again soon, she was a traveler and staying in one spot for very long never suited her. Lilaini’s attention was momentarily taken away from Aquila as a noise penetrated her consciousness. Her eyes looked off to her right, in search of the cause of the disturbance. Her eyes narrowed as she saw Tyden was the source of the noise. She huffed slightly and then a small smile crept across her face. Telekinesis had always been her strong point, and it seemed like a good opportunity to use it. She mentally grabbed onto the lowest hanging tree branch (for Tyden was conveniently sitting underneath a tree), and wrapped the branch around his ankles. The Guardian then mentally had the tree branch quickly pull up into the air, dragging Tyden along with it ankle’s first. Satisfied with her herself, she turned her attention back to Aquila.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Sept 23, 2008 22:58:19 GMT -5
One moment, he'd been sitting innocently under a tree.... the next, he was being yanked skywards by his ankles. The moment after that he was headed to earth again, and then, he landed. It all happened before he his brain had a chance to piece any of it together. He leapt to his feet, rubbing a jabbed elbow with dismay and looking around widely for an explanation - like a rogue gate whorl, spontaneous deciduous motivation, or --his eye narrowed suddenly, catching the fraction of grin on Lilaini's face-- telekinesis. He glanced around to see who else had noticed, but the unicorns seemed mostly disinterest, and Rhiane had her face in her palms. He pushed up his sleeves and headed over. *Possibly not the best time* Imbri's words nudged him, firmly, but her dark hazel-green eyes were mirthful. He gave her his best wounded look. "Did you see what she did?" When the mare offered nothing in return he turned to Rhaine. "And you?" She'd uncovered her eyes but remained silent and observed him practically for a moment. "You have a twig in your hair," she said at last. She stood on tiptoes and plucked it out, then smooth the thick lock down again with the back of her hand. "You're not hurt." It said mostly for her own reassurance then anything else as she brushed the dust from his shirt, "and you knew she was in a mood," she gave his collar a tug to straighten it, "yet you had to go and egg her on...." Try as he might, he found it impossible to stay furiously mad at Lilaini with Rhaine fussing like that, even if she was scolding him while she did it. "She... set a tree on me," he protested meekly. "I didn't say she was right," Rhaine shrugged. "But could we all possibly try to get back to Kalidore in one piece?" He considered this, but already the grin was tugging at the corner of his mouth. "I'll try," he said solemnly enough. "But I can't promise...." "Oh, you're horrible," she rolled her eyes. "Well then, I how about I stick you in a tree and we'll see if your world view changes any--" he made a move towards her, grinning broadly, which she side-stepped neatly before ducking behind Imbri as he lunged again. Laughter peeled after long after they were out of view. Mare Imbrium gave her mane a shake, *shall we consider that one crisis avoided....?* she nuged Gypsy again, and turned her attention back to Lilaini and the eager wide-eyed Korè.
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Post by nightpaw on Sept 24, 2008 20:52:55 GMT -5
Llamrei would slow down and give out a snort. Looking up she would stand int he grass and warm sun, looking over to the two guardians playing. Curious she actually wanted to go and trot off to explore this land, she pranced about looking out and beyond as she wanted to run off but would hold herself back.
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Ember
New Member
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Post by Ember on Sept 24, 2008 21:39:54 GMT -5
The young foal seemed puzzled at first by Lilaini's words. Feel the pull? Oh yes, she did feel something. Was that what the companion's call was like? She tried to get a good grip on it, the urgency of that feeling. She was about to reply when she noticed Tyden hanging upside down. "How would I do that...?" She muttered, ever the curious. Well, at least it temporarily shifted their attention. The young kore closed her bright eyes and felt for the thing that was calling for her so strongly. It was definitely her companion, although she wouldn't have noticed without the Guardians' help. When she opened her eyes again attention was back on her as well. "I feel something that I think is my companion. It needs me, I can tell that much," was Aquila's confident reply. She appeared edgy, clearly wanting to be off, to find that other part of her. The bay mother, Meadow Song, was very proud of her foal. What a great and wonderful mare she would be, the same as her twin. Her buckskin daughter watched the Guardians curiously. She wanted so to get to the one who needed her so bad, but she needed their help to go through a portal.
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