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Post by posy-punch on Dec 30, 2018 17:56:42 GMT -6
Hello Starborn and Welcome to Talori 705: Impressionable Team Leaders: Linnea Participants: Owain, Seven, Tegan, Belle, Mirko, Arethusa Please keep the following in mind!- Posts must be a minimum of 175 words. There is no maximum!- No strict order is enforced, but there must be at least two posts between your own character's.- No god-moding or reading characters' minds (unless your pony is a literal telepath, anyway)
- Always get consent before harming another character!- Your team is precious. Try to interact with everyone. <3- Have fun! Even if your pony isn't. 8'DPrompt: It’s not too uncommon to find a guardian shepherding the youth out of the streets, especially with how easily the kids can get lost amongst the bustling carts and twirling entertainers, nor is it uncommon for you to enlist the help of one of the clerics. So children listen up, surely there is a lesson for you to learn, prick your ears and listen… Location: The Temple Time of Day: Afternoon Current Weather: Light drizzle with looming storm clouds You do not have to wait for your leader to post!
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Post by posy-punch on Jan 2, 2019 17:13:10 GMT -6
Linnea watched the children play, enjoying for a moment the simplicity of it all. They were all settled at the temple in Inaria, having been asked to keep a watch over them alongside a guardian who had rounded them up from the street.
She had never been the motherly type, having not spent too much time with her own children, but making sure they received the best. The best education, a nanny she had hoof picked and the push they needed to achieve the best in life. In her mind the motherly doting was overrated. What children needed was truth, guidance in seeking out what was valuable in life and it was what she had carefully provided them with. That is her Talorian ones, as far as she was concerned, no other existed. It was the way her mother raised her and, not seeing there might be other needs, it was the way she took care of hers.
Despite of her lack of affection, she liked children, even cared for them. There was a sense of innocence about them, that reminded her of her goals in life. To create a better world for them.
Young, open-minded. She smiled softly like a mother in fact would. Children would easily adapt to Digend’s world.
She glanced at the pegasus mare and guardian, striking up conversation. She had been pleased to note the mare -Arethusa, was it?- lacked wings. “Are either of you familiar with these children?”
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Post by perfectkawa on Jan 4, 2019 1:15:09 GMT -6
MIRKO
Talori | Guardian
Post 1 | 294w
Dual-colored gaze following the bustling children, Mirko let out a low sigh of relief, glad to feel the presence of other capable adults beside him. Upon ushering some of the tenderfeet into the temple, he had been disappointed to see his cleric of a sister was nowhere to be found, but there was no shortage of helping hands in a place like this. He looked first to the younger mare beside him, who looked to be around his age, and instantly felt himself relax. Her features were kind, and she gave the impression of being soft and reasonable, maybe even dependable, and likely good company- perhaps too much to assume from a glance, but he enjoyed the energy she gave off, and offered her a smile anyway.
The voice of the other mare beside him, though, drew Mirko's attention away from the wingless pegasus, and to the older hippocampus instead, who was easily thrice his age. One look at her had the stallion instinctively checking to make sure his back was straight and his posture respectable, like a proper guardian- though that was less to do with who he assumed her to be, and more to do with her age, which reminded him of his own grandmother, someone who would whip his tail if she saw him "slouching like a hooligan." Her question had him glancing back to the actual hooligans before them, and the horse smiled in spite of himself, shaking his head. "Not particularly, no, though I suppose that's probably a good thing," he mused, quickly thinking of those kids he did remember- Cascade only knew what they were getting up to at a time like this. "These ones seem more well-behaved than most I'm left to deal with," Mirko added, chuckling.
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Post by Svantanon on Jan 4, 2019 1:17:47 GMT -6
Belle couldn’t remember having so much fun.
There was a time when being away from her family made her nervous and uneasy. When she couldn’t stop thinking about them, missing their voices, praying for Cascade to keep them safe while they were gone. There were times when those feelings still happened; brief flashes that made the foal tense up and flatten her ears. But those moments were rare, now, and fleeting. They didn’t seize her mind and heart like they used to. The months she had spent learning of the world and growing closer to Cascade had changed and strengthened her into someone she still didn’t entirely know, but not even that bothered her. Belle was a child. She didn’t question who she was becoming, but thrived on it, trusting that so long as she continued to follow her heart, she would find answers to whatever questions she may have about the world and herself.
For now, however, the pursuit of a greater purpose was cast aside for a spontaneous game with others her age; a few faces she knew, and one of them-- Seven-- someone she considered a friend. It was raining, and for Talori children it was perfect weather for playing. Belle, someone who used to be afraid of storms, was a little less skittish around them now that she could summon her own. However, she wasn’t to blame for the drizzle that had fallen over Inaria. Belle had instead summoned globs of water to throw at the other children who tried to splash her, squealing and laughing all the while as she fled and chased and tackled her playmates.
It was only after one of them nearly got run over by a cart that a grown-up appeared to usher them out from the street and into the temple next door. The little hippocampus was aware that their recklessness would probably be frowned on by the adults that now surrounded them, but she was struggling to stifle her giggles as she repelled the remaining droplets off of her pelt.
“S-sorry!” she managed to respond with as her raptor claimed a quiet corner for himself. “Um, thank you for bringing us inside.”
It was important to be polite, even if she badly wanted to go out and play again.
Post #1 | Word Count: 380
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Post by akitapup on Jan 4, 2019 11:03:46 GMT -6
ARETHUSA | TALORI
Arethusa gazed out upon the high strung group of children, a soft smile settling upon her lips. She always liked them. Their carefree playing, their never-ending curiosity, their innocence- it was no surprise that she wanted her own, eventually. It was something she hadn’t brought up to Gyda, butterflies dancing in her stomach when she thought about it. Maybe she would have to bring it up soon.
Looking back over at her adult company, the paint stallion smiled at her, an offering of mutual kindness. He seemed a kind man, not much older than her, evidently. Her sea green eyes crinkled, the corners of her mouth upturned as she looked him in the face. Farther down, past Mirko, stood the Grand Cleric, Linnea. Lines of aging sat underneath her eyes, but she held herself proud. Mirko straightened up when she spoke, and Areth felt the same urge to do so. Linnea was no spring chicken, she knew that. The path of a cleric was already highly respected, and the elder mare had decades of experience and stories on her shoulders. Respect was the least she could give the woman.
Dipping her head towards the older mare, she chirped up in response. “I think the youngest,” Arethusa nodded at the black sea slug hippocampus, “is the sibling of a cleric I worked with in Serora.”
Falling back in line, she noted that the children certainly quieted down upon entry to the temple, yet Arethusa couldn’t help but wonder just how long that quiet would last. The tenderfoot stole her attention as she attempted a formal thank you, water from the drizzle outside dripping out of her mane.
“Of course,” Arethusa said, her cheerful face giving a soft glimpse at the rest of the children. “Though we can’t play too hard in here, I’m sure we can find something else to do, can’t we?”
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Post by mariahwhy on Jan 5, 2019 22:33:10 GMT -6
Seven
Say what you wanted about all that had happened in the previous months, but in many ways it had been good for the young colt. A year ago you would have found him alone, down at the beach, talking to a memory. Now he squealed with laughter, playing with the foals he had come to know fairly well in their criss-crossing adventures back and forth between Inaria and the Temple of Time. He skipped and slid over the wet stones, trying his best to splash the others with the gathering puddles, but only ending up soaking himself in the process. As they were ushered inside he stopped under the temple's doorway, shaking violently. A spray of droplets scattered around him, leaving his short mane floppy and his fur standing on end. "Thank you," he echoed Belle, also with an undertone of laughter as it spread infectiously between them in the way that it does with children. Still smiling with suppressed glee he looked around the interior of the temple at Arethusa's words. He came here most every day to pray to the goddess. It was no accident that he had ended up outside today, afterall. The colt felt that he could tell you every tile, every inlay, every worn step in the temple, and yet he never tired of it. Looking at the depictions of Cascade's caring form always brought him such relief and joy, and to be here with friends on a day that held no sorrows was more than he could ask for. "Yes, ma'am," he smiled at the pegasus mare, trying to bring his volume down in respect of the Wave Mother. "We can always tell stories. I like listening to them in here," the invitation wasn't directly to the adults, but he looked at them instinctively. While he loved to make up his own tales, or recount his adventure in the Temple of Time, the colt was still childish enough to expect the adults to take over at story-time with their seemingly endless supply of wisdom and warning.
(Post 1: 342 words)
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Post by SagaWolf on Jan 6, 2019 11:27:34 GMT -6
Owain
Itty bitty Slugbutt
This was life! Running around in the drizzle and splashing water at the other kids was just what this little guy needed to bring him back on track to being a normal child. On dry land, he was certain he didn’t have to worry about the world splitting open beneath him, of glowing lava and of toxic water choking him. No, no, up here he was safe and the light rain delightful upon his slug-cape. He squealed with delight as he dodged a water bomb, hop-skipping on legs that were still too long, kicking his air as he danced away from his playmates. It resulted in a near run-in with a cart, sending his heart flying into his throat, and his little leg carrying him as fast as possible to where responsible adults gathered the little ones.
Inside the temple, he coughed, wheezed and coughed some more, the play had been a little too rough and the shock from the cart much too much. He didn’t shake off any water, letting it sit and soak into his delicate skin, while wide innocent eyes took in the temple interior. A little nervous, now that there was no game to distract him, made Owain tiptoe over to Seven and press in close to the familiar colt.
Pouting and frowning at the world, Owain’s nubby slug ears wriggled at the mention of stories and his face cleared some, filling with hope instead. Oh, stories were the best!
“I looooove stories! “ he chirped, taking a brave step away from Seven, all his attention directed to the adults. He wasn’t sure he recognized any of them, but they all looked kind.
Word count: 276 | Post: #1
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Post by kaiyacksoda on Jan 8, 2019 18:43:01 GMT -6
Tegan
talorian shoal, apprentice brewer
Tegan's ears flipped forward as his light-colored hooves stepped into the temple with a certain purpose. His expressions stumbled gently between a superiority over the younger children and a mild attempt to fit in with the adults. Within recent months, and recent endeavors that required a new sense of maturity, the boy held his head in a way that strived to meet older audiences. The pegasus' brow quirked and lip twisted slightly, taking in the sight of the scene, Tegan's bi-colored eyes lingered between the stone walls and then his company. His curled ears rolling forward the moment the crowd of laughter switched to a plea for stories and entertainment.
The teen stepped sideways to the edge of the group until his damp figure could settle beside the adults. Tegan's blue eyes shifted over the three with a certain level of suspicion... yet, also, perhaps admiration. Mirko's guardian position intrigued him, Talori's guards always had, ever since he was a child. It gave Tegan a prompt to make an extra effort and lift his posture to something that could be seen as impressive. With his dark head back and shrouded in silvery bangs, the young brewer hugged his wings into his sides in an attempt to squeeze off any extra, unwanted rainwater, drying off with the most dignity he could. Though he knew stories were for complete children, the small stirring inside Tegan's chest knew he'd enjoy one as well, especially with the rain echoing from outside. Though he failed to mention it. Instead, preferring to hold onto his regal posture and a look that forced respectable maturity, neither of which seemed to suit him.
(275 words, post 1)
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Post by moonlightwalk on Jan 9, 2019 18:39:10 GMT -6
Linnea | Harbinger (Grand Cleric)
Linnea nodded in reply to the guardian. The world had been detoriating gradually over the centuries after all so it was no suprise that the youth too had been affected.
“I do not envy youe duty, though it is an invaluable one. Tell me, do you have to handle a lot of children in your job, my son?” she inquired, on two hoofs curious, on the other two dreading the answer and she was not sure which way to lean. She gave Arethusa a polite smile as she answered, having aimed the question at her foremost as, as a mare, she was more likely to be involved in caring for children more directly as well as discussing such things. She tried gauging who Arethusa was referring to and quickly her eyes landed on Owain. “The little boy? Such shame him being a stallion, is it not? We might have had an aspiring cleric at our hands otherwise. Perhaps one for you in the future, guardian Mirko.”
Arethusa, much to Linnea’s approval, remarked that they musn’t be too wild in their play. The children were receptive of such thing and soon serveral were asking for the stories one of the youngsters suggested. Her eye fell on one of the older children. She couldn’t quite place his age, but she suspected he was nearing adulthood. A pegasus though, so probably still quite young mentally. She saw him stand there and almost felt pity that Cascade had stopped doing reincarnations. Clearly it had been a toll on the godess, washing the impurity out and making them anew and she understood that it must be useless now, with the end near, but her heart almost bled at the knowledge this youngster would need to await the world and would not know the sweet opportunity Cascade had gifted so many of his kind. It was a pity for the children the most.
What was was however and stamped once to get everyone’s attention. “Cleric Arethusa is quite right. Cascade has let us take cover in her home today and we must treat it with respect.”
She inclined her head towards Seven -even though she did not know his name- and smiled. “Your idea is good, my son. Our herd has lots of wonderful stories, but perhaps it is most polite to introduce ourselves first. Please tell Cascade your name and something you are grateful for.”
She gestured the children to come nearer while moving to stand in line next to Arethusa, who she was sure would have a world or two to tell as well. They could form a comfortable circle like this if the children were mildly cooperative. “Guardian Mirko, will you be so kind to let an old woman lean on you while she sits down. My body quite aches today I’m afraid.” The rain had picked and up and if they were going to be here for awhile, they may as well get confortable.
Leading by example she introduced herself first. “Dear Cascade, this is Grand Cleric Linnea. I am as always grateful for the relief water brings me, especially to my elderly bones. Thank you for sharing your home with us tonight, may our stories revitalize us like you do.”
Post 2 | 539 words
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Post by moonlightwalk on Jan 9, 2019 18:41:50 GMT -6
Checkpoint I
The light rainfall outside has whipped up into a storm. With the threat of flash flooding, the Guardian present decides to keep the children in the Temple for the time being. Perhaps it’s time for a story?
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Post by SagaWolf on Jan 10, 2019 8:47:47 GMT -6
Owain
Itty bitty Slugbutt
Linnea wasn’t a face Owain could place a name or title to, even if he had been told in the past. He wasn’t good at remembering faces unless he could link them to play or safety, and this mare and all of the adults for that matter were new to him. However, Linnea’s wrinkled old face reminded him of Athaliah form the temple of his birth, and he quite liked her. Old mares had always been kind, so his little mind decided that this sweet smiling one was kind as well and after decided on that, she was no longer scary but interesting. He was sure she could weave as many fantastic stories as Athaliah!
The little one was quick to join the forming circle, recognizing it as the start of story time and folded his long legs underneath his body, flopping down onto the floor. He was tired and his legs a little achy but his eyes remained wide and bright!
As Linnea introduced herself to the Sea Goddess, Owain understood that her position was one to respect. He’d heard much of clerics and other odd titles from his sister Moree, a cleric herself, and he was sure Grand Cleric was something very, very special. He would have to be on his very best behavior. Yet, the idea of giving thanks to Cascade made his nub ears fold down and flatten against his slug cape.
For most of his short life Cascade had been a mythical figure you simply prayed to, and according to his parents, she had done much good for the little family. For instance, it was thanks to her that his father, Daemyn, could swim as freely as any hippocampus and join the family in water. But just three short months ago, Cascade had also terrified the little colt by spilling the ocean floor beneath him, poisoning the water, and giving him a vision he did not understand. The adults had tried to ease him, his sister and other clerics had tried to explain, still, the fear had remained in his chest.
Owain took a brave little breath and pushed himself up to sit, though he kept his head low and nervously glanced at Linnea.
“My-my name is Owain, “ he started, hesitant. “I, uhm, am glad fooooooor… uhm, my family! Mommah and Dah and Mo an’, an’ Ashwin ‘n’ Sunniva! “
Speaking of his family gave the little one courage it seemed, for he perked up into a broad smile and sat with his chest pushed out. “She’s my new little sister, “ he added, clearly proud to finally be a big brother.
Word count: 435 | Post: #2
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Post by mariahwhy on Jan 10, 2019 19:06:54 GMT -6
Seven | Shoal
"But perhaps it is most polite to introduce ourselves first..." "Oh, right!" Seven exclaimed, as if he too had the idea, but it simply slipped his mind. He hurried to join the others in the circle, settling down next to Owain. With no younger siblings of his own, the colt was delighted by the little hippocampus' gravitation towards him for comfort, and so happily took on the role of protective older brother.He stretched his forelegs out in front of him, relaxing into the familiarity the circle provided. The temple was warm and dry, and the storm picked up outside, making for such a comforting environment. These days, the feeling of pure safety and friendship was not taken for granted by the young unicorn. Could he ask for a better way to spend the afternoon? He nodded in agreement to the Grand Cleric's introduction, trying to memorize her name. When Owain spoke up the look of quiet contentment left his face at the mercy of a smile that he could not contain. Giggling, he followed up the youngest foal. "My name is Seven. I praise Cascade for the safety she gives us." His smile remained, but his eyes became distant. "Do better," his goddess had said. It was so hard to sum up everything he was grateful to Cascade for. Everything. His whole life. Even the bad things - like the death of his father. "And for her guidance in becoming what she believes I can be." Feeling pretty happy with his answer he looked up, eyes once again wrinkling in a grin. He looked to Belle and Tegan, wondering if one of them might speak next, but then his eyebrows shot up and he quickly added, "Oh, and my brother, Five!" He must not forget to pray for Five. The older colt had been so quiet since the Flight had attacked, and Seven worried about him. He had tried to get his brother to come with him today, but more than likely his sibling was at home, engrossed in his books.
(Post 2: 341 words)
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Post by Svantanon on Jan 10, 2019 23:03:26 GMT -6
Oh, stories! The thought of hearing stories instantly made Belle want to stay here. She could always play later, this was a little more important. Diana and the horses at the jungle temple had told her all kinds of legends and fables, but she wanted to learn and remember as many as she could! Maybe these were some tales she hadn’t heard yet?
She would have said something, but Seven said it first, and then Owain said that he LOVED stories, and Belle didn’t want him to think that she was trying to copy him so she settled for a nod and a quiet “me too!” before making herself comfortable in the impromptu circle. She liked the idea of all of them saying hello to Cascade before they did anything else. Cascade had been so nice to them, after all.
The tenderfoot listened politely as the nice old lady introduced herself-- Linnea-- then Owain, then Seven. Looking around to see if anyone else wanted to go next-- and seeing no takers-- she chose to fill in the silence.
“Hi, my name’s Belle. And, I like what Seven said. Cause Cascade kept my family safe when me and my brother had to hide in the jungle, and she believes in me, too. She gave me this!” In spite of her prior efforts to dry up, Belle summoned a few harmless raindrops to splat on her nose, giggling a little.
“I’m thankful for my friends, too, and my family. My big brother Dawson always looks out for me, too. I think you’re gonna be a great big brother too, Owain.”
With the scene having quieted down, some, Bambi returned to his owner's side and plopped down, draping his head over her back and eyeing the group with guarded curiosity.
Post #2 | Word Count: 269
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Post by perfectkawa on Jan 14, 2019 20:41:27 GMT -6
MIRKO
Talori | Guardian
Post 2 | 490w
Mirko tipped his head at the question, shrugging his shoulders. His expression was somewhat pained. "I do have run-ins with the youth often, yes," he admitted, then furrowed his brow. "Sometimes children get lost and know that a guardian will help them home, and I am happy to see them reunited with their families, but... there are others who are simply lost, and I can only do my best to help them. I fear for the horses they will become without any guidance." It made him uncomfortable to speak so much, and he avoided Linnea's prodding gaze, content to watch the younger horses run around and play. His mismatched gaze shifted to the outside as Cascade's rains continued to wash over the land, heavier than before. Perhaps he had made the right decision in ushering them all here.
Looking to Owain at the grand cleric's comment, he nodded, a small smile finally reaching his face. That was all he did to acknowledge her, though he filed the information away for later, being sure to keep an eye on the little colt if he would be around often enough. Hippocampi always made fine additions to the guardian ranks- though this one was too young for that now.
Mirko sat rigid as Linnea leaned herself against him, and he couldn't help but look down at her, admiring the age on her face. What wisdom had been etched into her features to create such lines, marring what had to have once been a very beautiful mare? He'd never considered aging to be a bad thing, but it was, admittedly, a little terrifying. He'd certainly make one unattractive old man- the thought made him smile, though.
As the children followed the grand cleric's instruction, warmth settled into the guardian's belly. All this praising of Cascade was an excellent idea, and a calming one, at that. He was curious to learn more about these children, and to encourage them to become bright and helpful citizens of Aquore. So far, they all showed promise- even the quiet pegasus. Mirko was glad to have such enthusiastic tenderfeet living in his herd, in Cascade's name. Belle's admission of her blessing was surprising, and definitely didn't go unnoticed, the guardian offering her a big smile. He wouldn't be surprised to see her working in this temple some day.
"My name is Mirko," the stallion began when his turn came, "A guardian of Cascade's people. I am thankful for the Wave Mother, for the wonderful home She has given us, and the family She has blessed me with." Again, his gaze flickered around the temple, wondering where his sister might be, but then he looked back to the horses around him, and bowed his head. "I also thank Her for the youth She has provided us with- I believe all of you will serve Her well in your lives, and that your generation will bring strength and glory to Talori."
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Post by moonlightwalk on Jan 20, 2019 14:25:25 GMT -6
Linnea | Harbinger (Grand Cleric)
Linnea listened to what was said carefully. Sure enough, these children already had various reasons to look up to the goddess. She nodded in approval as one of the children even showed being blessed. Promising. “I hear you all have things to be grateful for. Cascade has touched your hearts. She has done much. She is water and time. She is healing and rebirth.”
Linnea felt that the time was right, as if the storm outside compelled her, she spoke. It was time for everyone present to contemplate further. “As god Cascade is however not alone. She is not everything. We hippocampi resemble our wave mother, but there are others.”
She hushed her voice, inviting the children to lean closer, her voice serious and heavy as to invite suspense. “I have recently dealt with another god myself. It was Cascade who called upon her brother to tear half of our beloved Khiepis down. I and a few others closely escaped the boiling water. This fiery god, his name is Ignacio. A god of destruction.”
The rest she left to them to wonder about for now. Her eyes slid to Arethusa, to Tegan, to Seven and to Mirko. “We do not all walk in her image, even though we inhabit her herd. Tell me: what gods do you know more? What do they stand for? What do you know about them?”
Post 3 | 230 words
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Post by kaiyacksoda on Jan 22, 2019 17:34:09 GMT -6
Tegan
Talorian, apprentice brewer
Tegan watched as the younger batch announced their names and gratitude for the water god, a God whose herd has made him question so much over the past few months. The pegasus listened to each name as he stepped down after the guardian and grand cleric, curled, mismatched ears resting gently to the side as he took in each word. Tegan has been learning to hold his tongue... but he was a teen and a strong-willed one at that. He has opinions.
"I don't think Cascade would invite such a god as the one of fire to destroy one of Aquore's beloved cities. That doesn't have any reason in it, at all." His ears had rolled forward in his statement, eyes quirking upward in consideration as he pondered such a ridiculous notion. His words tumbled out before he could detect any hint of disrespect, and he scarcely considered it, despite his company. "I know of Alya, also. Another god of destruction... Which is why Talori used to sacrifice pegasi, in hopes of returning with cleaner blood. Though I do not feel unclean."
His feet stood firm and Tegan looked predominately unphased, though he'd be lying if he said he wasn't interested in a debate. "My name's Tegan." He said, finally introducing himself with a ruffle of feathers.
(217 words, post 2) |
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Post by mariahwhy on Jan 22, 2019 21:33:07 GMT -6
Seven | The Shoal
The colt wriggled at the playful water that Belle called up, but settled back down as the guardian began to talk. Intently he listened, smiling at the implied compliment by the stallion's last few words. And then Linnae spoke again. Her voice was calm and soothing, and compared to the raging storm outside seemed very cozy. It made his fidgeting hide settle, and his ears turned forward casually. He had heard rumors of what had happened to Kiephis. It was an absolute shame, and the stories agitated him. It was no different now, and he shifted his weight as the Grand Cleric spoke. He knew of Ignacio. He remembered the visions Cascade had shown him months ago in the Temple of Time. There, too, Ignacio had wreaked havoc, but Cascade had at that time been a beacon of light. She and her children had helped those in need, and brought together the different horses of Hireath. It was hard to believe the mare's words, that Cascade herself was now the one to bring Ignacio back to Aquore, and he was secretly glad when Tegan spoke up. Now worried eyes watched the other colt, nodding lightly and glancing every now and then to Linnae to see if his words upset her. "Yeah, I don't think she'd do that, right? She just wants to help everyone. Even the pegasi," he gave Tegan a smile. It was supposed to be comforting and familiar, but came across as the typical Talorian condescension. "And there's also Kaia - I am made in her image!" he spoke up proudly. He had been reading a lot about the gods since his residence at the temple and studying all of its old depictions of years past. The colt was excited to finally have a chance to show off the knowledge. "She blesses the agriculturists, and gave us the mountains that protect us from the rest of the land.""And then there's Argus... he..." Seven paused, a look of concentration crossing his face. "He created the horses, but I don't know what else he does."
(Post 3: 345 words)
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Post by moonlightwalk on Jan 23, 2019 2:17:04 GMT -6
Linnea | Harbinger (Grand Cleric)
Linnea inwardly sighed. Of course it was the pegasus who lead the conversation onto the wrong path. She closed her eyes for a second, reminding herself that he was young and his tainted nature was not of his own choice. Still they should now better. “Child,” she reprimanded. Not yelling, but stern nontheless. “Do you question your elder? Do you question the truthfulness of my words? I tell no lie, I was there, along with many others. It was Cascade who spoke as loud and clear as the day when she asked the sacrifices to be stopped, let there be no question.”
She let her eyes roam glide through the room, landing on each an everyone present. Then she continued more softly: “However you are jumping to the wrong conclusion. Do not assume she did anything less than help when she invited Ignacio to destroy half of Khiepis. She did not allow him more or less of that. This is Cascade sending us a message from which we must learn and grow. The gods work in mysterious ways so never assume, think of what you know of them and then try to understand.” Linnea wanted to encourage them to think, to come to the truth eventually which she had long seen.
She decided to steer the conversation back to her original question, nodding at the mention of Alya. “Alya too is a god of destruction. She rules over the air as Ignacio over fire.”
She smiled at Tegan. “That you are indeed and what you say is true. Can someone tell us more about her? And about Arges?”
Post 4 | 268 words
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Post by SagaWolf on Jan 23, 2019 6:17:17 GMT -6
Owain
Itty bitty Slugbutt
The little one listened with large, round eyes as Linnea spoke of Cascade and how the water goddess had invited destruction to Khiepis. He had been there and a tremor of terror went through his slug-cape as he whimpered softly and pressed into Seven's side. He had heard Cascade's voice too and seen... something, but he had never understood what that was exactly. The words hadn't made sense and neither had the vision. He couldn't describe it to his parents, he lacked the words and knowledge and had simply cried and acted out for days. But he knew all of the Gods names and he knew what they looked like from the vivid temple paintings and he knew that Ignacio was something terrible.
"I was there, " he whispered under his breath to himself or perhaps Seven while his ears folded flat. Owain was not enjoying the conversation, even when it moved away from the scary evil gods and focused on the good ones. Kaia, who had flowers grow where she walked and helped the herd grow food and Argus who had soooooo many eyes! Owain had always found that particular depiction particularly fascinating because having more eyes than two was impossible in his young mind. None of the other godly oddities were nearly as strange as that.
"Uhm, he likes books... " Owain said nervously at Linnea's question, if only because he had been taught to respect and listen to his elders. In all honestly the little one was ready to be fetched by a parent right about now, so he could curl up in absolute safety. Crimson eyes moved to the temple exit and his ears rose, wriggling comically. Even he, who was somewhat hard of hearing, could easily pick up on the storm. It made him shrink further into Seven's side.
Word count: 302 | Post: #3
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Post by Svantanon on Jan 23, 2019 12:47:44 GMT -6
Belle smiled brightly at Mirko’s words. It was nice to know that a grown-up believed in them all so much. It made her feel instantly stronger and more sure of herself, and she managed to murmur out a “thanks” as the introductions continued. When Miss Linnea began to speak, the little foal swiveled her ears forward and listened intently. Her mother was a cleric, after all, and this was the grand cleric. If anyone knew Cascade best in this room, it would be her!
She nodded enthusiastically as the elderly woman listed the essences of Cascade’s being, and as she mentioned that she wasn’t the only god. That was true, after all, Cascade had her two brothers and two sisters. But then…
Khiepis… Belle fidgeted, eyes drifting down to her knees. Mama had been there, when that happened. When Cascade had said “Welcome, Brother!” or, something like that, and then all those awful things happened to the city… But… that didn’t seem right. Cascade would never try to hurt the people of Aquore. She would never-- could never-- ask one of her siblings to help her do that, either! Her ears pressed flat against her head as she tried to make sense of what Miss Linnea was trying to say. It wasn’t at all like anything she’d ever been told about Cascade, not from Mama or Dawson or Diana. It wasn’t anything like the Cascade she had heard, and met, and spoken to… and it made her feel… weird. Like she’d eaten something bad.
Tegan’s words would have been comforting if Belle wasn’t already aware of what happened. Seven’s words, however, was something she could more-so relate to and she was about to add her own thoughts on it when Linnea sternly admonished the both of them. Confused and now feeling uneasier than ever, the tenderfoot instead brushed her teke through Bambi’s feathers, trying to take comfort in his presence.
“However you are jumping to the wrong conclusion. Do not assume she did anything less than help when she invited Ignacio to destroy half of Khiepis. She did not allow him more or less of that. This is Cascade sending us a message from which we must learn and grow. The gods work in mysterious ways so never assume, think of what you know of them and then try to understand.”
Belle’s forelegs fidgeted from underneath her as she gave a hesitant nod. Linnea was now asking for them to talk about the other gods they knew, and that was something Belle very much wanted to do, but wasn’t sure what Linnea might like or not like about what she had to say.
Her stomach continued to churn, especially when Miss Linnea spoke of Alya as a god of destruction. Belle didn’t really see her that way, anymore, but wasn’t sure how to say that without getting her mad...
“... My big brother’s an a-gra-culterist,” she decided to start with something easy. “And he prays to Kaia to keep his plants healthy. Actually, she gave him a blessing not too long ago, to help him grow the crops and to take better care of them. He made a fort for me out of plants once,” she remembered out loud, smiling a little at the fond memory.
“Um… I don’t… know a lot about Argus, either. But Diana says that he’s also the god of feelings. Serora horses like to thank him for feeling happy on special days…”
"My… My Mama was there when Khiepis was destroyed. She’s a cleric, too. She said how Cascade wasn’t trying to hurt anyone, but that… maybe she felt lonely, and missed Ignacio. Maybe he’s grown nicer since the big war. All the kirins that are coming back are much nicer than they used to be. Krein lives with us, and Nimhue teaches me how to paint and draw. If they’re nicer, then maybe Ignacio’s become a nicer person, too.” And, furrowing her brow-- “Cascade probably knows that but… didn’t realize that Ignacio’s not as careful moving around as she is. Now that he’s here, maybe he’ll learn how to be gentler. Maybe Cascade wants to teach him how....”
Belle suddenly grimaced. Now she was just thinking out loud. Maybe she’d been talking for too long. Hopefully the grown-ups wouldn’t be too angry.
Post #3 | Word Count: 737
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Post by akitapup on Jan 23, 2019 16:53:38 GMT -6
ARETHUSA | TALORI
She let the children speak first, keeping each one in her memory. Areth tried her best not to forget faces, especially what she considered to be the face of their future. These children had gone through much already- she glanced at Tegan- perhaps some more than others.
It did not surprise her when the pegasus spoke up in doubt of Grand Cleric Linnea's experiences. Areth flattened her ears, not all too aware of Cascade and Ignacio's involvement. Wouldn't it be easier to dismiss them as lies, tall tales of an old woman? Maybe, if Arethusa did not devote her life to an understanding of all people, she would have. Maybe, if she were more like Boris, high and mighty, or Juniper, who had disappeared from life itself, it seemed. Areth took a breath- she was not like them.
The young Belle spoke up, her own experiences leaping off the tip of her tongue. Areth's eyes widened- she knew a kirin? Even she couldn't stop herself from an involuntary shudder, but she paused. Perhaps the filly was immature, clueless about the world, but perhaps they needed her hope.
"Maybe you're right, Belle," she said, a soft smile taking over her face. "Cascade is a wise Goddess- she has shown herself to us, in order for change. Maybe she wished to see Ignacio. Perhaps she holds the same hope for change in him as she does for us." The short mare looked at the faces of the children around her, wide-eyed and eager for conversation.
"The world is changing. Perhaps the Gods can do so as well. To adapt, to change."
264 | Post 2 |
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Post by moonlightwalk on Feb 2, 2019 15:14:47 GMT -6
There’s a crack of lightning and a tree outside the temple splits down the middle and catches fire. Only seconds later, another bolt of lightning has struck the Temple. The roof rumbles for a moment, but the fear of another striking through the great skylight, possibly causing injury, drives you into one of the back rooms.
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Post by kaiyacksoda on Feb 5, 2019 10:24:27 GMT -6
Tegan
Talorian Shoal, Apprentance Brewer
Tegan's face scrunched between the Grand Cleric and those around him, flicking his curled ears back to rest in some frame of annoyance. Yet, he held his tongue. Belle's thoughts, though cluttery and stumbling-- childish-- her words seemed like something of value, and Tegan let out an unhappy huff of agreement at Arethusa's mention of change. Perhaps Cascade had just put too much faith in her brother.
The crack of lightning and array of flames from outside lit up the damp windows around the temple. Tegan's eyes flared in surprise, wings escalating slightly outward as his balance shifted backward. The rumbling of the roof seemed to make the ground shake and a speck of faint dust fell from the carved ceiling. It seemed like everything happened in one swift movement, there were a few childish screams and even Tegan let out his own gasp as the crowd lurched him forward to stumble into a fresh room. One they could only hope would provide a realm of safety.
"Lightning!" The boy gasped in still an assortment of shock, "that storm seems like something awful wicked! Do you think it is the Gods-- Ignacio?" Tegan's voice hissed with some rushed strain as his mismatched eyes shot back up to the ceiling, "are we going to be safe here?"
216 words, post 3 |
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Post by Svantanon on Feb 6, 2019 9:51:13 GMT -6
Belle smiled at Arethusa's words, but Linnea's agreement was especially reassuring. To have a grown up agree with her made her feel good. Like they cared about what she was thinking. It made her feel like her promise to Cascade would be easier than she'd thought it would be.
At Linnea's posed questions, Belle answered-- quietly, although her voice was steadily finding more surety again-- "Well... the gods are all siblings. They may be all different, but they still love each other. Kaia and Cascade work together to make gardens grow. Cause plants need good dirt to grow, but they also need water. And my friend Diana says that Cascade and Alya dance together to bring the rain back to Serora. And now that Ignacio's here, Cascade has even more of her family back so--"
But then the storm rolled in, thunder roaring over their heads, and in the split-second illumination of the lightning a tree was seen catching fire just outside the temple. The loud noises, the destruction, was far too much for Belle, and as memories of the Flight's attack flooded her consciousness she immediately ran behind Tegan-- the next-best thing she had in Dawson's absence. She was absolutely one of the shrieking children's voices in the panic, and as the raptor in the room rose to protect her from whatever was happening outside, something struck the roof.
The little foal's heart was hammering as she tried to calm down, tried not to be a silly useless baby to everyone here. She could feel the call of Cascade's water move through her as shallow waves began to gather underneath the burning tree, but it all splashed and fell away as soon as the group was herded into another room.
With her wits having (somewhat) returned, Belle moved from Tegan to her dinosaur, pressing against his feathers with a mumbling, shaky apology to the older pegasus. At his mention of Ignacio, her ears flattened.
"B-but... but lightning... I thought that was already part of storms. Ignacio can't be mad at us... right? H-he should be happy. This is his home, now!"
Post #4 | Word Count: 353
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Post by moonlightwalk on Feb 6, 2019 10:45:29 GMT -6
Linnea | Harbinger (Grand cleric)
Linnea was impressed with the wisdom of the little one, even at an age so young. Arethusa's words delighted her even further. The words change once again bringing them closer to the truth. All they needed to do was think now and as Digend willed it, they would come to the right conclusions. "You may well be right, dear. Perhaps Cascade does invite Ignacio to change, to do well. Life is full of choices and we must always strive to pick what's best. As Arethusa so wisely says, the world is changing and we must change with it, for better rather than worse."
"Observe the world and think, learn and reason to understand it better. Now and always. Now start by thinking about these two questions. We know the gods hold certain aspects of the world, what unifies them? And talking about change who holds this aspect of the world?"
Not sooner had she spoken her words or the lightning struck close to the temple, a tree splitting and catching fire even in this rain being visible through one of the temple windows. Not soon after another jolt struck the temple roof, making even Linnea look up in worry. The children were moving about, probably scared. She moved to stand, not paying their questions about Ignacio any heed. Instead she looked at the other adults as she attempted to calm them down. "Hush now, we must not panic. The backroom of the temple will provide shelter, there's no skylight there."
Emotional support had never been her strong point and would much of anything else she moved towards the room she had mentioned. Once there she fell into prayer. She did want their safety after all, so she asked for it, for Digend's guidance and protection during this clearly dangerous storm. She looked around her, describing them to her god one by one, introducing the one's who she was praying for. It were mere mumblings, those around her not being able to understand more than that she was praying for their safety, their names spilling forth. Digend's name never left her lips, name safely guarded in the depths of her mind.
Post 5 | 360 words
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Post by perfectkawa on Feb 7, 2019 18:40:51 GMT -6
MIRKO
Talori | Guardian
Post 3 | 416w
He wasn't sure when or how things had gotten so out of hand, but something of the sort should've been expected when all these children had been swept into the temple to begin with. Mirko's gaze nervously flitted between each young horse as they verbally clambered over one another, before his attention finally focused on the old mare beside him once again, wondering what she could possibly have had in mind, filling their young minds with such ideas about the Wave Mother. It probably made sense that the grand cleric would have the most knowledge of their Goddess, including some questionable decisions She may or may not have made, but to tell the kids about it... his face fell into a grimace, and the stallion began to shuffle away from Linnea in order to bring himself to a more authoritative standing position. Maybe he could redirect the conversation?
The crash of lightning outside stole his breath, though, taking any words he could've uttered with it. It wasn't often horses were just struck by lightning, of course, and the logical part of his brain knew that, but they had been talking about the gods for a while now, and questioning both Cascade and Ignacio in the process. Another crack directly above them sent the children into a frenzy, and Mirko turned to Linnea again at her words, using her knowledge of the temple to direct their smaller companions into the back room. As a guardian, he was used to dealing with the panic of full-grown horses and foals alike, so herding them in the right direction was the easy part. As an emotionally incompetent adult, though, he wasn't quite sure how to console any of them when they'd tucked themselves into the back room, his expression visibly pained as he glanced around at them all. Even if Linnea wasn't currently tucked into her prayers, he figured she might not be the best at comforting the group of young equines given their recent conversations, and gave Arethusa a pleading glance before he began running his mouth.
"Ah," he began, huffing a deep breath. "The lightning didn't strike any of us, did it? If we're unharmed, should we really be worried?" The stallion offered a gentle smile, swishing his tail. "We're perfectly safe here, of that I'm sure. The storm is likely a coincidence. What games do you all like to play when you get stuck inside because of the weather? Maybe we can keep ourselves occupied that way."
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Post by mariahwhy on Feb 7, 2019 20:15:54 GMT -6
Seven | The Shoal
Seven gently nudged the little hippocampus with his nose, a comforting gesture that he had learned from the many times that he had curled, scared against his own brother's side. But the slight touch was just as much to hide his own embarrassment at being chastised by the Grand Cleric. How could he have questioned her? That was very rude of him. He had heard rumors of what had happened in Kiephis, but it seemed so far-fetched, and he had hardly believed the stories he'd heard. But the soft admission by Owain made him glance at the younger colt. His brows knitted. While even the stories from the grand cleric could seem unbelievable, the hushed, haunted tone of Owain's voice was something he would take as truth. He wanted to ask what the hippocampus had seen, but the conversation was already moving on. The words from Belle and Arethusa brought back the smile of positivity that he so often wore. And Linnae's agreement put him almost completely back at ease. This was an image he could get behind - an understanding, merciful goddess that believed in everyone. Cascade wanted them to do better as a herd, so surely she could expect the same of her brother! He opened his mouth to speak out in agreement and to answer Linnae's question of unification when the lightning started. A squeal escaped him, and he pressed back into Owain's side as the second strike lit up the temple, both to comfort himself through touch and to protect the younger foal. Suddenly everyone else was scrambling to their hooves, and so he did too. Head ducked, he clamored into the back room with the others, standing nervously alongside Belle when they finally came to a halt. He looked up at the now solid ceiling, as if worried lightning might burst through it at any moment. Suddenly the low drone of a prayer started, and he looked to the Grand Cleric. It did seem the right thing to do. He took a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts for his own prayer, or to at least bow his head in recognition of the mare's, but his legs shook and his thoughts raced in his mind. Thoughts of bombshells and destruction were replaying themselves. Of racing through the Wilds holding tight to Thalassa's tail to guide him. How he had not seen his father again after that day. The prayer was too familiar in its sound and meaning to provide a distraction, but Mirko's words, stumbling but clear, cut through Seven's subconscious. He looked up at the guardian, only realizing now that he was shivering. "I..." he swallowed hard, trying to gather his thoughts. He looked down at Owain. They were ok. "I think we're all alright." he offered hesitantly. He nodded at the mention of safety. If the guardian said it, surely it was true. But he couldn't bring himself to settle back down on the floor either. He tried to think of games he had played with his siblings, or in the Temple, the diversion working to slow the shaking of his thin frame. "I like hide-and-seek," he said, before looking around the room. Such a game wouldn't really work in here, he supposed. "Or... or charades." His mind was really turning now. They didn't have marbles, nor did they have any cards or the stuff to play Victory (though he was admittedly glad about that - Five loved that game, but Seven found it incredibly boring). "Oh, and Find the Pearl. I like that one!" It was a pretty childish game, he had to admit, but he loved it all the same.
(Post 4: 608 words)
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Post by posy-punch on Feb 10, 2019 19:41:48 GMT -6
...
The grating sound returns louder than before, and all of the children stop, glancing up at the tapestry behind Linnea. They need not wonder what the sound is, for a few seconds later, something much more curious happens. The tapestry is pushed aside and the Conparis, followed by the Gemini, steps out from behind it. As the first hoof touches the ground, lightning strikes the Temple. Everyone flinches, blinks, looks away, and when they look back you are introduced with a phenomenon not thought possible.
-Welcome Plot 704: Wind Down to your plot! |
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Post by foalish on Feb 10, 2019 19:52:10 GMT -6
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Post by moonlightwalk on Feb 11, 2019 8:57:11 GMT -6
Linnea | Grand cleric (harbinger)
There was little time to consider what was happening. One moment she was praying, Mirko suggesting a game to the children. Next her prayer was finished and with the last words spilling from her lips, a grating sound was heard and figures spilled from behind a tapestry against the wall. Lighting crashed into the temple, making Linnea close her eyes. When she looked back, a miracle appeared because there before their eyes, the Comparis, cursed with wings, grew nothing less than a tail with fins. Linnea stood there for only a moment before she was bowing her head. "A miracle," she said and then hesitated. "But why both? Why now?"
She wondered if this was Digend's doing, giving the blessing of two species. Or if Cascade had simply failed in turning the Comparis fully. Perhaps having an existing body made it all the more difficult. Yet... She started pacing, pondering the meaning. Then stopped. "What has led you here, Comparis, if I may ask?" she asked, as politely as she could manage while also desperately craving more information. She eyed the Gemini and then the tail. She'd offer to help stand but she doubted she could stand the weight. She looked at the children and fellow adults, wondering what they were making of this. Outside the storm still raged.
Post 6 | 219 words
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