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Post by ThatDenver on Jan 25, 2020 14:27:32 GMT -6
Please keep the following in mind!
- Posts must be a minimum of 175 words. There is no maximum – however, please be considerate to your fellow players. Posts of 500 words or less are recommended (but not enforced)
- 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!
- Have fun! Even if your pony isn't. 8'D
Rewards: 5AP, 5CS and 2FVR if a minimum of 2 posts is reached. +1AP for each additional post. Admin will confirm rewards at the end of the event.
Deadline: 23rd of February 11.59PM PST ---> Extended 29th of February 11.59PM PST
Note that each character can only participate in one of the threads.
Prompt: A few days after the last meeting in Osulas, a party has departed to bargain with the Thunderbirds. The worst of the storms seem to be over, and so Sultan Jibriel has called another meeting – this time an official one, although everyone is invited to attend.
There is much to discuss, and as the crowd gathers, you can see the participating members of the government standing on some elevated ground in the middle of the mass of horses.
The meeting will soon begin.
Voting: Jibriel is leading the meeting and bringing up topics. Everyone is welcome to weigh in, but depending on the matter, some points are up for government vote only (Council, Advocates, the Sultan). Some matters will be public votes, however, so participation is encouraged.
This is essentially an unusually public meeting of the government, being held in open-air. Soldiers are expected to keep the peace.
Location: Osulas Lakeside
Date: December; about 10 days after the events of Birds of Prey faction thread
Time of Day: Almost exactly Midday
Current Weather: Clear skies but chilly with a brisk wind. The ground is cold to the touch.
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Post by foalish on Jan 25, 2020 20:33:28 GMT -6
Alcaeus
Life was chaotic. There was no other way to put it; it was hard to avoid it all and have a normal life - the one he craved so deeply. But it seemed like the gods had other plans. He could get happiness, but Alya and Cascade would not let him rest. Perhaps it was a fair trade.
Everyone was effected by the floods, the thunderbirds. At his new rank, and he was already spending long hours working, learning on the job. It was satisfying, but it was draining. Everything was draining; family, work, politics, just trying to make it through another day. But it was the small moments that made everything worth it.
Those had been what pushed him here - but they were in the back of his mind. He wished he could avoid politics. Live life away from the happenings and just have everything that made him happy, all in his own little bubble. But he had a child and family to think about - and he would have a say in their future.
He was not the only one there; to be surrounded by horses who held such higher titles than him. But he was old enough, had gone through enough, that those things rarely phased him.
He simply stood his ground, waiting for things to start. Hopefully this would be worth the journey.
WC: 225 | Post #1 |
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Post by Zookcan on Jan 25, 2020 21:37:35 GMT -6
ASHITASH
"Sometimes we need to be reminded of where we're at in the world."
___________________________________________________
For once the desert heat yields, prompting her to carry a blanket beneath her cloak than just the sparing fabric to shield her pelt from the sun. The chill in the air would not be good for her reptilian companions, so she left them home, and prayed to Alya that in the meantime Kristofer and Inigo would stay safe in her absence. The call for conference beckons her to her place as a councilwoman, to which, she readily answered.
She stands beside her Sultan, remaining quiet and stoically composed, watching as Serorans steadily began to gather around their chosen meeting site. The anticipation made her neck itch; she had no idea what Jibriel was planning to suggest, but she hoped it would be good. It certainly was making her nip at her own withers, wondering if that was the reason or if there was a pesky horsefly lingering around.
Concealed beneath Ashitash's cloak is her short sword. If all goes well, she will not need it, but she carries it for the safety of herself and for her sultan. Her neckguard braces around her throat, covered up by burgandy silks. The look in her eyes seems as tough as the metal its been fashioned out of. Here's hoping that alone would keep the peace.
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Post #1
Word Count: 214
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Post by kajeayn on Jan 26, 2020 14:29:27 GMT -6
She is not, by any means, a political figure. She is meant to be neutral politically, it is not relevant to her rank, she knows this, knows it in her heart but she cannot stand idly by as the future of her herd is discussed. And the rumors on the wind are of a change coming, of important news to be shared, and so she has come, despite the bite in the air that makes her shiver and draw her cloak further around her. Her scarf snaps like a whip in the wind, and she reins it in, tucking it around her neck with a brief frown. She feels very alone and very exposed as she leaves her shrine, making her way to the meeting. She has prayed for guidance for this meeting and prays again on her short trip there, the shoes on her hooves doing little to protect her feet from the chilly ground. Nothing feels right today. Memories of her last, sharp interaction with Bellona flutter around her like annoying insects, biting into her skin as she tries her best to ignore it, tries to ignore the way she constantly checks her peripheral, unsettled and pained by the empty spaces she finds. She does not need a bodyguard to meet her people, she reminds herself fiercely. She glances warily at the skies and melts into the growing crowd, whispering greetings as she merges, making her way towards the center of the group, looking for a friendly face or her Sultan, curved ears swivelling uneasily.
post: 1 WC: 257 |
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Post by lightningwolf913 on Jan 26, 2020 14:38:17 GMT -6
= W H I R L W I N D =
"-"
WC: 456 | Post: 1Political affairs usually exhausted Whirlwind to no end. He was not typically one to poke his nose into the trivialities of the government and decorum. However, these recent events had drawn to a point, and one in which he could not ignore anymore. Going to see some thunderbird was not high on his list of things he wanted to do before he died, even if she was a 'matriarch' of sorts. His decision had not been made lightly, to go and attend this meeting, especially considering his aversion to crowds and public places. He very well could have stayed away, out in the wilds, and ignore everything that was happening all around him.
The world had become an increasingly dangerous place, and that was even considering how dangerous Sedo was to begin with. That spoke volumes in itself. Plenty of people had died in that war, and now again in thunderbird attacks, flash floods, and so much more. Plenty of lives had been changed forever, and while the land was changing shape so was the herd itself.
He was scared, even if he was unwilling to admit such a thing. His life had changed recently. His world had been flipped on its head and he wasn't ready to stand by and watch leadership make choices he was not aware of for no fault other than his own. He was the one who distanced himself. He was the one who thought that if he didn't see it, it must not be a trouble for him to concern himself with. He had never been so wrong.
He felt inferior in a certain way, amongst such high ranking officials. He, in his messy cloak and scuffed up armor, mane as well groomed as he could manage it but tangled from the winds nonetheless. He could not compare to the glittering cloaks, colorful beads and expensive body paint that those around him wore. He was an outlier, but he suspected he would not be for long. He'd brought his companion along. They hardly seemed to be apart these days. He'd come to appreciate her company, and count on her for little things, even down to his confidence here, amongst this crowd.
"This must be the place," He mumbled to her. His gaze scoured the crowd for familiar faces, some form of comfort, an action that he had repeated any time he went to any public event.
So far, the only one he had found solace in was Piper. A flash of dark red to his left, and he turned his delicate little head to look into the sea of horses beginning to gather. Esin. He sighed in relief. He wasn't so alone. "It looks like your friend is here too." |
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Post by hiddenbubbles on Jan 26, 2020 14:53:10 GMT -6
SandPiper
Post One | 225 words
Piper followed closely after Whirlwind, her eyes locked onto his coat in an attempt to keep herself from getting lost amongst those of higher society. She was feeling just as out of place as her companion. She took solace in the fact that although she stood out like a sore thumb, at least they stood out together. Pip had made a halfhearted attempt to get somewhat cleaned up for the meeting, but there was only so much she could do with how busy she had been in the last few weeks. Zyler, the newest addition to their little group, stuck to her heels and often darting beneath the mare to avoid stray hooves.
Piper flicked an ear towards Whirl as he spoke, glancing about the crowd in front of her before she spotted who he was talking about. Esin. She and the mare had had a close run in with thunderbirds and had barely escaped the altercation with their lives. Piper nodded to him and pushed through the crowd to meet her.
"Wind beneath your wings, Esin. How are you doing?" she asked, her bi-colored eyes flashing with concern. A quick once over didn't reveal anything physically wrong with her, but Piper couldn't help but worry if she had gotten into trouble since their last meeting. "How have things been?"
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Post by hydrus101 on Jan 26, 2020 16:00:54 GMT -6
 S H E P H E R D• Vagabond | Harbinger •
”The phoenix must burn before it can be born again.”
Shepherd had always been at ease in crowds. He enjoyed blending in, stepping back, merely observing the throng of moving bodies as they flowed around him like a river, and in the midst of it all, he stood silent and composed, a rock concealing an adder. His eyes may have been half-closed but he was as aware as ever, intently listening in on the idle conversation around him as horses chatted in the meeting’s prelude. A few of the voices belonged to people he recognized but many remained foreign. Among them, Shepherd did not see nor hear any of his Digend inclined allies, but there was always the chance that they were right there beside him without his knowledge, fellow snakes in the dry grass.
Regardless of the presence of accomplices, it was important for him to be here today, he could feel it. Shepherd had originally intended to join the party that was to meet with the Matriarch, had Cynbel and Marius not persuaded him otherwise. It was dangerous territory and Shepherd couldn’t risk being caught stirring up trouble with the Thunderbirds. It was easier to melt into the crowd and manipulate the masses with whispers anyways.
Despite Shepherd’s mild political apathy, he knew that it would be important to pay attention today. Given the chaos of the winter season, the harbinger was sure his god was at the root of it all. It would be vital to know what the government was planning next so the Cult could remain a step ahead. Surely something useful would arise during the upcoming talks.
Shepherd’s train of thought was broken by the feeling of blunt pins digging into his back; Lockbox had returned.
Turning around to face them, Shep regarded the the little Homunculus expectantly as they perched delicately atop the harbinger’s slightly outstretched wing. With a small click, they opened up the box that formed their chest cavity, revealing a few items tucked inside. Shepherd had sent the homunculus to retrieve some things from the caravan parked nearby and upon seeing they were all accounted for, Shep stroked his teke over the smooth portion of Lockbox’s head, a small reward for a job well done.
Satisfied, Shepherd turned back to the task at hand, eyeing the horses on the earthen mound carefully.
WC: 383
Post: 1
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Post by Zugunruhes on Jan 26, 2020 20:53:27 GMT -6
▸Marius and Cynbel◂
WC 388 (Mar 211; Cyn 177) | Post One
Marius
Though most of the gathered horses were looking up at those standing upon the raised ground, Marius still felt as though many eyes were regarding the two kirins walking among them. He stepped softly, his eyes trained on their guide in fear of losing Shepherd among the crowd, while others he passed by greeted their friends. Snatches of murmured conversation and the looks on the other horses' faces evoked the same worries. Although he and Cynbel had been pursued by a thunderbird he still felt so apart and alone in the crowd. Or was that a feeling of guilt? Serora had been his home for many months, but he was still an outsider.
All the same, the decision made here would affect himself and Cynbel. Whether or not Cynbel still wanted to return to Aodh they were rooted in Sedo in ways more complex and convoluted to easily put to words. Stranger still, Marius acknowledged that Cynbel was the reason the two of them were here. The night the thunderbird hunted them Marius had lost himself to a rage burdened by shame and only Cynbel had talked the former dragon-hoplite down from trying to engage with their pursuer. He looked among the crowd again, observing the faces of the gathered herd.
Cynbel
"We're fine. If they didn't want us, someone would have said something by now instead of letting us wander this far." The chestnut kirin hissed irritably in Marius' ear, finally bringing up the matter they had been avoiding discussing. After Cynbel had talked the other kirin down from his foolish heroic fantasy regarding the thunderbirds they agreed to go with Shepherd to the gathering at Osulas. Cynbel was used to the stares and uncomfortable greetings they met at most places, and did not care when another equine moved pointedly away from them when they passed. The more embarrassing thing was Marius' somber and wary glances, as though their very presence was a terrible offense.
Though his feelings of Sedo remained uncomfortably conflicted, as long as Cynbel called the continent home he vowed not to merely to survive, but to thrive. For months the bound kirins had endured and now was the opportunity to change their fortunes. The Serorans intrigued Cyn and as he too scrutinized the crowd he wondered what this day meant for each of them.
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Post by Maelorom on Jan 26, 2020 21:56:38 GMT -6
= ISIS =
"The fight is in the warrior, not the weapon."
WC: 303 | Post #1It seemed there would be no rest for the weary. The recent chaos had taken up every moment of the Skirmisher Wing's time. She craved the softness of a pillow against her head. But her herd would always come first.
The cool, crisp air at least was refreshing. She ruffled her wings as she gazed at the growing crowd, the cool air blowing gently, soothingly through her feathers. She noted the earthen platform and headed towards it. The sash that draped across her body moved fluidly with her every move as she joined those gathered for the meeting. Among them she recognised a few faces, council members probably. But there were also many she was unfamiliar with. Still she muttered quiet greetings to all of them.
Usually she might have asked for names, and taken more of an interest in her fellow Serorans. But today her mind was already filled. Even now as she waited, appearing highly alert, her thoughts were filled with maps and formations, subconsciously checking and double-checking decisions and solving problems. Between the storms and the Thunderbirds, her Skirmishers were spread uncomfortably thin and she was forced to become creative with their deployment. Every move she ordered had a thousand consequences, and it was her job to consider every one.
She hoped that at least some of Serora's problems could be solved today. Her spear rested heavy in her teke, a constant reminder to be on guard. She did not intend to look intimidating, but with the Thunderbird attacks, she dared not travel unarmed. Especially when there was even the slightest chance the Sultan or her people might be at risk.
It wasn't entirely necessary that she attend today's meeting, after all she was only here in advisory capacity. But she had an odd feeling that it was important she did. |
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Post by kerarose on Jan 27, 2020 17:54:18 GMT -6
 A V A N I Avani had come to the governmental meeting hoping for answers. Jibriel had been so vague before, speaking of potentially moving the capital. Move the capital from Osulas, the ancestral home of the pegasi, of Alya's children! Her home, and the home of many, many others- such an idea was absurd. Yes, the town might lie in shambles, but it could be rebuilt- it would be rebuilt, especially with a reliable water source so close by.
Still, she would hold her tongue and listen, at least until her opinion was needed. As a City Advocate, it no doubt would be. She looked around at the group a bit below her, catching Esin's eye, nodding and smiling to the Mullah. She had been kind and had welcomed Kilani in when making the shrine to Alya that now stood on the banks of Osulas Lake, only a little bit away, and Kilani had taken a shine to her. That, in addition to her love of Alya, earned Avani's respect.
She saw Ashitash nearby, a few spaces away; she had seen the Council member before but had never truly met. Still, it earned a nod, and a small, fleeting smile. There were others, too- Whirlwind and Piper, whom she had met before, and Isis, whom she had seen in passing. So many Serorans had gathered today, and even she did not know what her Sultan would bring up. So, instead, she tried to put it behind her, shivering a little in the damp cold, holding her head high. She smiled at the horses surrounding her, before turning to Ashitash once more.
"Wind beneath your wings," she said, flicking her large ears forward. "I hope you've been well. Any idea what the Sultan might say today?"
She did not know if Ashitash would hold the answers- but as a member of the Council, a higher governmental ranking than Advocate, perhaps she could at least tell her what the meeting might be about.
WC: 336 | Post #1 |
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Post by SkyOfNewMoon on Jan 28, 2020 5:37:35 GMT -6
Fen;Serora | Advocate
Alya hold the skies
Fen shifted her body weight from hoof to hoof as she looked upon the gathered crowd, herself standing above them all. To say she was uncomfortable was an understatement. However she did have Valeera with her, which very much eased her fears. The two mares had made their way over when Jibriel put out the word for the meeting.
And now, as she looked over the faces of her herd mates, she wished that they hadn't come directly at the Sultan's beckoning call, she happily would've been last to the party and had the distraction of this great meeting to take the eyes away from her. However, that was not the luxury she had now, so she just took the task of looking briefly over each face and seeing if she could remember any names. The fact was... apart from those she had spent significant portion of her life with she could only remember the names of those she had seen or met within the past couple of days and her wife, of course. She would blame that on getting old... even if forty was not that old. The truth was she was still too nervous to even try to get to know someone well enough to know their name.
Her fins gave a quiver in the breeze, her whiskers twitching and she gave a look to her fellow group of equines who were stood above the rest, by Alya's wings she hoped they had the answers they needed.
WC: 249 | Post #1 |
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Post by galekxy on Jan 28, 2020 22:24:39 GMT -6
 TESLASerora CouncilThere were a lot of horses present. It sort of surprised the equine, but it was nice to see so many interested in what was happening. It gave them hope that further change could come. They were interested in what would be discussed today, and glancing at Ashitash, they could see the other Council member was too.
They shuffled their hooves as they glanced at all those who were attending. Some were more familiar faces of advocates and mullahs, but even then Tesla could not recall names too well. There were the regular citizens too, and they wondered how they would respond to the words Jibriel would say. Tesla liked their new Sultan. He seemed to have a good head on his shoulders and seemed dedicated to the herd. But with the recent happenings, Tesla hoped his voice would be strong enough to ease the herd members minds. Tesla hoped that they too could offer some reassurance and wisdom. They knew they had words to offer, but wanted them to be enough.
Quiet chatter took place around them, but Tesla didn't pay much mind to it all, instead waiting for Jibriel's words.
1 | 192
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Post by buffyandbramble on Jan 31, 2020 8:23:10 GMT -6
Altan hadn't been entirely sure what to make of the official meeting. Primarily he was curious, but there was something different about it, its circumstances, and the public invite to sit in that made him unsure. Frustratingly he was unsure of what he was unsure of, but a lingering feeling of malaise still clung to his chest. Perhaps it was just an overflow of such turbulent and troubled times, he told himself. Or perhaps he just liked to worry over things, which was always a viable alternative.
Lingering feelings aside, he was still looking forwards to the meeting, listening to the proposals and discussions, and watching as future directions for the herd were debated and decided upon. That Jibriel himself was chairing the meeting held significance, though Altan would have been in attendance even if the sultan were not. Not only was it part of his job to remain up to date, he enjoyed this kind of thing. He was quietly pleased to see an array of horses that weren't your typical "political" type, such as council, Wings, and advocates. More horses meant more viewpoints, which although it was more complicated, was almost more experience and information. No matter how hard the council or advocates tried, they were still only horses and couldn't be expected to understand everything about everything.
He kept to himself as he stood with those gathering, unwilling to impose his presence on others and content with his own company if no one else desired it. He pulled a slate and chalk from a small bag slung over his shoulder, keeping them held in his teke in preparation to take notes where he needed to so that he could write everything up at the end for his own records and so that he didn't have to rely entirely on his memory to do so.
Post #1
WC: 307
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Post by taebun on Jan 31, 2020 12:58:41 GMT -6
![]() Valeera | 38 | The Wings (Warder)
The sand underfoot is firm and cool. Valeera breathed in the chilly air, a faint sting in her lungs as she quietly walked alongside her dearest Fen. Her eyes, the color of a stormy sky, were kept forward as the forms of the equines in the distance grew closer and she steadily started recognizing a few familiar faces. As the two of them eased pace into a stop a top a small hill, she took this time to look to her side at her wife, gaze softening as she took notice of her fidgeting. "Fen, you're thinking too much." Valeera's voice was gentle and quiet against the chilly breeze as she firmly pressed her forehead against the side of the other mare's neck. "We're all here for the same reason, with the same hopes in mind. It'll be fine."
She was confident in her words as she looked back down at the growing crowd of Serorans. Valeera stretched her wings and gave her head and body a strong shake, ridding her coat of any condensation that had clung to her body. When this meeting had been announced she'd wanted to join her son with the massive thunderbirds, but the stubborn boy had insisted that it was something he had to do himself and that he wasn't going alone, he would be with his cousin, Acuna. Valeera breathed a small sigh, fighting the urge to pace as standing still was already beginning to get under her skin. "But I wonder what Jibriel has in mind," her voice was almost a whisper. |
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Post by foalish on Jan 31, 2020 23:07:17 GMT -6
Alcaeus
It did not take long for horses to file in after; some young, some old, some of various importance and higher rank. He could only stare, standing uncomfortably off to himself. There was no need in him to follow the others and add more conversation to the chaos.
He’d had to travel to get here; he’d came early. At first, there had been some lost faith that not many would show up. But that didn’t seem to be the case as more time passed, another after another joining the crowd. It soon felt stuffy. Which was both nice and...well, the opposite of what he was used to.
He pulled his wings closer to his body, only sparing some younger horses a glance. It was nice to see them here. But it was not his business, he turned his ears away from straying conversation.
He had his own place in this herd, and he felt out of it in such a place. There was no feeling comfortable. Alcaeus didn’t even realize he was shifting his weight, from foot to foot, as he waited for Jibriel to make an appearance and things to get started.
WC: 194| Post #2 |
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Post by Zookcan on Feb 1, 2020 16:23:58 GMT -6
ASHITASH
"Sometimes we need to be reminded of where we're at in the world."
___________________________________________________
As the crowd grows in number, Ashitash finds herself clearing her throat and licking her dry lips in preparation for speaking. This had only been the second time she had participated in a gatheirng this big since they had delivered news unto the herd of Osulas' destruction, and she finds herself eager to get started. She takes a drink from the canteen that she had stuffed inside her saddlebags; a meeting requires a healthy voice.
Her ears perk up when Avani comes up to greet her. They had never properly met, but they had graced one another with glimpses while fighting against the recent storms and thunderbird attacks. Hence, the mare's ears perk forward, and she offers a friendly smirk, a brow cocking over those orange eyes with interest. "Wind beneath your wings, indeed," she chirrups in reply and props up one of her hooves. "I'm doing well, a little tired, a little chilly, but aren't we all?"
She passes a glance toward Jibriel at his mention, and then she turns her gaze back to Avani and winks. "We'll find out soon enough, that's what we're all here for, huh."
_________________________________________________________
Post #2
Word Count: 190
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Post by ThatDenver on Feb 1, 2020 17:05:35 GMT -6
JIBRIEL
Jibriel had stood silent in the middle of the gathering, occasionally shifting his weight from his bad leg as he waited for the crowd to swell. It was admittedly less people than he had hoped, but he supposed the thunderbirds might feel more pressing for many. He was pleased to see so many of his government in attendance, however, and smiled at each of them as they joined him in the middle of the group.
The organization of the meeting was a bit unusual, admittedly. Usually council meetings were not open to the public, but he had felt it a necessity.
Considering what would soon be discussed, he had no desire to repeat the mistakes of his predecessors.
Finally judging the crowd to be as big as it needed to be – and that if someone joined in late, they would have themselves to blame for missing the start of the meeting – Jibriel fixed his posture and looked over the crowd.
“I am so glad you have come. There is much to discuss”, he stated in a clear voice, officially starting the meeting.
“My first topic of discussion, some of you already knew to expect”, Jibriel goes on, looking around at the crowd and wondering how they felt. If it was as sad for them to stand here in the ruins of Osulas as it was for him.
“I propose that we abandon Osulas as our capital and migrate to Alhaj. Many have already made it their home, and the city is cleared of rubble. The long dead have been buried. By all accounts, the center of activity has already moved to Alhaj”, Jibriel went on. It was no wonder, really; there was hardly anything left of Osulas, and rebuilding from scratch was a laborious effort. So he went on: “The only thing that remains in Osulas is the government. And so, I submit to the vote of my fellows: Should Alhaj become our new capital?”
Word count: 325
Post #1
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Post by kajeayn on Feb 1, 2020 20:17:34 GMT -6
Her eyes catch Piper’s, and she gives her a smile, the best she can, relieved to see a familiar face. She’s still grateful for the recent rescue, even as part of her laments that she needed it at all. Her ears flick up as the pair approach, and she schools her expression into what she hopes is a pleasant smile.
“Wind beneath your wings, my friends! Doing well, thanks to you.” She chuckles, a little self consciously as she grins. “As well as one can, in these…. Chaotic times.” She says grimly, glancing up towards the clear skies, drawing her cloak a little closer to herself. “How are you both faring?” She returns, giving them both a once over, smile slipping as she frowns in concern at them. They are screamers, not fighters, and yet they have been thrown into the front lines as much as everyone has. It must have been hard on them both, she could only imagine how much stress they were under. She catches sight of Avani, the beautiful mare sending her a smile she returns happily, inclining her head towards the advocate. She likes the unicorn, remembers her kindness at her shrine, and her lovely little girl. She almost wishes Kilani had come- it would be nice to see a bright, youthful face in the face of all this gloom- but a child would have no interest in a political meeting. She’d be bored out of her mind, and Esin can’t blame her. A ripple passes through the crowd and she follows it, ears flicking forward towards Jibriel as he straightens and addresses everyone. She hadn’t even noticed him, he’d blended in so seamlessly among his people. She smiles in his direction, dipping her head, unsure if he will see her but wanting to greet him all the same. As the Sultan’s words settle over the quiet that had spread over the crowd, Esin closes her eyes. She knew this would come. It had been mentioned at the prior meeting, but to have it put to a vote made her heart constrict suddenly in her chest. It does not make sense to keep Osulas as the capitol, not with Alhaj rapidly becoming the center of activity, but it feels like a loss. She knows it is the best plan to move forward, but standing among the bones of a great city, her heart aches. She turns her head to one side, about to comment to Bellona, and realizes again there is only empty space beside her. She turns her head back to the crowd, mouth set in a grim line. She knows there will likely be differing opinions among the gathered, and so she settles back to wait for those who will speak out against it. She knows what she will advocate for, but she cannot vote, and so she waits to see what those who can will say.
post: 2 WC: 484 |
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Post by kerarose on Feb 3, 2020 18:54:05 GMT -6
A V A N I She had feared that this day would come.
Osulas had been her home for much of her adult life. It was the center of Seroran activity since time immemorial, the ancestral home of Alya and her pegasi. It lay asunder, yes, done to keep Aodh from occupying the great city, but it was still a place of great history, the place where Alya had ruled when she walked among them.
And now, Jibriel wished to remove its title as the capital of Sedo, of Serora. Avani's face fell, although she only let it remain there for a second or two. While her heart was partial to Osulas, as it was where Kilani had been born, and where she had met Lux, she could not argue with the logic presented. Yes, Osulas had a permanent source of water, but the costs of rebuilding it to its former glory might be too great. They would need to rebuild everything- homes, shrines, governmental centers, and more. Alhaj had plenty of space for residents, shrines, and anything else Serorans might need.
With a single sigh, she began to speak. She nodded to the equines around her, and decided to give a small introduction. "Wind beneath your wings, friends," she called, giving a nod to the crowd. "For those that don't know me, I am Avani, a City Advocate."
She turned to Jibriel, golden horns shining in the sunlight. "Sultan, I have lived in Osulas for all of my adult life. It was painful to watch its destruction. To see the ancestral home of the pegasi ripped apart... it tore my heart in two. Seeing it lose its distinction as the capital would perhaps hurt even worse."
"However, your point stands. Most of the residents of Osulas seem to have relocated to Alhaj. That city still stands, and has what we would need to operate as a government and a people, as we always have." She paused, gathering her thoughts. "I would not be opposed to moving the capital to Alhaj. It will hurt, yes, but we must do what is best for the equines of Sedo."
She tossed her head once, looking around at the group before continuing to speak. "However, in my opinion, Osulas should not lay abandoned. Something should still mark this place, be it a monument, a grand shrine to Alya, or a smaller version of its former glory. This spot will always be special to us, as it represents our past, even if it cannot be our future. I would vote yes, with these stipulations."
She kept her eyes trained on Jibriel for a few more heartbeats, before looking around at the rest of the group. Certainly she couldn't be the only one with opinions- she hoped others spoke up soon.
WC: 470 | Post #2 |
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Post by Maelorom on Feb 3, 2020 21:08:43 GMT -6
= ISIS =
"The fight is in the warrior, not the weapon."
WC:356 | Post #2Isis' bi-coloured eyes came to rest watchfully on the Sultan as he spoke. She was surprised at the swiftness with which he brought up the first issue. Often these meetings opened with more formalities. But it was certainly an important topic. She couldn't help but feel a sharp pang at his words "I propose that we abandon Odulas as our capital". Abandon Osulas? She could see his reasoning. But at the same time she could not understand how he could have so little reverence for such an important part of Seroran culture.
The Seroran's had suffered terribly through the war. Morale was barely recovering, and she could hardly imagine what a blow it would be to the people for Osulas to loose it's title right now. She knew just how important it was to be practical about matters, but sometimes culture was too important to toss aside in favour of practicality.
She addressed not only the Sultan, but the gathered crowd too, when she spoke.
"I feel that abandoning Osulas now would only dishearten the populace. After all, it was the beating heart of our country until its destruction. And even then it was only destroyed to protect it, because it meant so much to us. Surely we would not give up and abandon it so easily? Things have never been simple here, but we have never simply given up our culture or our history in favour of the easy route, for if we did we would not be Seroran."
She paused for a moment. "Maybe, given time, we could move the title to Alhaj. But the wounds of war are still fresh, and the people need Osulas and what it represents as their capital. Even if it is in ruins, it is the heart of our people. And imagine what it could represent once re-built into an even more glorious capital?"
She wasn't sure if she had used the right words, but she hoped the others and the Sultan understood her concerns. Whether they chose to take them into consideration though was out of her hooves.
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Post by taebun on Feb 4, 2020 1:32:17 GMT -6
![]() Valeera | 38 | The Wings (Warder)
Abandon Osulas and make Alhaj the new capital.
Abandon.
The warrior's eyes narrowed at the question that ended their Sultan's introduction. Although it wouldn't be visibly obvious, the mare's heart had instantly sunk at the thought. Osulas was their ancestral home. There was no place else in Sedo that felt more familiar, more staple to Serora as a whole than their reigning city - or at least, what it used to be.
Valeera holds her tongue, giving her wife beside her a long glance before letting her gaze settle on the other attendees of the meeting that were beginning to voice their thoughts on the matter. Avani is the first to speak and Valeera dips her head respectfully at her greeting before flicking her ears forward to listen to what she had to say. The Advocate's thoughts are practical, taking everything into account. Valeera couldn't fight the small smile on her face at the other's suggestion on making sure Osulas was not forgotten. She nodded instinctively in agreement, looking over at Jibriel for a moment before another equine's voice took up after the pause.
She recognized the pegasus who spoke next, Isis, the newest and last member to their Four Wings. The smile on Valeera's face slowly disappeared as she listened intently to Isis' words. A part of her so strongly agreed, the stubborn part that wanted so desperately to hold onto something that had stood for so long. But times change - and more than just time itself had certainly changed.
"Wind beneath your wings, kin. My name is Valeera." Her voice is firm and confident, her greeting emphasized by the slight raise of her wings. Her gaze sweeps the crowd, resting on Jibriel for a few moments. "I understand your reasons and your feelings wholeheartedly, as I share the same myself." She looks from both Avani to Isis, raising her head and pushing down the weight this decision has on her heart. "Osulas will always be my home, our home. I don't believe that will ever truly change, not ever."
"But times have changed, and so has Osulas along with it." She continues, settling her wings back at her sides and huffing a short sigh. "Avani has put it into words, perfectly. Alhaj may be new and there is much yet to be discovered. But the city has what we need." Valeera looks back to the unicorn before nodding, ending her share to speak - at least for the moment. It made her restless that she wasn't able to vote officially, but she never was into politics anyway. |
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Post by hiddenbubbles on Feb 4, 2020 15:55:27 GMT -6
SandPiper
Post Two | 222 words
Piper smiled, pleased to see that Esin had fared alright in their time apart. She hummed softly and tilted her head, considering her words before she spoke. "We're surviving, which is a blessing of it's own," she started, shooting a look towards her companion. "It certainly keeps things interesting. There's so much to do, so much to discover and so many maps to rewrite!" Piper finished. Although she had meant to sound excited, some tiredness edged into her voice. With so much flooding and rivers suddenly sprouting across the landscape, everything she had written in the last month had had to be completely revised and reworked. It was a point of frustration for her.
Their conversation was cut off as the meeting officially started. Pip wasn't one who paid much attention to politics, and so she kept an ear angled towards those who were better versed in it than herself. In a lapse of conversation, she tilted her head towards Esin again.
"What do you think? I wouldn't mind moving the capital, would you?" she asked softly. She and Whirlwind had stayed in Alhaj shortly after pairing up together. Although it had been recently discovered, it was already bustling with life by the time they'd arrived. She also glanced at her companion, trying to gauge his reaction.
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Post by kajeayn on Feb 5, 2020 8:41:12 GMT -6
She hadn’t expected to be addressed, her ears turning to point at Piper in surprise before her eyes flickered her way, her third eye remaining fixed on the sky. She blinks at the screamer in surprise, then smiles slightly, genuinely pleased to be asked. She’s used to her opinion being mostly glanced over, rarely asked for, chiefly ignored in the face of her youth, though she supposes she isn’t much younger then Piper. “I’m certainly not happy about the idea,” She confesses, pain flashing over her face as she shifts uncomfortably in place. “But it does make the most sense, doesn’t it? Losing Osulas was…. Terrible.” For a moment, something dark flickers in her eyes, a memory, a feeling. “But do we have much choice? We can’t afford to rebuild it quickly, and Alhaj has been waiting for us. It still is.” Her third eye clouds briefly, thinking, remembering. “As long as we don’t abandon it, I think it will be for the better. I think a monument may be a wonderful idea,” She rose her voice slightly, hoping it carries through the crowd. She hasn’t been asked by anyone else, but she can’t find it in herself to be shy about her thoughts. Her smile has faded again, face uncharacteristically serious, frowning as she flicks her gaze unconsciously in the direction of her shrine. It’s one of the few new structures, if one can even call it that, but it was blessed by Alya herself. Surely the sky goddess still cared about Osulas- was that a sign of it? Of her support of Esin’s determination to do something, of her need to see the city rebuilt? She’d likely never know.
post: 3 WC: 281 |
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Post by SkyOfNewMoon on Feb 5, 2020 15:23:18 GMT -6
Fen;Serora | Advocate
Alya hold the skies
Fen gave a snort and smile in her wife's direction as she made herself self aware of her actions. Although she didn't care to the core of her being, she supposed she should still present herself well to her herd. "You're right, of course my love." She whispered warmly, enjoying the physical contact from Valeera, not caring where they were anymore.
Fen pondered Valeera's question, but the hippocampus was not one to read the mind of the Sultan. "I am not too sure, but I hope it all goes over smoothly and quickly." She answered looking out over the complete gathered crowd. Fen was not one for great conflict and quite honestly, she wasn't sure how she would handle it, she did know that she was one to speak her mind no matter what, however. As she finished that thought, the Sultan himself spoke up to begin the meeting. Was it time to officially move the capital status to Alhaj?
Fen waited patiently as she heard the others speak, both of the gathered government officials and those of the public. Then feeling a lull in conversation, Fen spoke up with her own gruff voice, "Wind beneath your wings, I am Fen, the Creators Advocate." She said with a brief nod, feeling it best to also contribute to the formalities. "Admittedly, Osulas was the first place I stepped into and felt home. It's where my life truly began, however, that was due to the vibrancy of its people, not the physical place. I vote we stop moping around this memory of war and destruction and move on with our lives in a place that is now fit for life. Let's move the capital to Alhaj." She finished matter of factly, her whiskers twitching with anticipation, hoping someone would now speak up and cover the silence.
WC: 304 | Post #2 |
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Post by Zookcan on Feb 5, 2020 17:17:49 GMT -6
ASHITASH
"Sometimes we need to be reminded of where we're at in the world."
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Following Jibriel's statement, Ashitash remained silent. Rather than state her own thoughts immediately, she chose to let the others around her debate while formulating her own statement in her head. A small pang of sadness struck in her heart, for the mare knew how difficult it would be. Osulas was not only her former home and workplace, but it had been the capital of her people for generations. "Boy, oh boy, of all lives to see that city fall, I didn't think it'd be during mine," She smiled somberly and shook her head.
"Aight, listen up," The mare projects at last after the crowd deliberates, "As someone who has lived in this herd all her life, I cannot disagree, this is kind of scary. Before the war began, Osulas was not just a place of meeting but my home. Those of you who know me may recall that I worked as a Savior within the city walls. My family lived there with my brother, I was mentored there, I took it upon myself to stay there. And damn, knowing all that's happened since then, I wish I could have those days back."
Then she sighs, her charcoal ears folding back, fiery amber eyes shutting for a moment of moroseness before her enthusiasm comes back in full swing. "But we must remind ourselves, those days are long gone and they ain't comin' back. Look around and see that Osulas is not what it used to be. Our herd ain't what it used to be. When there is change, we must adapt. We cannot look back, only forward."
A pause, before she offers a glance. "I am in favor of moving the capital to Alhaj. It is fortifiable, it's got more resources and stability than most of our other settlements right now, and little of it needs rebuilt. That being said, neither should we abandon Osulas. I remember seeing the gods themselves in the sky that day and the next thing I knew, I was standing hock-deep in that lake over here. Alya must have some plan for this place -- we should maintain it. Maybe send some capable horses to help rebuild and defend it as well. We've all seen what became of the Oasis."
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Post #3
Word Count: 373
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Post by buffyandbramble on Feb 8, 2020 12:41:19 GMT -6
“I propose that we abandon Osulas as our capital and migrate to Alhaj."
At the Sultan's words, the corners of Altan's mouth tightened, and it was with effort that he stopped his ears flicking backwards and displaying his immediate reaction to the suggestion. To react so swiftly was foolish, especially when he hadn't yet heard the reasoning behind the suggestion. Still, he couldn't quite ignore the small voice in the back of his head that screeching that there was no possible reasoning to justify that. It was sentimentality speaking, rather than reason, and important decisions must be made on fact and reason, not sentimentality. Indeed, Jibriel's explained reasoning was sound. Unfortunately, it didn't do much to alleviate the mullah's intense dislike of the idea.
He didn't say anything as others began to raise their voices, only half listening while he wrestled with his own inner turmoil. Moving the capital to Alhaj made sense, there was logic to it. Osulas was in no state for anything, and Serora was hardly in a prime position to rebuild its primary city from scratch. They were industrious and hard-wearing people, but there were limits to such things and on top of that, there was more pressing concerns to be dealing with. It didn't change the fact that Osulas was their capital. It had been for generation after generation. It wasn't something you could just up and change, discard even, just because something else that was better and more convenient had come along.
No one seemed enthusiastic about the suggestion, though some were more amenable to it than others and he didn't doubt that Jibriel had thought long and hard about this before suggesting it. He mulled over his thoughts and words before finally speaking into the next silence.
"To move would be.... strategic." He spoke levelly, slowly, still trying to sort his thoughts into coherent sentences and still worrying whether or not he was giving sentimentality too much say in this. He kept his eyes fixed on the slate bearing his shorthand writing in front of him. "But a capital is more than just a place. It is the heart of a nation. Like its people, Osulas suffered during the war. We cannot just give up on it. We might move operations temporarily to Alhaj but... Osulas has always been our capital though all others times of difficulty. I see no reason to change that now." He paused a moment, before allowing himself to indulge in a little bit of dramatic sentiment. "Aodh took a lot from us during the war. I for one cannot bear to let our ancestral capital be another of those things."
Post #2
WC: 430
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Post by galekxy on Feb 10, 2020 22:13:25 GMT -6
TESLA Serora CouncillorTesla looked to the Sultan as he spoke, weighing his words carefully. They could immediately see the crowd shift at the suggestion of moving the capital elsewhere. It was surely a tough subject for those that might have always called Osulas home. But standing in the ruins- well it didn't feel like home.
Being nomadic for nearly their whole life made Tesla's thought on the subject rather obvious. For Tesla, home had always been a feeling, a person, then a place. Yes, Osulas had been their home for a while, but it was home because their spouse was there too. And he would go where they went- and vice versa. Tesla could make a home anywhere, so leaving Osulas did not bother them.
But they stayed silent for a bit, listening to others offer their input. It was part of their job to weigh the needs of the people- but Tesla didn't need their needs would outweigh the needs of everyone. Some spoke of Osulas as if it had been a living, breathing person. Or that it was important to their way of life. The city was irreplaceable, but at the end of the day it was just a place.
Once there was a gap, Tesla inserted their own voice. "I too believe moving from Osulas would be the right choice, and I hold no reservations about that decision. Look around us. This would take years to rebuild- time, energy and resources that can be spent on bettering the cities we have. Bettering the lives of everyone instead of rebuilding something that is now lost. I'll admit Osulas was never a home to me- I find home in those I love- so I can not feel the same loss that some of you do. But what I see is the future ahead of us, and if we were to stay here, I think we would limit what we can do. Too much time would be spent lingering on the past." They paused briefly, hoping to have their words sink in. "I grew up with my hooves always moving. For much of our herd, they are the same. We must think of those who have no ties to the city as well, and how they would feel about spending resources on that when we are still recovering from so much. It will be more beneficial for us to be in a city that is ready to take us in. It would be a new beginning, and I think it's something we need after the war." Dipping their head to the Sultan, Tesla took a step back, letting someone else speak if they wanted to.
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Post by moonlightwalk on Feb 11, 2020 3:44:44 GMT -6
Zachariah | Trader
Zachariah had listened quietly, letting the question as well as the words around him settle in. He had always held Osulas dear to his heart, spending many days in the little inn that his grandmother tended too, watching equines come and go. It hurt his heart to remember that the place was no longer there and only the memory remained. Osulas had been the center of their herd for many years, an anchor for his wandering people, a place to touch base and return to. As it was however, Alhaj was a solid reality whereas Osulas a longing. Their herd needed a stability, somewhere rooted to return to and Osulas couldn't provide that right now. Still...
"I think Alhaj might be what we need right now. It is a miracle we found this place now, when we so need it. It's as if our ancestors left it for us and this exact moment Alya has gifted it back to us. Making Alhaj our capital would be the sensible thing to do as it provides the safety and structure Osulas now lacks. We have an opportunity to again discover part of our heritage. However..." He frowned, looking at those who had expressed similar wishes, "Osulas has always been dear to me. I have grown there, made friends there, fallen in love there, grew a family, danced under the stars, exchanged wares, sifted through library texts, helped clean shrines. There's so many memories, so many history. Even if we move our capital, I'm not willing or ready to give up on it all. The place still holds the spirit of our people and we could work to make it more than rubble again. I don't want Osulas to go down Seroran history as a place of loss. I might take years, likely longer than I will live, perhaps even longer than some of you depending on our time and resources, but it could place of meaning again, if not a settlement, perhaps something else."
Post 1 | 332 words
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Post by ThatDenver on Feb 11, 2020 17:06:33 GMT -6
JIBRIEL
Listening to the argument that ensued was not easy, but he kept quiet, not wanting to sway opinions any further in either direction. Passionate voices rose, for and against, but in the actual voting, it was the less sentimental option that won out – as he had, admittedly, hoped that it would.
Osulas would always live on in dream and memory, but right now, it was little more than that. A ruin, a shadow of a past glory, something that could never be truly remade. The canyon itself was gone, and with it, the very bones of the city.
”The vote is unanimous; Alhaj will be our new capital”, he announced in an even voice that betrayed no emotion at this event. Jibriel’s expression softened, however, when he spoke again: ”But I do agree that we should by no means abandon Osulas, even if it will no longer be our capital. Over time, we can rebuild her – not as she was, but as something new.”
He looked away, at the shimmering lake that now lay where the very epicenter of the city had once been. It was beautiful, but different.
Jibriel took a moment in silence to ponder on his next words. He knew this topic would be even more difficult, and he had dreaded this discussion ever since the hushed message had been brought to him just a week earlier.
”The next matter is unusual, and I ask that you all let me finish before you make your own voices known”, he began, and then continued: “An Aodhian messenger came to me in private a week ago. They wanted my help – but I told them this was not our way. That I had no such power over you, and that if Aodh wanted our aid, they would have to receive it from the people.
Jibriel looks at the crowd, making eye contact with some of them. He is speaking to them, now, not the Council.
”There is a faction of hostile kirins within Eithne. They have sworn to take back Eithne from Aodh, and are willing to commit atrocious acts to do so. Non-Aodhian sources have confirmed to me that the kirins kill indiscriminately. They kill civilians as well as soldiers, children along with the adults, and slaughter slaves besides their masters. They will kill Vagabonds and foreign traders, too, if they happen within Eithne. This is not a faction that wants friends, or cares about who it destroys”, Jibriel told the crowd, his voice steady and strong in the silence.
”Aodh is facing a massacre unprecedented since God’s War. They want our help”, he said. The very idea was distasteful, after what Aodh had done, but on the other hand, the senseless slaughter he’d been described was more distasteful still.
Aodhians were not free like the Serorans. It was not the common farmers who decided to go to war.
”They ask that we sail to evacuate a number of civilians from rural towns who have gathered in a small seaside town – now an impromptu refugee camp – as the kirins have pushed them in. Aodh can’t spare the soldiers to do so, and their previous attempts via land have failed. We are not expected to fight their war, except if our ships come under attack”, Jibriel explained the terms as they had been explained to him: ”We will take the refugees to Sedo. Aodh will supply us with food and resources to help them in the safety of our continent.”
”In return, they will let go one of the terms of the peace treaty; whichever one we decide. And they will return to us any captured Serorans that still live. Each and every one of them”, Jibriel finished, and unconsciously stomped his hoof in the way of the Forged.
”But this is a decision we should make together. I will not lead you into something you do not wish to do. So I ask you; vote. Let your voices be heard. We will do as the majority thinks is best.
Word count: 670
Post #2
Second topic: Should Serora aid Aodh by helping with civilian evacuations?
Everyone can vote.
Make sure to clearly indicate what your character votes for!
Please also note that the specific part of the treaty that gets abolished is a different vote, IF majority votes to help Aodh. This discussion/vote is only about whether or not to help Aodh.
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Post by Zookcan on Feb 11, 2020 17:57:36 GMT -6
ASHITASH
"Sometimes we need to be reminded of where we're at in the world."
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The words around her strike her nerves, but she does not act upon them. After all -- she couldn't help but sympathize with those who argued for Osulas to remain capital; the city had been her home, and a place of many memories. She herself walked alongside Kristofer through the ruins, reminiscing over the past. But as far as the mare learned, weeping over spilled milk gets one nowhere, and to her, neither does sentimentality. The world around them was changing, adapting, and they needed to adapt with it.
The next discussion, however, makes her blood begin to boil. She could feel the heat of her own ire washing down her withers and coat, and though Ashitash did her best to hold it in for Jibriel's sake, the disgust was clear on her face. "They seriously d--" Easy now. Withhold your anger. She was a council woman now, and she needed to vent her words with etiquette just as much as she needed to be a voice of reason. Unfortunately, her own bitterness keeps her from being able to make a proper decision.
Help Aodh? The same horses who had little regard for anyone besides themselves? The ones who deliberately captured citizens of other factions, branded them as slaves and stripped them of their rights? The fire-worshipping fucks who declared war on her people, enslaved innocents, tore apart families, and wedged a growing divide between Serorans themselves? Just thinking of them made her writhe inside. After all they had done to make her herd suffer, Ashitash wanted nothing more than to see them burn as punishment for their crimes. To hear that a kirin faction had turned against them and was steadily destroying them from the outside in sounded incredulous, but just fitting enough a sentence for them.
She wanted nothing to do with the arrogant northerners, and yet ... the Serorans that were ripped away from their homeland would suffer too. Wouldn't she feel abandoned, if her were made a slave and left to burn? "Fucking dammit," Ashitash cursed faintly under her breath and snorted. "Jibriel, you're sure this is from a credible source? Do we know for sure they're not just pulling our strings?"
She could not make a decision, and she wouldn't until she heard the opinions and advice of her people. This topic was one that would face opposition regardless of choice; by broken Serorans desperate for their loved ones back, and angry individuals who wanted nothing to do with the Aodhians. Frankly, she herself didn't trust the people of Valore, either. "They make a stunning offer, but I can't bring myself to believe they'd be willing to release everyone. They declared war on us for refusing to give up a small handful of the vagabonds we'd not yet rounded up for them. And we're still recovering from everything they've done to us, so sending out even more of our depleted numbers northward is a risky game."
She shakes her head and winces. "I'd like us to get everyone we lost back. I do. But after everything I've heard, I just can't trust that Aodh would have ... the decency to do something like that. And even then, basically they're dangling stolen civilians over our heads like cat toys."
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Post #4
Word Count: 540
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