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Post by Kelpie-River on Mar 21, 2021 14:51:27 GMT -6
K S Y E N I A
Post One | 359
Above her, the roiling clouds threatened rain. Indeed, Ksyenia could smell the rain in the air, and her coat nearly stood on end with the electric crackle of lightning in the air. For the hippocampus, getting a little wet was not a threat, and she had to admit that she rather liked the weather. As the gray-silver clouds moved like waves above her, Ksyenia couldn’t help but enjoy the sticky warmth of the tropical humidity, which was cut occasionally by cool breezes coming off the ocean. The smell of salt was heavy in the air, despite the distance from the sea. Still, Inaria was closer to the ocean than many of the smaller villages, and for this, Ksyenia was grateful.
A crack of thunder made the mare jump, and she let out a small chuckle, surprised at her own fright. She should have expected that. Regardless, the black mare shoved the thoughts aside, and moved on towards her destination. She’d been out for a while, gathering herbs for potions, and had a small, woven sack full of the flowers and leaves that would serve her well. Realizing that she didn’t want the petals and leaves to get soaked and mildew, Ksyenia picked up a trot, rounding a corner on the street.
And immediately found herself facing another equine on the far side of the corner. Skidding to a halt, Ksyenia barely avoided a collision, taking in the flash of tentacles that reminded her of a horse she’d met only once before - while being treated for a minor...work accident...by a Cleric not far from here.
“Beg my pardon,” the mare said, dipping her head to the stranger. Stranger? She’d met the horse that one time, but couldn’t quite remember her name. “I didn’t see you.” Ksyenia felt as though the brand on her right shoulder was burning, marking her as someone who didn’t deserve to be here, in the Capitol city like this. She shuddered, wishing she could hide it, but her mane wasn’t long enough to cover the scar. And besides, she liked to keep it braided.
Oh well. She kept her eyes downcast, awaiting her judgement.
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Mar 22, 2021 16:30:36 GMT -6
 Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher She had dreamt that rain was impossibly falling into the sky. Time didn't seem to have been in reverse as she walked through Inaria alone, water spilling upwards from the ground and into the heavens. She recalled how she stayed perfectly dry, how the sky was an unreal blue, almost faceted like a gemstone with the hints of cirrus clouds far above. It was oddly peaceful compared to the nightmares she had often had prior to getting her blessing. The tiny hippocampus felt anything but relieved when she woke up that next morning.She was more than amused when she looked out her bedroom window and saw the hints of rain on the horizon, the sky that stormy gray she had grown used to while she lived in Inaria, and growing darker by the moment. She doubted rain would suddenly filter into the sky from the dry ground, but her dream did seem to prepare her for rain at least. Not that rain and water ever bothered a hippocampus. In fact, Lulu truly loved the rain. The sounds of the subtle showers or thrashing winds were comforting in a strange sort of way, giving her background noise while she read and studied.Today she planned on going out. She had secluded herself to her house long enough to the point her mother even started to scold her for it. Her brother Toivo, young as he was, enjoyed parroting their mother in the doorway, an act Lulu knew would only continue if she didn't start living her life.Her mother was home today, so Lulu was able to leave the house without having to drag her brother along. Both the mare and her brother were very happy to see her out of her room, though the former had her concerns about the weather. Ilhuicaatl brushed the concerns off; she wasn't heading out for a swim, just a walk around the city. There were plenty of places she could take shelter if it got bad, and she lived in Inaria her whole life, so she wasn't afraid of a little storm.After saying her goodbyes to her mother and brother, Lulu proceeded away from her home. By not the sky was darker, still withholding the rain she was sure was going to spill anytime now. It was muggy, the perfect weather for a storm, and she could smell the salt from the ocean on the occasional breeze. She closed her eyes and breathed in the scents of the sea, feeling herself calm down further. Yes, even with a storm, this walk was much needed.She walked passed other horses, many of which were hurrying home or to their jobs as to not get caught in the storm, tucking away their bags and belongings despite the sky having yet to unleash it's torrent. Lost in her thoughts, she went to round a corner when suddenly she saw black and white. The sound of clattering hooves had Lulu jumping back to avoid the inevitable collision, her tentacles flicking about and flashing bright colors in alarm.Her heart pounding from what could have been pretty bad considering their size differences, Ilhuicaatl looked up at the black and white mare. The young mare almost laughed at the comment; it was hard for most to see her most times considering how small she was. Scary as it was, she was relieved. And she couldn't find it in herself to get angry. Calming down, the rapid color changes on her tentacles slowed before reverting to their more desaturated state."It's okay." Lulu said, uttering a soft sigh as she dipped her head respectfully. "I didn't see you either and I don't have an excuse for our size differences." Taking a better look at the mare now, memories swept through her. She recalled meeting her mother some time ago while she was working. The black mare in front of her had been injured on the job and was being healed at the time, though Lulu couldn't stick around long enough to know more. But now that they were this close, the shameful look on the other mares face made more sense.A familiar brand was burned into her shoulder, a brand that Lulu knew and recognized very well. A brand that had been burned onto her own mothers innocent shoulder and quickly tattooed over when the charges were reversed. A brand that she herself escaped due to her lover shutting her down and disappearing. A brief glare to the offensive brand, before Lulu looked to the mare softly.She wouldn't bring it up."I think I saw you once. My mother healed you." Her voice was gentle. "I'm Ilhuicaatl, but you can call me Lulu." |
POST COUNT: 1
WORD COUNT: 786
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Post by Kelpie-River on Mar 22, 2021 18:01:47 GMT -6
 Ksyenia’s heart was pounding as she looked down at the much smaller horse before her. How bad she would have felt had she run into the poor creature, probably run her over even. Above her, the clouds continued to threaten, as the first few, fat drops began to fall from the sky, spattering the street below with small hisses as they landed. She remembered that face better now; she’d had a little...uh...accident, with the fire and the potions and the broken glass all at once, and had ended up seeing Lulu’s mother for healing. She remembered the mare had done an excellent job; narry even a scar remained. With a small smile, Ksyenia dipped her head to the other mare, happy that the brand had remained either unnoticed or unmentioned.
“I’m Ksyenia,” the mare re-introduced herself. “No nickname for me, sadly,” she said with a soft, dry chuckle. “Parents never got around to giving me a cool one, and I think it’s a bit late now to start,” she added with a titter of laughter. She seemed to be in a rather good mood despite the weather, or perhaps even because of it. She always liked the water, and though her own fins didn’t make an appearance on land, she was happy to see that the other mare had the signs of her breed as well; something they had in common.
“I must say, it’s nice to run into - quite literally - a friendly face,” Ksyenia said, cocking her head to the side as she spoke. “Inaria has been...tense recently, in some ways,” mused the black horse aloud. “Almost like,” she nodded her head to the sky, which was roiling still, “that.” She turned back to Lulu. “Have you felt it too?”
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Mar 25, 2021 10:38:39 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher Lulu gave a small shrug. "Lulu is a nickname my mother gave me, that I kept all these years. My...father..." It should be noted how she spoke the word through gritted teeth, "...insisted on using his families naming conventions. Most horses butcher my name if I don't offer them the easier alternative." The small hippocampus gave a contemptuous snort, then shoot her head with a sigh. "Not that I can blame them. My name isn't exactly easy to say."
The hippocampus relaxed as much as she could. Kysenia didn't seem like the type, what with her demeanor, to be dangerous, especially considering the brand. Lulu felt certain that Kysenia and herself were more alike than she cared to admit, but she was still cautious.
"Kysenia, nice to meet you. Didn't really get a chance last time." By now, Ilhuicaatl's tentacles curled back up in their usual resting position along her neck. The small mare listened, nodded her head. Then she flicked her ears back. "I'm not sure I remember many times when Inaria didn't feel tense, I'm afraid." She followed Kysenia's gaze to the sky, the dark clouds still threatening above. "Yeah...yeah." Lulu wondered if that tense feeling was herself merely projecting though. She had felt anxious for months since she had received the vision about Talori, and only very recently felt better about it after being blessed by Cascade.
"I'm sure it will lessen." Lulu commented, her eyes still on the sky. "Like the storm. Storms unleash their fury, but they never last. No matter how destructive they are, the rains come and go, and we rebuild when necessary." Golden eyes fell to the brand upon Kysenia's shoulder. "As a herd, we have to grow. And in my opinion, grow away from our prejudices." She tore her eyes away from the brand, away from Kysenia, a vision of a golden-winged pegasus sprouting in her minds eye.
"Forgive me. My only friends are books and they tend to get me to think deeply about...everything." |
POST COUNT: 2
WORD COUNT: 334
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Post by Kelpie-River on Mar 25, 2021 16:31:47 GMT -6
K S Y E N I A
294 | Post 3
Ksyenia listened with intent interest as Lulu explained her name situation. While she wasn’t sure her tongue could twist around the word on the first try, she made a mental note that perhaps she’d want to learn the full pronunciation, just to surprise Ilhuicaatl with something she could have...for herself. It always peeved Ksyenia when others got her name wrong, so why shouldn’t she try and do better with Lulu? Though, for now, the nickname would do until she could practice at home, butchering the name until she could learn its intricacies.
“My only friends are dusty bottles,” Ksyenia snorted, rolling bright blue eyes playfully. “So please, don’t apologize for making me think; it’s actually one of my favorite hobbies,” she said with a shrug. “Besides...I’m not sure your...personal opinion on the matter, but I think that if the Wave Mother didn’t want us to do better, we would have been wiped out when everything...happened,” Ksyenia pointed out, remembering the stream of events that had turned into a torrent of changes for Aquore.
“I’m not...a nut when it comes to religion, but if the Gods desire, they could wipe us out with a flick of their tails, I think,” Ksyenia pointed out softly. “And the fact that we’ve been given the opportunity to grow, to be better, well, that’s a blessing in and of itself.” She shuddered softly, remembering Torrine, how it had reminded her so of her six-month stint in prison.
“But perhaps I’m too optimistic,” she snorted. “After all, these are the same Council members who decided that my falling in love wasn’t appropriate…” she trailed off, biting her tongue. “I apologize...I’ve said too much against my herd.” She dropped her eyes, ready to be admonished.
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Mar 26, 2021 11:38:52 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher It felt...refreshing, to talk to someone who was more openminded than she was used to. Though she considered some friends based upon the experiences they had gone through, she couldn't particularly trust them. Not yet. And not that her mother wasn't openminded, her mother was the first horse who knew and realized that Ilhuicaatl had eyes for mares. But the Talori as a whole were still reeling from the changes, many having been violent, and it would be longer yet until those like Lulu would feel safe being themselves. Lulu knew that after everything they all had been through, it was for the better, for /all/ who lived in Aquore.
"I agree." Lulu said softly. Ilhuicaatl had issues with her faith before the sacrifices were abolished, so she could understand Kysenia's stance on the matter. But she didn't know how the other felt about Pegasi. Ever since she was a child, Lulu was 'strange' in that regard as well, considering Pegasi were considered second class citizens. The mare almost snorted. She was attracted to mares and pegasi, both of which were still pretty taboo.
Ah. Lulu thought to herself as the cat was let out of the bag by the other. "Isn't it funny, on a day like this we were to meet?" The tiny hippocampus mused, "You and I are so much more alike than you realize, so fear not. I hold no judgements." Her voice had lowered though, just in case someone overheard their conversation. "I believe questioning ones society only makes one stronger. But with that said, we do have to be careful." Her eyes flickered to the brand again. "Though you cannot hide who you are as well as I can. I managed to escape the fate you had suffered, and for that, I am sorry. Love should never be a crime, no matter who it is with your heart truly desires." |
POST COUNT: 3
WORD COUNT: 317
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Post by Kelpie-River on Mar 28, 2021 11:10:07 GMT -6
K S Y E N I A
Post 4 | 530
The rain was still slow, only a fat drop here and there spattering against the earth. But it seemed...no longer ominous. Instead, Ksyenia was reminded of the way that rain nourished the earth. It replenished the waves of Cascade’s sea, keeping the water level high. It filled rivers and streams for horses to drink from, to wash with. It watered the very plants she held in her satchel, so that they could grow strong, and be used by Clerics, Redeemers, and Potion masters alike. Perhaps, rain was not necessarily a bad thing. And perhaps it wasn’t an omen that she should be wary of Ilhuicattl, of Lulu.
And as the mare began to speak again, Ksyenia felt a wave of...something...she couldn’t quite put her nose on, wash over her. The feeling that overwhelmed her was...safety. It was safe to talk with Lulu. She was...a friend? Ksyenia wasn’t used to having those, and wondered if JUST meeting someone qualified them for the position of friend. Would that be acquaintance? She wasn’t sure, but pushed the thought aside, seeing as it wasn’t important at all to her. Maybe friend. That was good enough for her.
Her. That was the stumbling block for Ksyenia. Some days, she woke up perfectly happy in her body...others it was incredibly painful to be locked in and viewed as a mare. Trapping even. But she had promised to be a perfect Daughter of Cascade...how could she turn her back on that? Would it be too much to tell Lulu this? Meanwhile, the mare had been going on about how she had narrowly escaped the same branding that fell on Ksyenia. So...they had this in common, yeah? Well, that was another reason to trust Lulu with her secrets.
“Questioning one’s government is imperative,” Ksyenia said, keeping her voice low. They WERE in Inaria, after all. “I think without question, we fall ill prey to complacency. But forgive me, I’m usually not such an eloquent speaker; I prefer laywords,” she said with a small laugh.
“I...I did love once,” Ksyenia admitted, dropping her head. “And I thought...I thought she loved me too. But the horse I fell for...her mother...accused me of cajoling her daughter to the dark side. And she wouldn’t stand up for me...she let the Council make their decision. She got off scott free. The victim. And I...I took the brunt of the punishment. One would think that I’d understand our feathered friends better, being in a position of weakness, but...I’ve never walked in their wings...so I must admit...I was...weak...when it came time to make my own stand. After Torrine...I learned. But...it was too late to go back and change my actions.
“I made a promise that I’d be the perfect daughter to my Wave Mother. Even if it breaks my heart.” She fell silent, swallowing hard. She hadn’t given away too much information; Lulu may not even guess what she meant by that. But still, it made her heart race far too wildly as she stood still, feeling the wide-spaced drops of rain drizzle down.
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Mar 28, 2021 11:43:37 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher The small hippocampus nodded her head, glad to find that Kysenia thought similarly. Complacency was something that Ilhuicaatl had a problem with, especially in terms of how the Talori viewed love and pegasi. The subtle rain with it's thick drops occasionally landed upon Lulu's body, the cold water a slight shock against the typical humidity but welcome none the less. She mused about how easy it felt to talk to this mare after how long she locked herself away in her room. She had met others numerous times before, but those relationships always felt more work related than actual friendships.
Gold eyes rested on Kysenia's visage as the mare admitted to loving another mare. Icy cold gripped Lulu's insides again, though she fought against showing her emotions on her face. So similar were they. Even the stories sounded similar, except Gilda's mother just shooed Lulu home. Then the letter came. The small hippocampus clenched her teeth, phantom pains of a brand searing on her own shoulder. Her muscles twitched and shivered. It almost felt painful to breathe.
Why were the Talori so quick to punish their citizens without completely investigating? It made sense, in some sick way. There were those like Lulu who were well learned, who could think past their noses. Had Lulu been on the Council when her mother was accused of infidelity, she would have been smart enough to dig deeper. Had it not been for the diaries her grandmother left behind...well, her mother would still be sporting the brand just as much as Kysenia did.
Lulu's expression hardened, though she couldn't look at Kysenia.
"Not many stood up for Pegasi. You were dealing with your own problems, accusations that..." She ground her teeth, wanting to say how she really felt, but knowing that she could do little behind bars. She couldn't do that to her mother and brother, both pegasi who needed her to help bring about change. Change for the better of all who were Talori.
"The system is unfair to all." Lulu managed to say, keeping her voice from quivering. "My lover was a beautiful pegasus. I still love her." She took in a breath, her nostrils flaring. "I can't say when it will happen. If it will happen. But the sacrifices have ceased. It's a start to a better tomorrow. Maybe the next step is allowing those like us to be who we want to be and love who we want to love. If these things weren't possible, it is as you said. Would Cascade not strike us down, force us to be who Talori wants us to be? No...the Gods don't meddle with our lives like they did eons ago. We are free to live. The problem is that our government tries to prevent us from living those lives."
The small hippocampus paused her little speech, her mind whirling.
"...I would call you my friend, Kysenia. I think...I think we were meant to meet. Perhaps the two of us can help bring about a better tomorrow for horses like us." She smiled slowly, "And I think it would be better to have actual friends instead of books and bottles, don't you think?" |
POST COUNT: 4
WORD COUNT: 530
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Post by Kelpie-River on Mar 30, 2021 9:37:21 GMT -6
K S Y E N I A
Post 5 | 225
Ksyenia listened, wide-eyed as Lulu went on her exploration of Talorian government. Never before, that the black horse could remember, had she ever been given the opportunity to speak so freely with someone, especially having grown up in Inaria. She’d though that she might never get the chance to express herself in this way, and found herself nodding along, swallowing the lump in her throat as she looked Lulu up and down. Well, mostly down. But despite her tiny size, the hippocampus was full of big ideas. Ideas that sparked against Ksyenia’s own brain like flint and steel.
“I’m...not used to having many friends,” Ksyenia admitted tentatively, shrugging a bit as she looked down at Lulu with a kind, warm gaze. “But I’d be honored to have you join the small list,” she added with a chuckle. “I mean, it can’t be easy to have only books and bottles for us, no,” she stated simply. “Not fair to the books and the bottles either, to have to keep all our secrets,” she told Lulu with a wisened, far-off gaze.
“But we should probably find somewhere dry before the rain comes pouring in,” Ksyenia said, nodding over to where the storm was coming down in gray sheets, heading their direction quickly. “I might be waterproof, but my plants will mildew and be useless,” she sighed.
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Apr 1, 2021 13:11:23 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher Lulu shrugged. The small hippocampus wasn't used to having many friends either, but she felt like she could do with some now, now that she had a way to see into their future, maybe to even get a chance to figure out what she had seen some time ago during a vision. She had thought about seeking the council, but something kept her from going to the Empress and her mate. She was afraid it would be passed off as a bad dream and nothing more. She didn't want to be seen as crazy...
But now, seeing as there was at least one who shared her passion for equality for love, and maybe also Pegasi, Lulu felt...a little more whole.
Ilhuicaatl chuckled. "No, it is definitely not fair to them." The tiny mare mused. But then she nodded her head in agreement, following Kysenia's gaze to where the rain was really starting to come down. "I think you're right. I would hate for your plants to get ruined." Lulu's tentacled head swayed back and forth as she peered around them. She knew this part of Inaria like the back of her hoof, but it had been some time since she actually came outside.
"Ah, this way!" She called to Kysenia as she trotted off quickly, heading towards what looked like a gazebo from a distance. The gazebo was a place for horses to relax with a large statue of Cascade. It wasn't exactly a shrine, but there were small offerings of seashells scattered about that other Talorians would be remiss to remove. It wasn't an ideal place, but it was better than standing in the rain. |
POST COUNT: 5
WORD COUNT: 530
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Post by Kelpie-River on Apr 1, 2021 18:51:38 GMT -6
Ksyenia was happy to get out of the rain, not for her own sake, but for the many plants that she carried. After all, she only foraged about once a week, and the thought of having to go back out and regather the plants was not appealing. Besides, it would be simple enough to find somewhere to sit and chat while they waited out the rain; the weather was always so unpredictable that she was sure they could wait out the storm without having to waste their whole day waiting on the skies to clear.
And if they did? Oh well. Ksynia had found a friend that she was happy to speak with, and that was enough to make her feel warm and fuzzy inside. They both shared similar ideals, which was strange enough in this place, and they were...going to have to be cautious if their friendship was going to continue. But it would be worth it.
Once they reached the small Gazebo, Ksyenia was careful to avoid stepping on any of the offerings as she found a small bench to settle down on. She smiled over at Lulu, leaving space for the smaller mare to settle down nearby. “Well, this is rather nice,” Ksyenia commented, ears twitching as she listened to the sound of the rain drumming down on the Gazebo roof.
“So, Lulu, tell me more,” Ksyenia said with a soft smile. “I’m...intrigued to learn about what...what you think of the world. If it makes you feel better, I’ll go first. I think that we need to make some serious changes still, but that Empress Thalassa has been good for us. I think that we must have been...very wrong on our path if the Goddess herself had to raise from the sea to put us straight. And I think that we shouldn’t have had to murder a child to find this out about ourselves...but unfortunately...we did.”
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Apr 2, 2021 11:09:05 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher Lulu looked out from the gazebo as the sheets of rain finally met them. A harsh, but equally therapeutic drumming sounded above them as the rain pelted the roof of the gazebo. And that was all she could hear, the sound of rain splattering the buildings and the walkways, creating a hundred thousand little rivers between stones, bits of shells and grasses. It was, admittedly, one of her favorite sounds to read to. When she was able to get to the ocean, the sound of waves crashing against the shore was also calming, but it was hard to hear this far into Inaria.
Golden eyes swept over the statue of Cascade and the numerous offerings left around the base and placed upon her person. It reminded her of a larger version of her little idol she had in her room the night Cascade finally answered her prayers. Even now she was astounded Cascade even answered her at all, considering she had been so confused about her own faith for so long.
Her head turned to Kysenia who had settled on one of the benches that resided under the gazebo, and the small hippocampus moved to join her. "Yes, it is." She agreed softly, though part of her wished she had a book to read. Old habits die hard. When the soft voice of Kysenia reached her ears again, Ilhuicaatl turned to give the dark mare her attention. What did she think of the world? She was learned, at least in terms of most of Talori who were illiterate, but even then she didn't know many truths outside of Aquore, only things that the Talori wanted or allowed them to know. And because of distrust with Rogues, Lulu had steered clear of them whenever she saw an individual that didn't quite look...Talorian.
Lulu listened intently as Kysenia described her opinions, of which Ilhuicaatl herself wasn't too sure about. While she did agree that Cascades appearance to put them straight was one of the best things that could have happened to their herd, the hippocampus couldn't give the Empress that much credit. Not only that, but had Serora not stepped in, she doubted the sacrifices of pegasi would have willingly stopped. It was one less thing for Lulu to worry about, because she still feared for Gilda's life. Every sacrifice meant that Gilda could be chosen, and without the sacrifices, Gilda stood a better chance at being accepted over time.
"It depends on ones mind. There are those of us who are already different, right? Our minds are already opened. So we are better able to see injustice, better able to understand what is wrong with that which is considered tradition. Mares and stallions, that is a way of life. It is ingrained. But then there are those of us who feel different, who question, who don't understand 'why'. We're not strong enough to outwardly question why, but we know that we do." She paused, organizing her thoughts. "And then the sacrifices...our history, all of Hireath for that matter, gets warped. There is of course truth in our history, but over time it becomes legend, and those legends create superstition and fear. Pegasi are thought to be lesser beings, especially if they have wings. For some reason I was too strong willed to accept that. And...and I am glad I didn't accept it. Wings, fins...aren't they similar? Wings allow them to soar through the sky, our fins...we soar through the sea! You cannot have the sea without the earth and the sky. They are one in the same." The small mare sighed, catching herself on her rant.
"Apologies, I am a little bit passionate about change, if you can tell. But I think acceptance is strength. Acceptance in race, acceptance in love. If the Gods wanted to intervene, they would, as The Wave Mother has proven. I think we're on our way to a better tomorrow."
I hope, a small voice in her mind reminded her. |
POST COUNT: 6
WORD COUNT: 664
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Post by Kelpie-River on Apr 2, 2021 18:11:18 GMT -6
K S Y E N I A
Post 7 | 287
Ksyenia was surprised, but not unpleasantly so, by the outpouring that Lulu had to offer. The mare seemed to have rather...strong opinions about the world around her, and Ksyenia couldn’t really dissent from them. So much needed to change; so much work still to do. But at least they were making baby steps in the right direction? A thought occurred to the mare, and she cocked her head to the side, letting it roll around in her brain before she spoke it aloud.
“I wonder if we’ll see the kind of changes we need in my lifetime,” the mare mused aloud, wrinkling her delicate pink nose at the idea that she may never see all her hard work come to fruition. “I mean...well...we’ve made such leaps and bounds, but things seem to have slowed drastically, and that worries me. We have no trade...we’re isolated, just as we were before Cascade showed us the way. Our history has become warped as the boards of an untreated ship, you’re right there. And I think that if we’re not careful, we’ll fall back into it again.”
Sighing, Ksyenia tossed her green forelock out of her eyes. “I just...I don’t want to work for a better life if I don’t get to enjoy...ANY of it,” Ksyenia said with a short, barked laugh. “I know it’s selfish...but...it’s true,” she said, shrugging. “I know I should want to do better simply for others, but with a culture that put me at the top of the food chain save for who I was on the inside...well...I want that inside to be seen someday. I’m rambling, though,” the mare caught herself, slowing her speech. “Sorry.”
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Apr 3, 2021 11:50:22 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher Ilhuicaatl fell silent as Kysenia spoke up, still reeling over how open she was feeling about everything. It was a very rare thing to be able to talk honestly about how one felt, especially if they would be considered criminals and outcasts because of those thoughts and feelings. Golden eyes quickly swept along their surroundings to ensure they weren't being overheard, and even then, eavesdroppers would be hard pressed wo hear what they were saying with the pouring rain. Lulu nodded along, feeling similarly. She truly wanted to be able to love who she wanted, to see pegasi more accepted. It would...really suck to live a long life without actually seeing such become reality, but she knew that horses, especially Talorians, were resistant to change.
That and Kysenia's observations were painfully true.
She couldn't imagine how easy it would be for the sacrifices to start again now that the Talori were isolated like before. For people like herself and Kysenia to rot in chains, branded because of different love. She shifted her position out of pure stress, but forced the feelings aside.
"I understand how you feel. Fighting for something you desperately want, but then not being able to enjoy the fruits of your labor." It did...feel bad to think about. To grow old alone instead of with a beautiful, golden winged pegasus at her side...
"I guess...I guess the way I see it..." Lulu started out slowly, formulating her answer. "...It would hurt, yeah. To work so hard, for so very long, and then die before you can see how it ends." She paused, "It's scary." She shook her head, tentacles curling against her neck. "But...at the same time...to know I did so much for so many...I think it would ease that pain a bit. There's nothing selfish about wanting equality. But I think knowing that you were a part of that change, a part of the fight for a better tomorrow for all... As sad as it would make me, it would make it easier." She paused again, tapping a hoof on the edge of the bench.
"But that's assuming we won't see that change. Tides ebb and flow, I think we're in that stage of ebb. When we first starting talking today, you mentioned that tension. I think that's like the calm before the storm. I think this standstill will only last so long. I am hopeful we will live to see that tomorrow, sooner rather than later." |
POST COUNT: 7
WORD COUNT: 411
MENTIONS: -
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Post by Kelpie-River on Apr 9, 2021 20:16:28 GMT -6
Ksyenia nodded, listening to what Lulu had to say. She made a lot of sense. The ebb, just before a huge tidal wave came crashing in; the hippocampus knew that feeling well. “I suppose I could always lean on the belief that we come back,” Ksyenia mused, cocking her head to the side. “Although I’ve never been close with that idea,” she snorted, shaking her head slightly. “Not that I don’t believe in the Gods...but...the idea that ONLY our kind are worth coming back as? It didn’t set right with me. I wouldn’t want to be a Pegasus in our current climate, but I wouldn’t believe that they’re unworthy of the Wave Mother’s love either. If...that makes sense,” she trailed off, not sure if she was babbling or speaking truth at the moment.
“I just mean...I don’t think that reincarnation to become a better species exists. I think if it does, it’s to become better than you were as a soul, not a body.”
With this, Ksyenia fell silent once more, flushing under her fur. She didn’t want to push too far and snap her new friend, breaking their tie when they were just beginning. But she felt safe to say these things, which made her more bold than usual.
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Post by Prismaticlysm on Apr 12, 2021 10:44:54 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher "I'm with you there," Lulu started, twitching her ears to the sounds of the pouring rain. "While the idea of coming back is enticing, there is something...I don't know, toxic...about the idea that hippocampus are the only ones who can come back." She paused, then started again to clarify, "What I mean is, hippocampus being that which is reincarnated." She nodded her head again, taking in a deep breath of rain cooled air. "I think Cascade made it clear our biases were, for lack of a better word, unintelligent." She might have used 'stupid', but she was having an intellectual conversation and wanted to use that delicious vocabulary of hers.
"Exactly! To become a better you, not a better species. A better species doesn't exist." She took in another breath. "I never liked the sacrifices. Especially since...well, I have only had good experience with Pegasi. Well...non-terrorist ones." She shook herself, shoving back the trauma from Torrine.
"I just wish this mindset was easier to speak to with others. Unless they are...well, different, like we are, they don't seem as open minded. Like my mom..." She looks over to Kysenia with a frustrated look on her face.
"My Grandparents almost ruined my mothers life. When my mom was born, she was born a pegasus with a simple pair of wings. She wasn't even five minutes old when my grandmother cut off her wings to save her from a life of oppression. My grandfather was a sacrifice obsessed zealot, a pegasus himself, and he wanted to prepare my mother for becoming a potential sacrifice and, if it never happened, have her remove her wings herself. So when my grandmother, a common horse, came home with a common horse filly, he left her." The small mare let out a little hiss. "And my grandmother thought it was a great idea to raise my mother without the knowledge that she was a pegasus herself." Ilhuicaatl trembled faintly with rage. "My father was a hippocampus, so when I was born, all was well. When my brother was born...well, he turned out to be a pegasus. My mother had no idea what happened but she wasn't an adulterer." She took another deep breath to calm herself. It had been years, but the pain of it all still bothered her to this day.
"Had my grandmother not kept a diary...had not left some shred of truth, my mother would still be bearing the brand of infidelity. Of course, my father left, uncaring as to the truth." She turned to look to Kysenia, her expression pained.
"This is why I care so much about our plight. If I don't live to see change, I already know it's on it's way and I have to hope it continued for the better. For Pegasus like my lover, mother, and brother. And for horses like us who just want to love and be loved." She turned away again, tears burning the corners of her eyes. She got so passionate again...thankfully though, with a safe horse she could call a friend.
Now it was her turn to burn under her fur.
She had never told anyone, not even Gilda, about what happened with her mother. The whole situation had been swept under a rug, a secret that she carried for so long on her small shoulders. Clearing her throat, shaking her head, she apologized. "Sorry. I really don't get out a lot." |
POST COUNT: 8
WORD COUNT: 571
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Post by Kelpie-River on Apr 27, 2021 8:08:51 GMT -6
K S Y E N I A
9 | 229
Ksyenia’s eyes filled with pain, sympathy despite not being able to fully understand, to fully fathom what Lulu’s family must have been through. It was terrible, what had happened to her mother, and it made her body shake with unspent anger and fear for the mare who had been so kind as to treat her injuries in the past. She remembered little about Lulu’s mother, but had the overwhelming impression that no horse, especially not one kind enough to heal others, deserved that sort of treatment. It was appalling, what their country had done, had pushed horses to become. Some loving the idea of being chosen, being honored. Some so disgusted that they bear not the mark of wings.
It was terrifying to think that they were capable of such things.
“I’m...I’m so sorry to hear that,” Ksyenia said finally, her voice wavering as she spoke. “That seems like...a lot for you to have to bear, with your family’s secrecy and pain,” she added, nose wrinkling slightly at the idea of Lulu having to shoulder such a burden.
“But...thank you for sharing with me. I think we’ve got a lot of similar opinions...and this tale has only cemented that feeling for me,” Ksyenia said gently. “Hopefully, someday, we’ll be able to find a way to move forward, make a better world to live in.” Hopefully.
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Post by Prismaticlysm on May 3, 2021 22:38:04 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher "I think it made me stronger." Lulu admitted, though her mind went back to the vision that had crushed her thoughts for so long until very recently. That was a strange wound that was only beginning to heal. But her past regarding her family, those were old scars she was only too happy to put behind her. Or rather it would be easier to do so if things started to change in Aquore. "Please don't worry about it. To be honest, it feels good to actually talk to someone about it...to talk and not be judged for thoughts and feelings that are...how should I say...illegal." The small mare's lips curved into a sarcastic smile. She knew such talk could end up in their arrest, but she felt safe for once.
"I appreciate all that you have told me. I feel far less alone knowing at least one other horse has similar feelings and seems to view the world in similar light." She dipped her head, looking out of the gazebo to the rain that was starting to taper off. "I can't say the rain lighting up will last very long, but it might hold off long enough for you to get home. I wouldn't mind walking you there, I wasn't planning on returning home just yet; been cooped up for too long," she said with a rare laugh to her voice. |
POST COUNT: 9
WORD COUNT: 231
MENTIONS: -
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Post by Kelpie-River on May 5, 2021 19:33:15 GMT -6
Ksyenia listened to what Lulu had to say. It was nice that they had so much in common. And the black mare was hoping to find that someday, maybe they'd discover that they had more. After all, it was probable that their opinions lined up on other matters as well. But the rain was lightening up, as she glanced at the sky outside the gazebo. And it was probably time to head home, get the herbs drying by the fire before it started to pour again. At the question of walking her home, Ksyenia's ears perked up, and she nodded, smiling softly over at her new friend.
"That would be fantastic," the mare said, standing up and stretching. "I would be grateful for the company. Though, I do have to say it's a short distance. And there, we must part, for I have neglected my work too long today," she laughed. "But...we'll see each other again, I hope?" To have a new friend meant the world to Ksyenia, and she was certainly not one to want to give up on the friendship after only one meeting.
WC: 187 || Post 10
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Post by Prismaticlysm on May 8, 2021 9:12:21 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher The small hippocampus nodded; it didn't matter how long or short the distance was, she almost felt it was her duty to ensure the branded mare reached her destination safely. "I won't keep you from your work any longer, of course. Perhaps when you have off some time, we can join up and talk some more. I rather enjoy intellectual conversations that are about hard topics." A smile crossed her pink lips as she finally rose from her place besides her new friend, allowing her hooves to touch the flooring of the gazebo once more. The small mare glanced over to the statue of Cascade who had bore witness to all the two mares had to say, and Ilhuicaatl wondered if the Wave Mother would be pleased or disappointed.
The last bits of rain fell, slow, rhythmic drops tapping upon the gazebo's roof above them. Lulu poked her head out of the entrance to their shelter as she looked up into the sky. There was an obvious break in the weather, but the clouds still roiled in the distance, threatening more rain. "We should be safe to proceed, so long as we are quick." Ilhuicaatl turned back to Kysenia, "It's a good thing your destination is close." |
POST COUNT: 10
WORD COUNT: 207
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Post by Kelpie-River on May 19, 2021 5:52:42 GMT -6
Ksyenia smiled. It was strange to have a friend such as this, but she wasn't complaining. The idea of having someone to talk to in her off time was...rather enticing, to be honest. She spent so much time alone, she'd almost forgotten what equine company was like. It was nice, to say the least. She exited the gazebo, stepping out into the meek sunlight that poured down, from between the heavy, roiling clouds. It appeared that the rain would be back soon, so Ksyenia took Lulu's advice to hurry to heart. She made sure not to take giant steps, so that the smaller mare could keep up.
"I'm glad as well," she said, snorting softly to make her point. "It would be no good to work all morning, only to have my efforts ruined by the rain," she pointed out with a small swish of her tail. "But...we should gather when it's not pouring down," she added, giving Lulu a side-eyed glance. "It would be excellent to get to speak on these matters again...or even just to chatter like broodmares," she laughed. "I've been so long without company, though, you may have to excuse some oddities."
WC: 199 || Post 11
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Post by Prismaticlysm on May 30, 2021 20:35:45 GMT -6
Art by: me
Ilhuicaatl - "Lulu" Talori - Philosopher Lulu felt a little better to be leaving Cascade's statue behind, though she had a feeling, what with the changing of the Talori Traditions, their conversation wouldn't necessarily anger the Wave Mother. Falling into step besides Kysenia, the tiny hippocampus nodded. "Everyone has their quirks, I can assure you. Myself included." Ilhuicaatl's lips curved into a small smile as she trotted alongside the larger mare, "Hopefully the coming days are nice and sunny, as I did plan on getting out more before I met you. Now I have an even better excuse."
And in fact, walking alone wasn't at all enticing. Book had always been her friend and during those times she brought her books to the shore, she was still alone. She never had much of a reason to go outside for others. Until now, that is. She was glad for it. A real friend.
"I have to be honest, I never quite chatted like a broodmare before, nor did I think it was all that interesting." She paused, flicking a couple of tentacles, "But I think it would be kind of fun. Having normal conversations, not necessarily work related or, dare I say, rebellious." Golden eyes flickered mischievously as she glanced up at her companion. "I certainly would like to get to know you more, you are very interesting." |
POST COUNT: 11
WORD COUNT: 221
MENTIONS: -
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Post by Kelpie-River on Jun 14, 2021 6:50:36 GMT -6
Ksyenia nodded, flushing slightly under her fur. She was not so used to being the center of attention, and it made her feel strange to think that someone wanted to talk with her. But it was a good strange. So she smiled, as she reached her home's front step, and stopped. The journey had been a rather short one, with their rolling strides as they chatted along, and she was sad to see it come to an end. But a temporary end, she reminded herself. Realizing she hadn't said anything in reply, the mare let out a small chuckle, and stated, "Well, I'm looking forward to getting used to knowing you as well." With this, she gave Lulu a smile and a dip of her head. "This is me, but...thank you for walking me," she said, sounding truly grateful.
"It will be good to see you again, when our paths next cross," the mare said, smiling softly. "I'm happy enough to make new friends, if they're all as interesting as you." With this, she turned to go inside. "See you around," called the black horse over her scarred shoulder, feeling a rush of pride and joy as she nosed the door open. She had a friend!
WC: 207 || Post: 12
(Think this one's bout wrapped up too)
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