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Post by hardwired on Nov 2, 2013 16:57:25 GMT -5
Cassie continued to stare at the spectacle before her. Never in her life had she ever seen a living breathing unicorn or dragon before and today it was one dragon and a ton of unicorns. And these folks here appeared to take it as common place that such things happened. Cassie couldn't tell if she should run or try to get some food. It was all terribly confusing. There were tons of people and periodically it seemed as though she might have heard some voices in her head that were not the usual kind. Was she going crazy? She had heard that was what happened to people right before they got checked into a psych ward. Cassie could feel the panic rising as she tried to figure out what to do next. Her fight or flight was starting to go into overdrive to the point that she started shaking. Did she look like she felt? Rather the deer in the headlights?
Cordy sensing that her new found friend was about to bolt for the woods took a couple of steps back to block the outright bolting from Cassie that she was sensing. If she took off Cordy was not sure if she would be able to find her or slow her down before she got herself hurt or worse. Cordy had seen how 'ungraceful' Cassie could be in the forest. *Relax Cassie, everything is all right. I swear its O.K.* Cordy began to broadcast soothing words to her companion hoping to settle her down but that seemed to have the opposite effect.
Cassie didn't know any of these people. She really didn't know why she was here and worst of all she had no idea what was happening. No one had noticed her yet so before they did Cassie decided it was time to flee. Her body said go and who was she to argue? At that moment Cordy's voice broke into her thoughts, startling her into action. She turned on her heels and dashed strait into Cordy, bouncing off her and landed in a very undignified sprawl on the ground. As if that was not enough, her stomach took that moment to give a very loud rumble of hunger. Oh god, her cheeks turned fuchsia and hot. She peeked around to see if anyone had noticed and spared a glare at Cordy. Maybe she could creep out underneath her before anyone saw?
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Post by geob on Nov 2, 2013 19:09:26 GMT -5
Tien Mu had been hanging out along the edges of the group when motion off to the side caught her attention. It was Cordelia with a human she had not seen before. It seemed to Tien that a greeting was in order.
The black Tang trotted over just in time for the human to slip and fall. "Oh, my," Tien said with great sympathy and a sniff about the fallen girl. "Are you all right, dear?" She looked up at the palomino with the greeting, "Hello, Cordy. I am so glad you were able to join us, though I must confess I am a bit surprised to see you here. Have you two been traveling long? I don't think the mid-day meal has yet been put away although I did see Tiponi making an effort to do so."
Tien Mu returned her attention to the girl. "Would you perhaps like something to eat? I am sure we could catch Tiponi before she gets thing put away. Oh, and I am Tien Mu by the way."
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Post by Asperi on Nov 3, 2013 16:46:26 GMT -5
Seeing a friendly offering of fruit from the young woman, Kyla smiled and replied, “Not yet, but I wouldn’t mind something to eat.” The suggestion that she deliver said fruits to Tyden made her rather uncomfortable, since she felt that she had already worn out her welcome at the cliff’s edge. As Kyla sought for a polite way to decline, the young woman’s features flashed from fury to searching to determination. Before a bewildered Kyla could conjure a response the woman with the fruit strode away and right to the cliff. Watching her walk away, Kyla couldn’t help but feel that she had managed to put her foot in her mouth yet again.
Midori, catering to her own grumbling gut, proceeded to graze on some nearby greens. *Why don’t you look through the packs for something to eat?* she suggested to Kyla. With a rumble of her stomach, Kyla agreed that might not be a bad idea, and hoped no one would mind her helping herself. Lucky for her, Kyla found a few loose apricots right on top, reducing the amount of digging needed. Splitting the first one in half to remove the pit, she made quick work of the 3 apricots. It wasn’t much, but she hoped it would at least tide her over until the next meal, which she was determined not to miss!
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Nov 3, 2013 16:51:05 GMT -5
Tali’s paws were silent over the dry grass, but the goats had seen him anyways and scattered. A safe distance away they stood boldly on rocky crops and brayed at him, even though it was obvious his business was not with them. The wolf’s gait was a fast, even clip, his ears pricked and following, and in his mouth he held an anagle – one of the larger, horned varieties that were unique to these parts. He was seeking his pack, his whiskers curling with news he would bring them, that would please them well. It occurred to him how different this day was then had been his life a week ago; that instead of news of migrating herds he had tidying of old ruins. And instead of a family of bristled wolves, sleek and bright-eyed, his pack was a wraggle-taggle of traveling unicorns and companions. I would not have believed it, he mused, not believed even had Great Mother Aiya came down in a moon-dream and told me what was to come. His features wrinkled in a mellow, wolfish grin. And yet here we are… and I would not change it for the world.He was almost at the camp when a scent caught his nostrils and he stopped, his whole body tensed. He breathed deeply, his mouth open to take in even more, the wolf’s olfactory vision burning with the smell. The anagale was dropped, forgotten, ears laid flat, and the growl so deep in his throat his body rumbled. And then he was off, tearing towards his the camp, his pack, as if Ai’agnu himself were after him. Or waiting… * Kyla’s departure had alerted Tiponi to the predicament of the Dragon and The Man, and while she had no concerns for what The Man might want or need, it was impossible for the budding empath to ignore the dragon. After an attempt to get Kyla to bring him food went unnoticed, she realized she was going to have to do it. Herself. Man or not. She frowned very furiously at the prospect, and looked around for a way – any way – out of the predicament, but everyone else was busy with their own chores and Lumanisita was conveniently a ways away. She looked back at the dragon again, the aura of colours around him deep and troubled. She could practically feel his agitation, worry, anger, and deep at the core of it all, fear, as easily as if it were her own. She shied away from the feelings, not ready to try and deal with them, yet unable to turn away. At the fore-front, sparking bright, was hunger. That, she could aid. She looked at the last of the figs in her hand and back up again. A determined look fixed in place and moved forward. Phen frowned as the woman departed in a huff, understanding in some light it was his doing. This made him even grumpier. What did they want from him, anyways? But at least it showed how genuine her wishes to help him were, he thought smugly. Humans were not so different from the stories, after all! Except… the man was still there, and asking what he’d like to eat. And he was ever so hungry… “I do like anagale,” he responded mildly. “Would you have any of that?” “Er, at the moment—” Tyden began, when Tiponi slipped silently by him and held out her hands. “Figs,” she told Phen briskly. She could feel The Man beside her and it made her skin prickle like fire, but she ignored everything but the dragon. “Try some?” she proffered. The dragon’s nostrils flared over the plump, brown nuggets that landed under his nose. They smelled… well, kind of like an old rucksack, but with a hint of spice. The new person in front of him said nothing else, just held out the food, and the look on her face said he could take them or leave him. He decided, with short consideration, that he would take them. Because, most of all, he was hungry. Carefully picking them up with his lips (dragons usually ate small things with their hands, but the way he was crouched, there was no way he could sit back without moving his painful wing) he sucked back the small fruits, moving them around in his mouth with his tongue before chewing them. They were sweet, delightfully sweet, and satisfyingly crunchy, he realized. Their only fault was their size, for with a quick swallow they were gone. Looking up, he realized both humans were watching him, and awaiting an answer. “Not bad,” he cared to admit. He was even about to ask for more, when suddenly the bushes exploded with fury. “Moon-stealer! Death-wielder! Touch not my pack and meet my teeth, for I fear not Ai’agnu bite!” froth spew from his lips as the silver wolf barreled forward, knocking sidelong against the dragon’s body as if to push him back towards the cliff’s edge. “Tali, wait!” Tyden sprung towards them, as if he meant to put himself between the two. Tiponi saw the folly in it first, instincts flexed and she lunged herself, knocking Tyden to his knees; some of the later consternation over having saved The Man could be soothed with the recall of how hard he must have hit the ground. And while he was down, Tyden did not stop – he reached forward, grabbing an armful of the silver fur as it went by (and catching a good many teeth in the processes). The wolf snapped at Phen’s face, an action of distraction more than might, which was the only reason Phen didn’t meet his teeth right there. “Tali, hold up!” Tyden yelled, “No teeth have met here yet! He means us no harm, so we show none to him. He is a traveler, like we are. Surely, surely – he is not the one who came Ai’agnu’s Night?” Tali snarled, every tooth bared and ready, but he landed beside him, shoulder to shoulder. “He is one of them,” he barely breathed. He had never seen a dragon, but there were stories – and then the night fell – “His kind…” His kind. How many dragons were on Kalidore? Tyden suddenly wondered. There was no doubt that a dragon had met with the wolves in the Kaledon, and the gleaming red scale he seen on the plateau, and what had happened in the woods the night of the Harvest Ball. But Phen seemed apart from this all, separate from the other pieces, even though they all pointed in the same direction. And just how much of the other dragons did Phen know? His eyes found Phen’s, who were wide with surprise and dismay. Was Phen capable of what happened to the wolves? Of course not. That alone he knew for certain. “There are all different kinds,” he spoke slowly. Phen had frozen, startled by the ferociousness in the wolf’s voice. Like the skycat, there was probably little the wolf could have done to harm him, but he would have gladly tried anyways. And yet the human man had spoken, on his behalf. And the other had given him fruits, and the other offered to nurse his wing… Tali sat down, panting hard. His ears were still worried, but his nose was up, testing the wind. “He does not smell quite like the forest that night,” he concluded at a whisper. “But I do not like his smell. It reminds me.” Tyden nodded, and his hand fell on the wolves back, stroking him lightly. Tali shrugged, but leaned into him, and began to lick his injured hand. It was only then Tyden realized he was bleeding, were the teeth had caught him; curious, because he hadn’t felt a thing. “Is everyone well?” Rhaine arrived beside them, Arieon and Liam a step behind (the two had exchanged glanced after the bounding Guardian, and arrived at the same conclusion). While she sensed their confusion, relief flushed as she discerned that none was worse for wear. “Tali,” she began, “it is good to see you returned; we’ve had quite the mid-morning, as you can see. How was your day’s scouting?” The wolf gave Tyden’s hand a last, firm lick then turned to the Guardian, for ignoring the dragon was the easiest way to deal with the issue at the moment. His head brushed against her hand, the greeting of a packmate. “I have news, sister-Rhaine. I heard you speaking amongst yourselves about the “ruins”; I believe I have found them. They are very old, and smell like nothing from the Skylands. And they are not far – we will reach them well a’fore sunset, even those on foot.” Her expression was surprise, and Tali reached up to lick her face, pleased that he had done well. “I am glad nothing befell you while I was away; I shall keep closer. My excitement to see these new places has made me careless, and I have not been a good packmate. I also brought an angale, but I dropped it. Mayhap we can find it again before the badgers do…?” “Of course,” she answered him, and the wolf bounded off again, dismissed. “I will gather the others; oh, the ruins, Tyden! Before sunset! Is your hand quite alright?” she tried to get a closer look at it as he rose to his feet, but he just as quickly tucked it away. “Just a love bite,” he grimaced, binding his handkerchief around it nonchalantly. “I am quite well. Phenthor? We might have amends to make before we can get that anagale stew,” he sighed. “But Tali will come around, his heart is kind. And, thank you, Tiponi,” Tyden relayed. Tiponi had no idea what to say, so she nodded curtly, excusing herself. Besides, she had caught sight of Luminista, who she realized she would be furious with right now, if she hadn’t been so glad to see her. At the same time she realized the Dragon’s aura was still an uneasy mess of shifting colours, and she found she wanted to help, if she could. “More figs,” she found she could speak again, “I’ll fetch some before we pack up.” Phen’s ears, which had pressed to the side of his head through the whole affair as if to make himself look smaller, as if it were possible to shrink a dragon into the background (being bright indigo certainly didn’t help) pricked forward with possibility of anagale stew, and at the least, more figs. And, it seemed, despite all he was still expected on their journey…
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Post by Asperi on Nov 3, 2013 21:49:43 GMT -5
As she scoffed down the last Apricot half in as lady-like a manner as possible when ravenous, a silver flash and loud snarl at the cliff’s edge caught Kyla’s attention. Spellbound as an explosion of excitement unfolded before her, Kyla tensed as she watched. An angry… talking wolf? *When will I stop being surprised by the oddities of this place?!* In what seemed like minutes but was only seconds the wolf seemed held at bay by Tyden, and one of the other group leaders was also intervening.
Curiosity getting the best of her, Kyla began cautiously approaching the commotion. *Always need to be in the thick of things, don’t you?* quipped Midori, who had also been attentively watching the commotion from the first “snarl”. *No, I’m just curious…* Kyla responded, then as a better excuse came to mind she retorted, *And I’m a doctor, I might be able to help*. It was a poor excuse, she knew, seeing as her last attempt to use her “healing powers” flopped and at this point it didn’t even appear anyone was hurt, but she had to come up with something. Midori, rolling her eyes, watched as her companion strode back to the cliff, trusting that the Guardians would keep her safe.
Kyla arrived in ear-shot just as she heard mention of some sort of ruins. Raising an eyebrow at Tyden’s mention of a “love-bite” she decided to not press the issue if no one else was… but still couldn’t help but run through in her mind all the potential complications of an untreated bite wound. Brushing aside her homesickness, she piped up to no one in particular, “Is there anywhere I can be of help?”
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Post by hardwired on Nov 3, 2013 22:08:45 GMT -5
Cassie jumped a bit at the voice over her shoulder and the fuzzy nose that came with it. She had been about to make another break for the woods but she turned to see that she was being addressed by another unicorn. A rather pretty one at that. Her tone was kind and Cassie still flushing realized that the mare was offering her food. "Um, yes please and thank you, that would be nice. I haven't eaten since breakfast. Cordy seemed to be in a bit of a rush." She shot a glance at her companion whom she was pretty sure was laughing in her brain. She was trying to absorb what was happening to her but she doubted that there were any manuals for such things.
Cordy gave a laugh and a greeting to Tien Mu. "Tien Mu its so good to see you! And I confess to not expecting to be here either. I got an early start this morning when I felt her pull. It was an unexpected but wonderful surprise. Please let me introduce my companion Cassie." Cordy seemed very pleased with herself. "She is a bit jumpy as you may imagine. But that is to be expected I think. Still a bite of food may help sort some of that out. I think that is a spot on idea."
The sudden explosion of a large silver wolf looking fierce and snapping teeth propelled Cassie to her feet and before she quite knew what was happening she had a large branch raised for the attack. After a few heart stopping moments she realized that she had put herself between what ever was happening and Cordy. Her body was on high alert and every muscle was tense. She watched as others jumped between the wolf and the dragon. She thought she saw blood on one of the other people but couldn't be sure. It seemed that what ever was going on died down as quickly as it had started. Cassie straitened out of the crouch and dropped the branch to move closer to Cordy's side putting her hand out as if to reassure herself that Cordy was real as well as in one piece. She faced Tien Mu again. "Is it always like this around here? Cause that is going to take some getting used too."
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Nov 10, 2013 1:15:49 GMT -5
News of the ruins spurred the small group into action, and lunch was packed away faster than it had been set out, bags and bundles returned to saddlepacks and tied into place. Xanthe had nearly done up her left pouch herself, which she was very please about, but when the person working on her got distracted by the commotion, she found she found she was without help and the ability to fasten buckles with her teeth. She thought briefly of a plausible spell, but catching sight of Tiponi out of her left eye she remember how well her un-tying spell had gone. She did not feel like being suddenly and inexplicably hog-tied, so decided to let the idea go (although it was duly filed, just in case it became useful for Liam later, of course). Frustrated, she lost hold of the tie again and cut three smart circles in place trying to grab it (which would have made any reining prospect proud). This will never DO! she fumed silently, looking around for a plausible solution. She heard the young woman, Kyla’s offer for help. That’ll do, she gritted, and bounded forward, bells on her harness all jingling with the action “Meeee! oh, me – you can help meeee!” * Tali shortly returned, but the anagale had already been squirreled away by an air-born scavenger, leaving the wolf somewhat glum. His mood improved, however, when Tyden told him it was his duty to lead the pack, since he and the dragon would stay at the rear. Arieon snorted, but stood quietly as the man mounted (which not a seamless thing now that his hand was bandaged). In truth, the position suited the stallion perfectly; it was the natural place for a stallion of his stature, so he could keep an eye on things; namely, the dragon. And Arieon still was uneasy about the dragon, but at the same time had to admit this one seemed young and fairly harmless. Also he had some vague notion that befriending one would grind his brother Ulysses to no end, and somehow this was encouragement enough to do just so…! When everyone was accounted for, the Guardians mounted up. Lilaini silently glared at Tyden as she passed, urging Gypsy to the front, while Rhaine settled with Lyonee on the steadfast Gwyneira, towards the middle of the pack. Once Liam had seen them safely astride, he made his way towards Tyden, reasoning he would be most useful where he could help out, or at least get direction on where that might be. He briefly entertained the front of the pack to scout for trouble, but being chronically short a mount made that more awkward then not; as Lilaini whisked by looking dour, he reconsidered. “Is something amiss, Lord Tyden?” “You keep calling me that,” Tyden deadpanned. He was readjusting his saddlepack, as Lumanista had just appeared with a small bag of figs, insisting he keep them for Phen. (It was on that point alone that Phen had decided he would keep up with the group, rather than dragging his tail begrudgingly behind). When he was done he straightened, taking note of the soldier’s dismay. “As for the Lady, frankly… I have no idea. Nor would I fret over it; at times Lily strives to be less then reasonable….” “The unicorn she was with seems quite reasonable,” Phen said to no one in particular. * *I am not being unreasonable* Lilani held, *Grumpy, yes; I’ve spent three nights in the woods under no pleasant circumstances, and I could hardly let that be conveyed to our guests! Tyden, however, is not a guest, thus he is under no similar protection*Gypsy hid her chuckle with a small bunny-hop over a log, pacing along the outside of the group to join Tali ahead. *Well now, I wasn’t going to dispute that…*“Be kind,” her companion miffed. “Besides, when we find the ruins, we will be that much closer to the comfort of our own beds.” “And hot baths,” Rhaine added wistfully, as they pulled alongside. “I don’t like baths,” Lyonee quietly piqued. She’d been rather hoping they didn’t have those on Kalidore; her solace remained that at least they also didn’t have Nannies, who were determined to scrub you raw while you were in them. “I can almost feel the pull of the Gate,” Rhaine continued, more quietly. “That must mean we are headed in the right direction.” “I feel nothing yet, but you were always more sensitive to the ways of Gates then I,” her friend smiled warmly. “And for now, Tali’s lead is one I am happy to follow.” The wolf gave a few quick yips at the top of the ridge and started off again, which was all the excuse Lilalini needed to move forward. The fact was, right now she didn’t sense much of anything; she was still magically winded from earlier, and it frustrated her to no end that there was nothing she could do about it but wait. She heaved a sigh. At least she would have the time on the road to Al’therwen. The ridge they were following marked a long and snaking path into the mountains, pulling them towards the sky. And what will we find there?Only one way to find out. She nudged Gypsy forward again, the group falling into some sense of unity around her, and the wolf led the way…
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Post by Asperi on Nov 14, 2013 21:09:44 GMT -5
As Kyla waited for orders on where she might help, her ears started ringing. Then, she realized it wasn’t her ears, it was bells, a sweet carol of bells. Turning toward the sound, she found herself directly in front of a bounding unicorn excitedly crying for help. Flinching, Kyla braced herself for the imminent collision.
Looking up at the sound of a very excited and jingly Xanthe, Midori turned to see what was soon to be disaster. Her eyes only bugged out for a few seconds before she shouted to Kyla, *Watch out!*
Lucky for everyone, Xanthe managed to skid to a stop and just narrowly avoided smishing Kyla into a pancake. When the jingling stopped, Kyla opened her eyes and saw a fuzzy nose just inches away from her face. Breathing a sigh of relief, she sized up the unicorn, and trying to hide her racing pulse with a chipper and friendly voice, she replied, “How can I help?”
*You got lucky* Midori thought to Kyla as she, likewise let out a sigh of relief.
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Post by hardwired on Nov 17, 2013 14:57:34 GMT -5
Cassie was starting to get into the swing of things. Tien Mu had been an excellent hostess as it turned out. Guiding her to the food which Cassie had barely noticed trying to absorb all the new experiences. She had no less devoured it ravenously. Cassie was a bit sheepish. "I guess I was really hungry after all." The conversation seemed pretty animated about places and people that Cassie had never heard of. She did manage to pick up that they were going on to discover a new place and that made her fairly excited. Cassie liked old places. "So this place we will be going, what is so important about it?" She asked innocently. "And what do you guys do when you get a new companion?" She packed herself up and traveled with the group hoping to learn more about what she had fallen into. "Is that something that happens often?" She could feel about a thousand more questions bubbling but did not want to badger her hosts on her first day in. She couldn't wait until she had a better grasp on what had happened to her. It was an even greater wonder when the large wolf lead the way on to the next leg of their journey.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Jan 11, 2014 15:10:12 GMT -5
Xanthe was so excited it was sheer luck she did not step on Kyla's toes as she danced in place. "Tie me up, please - we're heading out! Out and over the skyfields, to the forgotten city of the elves, to find more dragons, and Ulysses and... and... adventure!" she said definitively, It was all she could do to hold still long enough for the woman to work the thick leathers straps through the fasteners and buckle them down. "Thank you," she said sighed with relief. "I was afraid it would never get done up; you know how hectic breaking camp can be... well, and laying camp, for that matter. Actually, camping is a lot work. At least for humans. It'd be so much easier if you all ate grass," she told Kayla factually. "So much faster. And, we'd better hurry - don't want to be later! I can't stand to miss anything...." Possibly no truer words were ever spoken as the golden dun kore went bounding off again, falling along side with the group as they headed out across the ridge. * * * Kalidore’s autumn sun was bright and warm, but the endless wind that chased over the mountains brought the first hint of winter. A certain crispness, brisk, that warned of frost. Please, no frost until we’ve made it home again, Lilaini thought. I am not sure we have enough warm blankets for everyone who has arrived. And then her thoughts turned to what might happen to a person out here, wandering the skylands by themselves… *Do no fret so* Gypsy tickled her mind. *We find them. Kal cares for all of her children; do you think we find ourselves here and now by chance alone? Besides – tell me how a unicorn could resist the pull of her companion!* And she reached back to nip at the woman’s heavy skirts playfully. “It’s not impossible,” Xanthe declared, pulling alongside with the merry sound of bells; one might have considered it eavesdropping were not the concept pretty moot among telepathic unicorn. “There are stories in the Library about unicorns who chose to not take companions, during the Great War; they felt it would make their companions a target, and by dutifully refusing them, thus spared them the anguish of war.” Gypsy’s ears flicked, unsettled. Liliani had never heard her say more than a word or two about the war, and only when it was absolutely necessary. In fact, Liliani knew more about the Wars from the stories on Dragon’s Night and books then from her companion, who had lived it. It almost felt like an intrusion to bring it up, so she hadn’t. And besides, life on Kalidore had always been so idyllic it seemed an unnecessary discussion anyways. Unnecessary still? Her thoughts returned to Phen. Xanthe continued, youthfully unaware of the somber quiet that had gathered over the pair, most happy to share her knowledge with reckless abandonment. “I, myself, am not sure I would take a companion, if I had one presented to me; it seems like a HUGE responsibility! And, while I am really quite responsible…” she paused, modestly, “…I do not think it would work well…” Gypsy’s expression softened and she reached out to nuzzle the kore’s poll, as if she were a wee kor. “Don’t worry, youngling – companions never come to a unicorn who is not ready for them. Should Kal summon a companion for you, it will be when you wish it so, and not a moment before!” “But – but what about Phae? She doesn’t seem pleased with Liam. Not that I blame her,” Xanthe frowned. The fact that Phae had taken off in the night cemented things for the kore; Liam was indeed a tick that needed dealing with. Why the others couldn’t see this— “Exanthea,” Gypsy came to a stop, causing the filly to do the same. “Liam is our guest here; we all make mistakes, and what would become of each of us if we were not allowed to learn and grow from them? And while Liam is not Phae’s companion, he is her friend, and that should encourage you to treat him in kind.” Mistakes are one thing, thought Xanthe, calling you a horse and roping you… completely another. But at the same time she was relieved to know that Liam and Phae were not companions, which she had assumed. And then again – why would anyone choose to be friends with Liam? Just more proof of the fiendish warlock’s ways… She was about to say something when Kynndrien bounded back to them. The young koros had been tailing Tali as closely as he could, captivated by their new herd member. The wolf fascinated him, and the good-natured canine had slowed his pace just a breath so that the koros might match him, making note of his deep hoofs and finding a trail best suited for the unicorns to follow. “We’re cresting the ridge! You have got to see this, Xanthe – you can see ALL of Kalidore from up here!” Xanthe didn’t need a second urging, and bounded after. “That kore,” Gypsy shook her head. “Will lead us richly into trouble?” Lilaini quipped wryly. “As sure as she is a daughter of Odin,” the mare had to chuckle. “He was not always so stoic and level-headed, in his younger days!” “Then maybe there is hope yet for his companion,” the woman grumbled as the herd’s passing was bringing them towards the hind. Gypsy dismissed her without words and instead called to Arieon, “The ridge marks the boundary; beyond this point, unicorns have not travelled in many years. It is mostly unknown even to me.” “Then we should march more closely,” the stallion rumbled, and from his back Tyden gave him a firm pat of reassurance: “They are just mountains; there are no more great beasts beyond waiting to gobble us up then we have already met.” “That’s very well, but I’d rather we not get eaten at all if it’s the same to you,” Lilaini sniffed. “I wish I had the map,” Rhaine sighed and she and Gwyniera pulled alongside. Tyden winced, and only partially from the throbbing in his bandaged hand. “For the comfort you place in that map, shepherd-priests could not want for more devout and willing flocks…” The howl of a wolf, rippling and cascading as it bounced and echoed over the expanse brought them around. The others had already followed over the crest, the shadows growing longer between its teeth. “Come, come now!” Gwyn said cheerily, starting forth, “Sounds like it is a marvellous thing to see! And we don’t want to keep Tali waiting.” Her tail swished lively over her rotund behind as she sauntered away, having raised enough kor in her day to know they would shortly follow. And they did, and the little group all stopped at the crest, dismounting in silent bewonderment, for Kynndrien had been right – it seem the whole of Kalidore lay spread out before them. “And to think – it’s all part of Kalidore we don’t know,” Liliani marvelled. It made her feel rather small, but that same time filled her with intense excitement. There were no limitations, the possibilities that lay waiting there were endless; as much as you thought you knew, there was always so much left to learn and explore. It all delighted her. Before them spread the northern face of the Skyfield Mountain range, woven through with ribbonous canyons that flowed into valleys, which grew into more mountains, which pushed dizzily skyward, each wave of rolling hills reaching higher than the last before such defiance of gravity finally gave way and toppled back to earth, birthing more mountains. To the east, the land tapered towards the northern shores of the Tyressline ocean, invisible to them here yet haunting with the knowledge that great things still existed beyond what could seen; and to the north-west, a summit rose so high its zenith was swallowed entirely by clouds. “Is it Everest?” Lyonee breathed, who, having a little brother with no end of enthusiasm had heard many stories about the great conquerors who vanquished on their way to the peak. “Ka’shus,” spoke Tyden, quietly. “I have only seen it once before. They say that when Kal made the world, and Kaedon raced across the heavens, his hooves tore into the earth and carved out the mountains. Well, one mountain was not of his making. Some say the pebble that caught in Kal’s hoof was not a pebble at all, but an egg, an ancient, mysterious egg that slept at the center of the world. When the great beast inside finally awoke and hatched free, it tore the earth asunder, for this beast was born of fire and brimstone, molten and churning like the sun; it nearly destroyed the earth-mother giving birth to it. Free at last, it unfurled its wings: a great bird within whose feather shone each a tiny burning sun, and everything those wings touched burned, blurred, and fell away to dust. When it flew, fire rained across the sky and ash plunged the heavens into darkness. The leaders who made up the Council of Worlds gathered to deal with this menace. Many said such a beast had no place among them, that it would destroy everything if left unchecked, that it was a demon and should not be allowed to exist at all. It was Kal who came to the beast’s defence. Not beast, she said, but child-like, untempered, unguided, and untamed. She plead her case valiantly, and when she was done, the Council conceded that if one other person would agree, then the firebird would earn a stay. There was a silence that stretched long like the first night. And then the Dragon Aeon stepped forward. For the Dragon had been born from the chaos with the gift of Creation and Destruction both, and knew what Kal said was true. “To kill the Firebird would be to kill that part of ourselves that too is untempered and unkept. We all hold the potential for great darkness, and great destruction, but from that same fire comes passion – passion to learn, passion to grow, to create; unguided a song is but a dissonance of conflicting notes wrought against our finer senses; strung together they are symphonies of unmeasured and inexplicable beauty.” And so the council conferred, and the beast was spared – but on the condition it was contained until its reckless force could be controlled. So Kal and the Dragon Aeon went to the beast, flying, feathers blotting the stars as it passed, and Kal began to sing. The song wound itself through the stars and filled the air, dancing among the ashes. It was a quiet song, a lullaby, and soothed the heart of the beast. Bit by bit the fiery glow began to shed from each feather, darkening, until they were just the warm glow of embers. Aeon flew with Kal upon his back as she sung, and the bird followed. When it came again to its nest, it tucked its head beneath its wing and went sleep. Aeon pulled over a blanket of mountains so that none might upset its slumbers, and Kal sung them deep into the earth where the bird might sleep undisturbed. “Ka’shus marks the spot the firebird came into the world, and where it went back into slumber again. Some say it is there still, at the center of the earth, sleeping, until it is time to wake again when the world is to end…” When he was done, the group was entirely quiet. Finally, Lilani pulled herself up, and smacked him soundly with a small telekinetic burst to the back of the head. “And THAT is why you’re not allowed to tell bedtime stories!” “Ow- ouch!” he chirped indignantly, rubbing the smart out of it. “Bedtime stories? In sooth — I have far better tales to tell at bedtime...” “I don’t even want to hear it,” Lilaini turned away. “Well, I thought it was nice,” Rhaine inserted, her eyes wide and genuine. “and I for one would love to hear such bedtime stories!” Liam's palm briefly met his face and he stepped to the Lady's defence, "Here now, indeed the BEST bedtime stories do contain a little raucous mayhem. Or things to eat you up. Er, or I mean—" "Things that go bump in the night?" Tyden baited. "Honey buns!" Foehn Miri dropped her dark head into their midst with a sigh. "You can't have a good bedtime story without honey buns," she smiled blissfully. "Can't really argue with that logic," Lilaini concluded, and so it was. Then she was catching hold of Gypsy's mane to mount up again, for Tali was already bounding ahead, and the sun marked a final hour's travel to the ruins ahead.
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Post by mblansett on Mar 26, 2014 14:25:14 GMT -5
Marie have been silence for long time, so much have past the past since finding of the dragon. She did not know what to say. Shadow Mist look at Marie, and spoke softly "You been quiet."
Marie look at Shadow Mist, after she was sure the story was over, she whisper softly "Sorry I just been thinking."
"Thinking about what Marie?"
"I thinking about different think, about my future here, if I every learn how act right around people." as she mount Shadow Mist and started to follow the group to the ruins.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Jun 9, 2014 21:09:31 GMT -5
Tali moved quickly, that effortless, rolling gait that carried him silently and efficiently across the ground. He wove along the old goat trails that picked a natural path down the ridge, choosing the surest route that unicorns could easily follow. A few steps behind him was Kyndrienn. The young koros was fascinated by the wolf, and his antics remind Tali so much of the young from his own tribe; the unicorns had become his new pack, and this made Tali feel even more at home among them. It really made for good arrangement all around: Tali’s urge to roam and explore had been quieted before by his want to remain with his pack; now he was roaming to his heart's content with his new pack right alongside him, and the unicorns gained the benefit of his wolfly senses and keen nose. It was glorious. All the arrangement lacked was a cunning shewolf to lead by his side... but, that would have just been icing, he chuckled to himself. His nostrils pricked as he caught the scent yet again, stronger this time, and as the sun began to turn west he was glad they were so close; some of his wraggle-taggle pack had begun to look tired. "Not long now," he called over his shoulder. Kynn glowed with breathless excitement. He had walked longer and harder these past few days then he had his whole young life, but the pursuit of discovery hid his tired muscles most effectively behind youthful enthusiasm. "I could run all day - and night!" he crowed to Xanthe, clicking his heels together and he bounded after the wolf. "I can't," Xanthe huffed, the bells on her pack harness jingling in unison. She noted with some annoyance that bounding joyously forth was much easier when you weren't weighed down with pots and pans and cooking goods, and was even more annoyed that Kynn hadn't clued in yet. Some days I think that kor wouldn't notice his horn if it weren't attached to his head. But she didn't say anything out loud, because she was a responsible kore who had asked for this duty and would rather fall down dead from exhaustion then complain; plus that would be a lot more dramatic, too. So she didn't complain, not a peep, but her ears folded back in determination as she picked up her feet. *Perhaps we’ve actually succeeded in wearing the mischief out of her* Luminista’s eyes sparkled with humour. On her back, her companion had been a silent lump. When Luminisita asked if she wanted to scout ahead with Kyn and Tali, Tiponi had remained mum. When she asked if she’d like to take in the sights along the north-east range, Tip only shrugged absently. At last she asked if by chance they should check on the dragon, her companion’s eyes fluttered thoughtfully then became acutely pierced as her attention flitted to the back of the herd. “He seems well enough to me,” she replied tersely. Lumanista chuckled. “As you wish. Besides, wouldn’t want to accidentally rescue anyone again.” There was colour in Tiponi’s face, but it would be unwise to mistake it for embarrassment. Consider us even, her thoughts flared. That is all, and now done.The red mare, who the thoughts were not directed to, smiled anyways, but pressed her companion no further. Instead she picked up her pace and brought them directly behind Xanthe. The footing had suddenly become more solid, the goat trial widening as if once this had been an actual plotted road. She watched Tali’s nose test the air again and again, on a whim, breathed deeply too. What the wolf sensed she smelled nothing of, only the crispness of air in autumn. But another sense was tingling ever so slightly, a curious ghost of memory, even if she had no knowledge of this place. This is an old, busy place, she thought to herself. Gypsy’s ears had pricked and her tail flagged as her hooves hit the stones of the old road. The rocks were different now, too. Darker, with a cut and chiselled edge that even time had not erased away completely. Ahead, Tali had broke into a run, yodelling a bally of echoing laughter down the shallow ravine. As they came along the edge of the rock, a crumbled arch lay in pieces across the ground, the rune markings struck on their face still clear but mostly illegible. Gypy’s nostril’s flared as she danced over the stones, leaping forward with such impulsion that Liliani remained seated through skill alone. Past the others she raced to where Tali had stopped in a flat clearing surrounded by fallen stones. “Arrived!” he cried in glee. “We are here!” “Al’therwen?” Lilaini breathed, sliding down from the mare as Gypsy continued to swirl and prance. The dismay on her companion’s features blazed and radiated through her like a heat wave. “Is this the place…?” she trailed. Gypsy snorted, pawed the dirt with front hoof and then was still; her eyes closed. This is not what I remember. But such time, such time gone by… could I be mistaken? The others arrived, entering between the tower stones that now lay crumbling; their eyes lit with wonder, a quietness falling on them. The grass here was very short, as if it had never had a chance to re-grow under the traffic of thousand feet; it spread a good thirty feet wide and fifty long, an exhibition hall roofed now by open sky. Or maybe it was all the work of ancient glaciers; it was impossible to tell if this were naturally placed, or engineered by some intelligent design. Rhaine pulled up on Gwyneira and quickly slipped down to stand beside Lilaini as Tyden and Arieon arrived with the final members of the troupe. From the ivory stallion’s back, Tyden could see beyond the crumbling stones all the way along the mountain, transversing thoughtfully towards a glinting river beyond. There was something vaguely familiar about the place, but he couldn’t place it. “Is this it? Is this Al’therwen?” Kyn sniffed at the rune stones, effectively drawing grit up his nose and sneezing. “Well, of course it is now,” Xanthe gave him sharp look. “No,” whispered Gypsy quietly, and in the silence her disappointment was immense. The Guardians exchanged glances. The unicorns stood, ears pricked and bent towards the bronze mare and Tali had come to a stop, dismay pricking on his own face too. Arieon rumbled, “Are you quite certain? I may not be an expert at runes, but I know these to be the mark of elves. And the rocks here did not cut themselves,” he added, pleased enough with keen observation skills. “The Gate is not here,” Rhaine murmured softly, catching Gypsy’s disappointment. “But – there is no doubt an Elvin settlement stood here, a larger one, and if I my map, I’m sure I could placed us among the burrows of the greater city…” Tyden silently rolled his eyes, and threw his leg over the stallion’s back as he leapt to the ground. “We might not be in Al’therwen, yet, as the Lady affirms, but we are not so far off as to despair.” He looked around the group, aware that many unicorns were troubled by the lead mare’s unrest and all were weary by the miles they had covered that day. He cocked his head. “Did not the tales say that the roads to Al’therwen were marked by great, towering arches, welcoming travellers and tradesmen into the city’s core?” his hand motioned to the fallen pillars they had entered between, and moved forward to press his unbandaged palm against the rock. “They are real. And I could see clearly as we came through the pass – the old roads stand too, and will take us straight into the heart of Al’therwen – probably, only another day’s journey. Well done, Tali,” he concluded assertively. The wolf’s demeanour went from dismay to joyful, all in the flick of a tail, and Tyden grinned in return. “We may not have found Al’therwen, but I think however we have earned ourselves a rest. There’s still a couple hours till sundown, so let’s take a quick meal, then travel on until we meet that mountain-fed stream to bunk tonight.” There was cheerful agreement – or just sheer relief – from the travellers, and companions and unicorns alike wasted no time dismounting and stretching their legs, loosening saddle packs and sharing out the meal rations among themselves. At the very back of the group, his gleaming purple scales hidden in the shadow of the cliffs, Phen sniffed at the crumbled ruins with indifference. I wonder why they’re so interested in a pile of old rocks, he frowned; any more Elvin dust up his nose he might start sneezing grass fires. And this Gate; do they mean the Prai’lor Window? he wondered. He might have pondered on things a bit more if not for the approach of one of the humans. His ears pricked cautiously and he turned to meet them. “More dates?” the quiet, dark-haired woman inquired, her violet eyes darting. “Oh – yes,” said Phen willingly, and forgot about the rocks, the Gates, the elves and dust entirely as his nose filled with the sweet, spicy scent of scrumptiously delicious dates… * * *
Food made everything better. Almost. The gnawing in the pit of her stomach remained even after luncheon had filled her other longing. Her companion’s restlessness filtered through her mind, and with her companion uneasy it was all Lilaini could do to keep her own demeanour collected and calm – as she needed to be for the sake of the others who depended on her. At least they seemed happy enough with these ruins and remained blissfully unaware how lost they were from Al’therwen still; for the moment she hoped nothing upset that. Beside her, Rhaine was frowning silently into her biscuit, and she didn’t need to look up to know Tyden was having his own lunch with Liam and a handful of the other companions; she could hear his boisterous laughter from here. What the hell is he laughing about? her brows crimped. Doesn’t he realize how serious the situation is? Her head still hurt and body ached (but this was as much from the hard riding she convinced herself) and his laughter was most grating to her bruised senses. At last she rose. *Come* she sent to Rhaine and Tyden simultaneously. *We must confer*Lilaini strode to a flat crop of rock not far from the main group, easy to keep an eye on things but far enough they might converse unheard. Rhaine had followed silently, and while Tyden made eye contact upon receipt, he took his sweet time packing his lunch, excusing his company, and strolled towards them at a most casual pace. “Nice of you to finally join us,” she snapped. “Perhaps Ulysses will employ the same motivation when he sets about to destroy the Gate; will buy us some time as we blunder our way there.” His head cocked, most infuriatingly. “With all due respect, M’lady, I had intended not to blunder, although I can appreciate the finesse of such an approach.” “Were I not conserving my magic for something more important I would give you a thorough finessing right now,” she hissed. “In… public? Really now Lily, I had no idea you were such an exhibitionist…” All that saved him was the fact that her drained magic hadn’t enough finesse to pose much a threat to a gnatfly. But she countered instead by drawing her hands together in a steeple before her, eyes narrowed but expression sweet, “At least one of us has anything to exhibit at all.” “Please,” Rhaine interjected quietly. “Let’s not argue – we are all worn-out and still more is required of us; if the map were here—“ “By Kal, will you not shut up about that stupid map,” Tyden put a hand to his forehead. “That map had no more hope of finding Al’therwen then that emu of yours can find her out of a wet sheet.” His hand throbbed, but keeping the sun off his brow offered a small solace. “And despite the general consensus of my short fallings, it has not been lost on me that we have nearly 20 in our party – many greener than a spring kore – on a quest that has become not simply of chance discovery but a campaign, short nothing less than the redemption of war. In three days we have proven myths and re-written mythology, found out everything we knew is limited by an excruciatingly naive perspective of the world” his gaze slipped side-long to the red-garbed guardian “and, on of top all, if we wish to succeed, our finding Al’therwen shall be done through nothing more mystic in origin than common sense and sweat;” his gaze now landed on the other. “It is my hope only that no more blood will be shed on this course as well.” Lilaini’s eyes were so sharp they were nearly yellow. “As if it were our intent to stumble… Kal alone might know our steps before we take them! But know this – our course might not have been to plan, but we preserved; for as Guardians, it is not what we should do – it is what we must do. And have done. And will do, again. Mark, you!” Tyden stood with his expression unreadable, steel eyes hard. At last, he tipped his chin. “Aye, Guardian,” he conceded, turned without a look and strode away. Lilaini stayed her ground until the crackling she felt on her face had subsided; it would not have surprised her to know wisps of hair had come loose and danced about on their own accord. She took a deep breath, and everything settled. “We will let the others have a few more minutes’ rest, while I see to Gypsy for a moment. I think this journey has been hardest on her.” “Aye,” Rhaine spoke quietly, her face ashen. “It surely has been; I will see to the others.” Lilaini nodded, and they picked their way back across the broken stones. The bronze mare was pretending to graze by the far side of the clearing, and Rhaine hoped Lilaini might provide her some comfort; it distressed her too to know Gypsy was unhappy. At most times she would have offered her company, but now she was simply relieved to be momentarily alone. Her own cheeks felt strained and warm. I know they are very tired, and trying very hard to be brave, she deliberated silently. They are trying very hard to do what is required of them, is required of us, all; it was never expected to be easy. She brushed the back of her hand across her face before any tear could fall, for it was silly to feel like crying anyways. But her head was unsettled still as she neared where little Lyonee and Gwyn had settled for lunch. The kind mare nuzzled her lovingly as she sat down, and as soon as she did the child was a rush of distraction, which was partially what Rhaine had hoped. “Look, look at Mio!” Lyonee cried, pointing with attention rapt at Gwyn’s bulging satchel. It was propped on the ground, anchored between two rocks. This new arrangement allowed the plant room to unfurl, and its prickly heads were preening lavishly in the sunshine, bird-like and just as raucous. “We gave him a bit of water and now he’s all better,” the child proclaimed, clearly pleased with the results. “All better indeed!” the plant despaired. “Great Seed of Hoth, the only thing that could make this any better were it to be snowing and myself found dead of the Frost; deplorable! Oh, my most vibrant and green leaves, look how dry and tatter-frayed they are! Oh, the inhumanity…”“Certainly nothing wrong with his tongue, either,” Gwyn winked. Lyonee had leaned closer despite the hissing of the wee snapping heads, and nearly got one of her large, yellow curls snatched by the tiny jaws. She straightened abruptly. “Do you think he will always be so cross?” “Oh, sweetling, I do not think so,” Rhaine said gently. “It is only right now while he has much on his mind; sometimes a person strikes out when they are worried or frightened, and in trying to hide it, say things they do not mean to take to heart…” “Frightened? Me?! I know Nothing of Fear!” Mio declared. “After all – am I not Kaus Phaeo-Mio, son of Pharon, son of Udun the Fierce, son of Kaiso, who ate Parthor, son of Hon, son of Arbid the Crooked and Kainn the Incorrigible, son of Geee—” and he ducked as a very large drone fly buzzed along the satchel’s exterior, obviously disappointed it carried no remains of honey buns like the others in the clearing had. When the coast was clear the three heads emerged again, cautiously, snapping the air. “Oh, sweet breath of life, did you see the SIZE of those mandibles? It would have eaten me, I swear, eaten me whole…” “I think it’s time to get you safely back in the satchel,” Gwyn eased, nosing the plant gently but firmly, the way one would a stubborn foal. “Too much excitement, too early, I think.” “We should tidy up anyways,” Rhaine agreed. “I know how tired everyone is, so avoiding more trouble and making camp before dark is a must. Let’s keep ourselves close together until then,” her voice directed as Xanthe and Kynndrian trotted by. “I was born to listen!” Xanthe declared as they scampered past. “You will have no such trouble from me!” * * *
Truly, it would be unfair to say that Xanthe was being in any way unruly; she had dutifully handed out rations again at mealtime (or at least stood patiently while the people with actual hands, er, handled that part). She had inspected the dragon (from a distance; while she had every confidence in her spell, at the time decided she preferred Kynn’s company more). And she had not pushed Liam off the cliff, even though he presented her with a brilliant opportunity when he went away to relieve himself in a fairly secluded outcrop along the ridge; she had been ever so saintly good! But now Kynn’s focus began to drift once more towards that thing which cornered his whole attention: “Can you imagine what it would be like to be a wolf?” he pressed, voice brimming with excitement. “You’d have eyes that see in dark, ears that hear for miles, and you’d be able to smell…. well, everything!” Xanthe, who noted the adolescent koros was not nearly as fresh after three days of hard traveling, had to carefully choose her words. “I am not sure what I’d do with the burden of such a gift…” “I know, it’d be great,” he lolled blissfully. “Hey, wanna pretend we’re a wolf pack? You can be the chief huntress, and I’ll be a lone wolf, sleek, savvy and misunderstood!” “I think I hear Tyden calling,” Xanthe’s ears pricked with sudden brightness. “Why yes, I do believe it is, and you know how I must uphold my duty,” she excused herself with the most dutifully of apologetic airs. Kynn’s disappointment at her departure was only a passing flutter, because he was already acting the part. Alone. Dropped from the pack and forced to live on wit and guile, he wears the night as his cloak, the stars his only companions. He is no stranger to the solitude, nay – he embraces it! The wind alone leads him, the moon dares him, for he is the Wolf of the empty and endless sky, caroling alone where no one hears his cry… “Aaaaaooooooooo!” Kyn howled. A few feet away, Foehn Miri snorted as she snapped up, spraying her mouthful of greens all over the buckskin kor. “I sneezed,” Kyn was sheepish. “Bless you,” she said, staring expectantly, and continued to stare until he shrank out from under her gaze and fleeted rapidly away. Ousted again, the lone wolf knows when he is not welcomed. But in his retreat he finds no despair: for beyond the cloisters of polite company, beyond the net that holds the web of society in place lies the wide open hills that roll endlessly from each corner of the falling sky…. above all the other wolves, HE alone is free!Embracing the openness, Kyn came up along the edge of the thick stone wall, bouncing higher with each step. He could see the other side of the ruins from here, a scattered collection of great cut rocks and tumbled pillars further beyond. If this was only an outpost, he couldn’t imagine how much grander Al’therwen itself must be! He might have stayed there, looking out over the crop until it was time to go, if he hadn’t turned and noted how very high up he was in perspective to the others below. His hooves felt queasy, if that were possible, and he decided a Lone Wolf would be considered most witty if he didn’t fall off the rampart by accident. So he very carefully made his way back down, and nonchalantly trotted back to the others as if nothing had happened at all. Besides, he reflected intuitively, being a lone wolf isn’t just about being a wolf and alone – it’s state of mind. His hoof caught a rock and he nearly went sprawling, but luckily his wolf-like reflexes kept him on his feet. Snorting, he craned his neck down to the odd, ring-shaped lump of earth that had nearly dumped him in. It seemed to be carved rock, but it was a strange, black and tasted (yes, he tongued it) vaguely rust. He tapped his foot against it and a hollow, ringing vibration quivered through his hoof. That was strange. And fascinating. Snorting with excitement this time he lifted his foot and struck the ring again. ((and for the sake of set-up, pay no attention to the wolfish Koros for the next few moments!!))
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Post by geob on Jun 17, 2014 10:32:20 GMT -5
Foehn Miri could only shake her head and the koro's antics. Oh, to be so young again, she thought. Actually, she wasn't so sure she really -wanted- to be that young again. Though the abundance of energy might be nice... . ~ * ~ . Without a qualm or a thought, Tiponi held out a fistful of dates on the flat of her hand for the dragon. "I am not really accustomed to so many people about," she confessed absently. "If it wasn't for Luminista," she nodded in the direction of her red companion over grazing with some of her unicorn friends, "I would soooo be out of here." Reaching back into the bag, she pulled out another handful of dates, again offering them up on the flat of her hand. ((Assuming, of course, that Phen took the first ones.))
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Jun 17, 2014 11:28:36 GMT -5
Phen delicately munched the dates without hesitation. Oh, they were good... oh so good. As he savoured them, he listened absentmindedly to what the woman was saying. He'd never really been one for crowds either, mostly, because they seemed to attract the worst sort: rowdy youth and ruckus-makers, who really only wanted to butt heads and and laud their accomplishments to Uthor over each other. Phen wasn't much into that, mostly because he was neither thick-headed nor accomplished. At least until now...
He glanced towards the unicorn the woman mentioned, not really able to pick her out from the others. They really all looked a lot the same to him. Well, except the bronze mare who was so beautiful... he pulled himself up abruptly as he was offered more dates. "Mmm, thanks," he swallowed.
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Post by geob on Jun 17, 2014 11:50:17 GMT -5
As Tiponi continued to replace dates as they disappeared the colors about the dragon fluctuated. They all seemed, not exactly peaceful, but certainly they lacked any measure of threat. It occurred to her that she was getting used to the colors surrounding everyone and the flashing of the colors didn't distract her so much. Interesting.
She chattered on to the dragon. Nothing of consequence, really, just random observations. Suddenly she stopped mid-sentence and turned fully to the dragon instead of looking out over the group. "What is it about you that makes me so comfortable," she asked, puzzled. "I really don't talk this much. And certainly not about nothing in particular." It also occurred to her that she was the one who did most if not all of the talking, but she didn't mention this. The chatter was embarrassing enough without admitting to being a conversation hog.
She reached for more dates only to realize the bag was empty. "Uh-oh. I hope they have more of these. We seem to have eaten all of this bag."
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Jun 18, 2014 23:13:32 GMT -5
Phen's ears pricked as she fanned the questioned towards him with an accusatory flash of her green eyes. The dragon shrugged, and if he'd been a lighter colour a flush would have hinted across his sleekly scaled cheeks. There was occasionally an advantage to being dark purple, even if it had brought him no end of taunting as a child about half-bloods and queries to his parentry (which, actually, left a lot up to be questioned). He didn't mind this human's company either, and he was sure the feelings went deeper then the sweet fruit. And it wasn't just her... on the walk through the pass, the tall man on the white unicorn had chatted to him at length, mostly jovial stories that made the others listening close by titter, or points of interest they passed along the way. He pointed these out warmly, clearly proud of his homeland, and the welcoming tone in his voice was impossible to miss. He had meant Phen to feel at ease, and to be welcomed here.
Could those human-stories he'd been told as child... be wrong?
He glanced at the dark-haired woman again. "I really don't talk this little," he supplied sheepishly. "At least, that's what my mother would say. Or mostly she'd say, 'Shut up, Phen - you're doing it again.'" He pricked the dirt with his claws, watching them scrap the thin sheath of grass from the stones. "I think what she liked most about my joining Uthor's legion was the quiet it gave her on Tw'illen Night."
Footsteps to his right brought his head up. The tall rider, Tyden, approached them.
The man's blue-grey eyes were distant, but as soon as he greeted them returned to the present. "Phenthor, Tiponi - lunch is getting on well I presume....?" His eyes fell on the empty bag of dates, an unreadable expression passing there for a second. Then he straightened, nodding, "Very well, I see... No matter, I am happy to find you both at ease; it was a long trek and you must be weary that we are not yet reached our camp tonight." He expression fluctuated again, but he countered determinedly, "Besides... what's another couple mile's journey among friends? I'm sure we'll all look back at this someday with fond and doting memories..."
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Post by hardwired on Jun 21, 2014 22:53:06 GMT -5
Cassie found that she really liked this group she found herself in with. She went out of her way to ask how she could help with the setup of the camp and offered to help with the chores. Keeping her hands busy was a good use of her time she decided and she was ravenous and tired after the length that they had traveled. She was heartened when she had heard through the camp gossip that they were nearing the place that they would camp. She had also finally relinquished and took a ride from Cordy when she offered at their last stop. There was no way she was beginning to realize that she would be able to keep up otherwise. Her thighs chaffing she had been delighted to stretch her legs and take in the unusual company that she was now becoming more used too. That was until she got a load of the talking plant. They did not have those either where she came from. She couldn't hear exactly what it said but the tone carried well enough on the air. "I imagine if our plants could talk we would hear a good deal of complaining too" she said to no one in particular. Cassie kept moving since she felt a deep need to stay with Cordy. It was an overpowering feeling that seemed to consume her every step. Like any new relationship she was still a bit uncertain that she would be able to keep it. A pang hit her in the heart. No way was she going to mess this up! Cassie worked even harder to make herself useful though she kept stopping periodically to take in the new sights and smells.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Jun 22, 2014 20:43:07 GMT -5
((I'm going to presume that Cassie is still close enough to be within earshot of Gwyn when she spoke, and has not wandered too far off (and that Cordelia is nearby since it seems the two are inseparable ) Feel free to correct me if otherwise!)) Gwyneira's eyes twinkled more as she caught the off-hand comment somewhere behind her. She let Raine secure the latch on her satchel before turning however -- the last thing one needed was for Mio to make a break for freedom (again; although, he really never got far). "I suppose it would depend on the plant," she mused just loud enough that the young woman might overhear, "You see, I always took sunflowers to be the most cheery sort. And daisys too. And Peppermint! Really, anything that zesty can't be in a bad mood! Although in the same breath I'm not such how pleasant a skunk cabbage would be of disposition..." Her stomach rumbled slightly; all that talk was making her hungry, and truly, the grass up here was not ideal to support a mare of her... stature. Turning from Cassie as if to give her a chance to reply, she addressed Cordelia directly, "As much as I love all this travelling, I am not as young as I once was and would relish a soft carpet of grass under our feet tonight. Both for resting these old bones, and dinner; ah, what I would give right now for a spread of deliciously blooming spring clover!" "Barbarian," came the retort from inside her satchel, but at least it was fairly muffled.
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Post by hardwired on Jun 22, 2014 21:45:35 GMT -5
Cassie couldn't help but grin at the mare's comments. "I think you must be right!" Cassie was excited to find another warm reception. She still could not believe that she was talking to an actual unicorn! She cast around to see if she could find any clover in the ground cover. She may not know much about this world but surely she could accomplish this at least. "You don't look so old." Spying what she took as clover she pulled it up and offered it to Gwyneira. "Would this be what you were looking for? I am certain I could find more if you give me a bit." Plus she would love to hear what the plant was actually saying.
Cordelia was proud of her companion. She was trying so hard and Cordy was pleased that she did not complain even when she was clearly tired. She flicked her head in approval and moved closer to Gwyneira's and snorted her hello. "So what's on the menu today eh?"
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Jun 22, 2014 22:27:22 GMT -5
The clover that Cassie offered was dwarfed and weathered by the altitude and autumn sun, but as mother of many (including Lex, who at times seemed like at least six koros) this was hardly the most questionable offering an eager young thing had pressed on her. That, and Gwyn had never met a clover she didn't like. She ate it graciously; "delicious!" The satchel made a shuddering sound.
"That should tide me over well enough, my dear," she spoke when she was done chewing. "But I don't think Cordelia would mind it a bit if you stumbled across some patches a long the way," Gwyn winked in her direction. The palomino mare beside her was positively radiating with pride. "Should we only be so lucky that clover makes it on the menu everyday!"
Behind them, Rhaine had fastened the clip on Lyonee's cloak tightly in place, and with that the girl bounced to the grey mare's side again. "We are ready!" she chirped. "Do you think we might ride in front again, following Tali? I have never had a wolf as a guide before -- Olivier will be smartly jealous when he hears about it too, I think. He did SO much love it when Papa read the Jungle Book to us. I think the only thing that might be more exciting would be to meet a tiger, too!"
"More exciting then a Dragon?" Rhaine gently quipped, watching the child's excitement overflow in a breathless gush.
"Oh!" Lyonee's bright eyes darted, amazed that she had, in the moment, forgot; in her defence, in this setting a dragon really did seem downright commonplace -- but definitely not a any less exciting! "Might I speak with the dragon now?" she pressed. "You had said we might, after he had a chance to settle in..."
Rhaine's eyes also rested on the dragon, eating contently from Tiponi's hand like a huge cat, as Tyden strode towards them. She diverted her gaze abruptly, tugging absently at her own satchel with sudden restlessness. "Not yet, sweetling - we still have some packing to do. Once we get to the night camp, there will be time enough to speak with dragons."
The child sighed, but realized again this was simply all part of The Test, which she had worked so hard at all this time. She knew she could wait a few more hours until evening if it meant speaking with a dragon, and possibly finding her way home again. And then, oh, the stories she would have to share...! She turned to the two mares again, noticing Cassie for the first time. "Are you on a Quest, too?" she asked curiously.
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Post by tsukiclowes on Jun 23, 2014 21:16:14 GMT -5
Rashida had been on this journey from the beginning, the things she saw, heard and learned amazed her each step. Now being high in the skylands, the views were amazing, if you could get one in while climbing endlessly. She kept to herself for the most part of the journey, occasionally striking up small talk with some of the mares toward the back, and a human or two although most of them seemed rather dazed by finding themselves in her home land. They would nod or say a word or two, but none of them seemed to be of any real interesting conversationalists. She didn't blame them, she would probably be out of sorts if she suddenly found herself stuck in a new land and not a clue to what was going on.
Rashida's curiosity had been growing with each hoof step she took. While staying back and observing the events so far had suited her fine, the addition of a dragon had made her itch to find out more grow. With talk of making camp for the night growing, she found herself having a little more prance in her gait. Tonight would be the perfect opportunity to talk with the leaders of the group, maybe even the dragon, and maybe just maybe even her father Arieon. Even though the long hiking had left her hungry, the new thought made the gentle growling of her stomach more bearable.
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Post by hardwired on Jun 23, 2014 21:33:04 GMT -5
"I am glad you liked it." Cassie said eying her companion with clearly calculating eyes. "I am sure I could find more!" Cassie said to Cordelia. "Thanks for the idea." She chortled thanking Gwyn.
"Um," Cassie looked at Cordelia when the question flew at her from the young child that clearly had the same fascination with the dragon that she shared "I am not really sure... I am still trying to understand what just happened." She admitted sheepishly. "Truthfully I would probably have followed a unicorn anywhere. As far as my world knew, they were stories." That last was said with a hint of smugness. "I really couldn't be happier anywhere else so if I am that would be just fine with me." She paused then asked the girl "How do you know if you are on a quest?" Cassie asked curiously. "My name is Cassie by the way." She felt introductions were in order and that much of manners she had at least.
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Post by Asperi on Jun 23, 2014 22:55:25 GMT -5
Kyla was fascinated by Tyden's story about the fire bird and how it became a mountain. Not that she was any great history buff, but she did enjoy reading fantasies and legends in her free time back home. On earth myths and legends of old were often used to explain natural phenomena back before humans had much understanding of science. Becoming lost in in her own thoughts Kyla began twirling Midori's mane in her fingers as they followed along with the rest of the group. The fire bird described in Tyden's story seems an interesting take on what I would call a Pheonix back home. And clearly the legend was created to explain the heat at the earth's core, and it's birth sounds like a great volcanic explosion, like Pompeii. Kyla's mind worked around the subject finding such explanations and comparisons when it suddenly occurred to her that her idle thoughts may not be so idle after all... she wasn't on earth. Did Kalidore even have a core? And for that matter was it even round? If Kalidore was flat then was it possible to sail off the edge of the world here like long ago sailors on earth once believed possible? And this place had unicorns. Earth didn't have unicorns. Earth also doesn't have a pheonix. So did that mean... Suddenly feeling Kyla stiffen on her back, Midori inquired in a concerned tone, *Is everything alright dear?* Still tense, Kyla very sullenly responded, *Do giant fire birds actually exist?* Midori couldn't help but giggle at her companion's mortification at such pleasant old story. Or, at least Midori thought it was pleasant. It did seem to have a happy ending after all, Kala saved the day with no lost lives. *I wouldn't distress too much about it, it is just an old legend. Midori quickly realized her attempt at reassurance had only half the affect she had hoped, as Kyla quipped back, *until a few days ago, Unicorns were just a legend too* Happy that her companion was beginning to relax ever so slightly, Midori continued on without comment. Kyla, on the other hand, resolved to tread lightly on said mountain, just in case. *** As they continued on their journey with the rest of the group Kyla too noted the subtle changes in the road, the increased clicking and clacking of the unicorns hooves on the smooth stones being what drew her attention to it. Seeing the old ruins again reminded her of stories from home, though in a much less distressing manner than the last one. They seemed almost as if they had been pulled from the pages of some of the fantasy novels she had read as a child. Tolkein's work in particular came to mind; how she had loved falling into his character's adventures! Kyla breathed in as much of the beauty and mystery of the ruins as she could, feeling her pulse quicken at the realization that she was now living a fantasy of her own! Midori and Kyla had been enjoying their lunch not far from Gwyn and the rest of her rather curious group. Kyla and Midori both were almost in a fit of giggles at Gwyn's suppositions on general plant personalities by species. As lunch seemed to be wrapping up and the rather amusing plant had already been stowed, Kyla dusted herself off and prepared to hit the trail, er, road again. This, seemed to bring an obvious tune to mind and she began humming as meandered around the ruins looking up, around, and everywhere but where she was going. Before she knew it she had walked smack dab into the shoulder of a Unicorn she hadn't yet met with an, "Oomf!". Clearly embarrassed by her clumsiness she stammered,"Oh dear, I am so sorry! I was just admiring the ruins, and not watching where I was going and, well, I really didn't mean to bump into you like that! I, um, my name is Kyla." Glancing towards Midori, who remained by Gwyn nibbling on some dry grass, she quickly thought, *Guess who just won another point towards the "Most awkward introductions and first impressions award"!* With a little snicker Midori nodded with approval and replied, *You're a front-runner for sure!* Turning her attention back to the unicorn in question she silently hope that she had not offended the lovely mare.
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Post by geob on Jun 24, 2014 10:19:46 GMT -5
Tiponi couldn't help stiffening at The Man's approach. "'Very well, I see,' indeed," she muttered to herself, thinking he was taking offense at the empty bag. She placed a hand on the dragon's neck in support/camaraderie/companionship, she really wasn't sure which/what. While The Man's flashing colors were mostly what she would call pleasant, there were some discordant ones flashing as well, and being true to form, she chose to focus on the later. "Don't worry about the two of us," she said rather abrasively. "We will travel as far as necessary at whatever pace is set."
*Easy there, miss,* Luminista set from where she was grazing. *I am sure he meant no offense.*
*The Man reeks of offense,* the girl responded, although she did make a conscience effort to sooth her own ruffled feathers. Studying her toes she mumbled, "My apologies. Perhaps I am more tired than I thought." Even to her own ears the apology did not sound very sincere, but she refused to say more. Instead she turned to the dragon. "Tw'illen Night? What is this Tw'illen Night," she asked.
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Post by tsukiclowes on Jun 24, 2014 10:42:28 GMT -5
Rashida had been looking forward, intent on her personal mission to talk to the lead horses and find more out about the mysterious dragon that had joined the group. She was a bit lost in her own thoughts of what questions and things she would talk with them, her black slightly wavey mane flowing behind her with each step closer. A sudden bump to her shoulders brought her to a halt. It wasnt hard enough to make her move, being a younger mare in the group she was sure of foot and very hard to knock over.
Being taken out of her thoughts, she turned her head curiously at what the object that hit her was. Rashida's green eyes twinkled with interest as she came face to face with a human. The human female who's name was apparently Kyla seemed a bit flustered over the small physical contact, and turning to face her Rashida shook her head, " Dont worry, there is lot of interest around here its easy to get distracted. There was no harm done to me. Its nice to meet you Kyla, I am Rashida." Her interest peeked, she looked at the girl in front of her at the vest with many pockets.
Arching her neck she sniffed at the pockets, wondering what each one contained. Rashida had never taken a companion and had little time around them other than on this journey. " Are you new to the Isle? Is one of these other mares your companion?" She flicked her dark tail curiously, her ears perked in anticipation of the answers.
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