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Post by kajeayn on Mar 10, 2021 18:46:26 GMT -6
R O S A L B A
post 3 | wc 355
The god of flame himself appeared, and Rosalba took a step forward, blocking Sereya from view before she even knew what she was doing.
Instinct, she supposed. She knew she had no need to shield Sereya from Ignacio, but in the depths of her mind, Sereya’s agonized howls during her transformation echoed once more.
She breathed deeply, forcibly stilling her body before her tail lashed anxiously.
She had thought she would feel something... more. A sudden overwhelming devotion- equines all around her fell to their knees, even the Flamines, but Rosalba did not kneel. She met the fire god’s blazing gaze evenly, and she wondered at it.
Perhaps she should at least feign it for the crowd, but she had never been one to bow.
And she had been through enough tonight to bend a knee to someone she did not want to.
The thought had barely crossed her mind before a phantom wave of grief passed over her, and her eyes widened, reeling back as if she’d been struck.
In her mind’s eye, she clutched Rosalie to her chest, and she screamed.
She dug her hooves into the ground to fight against the sudden impulse to turn and run. Run far, far away from this pain, this guilt, this grief that flooded her veins like fire and burned her from inside. Her lips pulled back in a silent snarl, ears flat against her head as she resisted the flood of emotion, desperately trying to close her ears to it but it persisted, roaring through her chest.
She had buried that grief. But it rose in her mind as fresh and painful as if she was waking up on a ballroom floor again.
For Sola, the bloody king’s wyvern, who had been ready to kill them all tonight.
And for what? What had Ignacio done to stop it?
Why weep over her now, when none of this should have happened?
Her breath came quick, pain blooming behind her chest as she furiously, furiously stamped it down. Not here, not in front of a crowd. She would not allow Ignacio’s folly to undo her.
Not ever.
INTERACTING: Sereya, mentions Ignacio. |
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Post by misttheelf on Mar 11, 2021 13:43:33 GMT -6
Caron "Now the Fire and Wind guide me to Freedom."
Post 4 | WC 371 Caron watched the storm, before the light of the sun directed to the Goldhead. They watched, as the flames danced, forming an inferno.
For a moment, Caron dare not breath, as Ignacio formed. Twice, now, they've seen him. And the sight still had them in awe, putting them at ease.
They watched, their ears angled forward as the god apologized to Sola, and the wyvern breathed one last time, before becoming starlight in Ignacio's mane.
The sadness hit them strongly. They staggered a half step as they hung their head, realizing that Ignacio was the source. Still, they could not help but have thoughts of their lost love.
Ignacio spoke again, regarding all who were there.
...The god misses them. Caron almost missed the looks that he sent to others - A kirin lurking in the shadows. One who had been reincarnated, perhaps? Regardless, Caron did not know them. Skoll, the pegasus slave, who seemed… afraid of the god's presence. The Flamen's, Moira, Euonia.
Others questioned Ignacio, of what had happened, while still others remained silent, with awe.
Shay asked if Alya was behind the storm, while another pegasus stepped forward, proclaiming she had sinned.
Ignacio then spoke, addressing the questions, and concerns.
First, that Alya was not behind the storm - words Caron was gladdened to hear.
He praised the pegasus, and… said a line that had been on repeat in Carons head since they had first heard it.
Fire deals not in destiny.
...Caron looked to Ignacio, following the gods gaze to the pools of blood that remained from Sola.
And they listened. And they took the words to their heart. Fire seeks to grow. To grow is to struggle. And so they would grow.
Cin'Ciri trotted forward, and honestly… the child was too sweet, bringing them a bit of sadness as well.
Euonia spoke next, promising that they'd fight for change. That cages would be burned. And then she questioned who was behind the storm - A question Caron silently echoed, alongside Moira.
For now, they thought it best that they remain quiet. They had no questions for the god, that had not been spoken already. Though they wished that they could do something, say something, to ease the god's sadness.
OOC: Mentions a lot of people, not directly interacting w/ anyone! just a lot of Caron's thoughts |
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Mar 11, 2021 19:54:13 GMT -6
 Art by: coffie-buzz
Phoenix Aodh - Servile Slave Her legs did not ache so much like her wings did, the furious beating they took to keep her aloft during the fight against Sola took their toll. But her legs still felt like lead, as if she were slogging through molasses. Part of her wanted to run, run far away. Far from New Valore. Far from Aodh. Hide herself like the Vagabonds in the mysterious woodlands they skittered through.
There was no hiding from Gods.
Especially not now, now when she sobbed out His name. But still she was afraid. Afraid she had failed him, caused him, a God, so much agony. It crushed her like nothing else ever had. Not when she was sold over the years, not when she left Iscah's side for the last time. Nothing hurt like it did at this very moment. The pain was overwhelming, and she wanted nothing more than to simply cease.
The fluidity of His movement gave her pause, the soundless steps he took to close the space between them forcing her eyes to close, to bow her head. Her ears hugged at her neck, the makeup she applied to them would surely rub off on her hide. None of that mattered. Nothing mattered but her God, a God she didn't realize she cared so much about until this moment. Worshipping a God had been ingrained in her, like much of Aodh. It wasn't uncommon to pray. But this felt real, more real than when she was given her Blessing. He stood there in the flesh, like herself and everyone else, not an electric current who's veins twisted into the form of a horse.
Something about this moment felt so much more...
His touch felt like everything all at once, so many emotions, like a hurricane of feelings. His touch electrified her, a warm amber glow of a hearth and a raging wildfire. A vision of her mother passed before her closed lids- ah, so that was why this gesture, this touch, felt so familiar. If she could have died and joined him then on the astral plane, she never would have looked back. Her soul would have eagerly leapt into the void after His embers.Father.
His words cut a swath through her guilt like a sword through flesh, piercing deeply with intent. It made her knees weak, waver, but she stood strong against the incredible relief. He had already forgiven her, far before she realized she ought to beg for it. She wanted to curl into His side like a foal seeking their parents solace; a feeling she unknowingly shared with the bowing Flamen. He lifted His head, and she finally opened her eyes, no longer crying as she peered up at him. There was a newfound strength, light, in her eyes.
"I am your Iron, your Daughter of Flame." She repeated the words aloud, but softly, small flickers of fire dancing around her hooves. She did not move, standing there in His shadow as she looked up at him with reverence. She felt reborn. A Phoenix.
Orbs of light floated around her, and Phoenix turned her head to see Euonia standing next to her. The Flamen's presence was immediately comforting, an added bonus to the warmth she felt from Ignacio's forgiveness; the slave offered the other pegasus a tearful smile, before looking back to Ignacio as the Flamen spoke.
Phoenix listened intently as the Flamen of Oralee spoke, glad that the Flamen was so eloquent where she was...not so much. Indeed Euonia was the perfect example of a Flamen. Euonia's question was curious, one that Phoenix herself wondered about. Another Flamen [Moira] joined them, Phoenix casting a curious glance at the dark mare, before following her gaze to Ignacio.  |
POST COUNT: 5 ♦ WORD COUNT: 622
MENTIONS: Ignacio, Euonia, Moira
INTERACTIONS: Ignacio
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Post by seechem on Mar 12, 2021 14:39:46 GMT -6
A D E L A I D E
an Eminent of House Julius
'Though I will wait forever more, my love will never die...'
... ...
Finally, something Adelaide and Rosalba could agree on. When the young unicorn saw the fire solidify, she had immediately realised who was arriving. Ignacio. She had her own reservations towards the God, what with the shape her family was in, and most recently with the agony Sereya had faced. But Rosalba stepping in front of Sereya set in stone Adelaide's resolution. She braced a leg in front of Sereya, making sure her intentions were clear. Subconsciously, she hoped Rosalba would notice and understand. She was never trying to prevent Sereya from being with her family, or fulfilling her position, she just loved her. She'd do anything for her.
A wave of emotion seemed to overcome the onlookers, and Adelaide felt a flicker of sorrow in her heart, but it could not compare to her protective anger. How could He have let so much happen to His supposed 'children'? And now he wanted them to grow? It felt like the so called tough love that she had experienced from her own mother. Even Moira and Euonia's rousing sermons and praise of Ignacio's vision felt lukewarm. Angélique was on her knees, so many were! How could they bow so easily to Him?! Had Adonis been there, perhaps he would have admonished her, but alone, Adelaide still had reservations. Adelaide brushed her muzzle against Sereya's mane, hoping to comfort her girlfriend. She wondered painfully how seeing the God made her feel.
All Adelaide could feel was the hum of revolution and desperate need for change. Whatever had happened here had set something else into motion, and she'd be damned if Sereya's night of fear and suffering would be for nothing. Adelaide would not allow Euonia's pain and passion to flicker out, and the brave stand of the young child, Phoenix, to have been for nothing.
"How do we grow?" She murmured, not caring whether Ignacio heard, instead speaking mostly to herself, "After tonight, how do we even begin to continue to...live...?" She bit her lip, looking down to Sereya with a staunch, reassuring look. What could the God possibly mean? With Isador's wyvern dead, what could they possibly do next aside from revolt further? And did Ignacio even approve of this? It had cost Him one of His creations, which seemed to trouble Him. The more she mulled the idea over in her mind, the more she liked the sound of revolution. Ignacio would not be embracing His followers like this if He disapproved, surely. So, that left them to decide their own fates. She gritted her teeth, pressing closer to Sereya. This night was becoming more and more complicated, and exponentially more dangerous than Adelaide could have possibly imagined.
   Word Count: 480 Post #5 Interacting With: Sereya, Ignacio (sort of, she assumes he can probably hear her) Mentions: Rosalba, Anyone who can hear her |
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Post by ThatDenver on Mar 12, 2021 15:25:57 GMT -6
IGNACIO
A very young kirin child walks out from among the crowd. In that moment, Ignacio’s eternal heart is awash with memories; memories of a time he could walk among his people freely, of all the children he had met, all the souls he had elevated. The ailments he had cured, the blessings granted.
A hundred lifetimes ago.
A blink and an eternity to a god.
Yes, child.
Yes it does.
Then, she speaks. Ignacio knows her, as she knows all his Flamines – his appointed, the ones whose voices reach out to him in the Starscape, tireless in service to his people. He knows her voice better than she probably realizes, and as she stands there, speaking to the crowd as much as him, he can see her soul – the crackling heat of it, the conviction, the revolutionary flame.
The broken chain.
And he is proud.
You speak beautifully, my daughter.
I am ever proud of you, my children.
For what you have achieved – and what you will achieve.
But at her question, he pauses once more. Thoughtful, eyes up towards the storm. His blue eyes glance at another one of his, with a black coat that casts a stark contrast to Euonia’s gold.
She too speaks to him often.
But never for herself.
Ignacio looks at her, through her, and feels her pain as if it were his own.
Then, he focuses back on this world, this moment, this body, this storm.
Some of them, yes.
But it seems forces besides myself have taken an interest in you.
And I aim to find out why.
Ignacio looks into the storm, pondering. Feeling.
Thinking.
Quiet words draw his eyes back to the crowd, and more specifically, two kirins, one shielding the other, and a young unicorn besides them – the one who has spoken.
Questioning child.
Good.
The waters of the future are my sisters domain; I can promise you no future except the one you make for yourselves.
That is the price of freedom.
The absence of destiny.
But I know you.
I know you as I know the fire that burns within your souls.
The coming dawn across the horizon.
Is it not brilliant?
For a moment, a gentle vision is shared by the crowd. You see a brilliant sunrise above this very city, and the dawn of a new, beautiful summers day.
You see a great crowd gathered in the Sol District, at the doors of the Ignis Sanctum.
You hear the cheerful bells.
One possible morning.
Remember that your destinies are yours alone, never mine.
Do right by your own hearts.
It is the only thing there is to do.
You already know the way.
Ignacio looks to the skies, and the clouds retreat to give a view of the open skies. His eyes are filled with starfire and joy and pain. Orbs of light dance around him, within him, like the brittle skin of his worldly body giving way to eternity.
His immense, gentle pride washes over the crowd, just as the vision did. His love, his devotion, his utter belief in these mortals who chose him, all those years ago.
And then he is but a whirlwind of heatless flame, drawn up to the skies – until the god is no more, and only the golden blood remains.
The clouds draw closed once more.
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Post by Luneby on Mar 13, 2021 5:40:10 GMT -6
 E U O N I A"Renunciation, total and sweet."
His love elevated her, gently lifting the fear and shame off her.
In His words, she always felt reborn.
It was clear now, He had always listened.
There were no chains left, no cold eyes watching. She had nothing left to lose.
She was free, truly free now, for the very first time.
There was no destiny for them but the one they were about to build – they had all the power they needed.
They were not weak, none of them, including herself.
”Thank you, Father.” She murmured before the god left, drying her tears as she watched him vanish in the dance of flames. Her eyes followed him to the sky and the strange storm still twirled above them. It seemed the Sun did not know what the cause of this may be, but she couldn’t help but be reminded of events that had been retold inside the Goldhead weeks ago.
But she could not worry about that now. She knew, with striking clarity, what she had to do. She glanced towards Moira with a knowing smile – thankful for her presence.
Slowly, she walked past the crowd, orbs of light gently glittering around her. The words of Adelaide, and how Ignacio answered them, resonated in her mind as she watched the group – raw determination in her eyes.
“Children of Ignacio. You have heard our Father voice his trust in us, his wishes for a better future. For change. Tonight, we take power in our hands, and we choose our own destiny.”
She flared her wings up as she glanced to the crowd, golden blood still covering her face.
“You deserve the truth, and it shall be hidden from you no longer. You may have heard rumors those past few months. Most of them are true.”
A frown darkened her usually bright eyes.
“Isador is a usurper. He orchestrated the slaughter of the New Year’s Ball. He poisoned King Solaris. He led Amadeus to her downfall and commanded her assassination, before claiming the Crown to himself.”
“To some, all those crimes against the Soleil dynasty would matter less had he been a worthy King. But Isador claimed the throne for nothing but his own gain. He was paying off Chevaliers long before he became King for them to do his bidding. People who know too much or have spoken against him have been made to disappear. So much has been hidden from us. He has concealed from the citizens of Valore the dramatic situation refugees outside our walls currently face. Isador never wanted to work with Serora to solve the refugee crisis.”
The shadow of a smirk grew on the Flamen’s face.
“In fact, Advisor Aleksei forged the treaty proposal that was sent to Serora, and he is currently raiding Hearthstone Palace, to seize the Crown from Isador. I was with him earlier when we killed Sola. The second wyvern that appeared tonight, Lucius, is his.”
“For months, some of us have worked with Aleksei in absolute secrecy, so we may one day dethrone him. So we may work towards redeeming Aodh’s sins.”
She watched the labor slaves present in the crowd as she spoke those words.
“So we may face head on the dangers that await us and build our herd back to its former glory. So Aodh may once again live up to Ignacio’s name.”
She paused, wings folding back at her sides.
“Tonight, we march towards Sol District. Whatever happens in Hearthstone tonight – we cannot let Isador sit on the throne in the morning. I beg of you to join me – join us. You have heard Ignacio – you have seen the future he showed us. He loves us, and reminded us of the power each one of us holds – no King, no wyvern can silence us anymore.”
She gave a pointed look to Phoenix, Rosalba, and Moira.
“But for now, you must have numerous questions– I invite you to ask them. May those who have taken part in this plot in any way join me and speak up if they so wish, the ground is yours.”
The surrounding orbs of light dimmed as she fell silent, solemnly watching as she waited. There was much else to talk about – but time was at stake. Questions would be answered – now or later, she would make sure of it.
***
WC: 719| Post # 5
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Mar 13, 2021 20:10:30 GMT -6
Art by: coffie-buzz
Phoenix Aodh - Servile Slave Ignacio replied to a child [Cin'ciri], a kirin whom Phoenix just noticed as she turned to look. She wondered why Ignacio couldn't stay. Why all the Gods didn't just walk among them like that had eons ago. A thought for another time. His time was short, as He stated, and she would not squander it with internal monologue. Perhaps someday, someday He could walk among them all once more. A glimmer of a dear wish.
Amber eyes shift to Euonia as Ignacio replies to her Holiness, a smile still gracing Phoenix's features. The pegasus is much calmer, clean streaks the last lingering evidence of her tears down her soot smudged visage, now long dried. She looks to Ignacio, following His gaze to the storm-covered heavens. Phoenix is unsure how to feel about her Gods reply. A God not knowing what causes strange happenings...is troubling. But she trusts Him completely, more devout in this very moment than the entirety of her life combined. Troubling it may be, she believes the Smoldering Sun will solve whatever concerns Him and lets the worry pass; such is faith.
Someone spoke softly [Adelaide], but Phoenix was too distracted by Ignacio to catch the words within the whispers, only the soft murmuring of a voice. Ignacio hears the words she failed to catch. She listens with the same astute attentiveness she had given Him upon his arrival, and his words give her pause. The price of freedom.
Freedom.
The word was curious when she was but a foal, a word long since been practically erased from her vocabulary. She had never sought freedom. Her birth, her life, was predetermined; or so she had thought. But tonight was a night that crashed through reality like...well, a wyvern through stained glass. The brand on her inner leg tingled with phantom pain, and she shifted her weight uncomfortably; another thought for another time.
And before she knows it, He is leaving them.
His glorious face tilts to the heavens, and she takes a half of a step towards Him, but stops immediately. Her ears fall, clearly saddened by this sudden, overwhelming appearance, and just as sudden heart wrenching departure. The clouds part, the velvety sky once again revealed. She watches Him as he seems to shift into stars, like embers drifting above a fire. Fire swallows Him up, burning towards the sky until He is gone, and the clouds close the gap once more.
Pain swells in her chest, but she only feels closer to Him.
She draws herself back to Euonia, who had by now turned to the crowd and began to walk past them. Phoenix stands there, alone, her head turning away from the golden Flamen as she instead peered to the puddles of Sola's blood. Now Phoenix only feels pity, respect. Before, she had felt immense hatred for the beast. How misplaced. Isador will pay for this, the pegasus thinks, tilting her head down in a small bow to where Sola had once lain. She turns, watching Euonia lift her wings and flare them out as she addresses Ignacio's people.
While Euonia talks, Phoenix slowly makes her way over to the Flamen. She keeps herself small, discreet, as to not draw the attention away from the Flamen's speech. The truth out, at last. Phoenix's lip curled, thinking about how the others were following Aleksei at this very moment. She prayed fervently to Ignacio that they would succeed. Just as Euonia spoke about the forging of the treaty to Serora, Phoenix fell into step next to the Flamen. She held her head high, feeling both shame and pride for what they had done, what they had to do. But she wouldn't let Euonia have to deal with the crowd by herself; Phoenix would do right by the Flamen of Ignacio.
Euonia suggested a march. March upon the palace, regardless of the groups success within. Isador would pay one way or another, if not by the brave group infiltrating, then by Aodh as a whole; better if it were both. Phoenix gave Euonia room as she folded her wings again, before taking her place at the Flamen's side once more. She looked to the other pegasus and caught her eye, nodding as she looked to the crowd.
"I will answer any questions you have. I, too, was with the Flamen tonight as we battled Sola." She nods her head, then falls silent to allow Euonia to continue taking the lead. |
POST COUNT: 6 ♦ WORD COUNT: 742
MENTIONS: Cin'ciri, Euonia, Adelaide
INTERACTIONS: Euonia, speaking to all
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Post by Coffie-Buzz on Mar 15, 2021 13:59:43 GMT -6
DELTA
Aodh | Labor Slave
Delta rested the side of her head against Skoll’s neck as his wing pressed her closer to him. She spared him an airy laugh at his last comment, “ Well, at least we can be disappointments together.” As Ignacio spoke, she listened for the most part but didn’t face him. She didn’t deserve to see him, let alone hear him. She was unworthy to so much as stand in the same air. Not after what she had done. His words of love and pain he shared with the others made her chest hurt. It wasn’t long before images of a lustrous dawn flashed through her mind. The image reminded her of what it felt like to be hopeful. A new King would bring change and Delta prayed it was a change made for the better of everyone who lived in Eithin and not just the ones with property. Before she could muster the courage to even glance at the fiery visage of the God, he was gone. One of the Flamines, a pegasus she recognised from the first meeting at the Goldhead, began to speak. Delta raised her head from Skoll’s neck, eyes trained on the mare and ear pricked forward. She certainly had a way with words. She spoke of making their own destiny and Delta nearly scoffed. As a Slave, she had no future, no destiny to make her own. She was property, meant to do as she was told and keep her mouth shut. She’d follow orders, but Gods be damned if she let them silence her. She wouldn’t bend as easily as the others had. Delta almost laughed when she heard Euonia explain what Isador had done. All the crimes he had committed and she had been right about every single one. She turned her head to Skoll to whisper, “I t’s not like I didn’t explain all of that to them months ago. I might not have said it as tenderly as their fragile emotions would have liked, but I wasn’t wrong.” The silver mare caught Euonia’s eyes at the statement of hoping to atone for Aodh’s sins. Delta cocked a brow, ‘ That will take you much longer than you would like.’ She was about to stop listening before Euonia’s next words reached her ears. Her head snapped to face the Flamen, eyes wide. Her stomach turned in knots and she felt the spike in her heart rate. This… this could devolve into a war within the walls if things took a wrong turn. All those people in the Sol District would be blind sided. Basic self-defense meant nothing against a trained soldier. Delta took a step and her prosthetic hoof knocked against something that sounded like crystal. Looking down, she saw an arrowhead made of white garnet, yet the bladed edges were crafted of Opelite. The last time she had seen it was before she had been Culled. - Pick it up, Valkyrie.- The gentile, feminine voice echoed in her mind. It sounded tired. Delta wrinkled her nose, ‘ Why aren’t you in Onea? I told you to stay there.’ - Pick up the stone.- ‘ Why? I’m not worthy of you.’ A tickle of amusement nudged the back of her consciousness, - If you were unworthy of me, I wouldn’t be here.- Gritting her teeth, Delta hesitated. Reaching out with her teke, she took the arrowhead from the road, ‘ Why?’ she asked. The voice didn’t respond. In her own internal conflict, Delta had missed what the younger Slave, Phoenix, had said about questions. Delta took a breath, stepping out from under Skoll’s wing. She looked to Euonia, bowing her head to the Flamine. The silver mare would need to pick her words carefully. Formalities outside of a fight had never been her strong point, “ Your Grace,” she greeted, “ I have no questions that can’t be answered later. Rather, I would lend you my service. I know a Call to Arms when I hear one. I was bred to fight and, should it come to that, I would rather die fighting if it means a worthy King sits on the throne. My life is condemned and not nearly as valuable as the ones I am surrounded by this evening,” She raised her head, looking at Moira, “ It’s my understanding, your Holiness, that I have kept your trust thus far?” Delta was without a bridle. Her Blessings were at her disposal and rather than attack those around her and try to flee, she had informed them of the loss of the gear. She had done as Moira had instructed and had kept those under her Shield safe from harm. She had kept her word and hadn’t tried to escape, despite the multitude of chances she had been given. The mare faced Euonia again, “ I have a life sentence to serve and my word to keep to the Flamen of Azar. It would be foolish to assume that Isador no longer has Chevaliers in his pockets. Some will certainly try and stop you. Give me your orders, your Grace, and none shall touch you or your company.” Her tone was respectful and calm and sounded more like a formal offer. Come morning, she would return to the Slave barracks without protest. She had her own punishment to accept. She’d cripple those who attacked, but she would refuse to kill. She wouldn’t add more deaths to her list.
WC: 917 Post: 4
Delta is interacting with Skoll, Euonia and Moira. She has picked up her Golem Stone again but ANIMA ISN'T HERE. She is only within Eithin's borders. |
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Post by Moose-On-Ice on Mar 15, 2021 14:23:25 GMT -6
║⟪⟡ S K Ö L L ⟡⟫║
"Can I tell you that in my eyes not even God would be good enough to command you?" 
Skoll kept his gaze on Ignacio, watching his deity speak, interact. Why was he so willing and kind to these non-kirins? They were not truly his children, he should not need to be as gentle with them as he was... Even calling them his children, being proud of them, like he had once been of his kirins...
The vision of the sunrise, the dawn and bells gave him pause, a flicker of hope rising before being buried beneath bitterness. A vision for the free, he guessed. A great crowd, indeed, but not for him, not for Delta, not for any wearing a bit... He pinned his ears, tucking his head at Ignacio's words.
And then he was gone, leaving a cracked bit and bitter taste in Skoll's mouth, with the remaining equines stepping forward to prattle on about some injustice with the supposed king. False king. At least he agreed with them on that point, even if it was for different reasons... Seizing the crown... If only that were his own King doing so...
His ears twitched, listening to Euonia speak. Redeem Aodh's sins? Hmh. What could she mean by that... Marching to the Sol District? He had no care or want to follow them, to aid them. It was not his fight, after all. Both as a slave, and as a herald- Former... Herald...
But when Delta stepped forward, he lifted his head, quickly looking at her when she spoke. Lend her service- Delta. His lip curled slightly but he held his tongue. This was not their fight. Never was, never would be. What did he care if the equines around him were to be hurt? There were only a few exceptions that... He'd rather not see come to harm. But the majority? He cared not for...
But Delta was the biggest exception, and he quietly stepped forward next to her, huffing slightly, eying the equines she spoke to. "If Delta offers her services, I will also offer mine. I was raised to be a soldier, and seen more then my fair share of battle. Chevaliers would be nothing more then a minor inconvenience if it came to it. I fought... Alongside Delta, some time ago. She can confirm what I say." He offered, dipping his head ever so slightly, as much as the motion made his skin crawl.
He had his blessings, but he would not use them in a fight. He needed to preserve the broken bit for as long as possible. He had his kunai, but again, he would not use them in a fight. Still, he had more then enough experience to defend himself... And... Others... If needed...
443 Words; Post 7
Interacting with: Delta, Euonia, Moira
Mentions: Ignacio
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Post by kerarose on Mar 15, 2021 17:12:15 GMT -6
INDRINA From ashes to glory
[picture upcoming] Post 5 | WC: 399
IW: Euonia, Phoenix, Crowd
Mentions: Ignacio Ignacio did not answer her comment, her request for an explanation- and she could not help but feel snubbed. She loved that god, praised him and begged for his boon- and yet she was worth nothing more than a glance.
She hated to admit it, but it hurt. He went to one of their slaves, not to her, and her soul yearned for his attention- for that burning gaze to turn on her and shine with favor.
Still, she had a reputation to uphold. A family's name to keep pure. She could not let this slight rejection of a god stop her tonight. Shoving that hurt aside, she walked to stand beside Euonia. She listened to what the mare said, dipping her head in response.
"Indeed," she said, giving a slight smirk, "it is high time to remove Isador's bloody crown from his head. Too much has happened to allow him to remain where he is." She nodded, her long tail swishing over the ground behind her. "Our Smoldering Sun is right- a new day is dawning. It's almost at hoof- a new age, to improve Aodh for all."
Turning to Phoenix, she spoke, her voice perhaps a tad cooler. It still hurt that the pegasus received Ignacio's praise, and she did not, but the slight change in tone could only be noticed by those who knew her well. "I admire your bravery, Phoenix," she said, giving the mare a nod. That, at least, was true. "Do you know what defenses Isador could have, or who might yet stand by his side? If you were here during the fight, then perhaps you know more."
She rose to her full height, letting her voice ring out to the crowd. "Either way, we should confront the False King- let him know that Aodh knows of his treachery, and that we will not stand for it." She nodded, stomping a hoof, the clang of crystal against stone ringing through the night. "I can't bear to let him sit on the throne a moment longer. Let us plan, and then go to Hearthstone Palace, as fast as we can. The False King must fall tonight."
Indrina couldn't help but smile. Let House Vela be turned to ash- and let another House rise in its place. Isador had done enough.
History had its eyes on this crowd tonight- let it be for the better.
E L I I N A
POST 5 | WC: 561
IW: Phoenix, Skoll, Crowd | Mentions: Ignacio, Delta, Euonia, Indrina
Eliina watched as Phoenix stepped forward, her eyes on Ignacio as she received his love. Her heart lurched- she deserved this, she did. She hadn't known a soul so kind and selfless before, one willing to fight for everything right and good in the world.
She turned back to Delta and the pegasus beside her, who she seemed to favor. "Forgive me," she said, "for my curiosity. Lightpiercer, you say?" she asked the pegasus. Perhaps he was also Onean- she knew not of all of their warriors, and it was possible he came from there. That would explain why Delta would be soft towards him. What had he done to end up here, in chains?
When Ignacio left for wherever he lived, away from them, she watched as Flamen Euonia rose to speak to the group. Phoenix, too, stepped up, offering her support, and Eliina found her hooves taking her forward.
One of Ignacio's virtues was redemption. Perhaps she could find hers tonight.
Her voice was softer than the others, perhaps a touch unsure, as she stepped beside Phoenix, her shoulder touching hers. "All is as they say," she said, flicking her ears back. "I was at the Goldhead during the initial meeting, where visions revealed the past to us. Isador poisoned King Solaris' drink, then killed her Furia with an axe that was gifted to her by former War Lord Hira. He poisoned one of the best Kings Aodh has had, ordered the attack on the New Years' Ball and the assassination of King Amadeus, may she rest in peace, and forced his way to the top of our society."
Her head lowered a tad as she faced the crowd again. "I have made mistakes tonight- I will not say more on it. There are plenty here who can speak of my transgressions in an attempt to keep a loved one safe." Her shoulder pressed harder against Phoenix's side, drawing strength from the pegasus' nearness. "Ignacio speaks of redemption being one of his dearest virtues. Let me try to embody that tonight."
Her eyes seek out those who were at Azar, letting her eyes show how sorry she was for her mistakes. Then, raising her head, she let steely determination show on her features, before turning to Phoenix. "If you are Ignacio's steel, then let me be his iron. Let me support you tonight, Phoenix, for you have supported me for as long as I've known you. Let me repay the favor."
Turning once more to the crowd, she practically snarled. "Isador has harmed too many. We have lost too much to this tyrant, sitting on a stolen, bloody throne. Flamen Euonia is right, as is my cousin- he cannot stay there a moment longer. Let us go remove him, and then redeem Aodh itself."
She could only hope that this would succeed- that Isador would fall. He was a vile stallion, unworthy of the title he bore. He was a King for himself, first and foremost- no one else was worthy of his time or effort. From what she had heard of the refugee camps, not even Aodhian citizens, vulnerable to kirin attack, were safe from his wrath.
Fire practically blazed in her eyes as she faced the ground, her tail thumping the ground once. Isador would fall, and then there would be hell to pay for House Vela.
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Post by misttheelf on Mar 15, 2021 17:45:43 GMT -6
Caron "Now the Fire and Wind guide me to Freedom."
Post 5 | WC 305 Caron listened, as Phoenix and Adelaide spoke to Ignacio, and the god respond, to Adelaide's question of how they were to grow, telling them that was the cost of freedom, an absence of destiny. But then said, that their future was to be brilliant. And then a vision of a summers morning.
Ignacio said it was a possible morning. And to do right by their hearts.
And that they knew the way.
...Caron watched the god depart, taking in the pride, and love the god held for all of them gathered, and took in a breath.
Euonia spoke. Beautifully, as if holding a sermon, of facts Caron knew already - though they knew that others did not. And offered to answer questions. Phoenix too, standing beside the Flamen, and then Delta pledging to protect them that night, Skill following her lead.
Indrina and Eliina followed, with Indrina continuing the call to arms that Euonia had started, Eliina speaking of the first meeting in the Goldhead.
Chiya let out a chirp, as Caron breathed out, gathering their courage to speak.
"I will stand with you all. Isador will fall tonight - For that is our way forward. Let us bring about that joyous morning that Ignacio showed us, and work towards the freedom of All. We are Ignacio's children of flame, after all. Regardless of the ranks we hold, let's march, to the Sol District, to bring at last an end to tragedy." They spoke, before bowing their head, taking a half step closer to Moira - a bit into her shadow. Speaking out like that… They did not quite know what had possessed them to do so, but… they did mean what they said. Under their breath after they stepped to where they felt a bit more comfortable, they mumbled "...I hope that was said well, at least.."
OOC: Caron addressed the crowd as a whole, but only those close could hear their last comment |
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Post by kajeayn on Mar 16, 2021 0:03:30 GMT -6
= M O I R A =
The fire finds a home in me.
WC: 807 | Post 4His departure grieved her, felt as if a part of her was burning away, too, but He left something behind- as He always did. She felt His love still, glowing like embers in her chest, and she breathed in deeply, fanning the flames. Her teke glowed as she wiped her face, shaking her head slightly as she looked back towards where Ignacio had been, silently marking the spot in her mind before she looked away, turning back towards the other gathered equines as Euonia addressed the crowd.
Her eyes sought out Callerya’s, and she smiled sadly at her. Part of her wished she could remain, could return into the crowd to the attendant’s side, but she knew where she was needed.
Moira’s gaze lingered on her, silently begging her to not follow, but she had come this far- what Callerya did now was up to her.
Her eyes caught on Euonia’s, gleaming with pride as the other Flamen spoke, her wings spread wide in a call to arms. Marching on the Palace had hardly been in her schedule for the night, but she moved without hesitation, limping slowly away from the crowd.
One of the chevaliers near the remains of the Goldhead approached her as she walked, bowing his head low when he drew close to her.
“Your Holiness,” His tone was hushed, soot and smoke clinging to his sweaty coat. “It’s not much, but please, take this.” His teke glowed, removing the weapon strapped at his side and holding it out to her- it took her a long, startled moment of gazing at the staff before realizing what he was offering.
“You are very kind,” She murmured, taking the staff with a dip of her head, smiling gently at the young stallion. “You have my gratitude, chevalier.”
His ears twitching nervously, the stallion bowed and backed away, eyes darting uncertainly towards the crowd- and towards where Ignacio had stood only minutes ago.
Perhaps it was faith, or perhaps he had only been moved by fear, but Moira was appreciative, regardless of his intentions- her gold and sky blue teke shimmered as she braced the staff against the cobblestone with a resounding clack. It bore her weight well as she shuffled less painfully towards Euonia, punctuating each stride with a sharp strike of wood against stone.
“I am no warrior,” She spoke, her voice carrying for the crowd to hear. “I am merely a voice. But I will, as always, offer it in protection of my people, and my home.” Her eyes glowed, bright as twin suns as she stood beside Euonia, slamming the end of the borrowed staff to the ground.
“And for them, I will be a warrior tonight. I will wield the truth as my sword, and as my shield.” Her head lifted, gazing out over the crowd. “Euonia speaks true. Isador is a false king, wearing a crown soaked in the blood of the Soleils. We cannot allow this to continue.”
She watched, her gaze solemn as Delta spoke out to her, inclining her head very slightly towards the slave.
“Thus far,” She agreed quietly. “But I will continue to hold you to your word.” She still did not trust the labor slave, not really, but she had done as she had promised and that was enough- though suspicion still flickered in her chest, carefully kept from her gaze as she looked over towards the pegasus who spoke.
She didn’t know him, or his strange accent, but a slave would hardly need much reason to stand against Isador- she welcomed his help gladly.
She did not know Phoenix as well, but Ignacio had spoken for her, and she trusted her implicitly. She gave the dragon winged pegasus a tiny, secret smile, glancing to the side at a familiar voice. Though she was reluctant to see Eliina come along, her face hardening slightly at the sight of the unicorn, she did not turn her away. She could only hope the mare would listen to others- perhaps Phoenix would have that effect on her.
In any case, if Eliina sought redemption, Moira would not stand in her way.
She turned towards Caron as they spoke up,and her eyes crinkled slightly in a smile as the kirin approached, shuffling to be out of the light. Subtly, she shifted her weight, inching back enough to stand more at the black kirin’s side.
“Very well spoken,” She murmured, her tone warm. “I am happy to have you here, Caron.” She said, giving them a small, approving smile as she glanced over towards Euonia.
Her eyes crinkled further, pride shining through her smile as she inclined her head slightly towards the pegasus. There would be much to speak of, later, but for now she hoped she said as much as she could with a single proud look.
INTERACTING: Euonia, Delta, Caron, Phoenix, Callerya. Addresses the whole crowd. Mentions Skoll, Eliina, and Phoenix.
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Post by kajeayn on Mar 16, 2021 0:07:00 GMT -6
R O S A L B A
post 4 | wc 588
As beautifully as he entered, the fire god left, and Rosalba could only watch. At the very least the wyvern was dealt with- she had been mentally working out some plans for how to deal with the body of a massive wyvern, and someone was still going to have to clean up all the golden blood eventually. She filed the matter away for now, a problem to worry about in the future- if they all made it through this night.
At her back, Adelaide subtly moved to defend Sereya as well, and the action was not lost on her- nor any of its endless interpretations. She knew the lesser noble longed for her approval- to allow her and Sereya to step out of the shadows, to bring their poorly concealed feelings to light- and perhaps, another night, she may have reacted differently. She still did not approve, especially with Sereya’s first marriage still on the table, but there had been… recent events to raise the status of House Julius in her eyes.
They were certainly not on par with Cardea, no, but she could bear to allow her child to be seen with one, nowadays.
Baby steps, she supposed.
She turned her head slightly, looking down at the two girls. Her face was impassive, but there was something almost urgent in her eyes as she lowered her head, murmuring so only they could hear.
“Sereya, go home. Take Adelaide with you.” Her eyes flickered towards the unicorn- who had never once been invited to Rosebriar. “Hide there.” She was silent a moment longer, ears tilting back uncertainly as her gaze lingered on Sereya’s.
“Please.” She whispered, barely audible. Her face cleared abruptly, empty once again as she turned away, stepping out of the crowd and towards the gathering others.
“As others have said, this is the truth. Isador’s throne is built on lies and the bodies of those who trusted him.” She spoke. “But the Sun has set on his last day as our false King. By the dawn, a new king will be crowned, and the Sun will shine upon us once again.”
She wished, briefly, for the whip that had mysteriously vanished between Azar and the Goldhead- it had made her feel a little safer, a little stronger, and she clung to that phantom feeling as she stood beside the others, gazing back out at the crowd.
She recognized the labor slave at once, and barely kept from flattening her ears at the sight of her- she remembered her face well, and gave the hippocampus a brief, stern look she hoped spoke enough.
At least she’d get the fight she’d clearly been spoiling for at the Goldhead that night. Maybe she’d manage to make herself useful. Time would tell, she supposed.
She wanted no part of this fight herself, not really- she was not built for fighting, but neither was half this crowd.
And what she lacked in ability, she made up for in willingness- she would tear the Palace down with her bare hooves to get to Isador. Perhaps it was selfish, to risk her life this way, but to flee home would only delay the inevitable- if Aleksei and the others failed tonight, her life was forfeit regardless.
She would rather go down knowing she had tried, then cowering at home.
Her eyes swept the crowd, lingering again on Sereya.
But she had to live. Whether House Cardea or even Valore itself still stood in the morning, Sereya must live- without her or not.
INTERACTING: Sereya, Adelaide. Addresses the crowd. Mentions Delta.
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Post by ThatDenver on Mar 17, 2021 8:08:52 GMT -6
CHEVALIERS
With the fire put out – or perhaps more accurately, taken away – by Ignacio, the Chevaliers who had gathered to douse the flames and guard the fallen body of the wyvern seem at a loss, especially as the crowd begins to rustle closer, listening to Flamen Euonia’s words. There’s a tension in the air, people listening but few speaking, looks exchanged between the crowd of listening citizens and the Chevaliers who stand around the husk of a building, feeling a bit useless.
Eventually, one of the Chevaliers, dressed in slightly singed Captain’s garb, steps forwards and gives Euonia a deep nod.
”Your Holiness. King Isador may have his favored Chevaliers, that much is true – but not all of us love him. We are servants of the Crown, not of the usurper”, she says, her voice very loud even above the noise of the crowd. The Chevaliers behind her hum their approval, nodding and some tapping their hooves of cobblestone.
”He is no friend of ours. Countless Chevaliers have died in the war against kirins. So many of us have lost family, friends, to this war – and we have seen precious little in the form of recognition or help for our families”, her voice is getting louder now, angrier. The Chevaliers rank up behind her, while a few dressed in light garb leave at a gallop.
”My sister in on those ships to Serora. Not important enough for the Usurper to save”, she says bitterly, and then she looks to the crowd; a crowd she is painfully aware is used to seeing Chevaliers as their enemies in these last few months, quelling riots and fulfilling the King’s orders – for what else could they do, really, if the people supported the King?
”We are citizens, just the same as you. This is our country as well, and we have seen its suffering, unable to act due to our ranks, and those in our midst who would sell us out. But we are with you”, she pauses, before adding: ”No. We are you. We will march, as well. Lead the way, your Holiness.”
As she finished her speech, the few young scouts return, bringing along new, fully patrols of Chevaliers. Their eager young voices pipe up, letting you know that the word is being spread – more people are coming.
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Post by Kelpie-River on Mar 17, 2021 11:53:20 GMT -6
Elsidra || Eminent || Post Two
As he had appeared, the God was gone. Fear began to drain from Elsidra's body, as the horses around him spoke, milled about. As Eunia spoke, followed by Moria and Rosalba, the herd of gathered equines felt their hearts stir, at least it appeared that way to Elsidra. Sidra wasn't sure what to do with himself, but the words spoken made him feel as though he had to to do something. Anything! They had to tear down the false leader....though, he had to admit part of him wondered about his living arrangements. The thoughts were quickly pushed aside. The herd's Patron God had visited them to try and correct this...living without his creature comforts would be a sacrifice worth making. His own heart was pounding in his chest at the thought of removing the blood-soaked crown from Isador's unworthy head. His blood boiled. There were things that he could not stand for, and the senseless murder of the Soleils was one of them.
And then the Chevaliers spoke, pledging their allegiance to those who would see the throne set right. And for the first time that night, Sidra found the words to speak.
"I have my doubts, my fears like I'm sure many of you have," he said, golden-green eyes sweeping over the crowd. "But I couldn't be more proud to say that I want to tear the crown from his head, and that head from his body if need be," he added, his lips curling into a sneer. "Too much blood has stained his hooves....we must do what it takes to bring peace to our herd, and I will follow wherever I am told to go. I am no Chevalier, but I can use a knife, a stick, anything. I am strong from working in the forges for my own entertainment. I can work a bellows and I can forge with my body. What I can offer, I will, even if it be my life."
WC: 329
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Post by InTheDappledRain on Mar 18, 2021 9:04:34 GMT -6
 All of these chants about fighting Isador made Alaine feel mildly uneasy. After all, weren't the chevaliers meant to enforce the law? And what did that mean if they overthrew the King? She wasn't exactly smart enough to understand the complex workings of the government of Aodh (or, more accurately, the courts systems and how law worked in general), but something seemed off with this proposal.
However, there was something else stirring within her. She was still too enraptured by Ignacio's vision of what could be, and while she felt star-struck by his appearance, she also felt sad at his disappearance in a way she couldn't really describe.
That feeling dissipated after a few moments though. As soon as the Chevaliers spoke up, the unvoiced doubts the filly had dissolved without a second thought. Her hooves stamped along with the others, she felt the pleas of her fellow chevaliers in her own heart, and she knew she would follow her captain without a doubt in her mind. If that meant going straight to the palace and forcing Isador out of his position, then by all means she would do it! For Aodh!
She was still a little scared, though.
Post 4 | 199
TLDR: Guess it's time to fight the king
 So much happened. Ignacio's words, the images he promised, his quiet reminder that he could not see the future, and the call to action from the Flamen, left Asalah dizzy with the information.
Quietly, she took stock in everybody around her, eyes worriedly glancing over those that had been with her at the sanctum. Delta was still hurt, and she wasn't about to really readily bring her son along the way for an insurrection.
Her thoughts briefly went back to Ragnarok and his sudden promotion followed by his death. She closed her eyes, shaking her head just a little bit before turning towards Delta, who was all fired up and ready to go. Without another word, she took a few steps forward and gently reached out with her healing to take care of the mare, her wounds from the sanctum disappearing as she turned her gaze towards Cass for just the briefest of moments.
What was she to do? It wasn't like she could go back to the casino in time to drop off her son, and she didn't want to leave these horses without a healer.
Post 6 | 187 Words Heals Delta's wounds, is worried about her son and may or may not be overwhelmed currently.
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Post by inke-ri on Mar 19, 2021 12:30:15 GMT -6
Airita
Were the gods at work here? Airita pondered as she stared at the bright blue moon, before averting her eyes. It shone line the sun, and white disorientating, at least it made the path towards the sound of the fighting wyverns clearer. She had come to the party at Azar with Asalah, but not long after arriving, Airita felt far too overwhelmed by the number of people around. It had never been a problem before- perhaps it was the unbridled slaves walking around freely as they should- but she found that she couldnt stay there. After a quick word with her sister, Airita found herself wandering the streets of the Artisan District, stopping at a small diner that was a favorite of hers. She considered going back home when the thunder began, nursing her single glass of wine, but then the roaring started. Barely remembering to pay the bill, Airita rushed back to the Sanctum, terrified for Asalah and the others. There were Chaveliers on the streets, and above them Sola- a pale shape in the dark sky- circled the Sactum. To Airita's horror, the wyvern crashed her head inside the sanctum, burning things - or horses - inside. With the Chevaliers blocking her path, Airita had no choice but to watch as a second wyvern arrived and later Sola leaving the building. For a while she searched around, attempting to locate Asalah, but with no luck, she was eventually drawn to where the Sola had flown off to, like many others. The crowds began to disperse, mutters of Sola whispered around the mare as she walked, when the moon began to shine like the sun. Under its light, Airita suddenly recognized where she was. Had Sola headed off to... The Goldhead? Airita had been here, off on her accouting job for Aleksei, more than once. Fear gripped her belly, she knew Aleksei had ideas that were contrary to the Crown's, he had told her as much when she attempted to present her hints of Ragnarok's involvement in Amadeus' death and they eventually talked about slavery, but surely this couldnt have been enough to warrant siccing Sola on him, right? Besides, it was unlikely he was even out there, this late in the night, or so she told herself. To her surprise, it wasnt Aleksei she had found by the debris of the pub, but Ignacio himself. She watched as he apologized to what was left of Sola - the great wyvern had been slain?! - and then Spoke to them. In the back of the crowd, Airita simply drank in his presence- it was soothing, like gently feeding a flame. Knowing Ignacio was there, watching over them, made this night feel less chaotic, and the anxiety that had bugged her all night seemed to vanish. Even the presence of Cin, which should send all sorts of alarm bells ringing, didn't spook her. She bowed her head, but kept her eyes firmly on his glittering, dark-golden shape. The absence of destiny is the price of freedom. The words cut through her heart like knives. She had heard something similar before, when he had blessed her, when he told her that her path was hers to forge, but it was still a shock to hear it in such simple terms. The thought of freedom, it still terrified her, knowing her actions had consequences, knowing that the actions of others might make or ruin her life. His glowing gaze softened as he mentioned the dawn- and then it flashed before her eyes as well, the beautiful sunrise. It was wondrous to see, the happiness and peace of the vision after months of fear and uncertainty. Was that truly what lay beyond the horizon? Perhaps for every bad choice one could make, another would rise to make it better. Maybe she had to trust that that dawn would come, and do her best to ensure it did. And then Ignacio was gone, back to the glittering expanse of the Starscape. Airita blinked, as if shaken from a daydream, and slowly began to push towards the center of the crowd. From there, she was able to hear the words of the Flamen, Euonia, and her heart filled with joy. Aleksei would dethrone Isador? Tonight? The same Aleksei who actually cared for the herd, even the ones barely above objects in the eyes of most of the people? They had killed Sola and would take down the Usurper. Tonight. A big, foolish grin appeared on Airita's face. Oh, her boss was insane, but how she hoped he would succeed. As shouts and comments of agreement came from all around her, Airita finally found a break in the group to stand before Asalah. Touching her sister gently on the shoulder, her smile turned sarcastic. " Party was too dull for you too, I see. Guess we're going with them?" Her eyes flickered towards Cin'ciri. " Please tell me your other half is with you." She really didn't want to go chasing after the twins now- this wasnt a place for children.
839 words || post 1/3 |
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Post by Luneby on Mar 19, 2021 13:19:45 GMT -6
 S E R E Y AOf monsters and flowers
It felt strange, having her mother walk by her side, watching over her quietly, not saying a word out of line to Adelaide. She was not used to such acceptance, such compassion, neither was she used to her mother silently trying to reach out. Time and time again, Sereya had dodged her contact – uneasy with the change, uneasy with the temporary nature of it. Her mother’s attention was what she desired most – why couldn’t she welcome it now? Reaching out to Adelaide was easy. In her moments of shame and fear, she knew the unicorn would always accept her, love her the same way she did. Rosalba, on the other hand, always felt out of reach, sealed away behind black curtains the filly no longer tried to see through. Which is why, when her eyes widened with shock, it was not for Ignacio’s apparition. It was for her mother, using her body to shield her away from the sight. Maybe she knew, how terrifying it was to see Him. How the only thing she felt from Him was excruciating pain. The same pain she felt when she turned into the likes of him, against her every wish. The same pain she felt when half her family was ripped away from her. Where was He then? Why hadn’t He said anything? How dare He lament the death of a beast that had almost killed them all? She was not thankful for him. At this moment, she was only thankful for the mother she was standing behind, and her silent understanding. No faith burned inside her eyes as He walked away, and she remained deaf do the love He professed. Only the cold embers of wrath – a burning desire for revolution. Only the words falling from the mouth she loved reached out to her. “ We make him pay, love.” She growled between gritted teeth, slit pupils watching straight ahead of her. “We take from Isador what he robbed our country for – and we work towards making this herd into something we can be proud of.” She looks up towards the unicorn, with nothing but determination in her eyes. “ We take it day by day. Tonight, we get justice. Tomorrow we start building something new. Something better.” Her voice lowered, softened suddenly. “I will fight so you can be happy. So we can be happy together in a herd that we’re proud of.” She turned to her mother, as she heard her plea. She watched her the same way she watched Adelaide – unshaken, determined. “Mother. I’m not going anywhere without you.” She took a step closer, stripped of all fear as she faced the mother she had hardly ever opposed. “ I wish to walk in your footsteps one day. I wish to serve a worthy King – a King worth fighting for. If I ran away now, I wouldn’t be worthy of my ambitions.” She bit her lip, as her ears snapped back. “ I can’t go home and wait to find out if you made it to the other side. Not anymore.” She knew there was nothing Rosalba could do to stop her. She also knew she likely would have to pay the price later – but she could not second guess herself now. “ Just worry about putting the crown on the right head, I’ll be fine.” She painfully looked away as she retrieved her place next to Adelaide. She would march too.
***
WC: 566| Post # 3
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Post by Luneby on Mar 19, 2021 13:28:25 GMT -6
E U O N I A"Renunciation, total and sweet."
Numerous voices rose – many unexpected. A choir of colorful souls had voiced their support, their desire to fight. Euonia stood proud, as her determined gaze washed circled over the crowd with a smile. She glanced towards Phoenix – thankful for the young mare’s unyielding bravery. There was so much she had to thank her for and hoped she would be able to once this fateful night had passed. Surrounded by hearts burning with the same wish, she had never felt so strong. There was strength in unity, overwhelming power in a nation’s same desire for justice, for change.
Slaves, nobles, and Chevaliers formed a single army she was to lead to Hearthstone Palace. As overwhelming as the responsibility felt, she was ready. She stared into the Captain’s eyes as her voice rose again, understanding, and strong.
“Rise, soldiers. You have been hurt and wrongfully painted as villains for the faults of a few- for that, I am sorry. Your help is welcomed and treasured. With Valore’s proud Chevaliers by our side, nothing can stop us anymore.”
She hoped the Chevalier’s intervention soothed the fears the Onean mare had voiced and that she was certain others had.
“Isador has wronged all of Aodh. Tonight, he showed his true colors as he unleashed his wyvern- and we shall show ours. Ignacio watches us – He is proud, as He witnesses us stand as one, more powerful together as any King could ever be.”
“As much as numbers make us strong, you all need to be acutely aware of the potential dangers that await us. Leave now if you must – for we are not wasting any more time in this place.”
Worried eyes glanced towards the small kirin child that had spoken to Ignacio earlier, as well as Sereya, Adelaide and Angélique. She hoped the teenagers would go home, Angélique especially. She knew full well it was very unlikely they would leave now. While Moira was hurt, seeing her steady on her hooves with a staff by her side could only mean that her friend had already taken her resolution.
Her eyes shifted to Indrina, nodding as the unicorn spoke.
“I’m afraid we have little time to plan ahead, but here is what I know of the current situation. The group which battled Sola split – most of them followed Aleksei and must be striking Hearthstone palace as we speak. They have skilled fighters within their ranks, and a wyvern by their side. Their odds are good, but we must be available near the palace soon to support them and be ready to strike should anything happen.”
She then turned towards Rosalba – as she noticed Oberyn was not by her side.
“Adviser, perhaps you have further information that could be of use. Did Oberyn go with them?”
Finally, she watched the Captain, as well as the two now unbridled labor slaves, counting on their prowess to keep the group safe.
”Very well, everyone. We need to reach Hearthstone Palace as fast as possible. I count on all of you who are battle trained to keep the more vulnerable of us.”
The Flamen summoned a large orb of light, shining like a beacon ahead of them, enlightening the path they were to walk on. That would hopefully spare them some surprises. She smiled at Phoenix who stood by her side, bracing herself before she spoke.
“Ignacio has shone His light upon us – may we march bravely.”
***
OOC: Everyone can hear everything Euonia said. The group now starts to march towards Sol District.
WC: 569| Post # 6
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Post by seechem on Mar 19, 2021 16:47:21 GMT -6
A N G É L I Q U E
a sanctum attendant of Oralee
'When I grow up, I wanna be famous, I wanna be a star, I wanna be in movies...'
......
She shook, excitement and fear sparking equally in her gut. A forged treaty? Seizure of the crown? The rise of her aunt's voice, fierce and determined, akin to her tone when she sermonised, made her nervous. Was this right? Was it true? If Aunt Euonia and everyone here believed it to be so...she looked passed the crowd at the extinguished building and sighed. It must be true. She looked up at the Flamen and smiled gently, "I am with you, Flamen Euonia." She looked up at her through fire-dazed eyes.
Indrina's ferocity unnerved her further, and the unicorn looked at her coolly. Everything seemed to be heating up, and she worried about the violence that might ensue, the further damage. As though she read her mind, her aunt continued, and her worried eyes met Angélique's. Did...did she want her to leave? She could hear Sereya arguing with her mother, and bit her lip. Her friends were staying to fight, and she wanted to do so as well. Hestitantly, she moved towards her aunt, eyes locked on her, "I'm coming with you." She looked towards the Sola District, hair swept back messily and coat dashed with dust and ash. After everything else this night, she knew she would not be able to sleep and had to see this through. Her eyes narrowed even as Chevaliers pledged themselves to the Flamens and their cause, it would need all of them to pull this off, and Ignacio help her, she wasn't going to abandon them now. With slowly gathering confidence, she walked beside her aunt, staying close, but with her ehad raised assuredly. This had to work.
  Word Count: 311 Post #4 Interacts with: Euonia Mentions: Sereya, Rosalba, Indrina, The Chevaliers |
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Post by Kelpie-River on Mar 20, 2021 9:48:46 GMT -6
Elsidra || Eminent || Post Three
Elsidra's body was shaking, but the stallion was not about to let his mundane, day-to-day fears win. This was history in the making, and he was not about to let it slip through his hooves like the sand they used in their shop. That same sand came to mind. Alone, it was nothing. Useless except for building houses. But when heated, tempered, caressed with fire, it became sharp, blade-like, clear glass. And though he was fragile like glass, if he broke then Isador's people would fall upon his shards and be bloodied by them. His life was nothing compared to what Aodh deserved. The city, the land, they needed this. They needed the bloody roots ripped right out from the vines that entangled them.
So, he began to march, tempered as he was by Euonia's words. He fell in step beside some of the Chevaliers, for once not worrying about the difference in status. They were safety. They were friends. And so, he moved forward, not sure what to expect. Would they confront Isador? Would they find that the other crew had already gotten to him, with their skilled fighters? Would things be changing? Would he lose the lap of luxury? Too many questions spilled over from his head, and he shook it to clear it of such thoughts.
Tonight was more important than stretching out by a gilded fireplace. Tonight was about how they could raze the city's leadership, start anew in a way that would please the God who walked among them just moments ago! How foolish was he, to be thinking of creature comforts when this was happening? Shame!
WC: 269
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Mar 20, 2021 11:12:39 GMT -6
Art by: coffie-buzz
Phoenix Aodh - Servile Slave Phoenix turned her head as the large silver mare [Delta] her Mistress had been standing by came up to Euonia. In this moment of clarity, Phoenix realized the other mare was a slave as well, taking careful note of the wounds that littered her body. Somewhat sadly, the pegasus was reminded of the elusive Desoto, wondering how the feisty mare was doing. They had never gotten along, but Phoenix still cared for the slaves she had lived with back when she was with Iscah.
Snapping back to the present, Phoenix listened to Delta speak to Euonia, internalizing the words. Condemned? The question was written on Phoenix's tear-stained face, but she didn't pursue it. Delta shifted her comments to the black Flamen [Moira], and Phoenix understood that they both must have been at Azar. And strangely enough, Phoenix's unasked question got mostly answered; Delta was punished to be a labor slave for some sort of crime, a crime the pegasus didn't care to know. It could have been anything. Though she herself wasn't being spoken to, Phoenix bowed her head to Delta in solidarity with the labor slave. Though Delta was far more capable at keeping enemies at bay, Phoenix resolved to protect Euonia as the figurehead of this movement.
The silent pegasus [Skoll] that had stood by Delta and Eliina before also came forward to offer his services. He certainly looked scarred enough for the job, and Phoenix wouldn't say no to their help. "Thank you." The small slave said, once again bowing her head to the other slave.
Without strange skies, dead wyverns, and a God walking among them to distract her, Phoenix was finally able to get a better look at the pale unicorn from before [Indrina] when she came up to them; she was a member of House Xoias if their matching bridles had anything to say about it. An icy tinge of anxiety trickled through her because she had been extremely rude not to say anything to the other unicorn. Indrina looked pleased with the situation and their march. And when the mare turned her eyes to Phoenix herself, the pegasus could only bow her head respectfully; they hadn't properly met yet. The coolness within the compliment was noted.
"Thank you Mistress." At the question, Phoenix could only shake her head. Sola was gone, and the only thing the slave could think of were more Chevaliers. "I know not, Mistress." Indrina addressed the crowd again, and Phoenix turned to look as her Mistress came up alongside her, their shoulders touching as Eliina confirmed what Euonia had been saying. But then she talked about mistakes that she had made, about a loved one. The pressure in her shoulder increased, but Phoenix didn't quite grasp that SHE was that loved one. When Eliina turned to look at her, the slave stood at attention. The request was...shocking to say the least. Heat rose to her cheeks and she felt rather flustered. Shouldn't it be the other way around?
"Together, Mistress. Together." Was all she managed to say without sputtering like a boiling teapot.
A black kirin wearing singed garments [Caron] stood with Moira and pledged their allegiance to the cause. Phoenix bowed her head to him whether or not he could see it. He sounded awkward, but she knew how awkward tonight was, she knew that first hoof. From the gathered crowd, a Chevalier stepped forth to Moira and handed her his blade. Phoenix found that shocking as well; somehow she had gotten it in her mind that all Chevaliers were the enemy, and this was proof that that thought was farther from the truth. The Flamen of Azar spoke as strongly and serenely as Euonia, and Phoenix felt incredibly blessed to be alongside them. She caught Moira eyes and her smile, the action only bringing out Phoenix's own smile. They could be marching to their deaths but...Phoenix was elated.
The familiar and welcome face of Rosalba appeared through the crowd, and she also confirmed what everyone had been saying. Though Rosalba had not stayed during the fight, which Phoenix would never ever fault her for, the pegasus was glad for the kirin's strong presence regardless. She bowed her head in Rosalba's direction whether or not the mighty kirin noticed her subtle thanks.
More Chevaliers approached, and Phoenix braced herself for a fight. It wouldn't come. The words of support almost made Phoenix's jaw dropped, but she was so utterly thankful. Now these were horses who knew how to fight. Their small group was going to become an army, a true force to be reckoned with.
"We are you."
The words resonated, filling her with strength. Even her wings didn't feel as tired as they had before.
They were Aodh.
Another approached [Elsidra], also offering to join them. He sounded as sick of Isador as the rest of them, and Phoenix bowed her head to him. How united as a herd they were that night. She also noticed a hybrid [Asalah], walk up to Delta and heal the terrible wounds that plagued the slave. Phoenix smiled at the mare, bowing her head to both her and the other mare [Airita] who came up alongside her. Though she couldn't see it, Phoenix would have been glad for the addition of Sereya and Adelaide joining them despite Rosalba's reservations.
Euonia's voice broke through the night once more. Truer words haven't been spoken. Chevaliers were always painted as the enemy, Phoenix's own feelings were proof of that. But they were proving themselves with their pledges. Her heart was pounding wildly in her chest, the Blessing of fire, despite still being so new, burned bright and raw and beautiful. Flames licked around Phoenix's hooves, and she hoped she could keep it up for the rest of their march. Turning to look at Euonia and her wonderful smile, Phoenix nodded her head with a smile of her own.
"We march together for a new Dawn. I wouldn't have it any other way, Your Holiness. I am thankful to stand with you." The slave gave another bow of the head. A smaller filly with an incredible horn like a halo [Angelique] came up to Euonia and stated she was coming along. Phoenix assumed the
y must know each other more intimately than as friends. "Stay close. I welcome your light." Phoenix said softly, smiling and bowing her head to the filly as they marched. |
POST COUNT: 7 ♦ WORD COUNT: 1068
MENTIONS: Delta, Eliina, Euonia, Skoll, Indina, Caron, Rosalba, Elsidra, Asalah, Airita, Euonia, Angelique
INTERACTIONS: Delta, Skoll, Indrina, Eliina, Caron, Rosalba, Elsidra, Asalah, Airita, Euonia, Angelique
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Post by Moose-On-Ice on Mar 20, 2021 15:48:44 GMT -6
║⟪⟡ S K Ö L L ⟡⟫║
"Can I tell you that in my eyes not even God would be good enough to command you?"
...He would be lying to himself if Skoll refused to admit the fire he saw in the equines surrounding him. The passion in their eyes, the strength in their voices... There were no more flames around them, yet, he could... See the fire lit in the heart, the soul, of each one... Was that why Ignacio called them his children? He had seen that ember, swelling into a roaring raging flame, so many little individual sparks conjoined into one massive flare?
Skoll listened silently to the words of passion around him, ears twitching, brows furrowing when his bridle was removed. They truly trusted him and Delta to do as they said...? A part of him called them fools. But another part of him told him, knew, he would not abuse their trust. Where would he run? Where could he run? Of course, nowhere. He would follow, he would fight, if it came to it, like he said he would. Did that make him a disappointment, letting his own flame shrivel and be dwarfed by those around him?
He didn't know, merely setting his jaw, lifting his head, giving a small glance to the other pegasi who seemed to thank him for this, a silent nod in response, before moving into a march with the group, slowly, carefully calling to one of his blessings, summoning one of his light spears to merely keep at the ready, maybe to try and match the light the one Flamen had brought upon them.
That vision they had seen... Was that what awaited them at the end of this? He did not know, perhaps didn't dare to hope... At the very least, for the time being, he could perhaps take pleasure in the feeling of bare air against his face once more, in the connection to the light spear he wielded, in the potential glory of combat. That would be what he focused on. If it helped those around him, it would merely be a surprise benefit. He had some resemblance of the freedom he once had, he'd savor it for as long as he could.
"Doubt this time I'd be able to get away with ripping out another's throat, hm?" He idly mused, nudging Delta with one of his wings, a faint smile twitching across his lips. The taste of blood was not a memory he welcomed, but he did enjoy the surge of power the action had given him back in Onea, when he had first crossed paths with the hippocampus.
419 Words; Post 8
Interacting with: Delta
Mentions: Phoenix, Euonia
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Post by Coffie-Buzz on Mar 21, 2021 8:32:45 GMT -6
DELTA
Aodh | Labor Slave
Voices rose up all around her, pledging themselves to tearing the stolen throne from under Isador's selfish, unworthy, murderous, royal ass. It brought a pleased smirk to her face, knowing that, for once, they were all on the same page. A voice next to her, smooth and a little begrudging, spoke in agreement with her. She gave Skoll a look, brow raised and smiling. She knew he couldn't give a single shit about this Aodh, but she found it a little amusing that he had only volunteered after she had. She noticed Advisor Rosalba and the glare the mare shot in her direction. Delta looked away, slightly shaking her head at the older Kirin, unphased and unimpressed. If the Advisor wanted to be a petty child and throw glares at others just because she’d rather they didn’t speak at all, then she could do that by herself. Delta wasn’t fond of her either, she seemed much too full of herself with a matching superiority complex. But she had Delta’s respect for being a mare in a place of power. It wasn’t an easy thing to do, no matter what Country you grew up in. It took hard work and dedication and Delta could respect that. Delta knew that if Rosalba was targeted, which was a fair chance considering that she was an Advisor who had chosen to side against Isador, the dappled silver mare would personally get in the way. She had a job to do and would not let her dislike for someone outweigh the value of a life. A Chevalier she recognized as a Captain spoke next, agreeing to help them and they soon had a small platoon surrounding them. Then something else happened. At first, it confused her when the pain in her right shoulder went away. Then the pain in her side, neck and head slowly vanished. The cuts from the labor accident closing and leaving scars only where the worst ones had been. Her breathing became less difficult and the ache from the infection in her chest disappeared. Her eyes widened and she looked to her side, seeing the Hybrid mare from the Sanctum standing rather close to her. She had healed her? Why? Delta gave the mare a confused look, shock and gratitude in her eyes. Finally, she gave the mare a gentile smile, " Thank you…" she murmured. Her attention was drawn back to Euonia as the Flamen began speaking once more. Delta's expression became serious. The group was getting ready to move. She rolled her shoulders and turned her head to the side, cracking the vertebrae. Taking a deep breath inward, deeper than she had been able to in months, Delta summoned her fire. It glowed white and sunset hues in her throat and shone through the soft tissue of her skull. Raising her head, she flattened her ears, glaring towards where she knew the castle was. Exhaling, she spat the flame as she turned her head to Skoll, “ Hah, no more than I would get away with decapitating someone just for slashing me across the ass. Sorry to say, but you don’t exactly have the teeth for it anymore, babe," she joked before bringing the seriousness into her voice, " Take the left front, I'll handle the right. Keep an ear to the back and watch the shadows. Call 'em as you see 'em. And don’t kill. We have enough lives lost between the two of us. We don’t need to add more." She moved into position, at the front right of the group, waiting for Euonia to make a move first. She was fully healed. Not a scrape or ache plagued her body. She would be a force to fear if battle approached them. Delta stoked her fire up to eleven, flames rolling down her back and smoke rising from her nostrils like a locomotive. She was fired up and revving at full throttle.
WC: 660 Post: 5
Delta is interacting with Asalah and Skoll, Mentions Rosalba, Euonia and the Chevalier Captain |
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Post by seawitchgrandpa on Mar 23, 2021 13:53:37 GMT -6
NizarAodh | Sanctum Attendant, Azar
TL;DR: Grandpa kept him inside and a naughty boy snuck out, met his greatest enemy: crowds
Mentions: Euonia, Angelique, Ignacio
Interacts with: Moira, sort of Delta, Skoll, Phoenix, big boy would have had to bump into pretty much everyone close to Moira
A wyvern fight. A sanctum attacked. A colossal storm he’d never seen before in Eithne that had rolled over them like a wave and threatened to drown them yet.
And all on the day he was supposed to be home with his grandfather. Not by Nizar’s choice, of course. Only after careful maneuvering at his grandfather’s home and his stealthiest tactics had Nizar managed to finally sneak out, the curiosity almost bodily overwhelming—nearly as great as the fear of realizing that the glimpses of the wyverns had been directly over Azar Sanctum.
He’d been an attendant for less than a month and everything went to hell the night he was away. Typical, really, for his luck.
Fear drove his pounding hooves. He’d found Azar Sanctum empty, its window shattered, its floor blackened, paint-spattered in a golden blood that had melted through candles and the smell of acrid smoke lingering in the walls. Something had happened and a sharp tightness gripped his heart at the very thought that people had been hurt, and he hadn’t been there to help.
He had to find Moira. She would know what to do.
Despite having a head over the average height of the crowd, Nizar, in perpetual kow-towing, found it difficult to maneuver the throngs as he followed their direction and listened for rumors for guidance. Perhaps most crushingly, it seemed he’d just missed an appearance by Ignacio himself. He had to stop and laugh bitterly at himself at the idea, the one night, and he misses a wyvern fight, a sanctum attack, a god appearing, and the art show. Of course.
He must have been close to the head of the crowd when he heard Flamen Anna and he clear, bright tones that travelled like sound over water, calling them to march on the palace. He recognized Angelique (though kept a wary distance out of fear of her power), and tried to make his way to her. Perhaps it was too late to help now, but he could not miss this chance. He missed so many, sheltered under his grandfather’s suffocating wing. He would not miss this.
Hope to find Moira (fueling a growing fear that she would not be there) waned quickly until Nizar spotted her gold and blue accoutrements that looked like they’d been attacked by the wyvern themselves, if Nizar didn’t know better that if Moira had been directly attacked, she’d be dead. A stone in his gut dropped as he realized though that she had been hurt, her own clothes bandaging the wound in blood and tulle. Social anxiety forgotten, he nudged his mass through the crowd to reach her, pleading, “Flamen Moira!”
When he reached her after his tedious, unnecessarily long weaving between several slaves and what he hoped wasn’t any nobility (each given a muttered, sincere sorry sorry sorry), he could only breath out a small, cognizant,
“You’re hurt.”
WC: 483
Post: #1
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Post by seechem on Mar 24, 2021 14:10:47 GMT -6
A D E L A I D E
an Eminent of House Julius
'Though I will wait forever more, my love will never die...'
......
The vitriol in Sereya's voice made her beam fiercely. Oh, she could make him pay. Adelaide smiled, brushing her shoulder against her girlfriend's side. "And I will fight beside you, my love." Her eyes sparked dangerously as the ruckus in the crowd began to settle into a calm certainty of riot. "We shan't be parted."
Yet, as Adelaide had feared, Rosalba turned to them both with a proposition. It made her mouth go dry. Go back to Rosebriar, with Sereya? The look that the Advisor shot her physically hurt as the unicorn felt drawn in two directions. Take Sereya home, to her home, to safety. Or march. Her eyes immediately swung to Sereya, her tail lacing around the other's with a gentle tug. Rosalba had a point, and yet...after such a tumultuous evening, why stop now? Why surrender and cower why the 'adults' fought? This was their future too, and Adelaide's resolve only strengthened with Sereya's determination. Pride swelled in her chest at the fire flowing from Sereya's lips at a mother whose cold shoulder was all too familiar. When she returned to her side, Adelaide's eyes locked onto Rosalba's. "I will keep her safe. I swear it." She looked down at Sereya, she knew that she could handle herself, but she bumped her shoulder against her anyway, "We'll look out for each other."
Euonia's swelling voice drew her in, and her ears pricked up at the rallying call. Despite the anxious look from the Flamen, Adelaide held firm. They wouldn't be turned away this night. Instead she nodded towards the Flamen, and gestured towards the gathering procession. "Let's find our place." And she meant that on so many levels, only suddenly realising the significance of what she had said as she began to walk-no, march with the others. Even Angélique and Phoenix had remained. The filly's golden coat shimmered in the dying light of the night, accompanied by the flaming hue of the other child's wings.
Scanning the crowd, she made a hesitant effort to stay in Rosalba's line of sight, keeping her tail curled around Sereya's. She knew Aegon would be at her side to offer his own assistance, but she would fight with everything in her to keep Sereya, and herself, safe.
Word Count: 398 Post #6 Interacts With: Sereya Mentions: Rosalba, Aegon, Angélique |
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Post by kerarose on Mar 26, 2021 9:24:52 GMT -6
INDRINA From ashes to glory
[picture upcoming] Post 6 | WC: 582
IW: Euonia, Sereya, Adelaide, Crowd
Mentions: Rosalba, Sereya, Adelaide, Cin'ciri The energy in the crowd rose, nearing a boiling point. It bubbled and frothed, like water boiled by a crackling flame. Oh, how she longed to smirk at Isador's downfall, to glory in the fall of a House that had harmed her own, so long ago- but she could not do so. She was in public, she was the Heir, she must remain the image of noble piety and surety.
So she hid that longing behind a mask of calm sureness, of both herself and the crowd, beginning to rage. She smiled at the Chevaliers when they approached, giving a nod of respect. It was good to have warriors on their side.
With a mighty stomp of a hoof, she started forward, trotting to the winged Flamen's side. Turning back, she faced the crowd. "Let us go, then!" she cried, giving a very small, short half-rear, her front cloven hooves rising off of the ground. "We march to remove a bloody King from a stolen throne!"
She settled forward, moving at a comfortable clip through the city's streets, her turquoise hooves clicking and clacking on the stone paths of the streets, planned out and laid by descendants of Aaliyah and other original settlers of New Valore- her family, and others.
She felt proud, to be leading the charge, alongside Flamen Euonia. "Your Holiness," she murmured, "how best do you think we should proceed? Our crowd is large, and likely to grow larger as more hear our stories. The more equines we have, the more brute strength- and yet, that will only take us so far. If we run into trouble, perhaps we should make a plan that allows for the youngest and those unable to fight to fall back and take a different path, to rejoin the main group in the end."
She nodded, glancing around at the crowd. "Of course," she added, "I am no master of battle strategy, and while I hope this may remain peaceful, I have no doubt that we may hit trouble on the way to the palace." She cleared her throat, picking her way over the slotted stones of the path. "I merely want to keep those most vulnerable safe, and yet let them be a part of this movement."
Her eyes caught on Rosalba and her daughter- it was clear that the Adviser had wanted to keep her daughter out of this mess, but Sereya was as passionate as her mother. So, too, was Adelaide. Here eyes caught on the young kirin child once more- despite trying to run into a burning building, the child did seem to want to help. They, and the others, deserved to be here, to stand witness to this glorious moment, but they were also vulnerable. She wished only to see them safely home at the end of this night.
"Perhaps," she said, turning once more to the Flamen, while also making eye contact with the two Eminents in question, including them in her question, "Emins Sereya and Adelaide could act as co-leaders of this march. If things get difficult, they could lead the most vulnerable away- the elderly, the children, those unable or unwilling to fight- and keep them safe. Of course, that's only my two shards on the matter," she said, adding in a small chuckle at the end.
She looked back but once to see the Goldhead's ashen skeleton standing amongst the night, the charred wood blending into the darkness of the square they had just left.
The crowd has now left the general area of the Goldhead Pub and is moving further into the Artisan's District.
E L I I N A
POST 6 | WC: 360
IW: Phoenix | Mentions: Euonia, Indrina, Moira
The dark unicorn found herself practically glued to Phoenix's side as the crowd began to move, wanting to break and run for the Palace to end this awful night. She nodded at Phoenix's mention of her, and lowered her voice in response. "Indeed, Phoenix," she said, gently bumping into the other mare's shoulder. "I'm afraid I'm not going to let you out of my sight again. No more running off to kill wyverns for you." A smile broke out over her face at her comment- Phoenix would have to deal with Eliina being practically glued to her side, much like her own gem formations were on her hide.
Her ears pricked forward as she listened to all of the remarks, the comments, the words of anger. She saw her cousin rear up and strike the stone paths with her cloven hooves, and Eliina gave a sharp nod at her cousin's fiery passion.
He may not have responded to her, but she knew that her soul was one of Ignacio's- bright, shining, oozing light and righteous fury at what had been done to her people, their people. It would serve her well in years to come, and especially as Head of her House.
As more equines joined the crowd, Eliina felt herself surrounded by equines moving towards a common goal, and rejoiced. The energy was infectious, not joyous, per se, but determined and hopeful. For the first time that evening, since she had seen Sola attack Azar- something that she still regretted potentially causing- she began to relax, to hope that all of their efforts, their skulking around in the darkness, might actually lead to something wonderful.
She stayed close by Phoenix's side, afraid to lose her in the bustling throng of Aodhians. She remained quiet- she had seen all too well what came of her speaking too much- and moved along at the quick clip that Euonia and Indrina were setting. She saw Moira's head in the crowd, and quickly looked away, shame filling her.
It would be a very long time before she could face Azar once more, she thought, as the crowd left the Goldhead in their wake.
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Post by ThatDenver on Mar 30, 2021 7:29:14 GMT -6
CHECKPOINT
Moving through the Artisan District, you face little resistance. Some citizens join you, while others skulk away at the sight of you – perhaps afraid of what might come of this, or perhaps disagreeing with your very sentiment.
You don’t stop to ask.
Above you, messenger birds and phoenixes and even furias soar the sky as the darkest night gives over to slightly lighter tones. The messages go in all directions, all across the city. No doubt some of them reach Isador, too.
Such a large crowd hardly moves quickly, and by the time you have reached the gates of the Sol District, the sky has gained the telltale lighter hue that heralds the dawn. Usually guarded at this time of night, but now vacated save for a single Chevalier who stands on the battlements, releasing a bird that flies off deeper into the district.
No one attempts to impede your passage as the gates are pulled open, and you enter the streets of the Sol District, at the center of which lays the Hearthstone Palace, your target.
As you march on, you see an enormous flock of Pygmies, swarming in a way most unusual – some of them wear collars or other trinkets that show them to be pets. Perhaps some of them are even familiar to you – pets of family or friends.
And they sing.
“Before the season dies.
She comes.
A pillar of light, a broken seam.
She comes, she comes.
A crown awoken.
She comes, she comes, wait for she comes.
A lion will rip out the throat of a wyvern.
She comes, she comes, the circle complete.
A midnight sun.
She comes, she comes, she comes in glory. ”
And they, too, seem to be headed for the Palace.
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Apr 1, 2021 13:00:28 GMT -6
Art by: coffie-buzz
Phoenix Aodh - Servile Slave Two of the other slaves [Delta and Skoll] seemed ready to fight, the former making a show of her control of fire. Phoenix vaguely wondered if she would be able to get to that point someday. She wished she had more to show than some candle-like flames dancing around her hooves, but at the very least, anyone observant enough would know she was touched by Ignacio; she was his iron, after all, and she would show it through her actions if her appearance wasn't enough.
Hell, she helped kill the traitor kings wyvern.
Indrina of House Xoias seemed to take charge alongside Euonia, the unicorn the picture of nobility. Not that her Mistress wasn't. He could feel Eliina's closeness with how their bodies touched. Like Eliina, Phoenix didn't want to lose her Mistress in the crowd. While all of Aodh was important to her, her duty rested with House Xoias, and as such, her priorities would be Eliina and Indrina even though she hadn't yet formally met the latter.
They walked as one, their hoof steps resounded upon the cobblestone. It was a loud, pronounced sound due to the silent night, but one Phoenix knew would make an impact on everyone. She could see it in the faces as they passed, some looking horrified and returning to their homes, others hardening their expressions and joining them, and then there were a few who kept to the shadows, scowling. She didn't care if some horses didn't agree. They were insignificant. Those who knew, who saw the truth, who believed...those were the horses who would bring about a better tomorrow and she was going to help in every way she can. For Aodh. For Ignacio.
She watched as flying creatures were sent out with correspondence attached to their legs or gripped tightly in claws. She hoped that they weren't warnings being sent to Isador, though she was sure the False King was already well aware of what was happening. Even if he survived, he and any loyal Chevaliers would crumble under the growing mob. But she hoped they did live, especially Aleksei since he was the one that was to chance Aodh for the better.
As they drew close to the Sol district, she could see day starting to appear on the horizon. The gates are pulled open, which came as a surprise because she thought they would meet some defense, but it seemed they were just being let in. It was hopeful, but at the same time anxiety inducing. She hoped they weren't being lead into a false sense of security. But as the mob continued on their tireless march, Phoenix still keeping tabs on where Eliina and Indrina were just in case.
And then movement caught the pegasus' eye, a swarm of pygmies flying together which she figured was strange. She could see collars on some, other signifiers that they had owners upon their bodies. But the most curious thing about them was the fact that they were singing. The sounds themselves were eerie, but more unnerving were the lyrics themselves. They sung about a "She". Her mind went back to Alya, but it didn't make much sense. She turned to look to Euonia and Moira and any other Flamens who had joined them.
"Who is She?" She says as they continue marching. |
POST COUNT: 8 ♦ WORD COUNT: 553
MENTIONS: Delta, Skoll, Indrina, Euonia, Eliina
INTERACTIONS: Euonia, Moira, other Flamens
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Post by Kelpie-River on Apr 1, 2021 18:43:43 GMT -6
Elsidra || Eminent || Post Four
Above them, the Pygmy dragons swooped and swarmed, singing their eerie tune. Sidra wasn't sure what had gotten into them, but the collars, paint, and bells on some of the dragons showed that they were, indeed, Aodhian pets. But where were their masters? Had they escaped, together, gone along with the wild ones? He shuddered, as the words of their song became clear. Who WAS she? Was she a being, like Alya the Goddess...or was She a group of horses...them. After all, the Wyvern wasn't...a real Wyvern, was it? Sola was dead, from what Sidra had heard. She couldn't be what they were talking about. And as far as he knew, there were no other Wyverns belonging to the King...so...maybe it was a warning that the herd would rise up, become the lion together.
But he didn't dare speak his thoughts aloud. Instead, the stallion ducked his head, as they made their way ever closer to the castle. His heart pounded in his throat, as they grew closer and closer. Was he really about to possibly lay down his life for this? Probably. Was he going to make it to the other side? He had no idea, but not much hope. He'd been strong, most his life, but he'd not been a fighter. Today, that changed.
WC: 221
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