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Post by shazzadee86 on Nov 1, 2008 23:02:09 GMT -5
Persephone couldn't wait any longer and started trotting over to the road, barely aware of anyone who may have been following. Her mind was finally starting to clear now that she was taking the action she knew she needed to take, and she would've continued clean on to the village all by herself, without stopping, without looking back, but she ran into an unforeseen problem and was brought up short. Somebody else was already using the road, and as far as they were concerned she was no more than a loose horse. 'Woah! Woah there girl!' The man was short and bent, years of hard labour clearly visible in his current condition. With him he had a small cart, empty, and he was headed in the direction away from the village. As Persephone came flying down the muddy track towards him, he set the cart down with an easy swiftness that contrasted his years and planted himself in the road. Surprised, the bay unicorn came to a skidding halt, and with that same remarkable speed he quietly reached up and grabbed a thick handfull of her dark mane. "There girl," he crooned kindly, his eyes sparkling with a certain joviality, "Now where are you going in such a hurry?" The sound of hooves made him look up, and he saw a small trio hurrying his way, a number of horses following obediently behind. The horses were all finely built, not the shaggy, short-legged kind you usually saw in these parts, and the old farmer could appreciate a well-bred animal when he saw one. Their clothing gave them away as being not from these parts, and he imagined they were probably headed to the village for the market sale. There timing was good - with the army in town, they were always looking to pick up a good war horse, though probably not for the price they would be wanting. If they held thier ground, they might just entice one of the generals to loosen his purse strings. The farmer smiled again, and patted the bay mare's neck. 'Hello there, young travelers! This mare, she be one of yours then? If you fancy keeping her I'd recommend a rope or something, she seems to be of a mind to take off on her own. Where you be headed? if you no mind me asking o' course.' He remained standing beside Persephone in the middle of the road, blocking her if she choose to continue forward. Oh dear, he thinks I'm a horse, and apparently a free one is considered unusual. Of all the timing! My companion is down there! Why wont you just leave?! Persephone continued to glare at the man as he gazed towards the guardians in particular and the companions in general.
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Post by silentmoon on Nov 2, 2008 12:55:22 GMT -5
Ali smoothed out the hems of her shirt and straightened up when a man came into view. She tilted over slightly to say briskly, "To late. He could be an unexpected problem I'm afraid." The young girl scooted back towards Fiera with small steps, slow and steady. Tring to keep attention from drawing to herself and then to the orangey red mare.
"I think it would be best to stay quiet. Last time... didn't turn out so well." Ali wrapped her hands through Fiera's mane. They could have done the mind-to-mind thing apart, but something about being in physical contact with your other side was appreciative. "I'll bet. It's strange how the common human thinks we're all horses. Interesting, but strange...." She was still twicthy, but she supressed her temperment for a moment ot add in, "I'll stay quiet."
Ali stroked the unicorn's strong shoulders happily. "Erm, greetings sir. I don't think she'll be needing a rope, we're in a hurry." she said briskly. Her voice was barely loud enough to be heard clearly, but it was still a managable volume. Warmth creeped up her face, causing Ali to look down. Fiera made a soft whicker, amused yet keeping her face composed as possible. She shifted her weight around, a little impatient to continue forward.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Nov 2, 2008 13:52:21 GMT -5
Tyden noted Fiera's clamped teeth and had to grin. And he admired Ali's reserve and fortitude; was it possible she had even grown taller in the little time they had been together? To be honest, when he first laid eyes on her, Spirit's initial reservation had held truth - she was just a child, and even he was unsure of her place on this journey. And here now, a mere two days later... if this was the work of Companions met, then he was grateful he'd had the opportunity to see it happened, and that Ali and had been given the chance to bloom.
He nodded briskly but warmly in her direction, and strode froward, coming to stand beside the gentlemen and Persephone. He gave the unicorn a quick look, silently explaining he understood her urgency, and hoped she'd wait long enough to let them help her. "Thank you kindly, sir. She does have a habit of leaping headfirst into things, but she usually has a good reason," he placed his hand on her withers, showing he had her, and the farmer nodded warmly and released his hold. Persephone snorted impatiently, doing everything she could to keep from blurting out loud.
"Fine animal indeed," the farmer agreed. "Ay, maybe only twice now I've seen finer, that's your compliment," he chuckled gently, glancing at the other horses behind them. "I bet you are in a hurry - headed for the market sale, I imagine?"
"Huh? Oh - no, not the market," Tyden shook his head. "We're..." he swallowed quickly, "we're traveling..."
"Performers," Lilaini interjected from behind. "Circus performers - On horseback."
Tyden glanced back at her frowning, but she only shrugged pointedly. He turned back to the old gentleman farmer again, warming to the story. "Yes. We've been taking our show all over these parts, perhaps you've heard of us - Lilaini's Flying Circus, the Finest Equine Stunt riders.. on Earth," he added hastily, realizing he had no idea *where* on Earth they might actually be. "That village yonder was our next destination."
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Post by shazzadee86 on Nov 2, 2008 20:20:04 GMT -5
'Ah, so you be headed to the village then? Might not be the best time for performers, they have entertainment a'plenty there for once. The Inquisition finally caught themselves a witch, by the name of Brádaigh i think. Been after her for awhile anyways, so they're all for making a big show out of it, her execution and all. Would've liked to stay myself, but crops don't wait you see, disappointing that.' A cold shiver had started to run down the length of Persephone spine as she listened to the man's tale, the reason behind her distress coming ever clearer. Her companion. Caught. Her companion, to be killed? A show? Some spectacle meant to entertain? The cold shiver had reached her tail and was soon replaced by the heat of rage, and then another bout of cold as sheer panic started to set in.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Nov 2, 2008 21:54:37 GMT -5
Tyden felt Persephone shiver beneath his hand, her whole body quaking with shock. Her feet danced and he had to watch his toes; she was eager to be off and running and he didn't blame her. He knew about the witch hunts, had heard about them first hand from people who had lived through them, and that such horrors were capable by humankind never failed to sicken him. He knew the Guardians were distraught too, and there was no way they would leave some innocent person to suffer such a terrible fate. And were she Persephone's companion... no wonder the mare could barely contain herself. At this moment he was practically ready to take on the whole inquisition, too. He grabbed hold of the dark mane and launched himself astride, hearing a surprised exclamation from the mare as he did so. *Excuse my haste, but I believe we have someplace to be* he thought to the mare, and saw her eyes light with first realization and then gratitude. Behind him he heard Rhaine and Liliani mount too. Rhaine swung her leg over Imbri with fleet grace, all the while her stomach swimming with the news. Can we reach in time? she thought desperately, her eyes flowing across the greens to where the village lay, a good two miles away. In the distance, a bell tolled, steadily, solemnly, but without remorse. *What if we're already too late?* she didn't dare breath out loud. *We can only trust that Kal would not lead us here to be mere bystanders,* Imbri's ears were laid back against her skull. *And the bond between Unicorn and Companion is strong - even when the companion is unaware.* The mare's moss-green eyes flickered dangerously, *and do not think that a unicorn would let a fate befall her chosen, while she is alive in the universe and able to take Fate by the teeth...*"I hope you're right," Rhaine said grimly, and turned to where Ali and Lana stood just beside them."Ali," she spoke low enough so the farmer wouldn't hear, still not sure how much Lana could follow, but knew Spirit would fill her in, "the both of you. We have to go quickly, and I want everyone to wait here for us as I do not know what horrors await in that town. Try to keep yourselves inconspicuous - if someone comes, you must play the part of shepherd, and these horses are your flock. They will help you of course, but it is best if you do not speak - any of you," (this last part was directed more at the unicorns). "Will you be okay?" There wasn't really and answer the girls could give, really nothing more she could offer them, but it had to be enough. And Unicorns were by no means helpless either, but she sensed they were terribly alarmed and confused by the unfolding events. "We will return shortly," she concluded, and Imbri turned dancing towards the town and their fated companion, her black hooves dancing across the muddied ground. "Thank you for the advice," Tyden tipped his head to the old farmer gratefully, doing his best to keep Persephone in one place. "If it's just as you say, we'll simply ride in for some quick supplies before carrying on to the next village. You should come and see us if you pass that way. I'm sure you'd enjoy--" he caught his balance as Persephone lunged forward urgently. "Keep thee well!" he called in parting, already headed to the village, the bay mare unable to hold herself any longer. 'Well, I'll be on my way then. You might have better luck at the next village beyond this one, tis bigger too. Should only be another day of travel, maybe faster since you have horses and all. Good day and good luck.' With that he dipped his head in acknowledgment and continued on his way, satisfied that he had helped the young travelers find the work they were looking for.
((*edits it for the fifth time and hope it finally makes sense* Not my most coherent night tonight, apparently ))
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Post by silentmoon on Nov 2, 2008 22:32:40 GMT -5
Ali blinked rapidly and repeatedly for a moment. Gone. They were gone. Getting on the unicorn's backs, riding off, the kind man just leaving. She stood there stunned, taking it in slowly if not taking in any at all. "Hey, go thank the man before he leaves. Yell, I don't care." Fiera nudged Ali's shoulder, pushing her ever so slightly forward.
"Erm, thank you sir! Have a nice... day?" Her voice trailed off when the man slowly disapeared from sight. "Ok, so now they've left. I guess I'm - we're, just gonna sit her and wait?" Ali asked after a deep breath. "Maybe we should follow... or not. I don't know!" She slumped down onto the road, crouching with her head against Fiera's leg. "I personally don't think you should be going anywhere near something as crazy as getting burned at a stake." Fiera retorted, shaking her head in dismay.
"But witches aren't real. Remember what kind of time line I come from? Machines and science and all." Ali waved her hands around, emphasizing what she meant a little more. "No... I haven't been on earth for more years than you can count dear. Time passes by so quickly on Kalidore."
Ali slowly clambered back on Fiera's warm back, adjusting herself a little. "Hmmm, forget that. I just hope they return well and with our newest member." she softly said, while burrying her face in sweet orange like silk mane. Now they just had to sit and wait. Wondering if all would turn out well when everyone was back together again. "C'mon dear, let's move out of this road. Everyone else too." The orange mare started off the path and into some of the greenery around, nudging the others along too.
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Post by Delicious on Nov 3, 2008 0:04:28 GMT -5
Lana’s eyes went wide at Spirit's translation the talk of an execution. ‘He really can’t mean … I mean even if she WERE a witch … can they really just kill her like that? And they call it entertainment?’ Lana sent Spirit worriedly. Spirit flattened her ears against her skull and stamped. ‘I don’t know, sweetling. I’ve not really heard of anything like that before but … the Guardians don’t exactly look surprised.’ ‘That’s … that’s just HORRIBLE. Surely there’s something we can do….” She replied aghast. ‘Maybe … I’m sure the Guardians won’t leave her there, I’m certain they’ll think of something …’ Spirit’s sending trailed off as Rhaine turned to face the group. … ‘She says we’re to stay here, and to be quiet.’ Spirit sent to Lana as Rhaine started towards town, with Tyden and Persephone close behind. Lana wrinkled her nose at that. ‘Just sit tight? I … I guess so. I suppose mostly I’d just end up getting in the way, and I’d hate to cause them even more problems – they’ll have more than enough to deal with right now.’ ‘I’d wager they will have to move fast – but I’m certain you wouldn’t get in the way, I wouldn’t let that happen.’ Spirit replied determinedly. ‘It’s not your fault you can’t hear. That’s just the way things are, and you’ve worked around it admirably! So, no deprecating, alright?’ ‘Yes’m.’ Lana replied, and buried her face in Spirit’s mane. ‘… I hope they’ll be alright.’ ‘Me too, dearling. Me too.’ Spirit replied as she watched the bay and black mares and their riders disappear from view. "Hssssst. The others are leaving." Pasipahë muttered under her breath at Spirit. "We should follow along - I don't want to get left behind in this awful place. Execution! Argh!" Spirit nodded silently, and the two mares and their passenger followed along behind the rest of the group. ((Edited to add the bit to follow Fiera, since I so inobservantly didn't notice Silent's post the first time. <-- doofus ))
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Post by shazzadee86 on Nov 4, 2008 19:38:59 GMT -5
The guard lit her pyre and smoke started to obscure her vision, a log cracked somewhere behind her. Raising her eyes for what she new to be the last time, Aislinn looked towards the outskirts of the village and the lands beyond. A group of travelers had just entered the village and she realized the pain of her injuries and the smoke inhalation must be causing hallucinations, for she could have sworn the horses had horns, but no matter, her mind was sinking into darkness and all would soon be over... *** Persephone couldn't remember running so fast, let alone with someone like Tyden on her back. Her lungs where burning, her legs aching from the exertion and still the village seemed just out of their reach. She didn't realise she had entered it until she felt the hard jarring of cobbles against her hooves, a start contrast from the dirt of the road. Throwing up her head, Persephone skidded to a halt, an exclamation of suprise from Tyden as he nearly came flying off her back in the sudden change of momentum. Breathing heavily, Persephone glanced at Tyden as he pulled himself astride again. 'She... is... here...' Looking down to meet her gaze, her stress and exhaustion evident in her stance. 'Find her.' Raising her head to see over the crowd, she finally saw the person she had been searching for, Tyden following her gaze. For the breifest of moments unicorn and companion eyes met, Persephone's emerald green and Aislinn's ice blue, until smoke obsurred the vision, making Persephone's eyes water and Tyden's throat burn. Blinking rapidly, Persephone tried to clear her sight, managing to look back just in time to see her companion's eyes roll, her head fall and her body slump as she fainted. Forgetting everything, Tyden on her back, the crowd before her, she whinnied a challenge and bolted forwards again, nearly losing Tyden again in her charge. Knocking people aside, oblivious to their cries of outrage and shock, she fought the crowd for room to move. Glancing at the officials as they called to the guards to sieze the intruders, Tyden starting yelling orders at the crowd himself, trying to get them to move out of Persephone's way, whose entire focus upon the mop of curls, as red as the flames ever gaining momentum. Clearing the crowd, Persephone ran at the two foot soldiers standing between her and her companion, hitting one with her shoulder while Tyden kicked the second aside. Jumping through the billowing smoke, Persephone and Tyden landed amidst the logs and kindling, causing sparks to fly in all directions. Persephone didn't care, she was finally at her companion's side. Exhaling with relief, Tyden placed his hand on Persephone's shoulder. 'She is still alive.' *** Liam Teague groaned loudly as he lost the last of his coins to his comrades. They'd been assigned to watch the eastern entrance to the village. It's name already lost to the tedium of the task. In an attempt to pass the time, they, himself, his superior, Conner Brogan, and two brothers Aiden and Brendan Ruan, had started a game of dice, a fair attempt he'd thought, until he started losing. Conner was in a decent mood for once, probably due to his current winning streak. He'd been in the army for the longest and was not adverse to allowing himself access to ale and women, all on the currency of his rank. His perks, or so he called them. Aiden was a decent sort really, this lifestyle hadn't touched his nature yet and he hoped it wouldn't for awhile. Brendan had been assigned to their squad only recently. More boy than man, fresh out of training and eager to prove himself. Liam got to his feet while the other three continued the game, determined as they were to find the winner. Walking back to where they had picketed their horses, he rummaged through his packs, in a vain hope that he might have dropped a few extra coins among his belongings. A rustling to his left made him look up to see a foal gazing back at him from under a tree. Staring at it in shock, the foal merely gazed back at him, a strand of grass hanging from her mouth, head cocked slightly to the side. She was a stunning foal, noticeable even at her young age, well proportioned with a fine bone structure. A remarkable colour too, one Liam hadn't seen before in all his years of experience with horses. Grabbing an apple from his pack and cutting it in half, Liam offered it to the foal. 'C'mon now beautiful, wouldn't you like some apple?' Coaxing the foal ever nearer. As she took a few steps towards him, Liam reached into one of his packs and slowly pulled out one of his ropes, determined to catch this fine foal. Modified to add: Yus it's Xanthe - knew i'd forgotten to mention something
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Post by Delicious on Nov 4, 2008 20:22:51 GMT -5
(( !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IS THAT FOAL XANTHE?! *tension flies through roof!* O.O!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ))
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Nov 5, 2008 0:38:09 GMT -5
With all the excitement surrounding Persephone's poor companion's precarious predicament, Xanthe was pretty much forgotten, which meant, about five minuets after that, she was bored. And although she had made a promise to herself - truly and wholly and completely - that she was going to stay out of every lick of trouble, she decided there was nothing wrong with giving an inviting patch of clover a quick little lick of her own. The clover was located just over that crumbling little stone wall, not far at all, and the rest of the group seemed too troubled allready to bother telling. Besides, Pasiphae had seemed a bit grumpy and preoccupied ever since they'd got back from Georgia, and Fiera was too busy worrying about Ali's well-being to notice the golden dun Korè slip quietly away. She did feel a small stab of guilt as she leapt the wall, but in the end, the clover was delicious, and completely worth it. Plus then she spotted a clump of alfalfa grown through with climbing vetch, and that had to be sampled to. This brought her down a small slope where a scraggly little tree stood, a low branch protruding at just the right height to scratch her rump. This she did, and then discovered the timothy. And a row of tethered horses. And the man. Mouth full of greens she snorted, startled at first, but then curious. Unicorns were not horses, after all... when something surprises them, they don't run - they stop to asses the situation. Xanthe did that thoroughly. The man seemed nice enough, and the horses he was with didn't seem to mind at all (not that she trusted a horses' opinion of anything; in truth, Xanthe had never met a horse in real life, but was under the impression that they were stupid). He also had an apple. And a rope. Xanthe wasn't an idiot, but the apple looked awfully juicy. Hmmph, she thought. He thinks I'm a horse! Indeed. Do I really look that slow and dim-witted? Well, I'll show him.... She would. She'd slip down, snatch the offered fruit and scamper away faster then he could blink. Surely he wouldn't be expecting the lightning-quick reflexes of a nimble unicorn! Nose quivering, she took a small step forward, imagining she was a timid foal, her ears swiveling from side to side to express her unease. The man continued to stand quietly, making cooing noises, the apple outstretched. She kept her eyes on his other hand, twisting at the rope behind his back. "There girl, atta girl," Liam held his breath as the remarkable foal came in arms' reach. He admired her eyes, which were wide and clear blue, as unusual as the rest of her. The apple was motionless in his hand, and he just waited. Slowly, she leaned forward and lipped the apple. It was juicy, and possibly, one of the best apples she'd ever eaten. The surprise registered on her face, and more so, the fact that the man hadn't made a move with his rope yet. She began to chew slowly, then nearly darted back as his hand moved, but he was only providing more apple. She took this too, delicately this time, and munched in earnest. Odd. Well, maybe he wasn't a bad guy after all. She flicked her tail, licking the last of the apple juice from her lips, and wondered if he had any more. The others would probably like apples too she thought, and suddenly realized she must have been away for sometime now. She wheeled to go, and as she did, a rope fell over head and around her neck. Surprised, she blinked at it incredulously a moment then reared up, intent on loosing it, and felt rope quicken as she did. "Whoa there, easy you pretty girl," Liam pulled the rope quickly, snugging the knot in place. "Stay still--" "I most certainly will NOT!" Xanthe exclaimed, "you - barbarian!" The foal squealed, pulling hard, and Liam was surprised by her strength, digging is feet into the ground and loosing the grip he had on saddle. He realized, he probably should have tied it there first. The young horse squealed again, high-fluted and somewhat unearthly sounding, and he almost thought she was speaking at him. But that was a brazen thought and he dismissed it quickly; instead he called for back-up. "Ho, you fellows! Done yet with that damn game of cards?" The commotion had indeed ended the card game in lieu of something much more interesting - calling bets on their fellow soldier. "C'mon, Teague! Reel that one in," Connor Brogan laughed, "are you going to let a little filly get the best of you?" To his credit Liam was trying his best, but the foal was unruly. He danced as she lunged at him suddenly, whirling the rope around in the follow through. The brothers Ruen were also laughing, clutching their sides as he side-stepped, and none of them were being very helpful. The line spun around him as the foal double-backed on herself, and Liam watched with dull amazement as he clearly saw where this was going to end up, and in his stupor, seemed incapable of preventing it from happening. A sudden tug, and the filly had him roped - and he went sprawling as the loop tightened around his legs. At that moment he also lost his grip, and as she wheel, the line slid through his fingers with a nasty burn, and she was free. The Ruen boys were on the ground laughing, and Brogan slowly sauntered over to investigate. He peered down at Liam, still lying on his back in the mud. "No wonder you can't keep a woman," he grinned sardonically, "if a little filly can lick you that quick." Liam grimaced, making low noises in the back of his throat. Brogan continued, "Now are you just going to lie there, or shall we go after? I think it would be a matter of pride for you at this point," he finally lent down a hand to pull him up. "What about the patrol?" he groaned. Brogan shrugged. "The way I see it, a horse means farm, and a farm means a warm kitchen, and I don't know about you, but I'm hungry. Farm girls too, if we're lucky," he added boorishly. At this point the brothers were already packing up and Liam nodded easily enough. The mounted their horses and started out in the direction of the strange golden foal... * * * The rope was trailing, and it caught, twice, in scraggly underbrush. Xanthe tugged at it desperately, wrenching it free, and went flying over the final stone wall with room to clear. For a brief second she didn't see anyone and it felt like her whole body was going to break in two. Then she spotted the group moving slowly from road, and went scrambling after at a run. "Everybodeee!" she cried. "They're coming, help, they're coming - right now!"
(( Oh good grief... I totally did not mean to write a novel!))
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Post by silentmoon on Nov 5, 2008 17:29:45 GMT -5
Fiera was moving slowy off the road when she heard a squeal. Fiera and Ali imidietly shot their head's up and looked around questioningly. A moment passed before they looked at each other, then to Lana, Spirit and Phae. "Who... who was that? God, I could have sworn that I heard something that didn't come from a horse!" Ali breathed in, her muscles a little twitchy incase they were introuble. Probably deep trouble.
"That sounded like... I think I know who that is." Fiera said sternly, mixed emotions welding up her throat and chest.. Ali, sensing Fiera's temper, slid off the mare's back hastely, obviosly avoiding a surprise ride down the rode. The orange mare looked around, inspecting the current situation. Everyone else was gone down to the town and they were supposed to stay here. But a sense of responsibility chose a snap decision. "Stay here. I'll be right back." The other's couldn't possibly return to a member missing.
Fiera made a cautious lope down the rode, picking her steps with a care to keep a minimal amount of dust and rock from flying. However, she halted in surprise when Xanthe was running to her, nimble legs taking her pretty far. The mare looked quizically at Xanthe, wondering what kind of trouble she got herself into now. "Who's coming? What are you talking about? And where did you go?" Fiera asked sternly while herding the Kore back towards the herd or unicorns and humans. Though, her mixed emotions began to rise again. She should have been looking after the Kore, but she shouldn't have left! I'll think about it later, she decided.
Ali jogged to Xanthe with worried eyes. "Are you ok? And.... who are they?!" She looked from Xanthe and Fiera then to gathering dust and hooves billowing their way. "Oh, god. What now?" Ali asked before laying a hand on Xanthe's back softely. Fiera turned around to glare at the coming humans.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Nov 5, 2008 19:03:36 GMT -5
Xanthe buried her face into Ali's chest. "Take it off," she pleaded quietly, the rope still trailing and her skin flinched uncontrollably wherever it chaffed. The skin had been worn raw in places too, but the real hurt was from knowing she'd brought the men straight towards them. "It's all my fault," she sobbed. "I just wanted a taste of apple, that's all..."
The sound of shod hooves on pack dirt flung with stones made thier heads turn. As the soldiers mounted the crest, their comanding officer slowly brought the company to a halt. "Well, what have we here?" Brogan grinned through jagged teeth, one missing from brawl some years ago. A small herd of elegant horses were clustered on the rise, crowned by the small trees. It was the kind of scene the countryside had plenty of - rambling meadows scattered with flocks, simple country folk going about their daily routine. He actually liked it, in a familiar, folksy sort of way. "And look, what did I tell you?" he inclined his head towards Liam - "Farmgirls."
There were two of them, standing among the herd. Brogan gave the fellow officer a thump on his chest as he gestured. "Perhaps we'll even have some fun..." He chirped his horse forward, the others falling into stride behind him. "Hello, darlin's!" he called out loudly. "How are we doing this fine day?"
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Post by Delicious on Nov 5, 2008 20:39:19 GMT -5
(( Aw crud. It's times like these, I curse Lana's deafness. She'd totally be able to handle these barbarians otherwise, I think. As is tho ... D:)) Lana and Spirit had whirled around at the first sound of Xanthe's hoofbeats, wondering what on earth could be happening now. When the foal finally came to a wailing stop, Lana's eyes then drifted to the plumes of dust that still rose behind her - and her brows knitted together in concern - this did not look good. It was either Tyden and the others or .... the figures of definitely not-Kalidore folk finally crested the hill and Lana winced. No - this did not bode well. She sat poker-straight on Spirit's back, eyeing the men that had come to a halt before their little group with (what she hoped) was an imperious and displeased expression. She noticed their lips move, but frusteratingly couldn't make out what the words. 'Spirit, what're they saying?' she hissed mentally at the mare - Spirit translated, grimly - and Lana winced again. She had seen her father and brothers deal with these sort of men before, and it was often a very tricky buisiness - why, even one of the neighbor's girls had been caught out and alone by a gang of them before and ... Lana pushed the thought from her mind. There was no way she was going to let Ali OR herself end up like that. Ever. 'Nor I.' Spirit sent, her mental tone fairly snarled. Lana tried to subtly pat the mares neck reassuringly. 'I doubt it will come to that but ... how fast can you run? Can we all run? In case things get ugly ...?' Spirit waffled. 'I ... I don't know, but I'm fairly certain if we scattered - most of us could outrun those moth-eaten beasts, but that could still be a bit touch and go...' 'Well, we should probably try and do that if it comes down to it, but - in the meantime, how about this?' And Lana quickly outlined her plan. 'Can you help me with that?' 'I ... I think so.' Spirit huffed worriedly. 'But we'd better keep it brief, and simple. And hope that Ali & Fiera pick it up from there....' Lana held her breath slightly, and bit her lip - Spirit's coaching ringing in her mind. 'Well, here goes nothing...' she thought wryly, and schooled her expression into the imperious expression of before. "Thank you ... sss..sirs. We had ... missed that one." she gestured at Xanthe, and nodded, frowning. "We're looking for ... town?' she said - loudly, if not exactly clearly, the less common words burred and strange in sound. But it was understandable, and her tone was cold (more in burgeoning fear, than anything else). As Lana was building her courage to speak, Pasiphae eyed the men with an unfriendly eye, and quickly moved herself alongside Fiera and Ali, angling her body so that the foal was mostly hidden from view from the newcomers. ... she had NO idea how they were going to get out of this, but if they tried anything, there was no way she was going to let them get off easy. She lowered her head and glared at them, stamping unhappily. (( Oops. Sorry Silent. D: Didn't mean to cause contention.))
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Post by silentmoon on Nov 5, 2008 20:50:22 GMT -5
Working with quick fingers, she was trying to untie the rope from poor Xanthe's neck. The darn knot was tied shut, there must have been somewhat of a little struggl and pull, Ali thought. When it was finally off, she three the rope aside. A repulsing thing to look at as of now. "Hmmm, I wouldn't know what say when the rest come back. But you could have asked in the very least."
Ali stood up to look back at Lana and Spirit for some help. She was dwindling in size, her courage to talk to these guys anyways. Her hands began to feel moist, her heart pouding on her chest at uncertainty.
To her relief though, Lana managed something, and it calmed her down somewhat. They had a plan even if she didn't quite know it yet.
Fiera snorted, standing in front of the girls with distain in her eyes. She didn't say a word and obviously trying her hardest to act like a horse. But there was no way she could hide those intelligent eyes of a talking being.
Swallowing loudly, Ali sent Xanthe back a little before calling Fiera back too. When her mare companion grudingly turned around, she took a deep breathe before talking. "Greetings, erm... Sirs. We're actually on our way out of here soon. Though did you happen to know why she," tilting her head towards the Kore, "had a rope around her neck?" Her voice was a little edgy, but she tried her best to sound merry.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Nov 5, 2008 21:47:34 GMT -5
Brogen pulled his horse in, giving the reins a short check when the creature's head bobbed restlessly. He considered the two girls, the one who talked first seated on the back of the big bay mare. Her voice was broken and stressed, odd-sounding, and he wondered if she were a simpleton. No matter, she was pretty; her face full of freckles and the perked nose was rosy from the air. The other girl was dressed in pants, but was just old enough for a disguise as a peasant boy to be completely useless. He had to grin a little at that. He'd seen the trick done a few times, girls dressing like men, and generally it came to no good. But at the same time... it almost intrigued him. He leaned on the pommel, peering down into her serious eyes.
"You'll have to ask my fellow over there about the rope. He tired to catch her, but I fear he's not very skilled with the fillies," he winked suggestively. "Surely now, wherever you're going, you're not in such a hurry?"
Behind him, the men had moved in closer, but for the moment content to let their superior handle things. Liam's eyes remained restlessly on the group, feeling something was amiss here, but unable to pin a finger on exactly what was wrong...
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Post by Delicious on Nov 6, 2008 3:36:41 GMT -5
A cold finger of fear trailed down Lana's back as Spirit translated Brogen's words. This was not a man that they would be able to deal with lightly. Men of his kind usually heeded violence or money - and often that coin would just escalate the violence to greater heights. She daren't try to buy them off now, with what little coin she had on her - a gift from her family. While she knew that, in a pinch, their little herd could likely protect her and Ali with flailing hoof and horn - she knew that it would result in some casulties. She had noted what looked like swords at their hips (strange a realization as it was), but could not tell if they had any ranged weaponry of any kind. Regardless, they looked comfortable enough with the scabbards on their belts that she wagered that they knew how to use them. She wondered, despairingly, if the story-book tales of the magical healing properties of unicorns were true - she supposed they might find out soon. Spirit felt the fear radiating from Lana grow in waves, and she lashed her tail angrily. These coarse men had no cause to be bothering them - no right to cause her Companion such anxiety. How dare they accost Xanthe and insinuate such vile filth in conversation with her bonded. She would not stand for it. She channeled her anger into a sending to Pasiphae - she had always been weak at such things, but the rage and familiarity with the blood bay mare bridged the gap that often troubled her. ' 'Phae. Get Ali on Fiera. Don't let them NEAR her - tell them, and Xanthe - to be ready to run if we need to - try to get to the gate, if we can. If not that - than we follow the road to that farmer. He might help. Be ready to scatter on a word - mine, if need be.' Spirit sent, her mental tone brittle and cold. Pasiphae's ears lay flat against her head in disgust. These men were filthy creatures, she had decided, in both body and mind. She drew her front lip up in an almost human-grimace, and stamped again - raring to assault these unworthy beings, but unsure of how to go about it without ruining everything. At Spirit's sending, however, she went still - and, catching the golden bay's gaze out of the corner of her eye, nodded her head in agreement. She sidled a bit closer to Xanthe and Ali - arching her head around (but still keeping her eyes on the soliders) to murmur in hushed tones Spirit's message to the trio. Message delivered, she swung her head back around and eyed the men with an unfriendly glare. Mounted upon horses, she wondered if she might be able to spook their beasts with a shrill scream and a sudden mild attack. A horn scratch on a flank or two, and a loud noise might just give the rest of the group long enough to get away ... it had it's risks, she mused darkly, eyeing the swords - but the cost of her skin for the rest of the herd? A bargain. But such a plan need wait until everyone was ready to bolt, so she fretted, and glared at the men as she waited. Lana spoke again, her last attempt at diplomacy frayed with fear, her words cracking and only barely intelligable. "No. We must ... go. They wait ... for us."
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Post by shazzadee86 on Nov 6, 2008 4:38:50 GMT -5
Liam came to attention when the lass astride mentioned looking for town. The only town in this vicinity was the one they were part of the guard squad for. The town where the witch Brádaigh was currently being executed for her crimes against the church. The town the church expected the witch's allies to attempt a rescue. Were these lasses a part of that rescue?
Suddenly suspicious of these lasses, though not threatened by any means, they were just a pair of lasses after all, he started taking note of details that had previously eluded his attention. He refused to acknowledge that the reason they had eluded his attention was due to his now very injured pride, the lasses were handling the foal as if it was nothing, as if she was the quietest of quiet and well handled foals. Instead he focused on the fact that the lasses were handling the horses without the use of any tack or equipment at all, even the foal and the extra mare. That the horses were all of the finest quality he had ever seen, clearly strong and fast, and the fact that the lasses were in odd attire as well, not the mounted one as much, but the lass on foot was wearing men's clothing, an attempt at a disguise? If that was the case, she should have given that one up awhile ago.
Bristling at their tone of voice and gaze, he saw his comrades were doing the same. Brogan was going back to his usual grumpy self due to the lasses rebuke. He leaned back in his saddle, a smug smile on his lips. Liam had seen this smile before, it never boded well for the receiver. Hearing his name snapped him back to the conversation, his gaze and comments directed primarily at the lass on foot, but his gaze flickered between her and the lass astride.
'Well, as for the rope, the filly was loose. People tend to use rope and halters when traveling, and tack for that matter, but yet you pair don't have anything that even looks like horse gear. Care to explain yourselves? While you're at it, you can also explain why these horses have no brands.' His tone was flat, with just a hint of contempt. Unconsciously, Liam rested his hand on the hilt of his sword, a comfortable and familiar position.
As he waited for their reply, a hardened glare started to encroach upon his features. He was gaining certainty that these lasses were affiliated with the witch and her rebels, and if what they said was true, others had already left for town to initiate their rescue attempt.
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Post by silentmoon on Nov 6, 2008 8:27:24 GMT -5
Ali watched the men closley. How they gave a rundown of her cloths then looking back to Lana while she try to speak. They must be thinking that I'm not from here... darn jeans. Women must be wearing dresses around this era." Ali thought chillingly.
Phae soon sidled over to murmur in her ear, she quickly sent the messege to Fiera. Fiera backed up a little so her companion could grab a handful of mane and hoist herself up. Ali did that with ease, she'd gotten so used to bareback riding that it seemed part of her now. Fiera in the process stayed stock still. Unwilling to even flinch at the slightest.
"Our... companions (she struggled on whether to call them horses or not) do not need any halters or tack. They find it very uncomfortable, so we rather not use it. They, as you can see are very well behaved. They follow us much wherever we go, so no need for the brands. The foal is with us, you shouldn't be tempting her with apples in the first place." Ali almost chided in her tone though it fainted back to fear and worryment. To prove her point, she patted Fiera's shoulder lightly while the mare stayed still. Only her silken mane occasionally rippled in the soft wind.
Why does it matter to them? Can't they just leave us be?, Fiera wondered. The thought echoed through Ali's head, "Why does it matter to you?" She blurted.
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Post by Delicious on Nov 6, 2008 11:38:50 GMT -5
(( Ehehe. Exciting. Although - we're in for it now, they hadn't mentioned anything about apples. D: ))
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Post by silentmoon on Nov 6, 2008 17:04:59 GMT -5
((Huh, I don't get it... *has a bad feeling...*))
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Post by Delicious on Nov 6, 2008 18:18:35 GMT -5
(( Oh, sorry if I was obtuse - no it's just, they obviously think the girls are bordering on witchcraft, and Ali mentioned the apples that Liam had fed Xanthe - only, no one except Xanthe had said anything about apples. As a result, I'm betting they're definitely going to peg the girls as witches now - 'Cause how ELSE could they know? It spins things all awesome and crazy. ))
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Nov 6, 2008 21:20:48 GMT -5
((heheh Del... do we share a mind?))
Brogan's grin was a hard, cold thing. It curled his lips, showing teeth. "That is hardly the tone to be addressing a man under duty of King and Church," he leered at the girl, "and as such, everything matters to me. I'd watch that tongue of yours, if you want to keep it. Be a shame, on such a pretty little thing..." He shifted his weight in the saddle, fingers drumming on the hilt of his sword. “But what is this important business you have in town?”
Brendan, the younger brother, had been sitting quietly on his horse, watching his commanding officers with drifting interest. Barely older then Ali himself, he was eager for the adventure the job had promised – most of which had not been lived up to mile after mile of empty green countryside. At this point he was almost sorry he’d been assigned to this company, because he imagined that things were much more interesting in town. He’d never been to a real burning before, nor had he seen a real witch. He’d heard the stories, of course, but figured those were embellished. He sighed, realizing he’d drifted again, and pulled himself back to attention.
This time he tried to focus by watching how Brogan and Teague handled the questioning, figuring he could learn something. His eyes followed from one girl to another, bemoaning the other great rues of the job – that it would get girls to notice you – because really, it didn’t. At least not him, anyway. Brogan seemed to have better luck, but had apparently rolled a bust here. He listened to Liam’s questions, and his eyes drifted to the horses last of all.
They were definitely odd. The more he thought about it, the more something seemed… problematic... about them. The way they stood watching intently for instance was very un-equine-like. And the way the girls moved about them, without ropes, without tack… his gaze found the little one Liam had tried to rope earlier, and his mind fixed on something very strange…
The girl was answering, “Our companion…” she began.
The wily, blue-eyed foal looked right at him, her soul full of trouble…
Brendan choked.
His brother Aiden turned curiously, surprised to find Brendan’s face had gone grey. “That little one… she…. and the apple…. but they couldn’t know…” he stammered hoarsely. Before Aiden to could query the boy had pulled out his lance and was holding it above his head. “Companions…!” he cried shrilly. “Familiars! A covenant – they’re witches!”
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Post by Delicious on Nov 6, 2008 22:36:13 GMT -5
(( Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah! D: - and yes, Lady W - I think I must've been picking up some of your brain waves. Hehe. ))
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Post by shazzadee86 on Nov 9, 2008 20:44:49 GMT -5
After the initial shock of his brother's outburst had waned, Aiden turned his attention back to the girls, his earlier amusement at his superior's attempts at conquest lost entirely.
Unsheathing his sword, he turned to his attention back to Brogan, wondering how his captain would play this unforeseen (at least on his part) hand they had been dealt. Witches? Do we capture them for interrogation by the inquisition, or do we kill them before they can use their magic against us? Aiden didn't like this situation, it had all of a sudden become far to real for him. Usually, he didn't have any problems with army life, his happy-go-lucky nature, and his strong belief in his own invulnerability had always made the battles he had fought an adventure. A fun game, filled with dashing heroes and heinous villains, with him on the dashing heroes side. The battles themselves had always been filled with attacks insignificant to his own, thwarted by the moral high ground he held and would never willing surrender to his opponents.
The idea of attacks he couldn't see, let alone defend himself against, scared him a little. He was ashamed to admit that he very easily might be afraid of two young and unarmed women, simply because they might have another way of defending themselves. An unnatural way, as far as he was concerned. His mount was starting to react to his unconscious behavior, new for him as well, and just as unsettling. It took Aiden a few moments to get him fully under control again, slightly relieved about being forced to change his train of thought.
Turning his attention back to his superiors, Aiden couldn't help the taste of bile rising into his mouth. Gulping quickly, he hoped he could swallow his unfamiliar nerves along with the bile.
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Post by angelofmusic on Nov 9, 2008 21:21:12 GMT -5
(jumping back in here....my rp senses have been driving me nuts and I need to post something)
Trinity continued on her way, seeking out another place. The horse from the thieves was still with her, thankful for such a companion for the trip and a better way to travel than by foot. Days had passed and soon she found another village and a place to stay for a little, give the horse a bit of a rest. She helped where she could, earning her meals and not seeming to mind. At night, she would entertain by way of singing or playing a song on her tin whistle. She knew there was a place out there for her, one where she would fit in. She couldn't help think of her family though and often found herself looking at the emerald heart necklace her parents had given her years ago. She missed them, but she had to go, had to find the true place she belonged. Often at night her hand was wrapped around the unicorn pendant, knowing and believing.
(short, sorry)
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