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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 5, 2016 13:42:25 GMT -6
It’s been almost three months since the attack on your home, but even still you are plagued by strange dreams and sleepless nights. In fact, this last week in particular has been filled with the same recurring dream- The sea goddess herself whispering to you, sending you on a quest for truth. You don’t know what to make of it, but you feel drawn to seek out answers in the wilds.
Event Journal//
Premise Journal// Hello Starborn, and welcome to Plot 205: Celestial SecretsTeam Leader: Sven Co-Leader: Kenneth Participants: Cygnet, Vaena, Sinclair, Luna, Laurens, Heidi, Seven, Thalassa Post Frequency: Multiple times weekly
Please keep the following in mind!- Posts must be a minimum of 175 words. There is no maximum! - No strict order is enforced, but there must be at least two posts between your own character's posts. - AP/CS/FVR Rewards are based on the post frequency you signed up for. Check the chapter journal for earnings! - If the post frequency you signed up for is faster than the plot is designated, you can either revert to the lower amount, or commit to posting more than the others. - If the post frequency you signed up for is slower than the plot is designated, you can bump up to the faster speed if you choose, but you're still only required to do the speed you signed up with. - Your team is precious. Don't let anyone feel left behind! Try to interact with everyone. <3 - Have fun! Even if your pony isn't. 8'D
Once the team leader has posted, you may begin posting as well! |
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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 5, 2016 19:54:38 GMT -6
Sven
Talori Entertainer
Sven woke with a jump as if a jolt of electricity had run through him. Sweat coated his brow, and his breaths came out in short, panicked pants. His room was pitch black, and he squinted into the darkness in order to make out the figure in the bed beside him. A rush of relief washed over him as the blankets beside him rose and fell as the dark mare beside him breathed peacefully in her sleep. For the past few months, Passoa had taken refuge in his home ever since she had arrived on his doorstep in need of help and safe place to stay, and while the reason behind the arrest warrant that had brought her back to his humble abode remained unknown to him, Sven had a feeling that it wasn’t as bad as she probably thought it was. She was rather mysterious when it came to subjects such as that or her past, but despite how little he knew of her past, he had grown quite fond of her company and wasn’t quite sure that there was anything that she could do to deter him. Gently moving the blankets higher onto her shoulders, he sighed in relief at the fact that she was still there. As long as she was there with him, the Guards wouldn’t find her and take her away, and better yet, those extremists probably wouldn’t get to her either. At least not over his dead body. It had been almost three months since the attacks after the solstice sacrifice, and yet his dreams were still filled with nightmares of those winged monsters attacking innocent children and spilling blood on the streets. The wound from one of their blades still stung at the very thought of them. Strangely though, they weren’t the ones haunting his dreams. For the past few nights, the same dream seemed to be plaguing his sleep. It had occurred time and time again to the point that he could almost hear the sea goddess’s alluring whisper to him in his waking hours like she did when he slept. It felt like she was beckoning him to follow her. The words she spoke were quiet and soft, like the quiet whispers of the tide. They were unintelligible, but he felt as though there was something that Cascade wanted of him, and it ate away at him day by day as he fought to ignore the growing desire to answer her. Passoa needed him… or at least that’s what he liked to think. He wanted to stay there and make sure she was safe and protected from this dangerous place that Aquore had become recently. Yet Sven wasn’t sure he could resist these feelings much longer. Curiosity and exhaustion from lack of sleep was driving him nearly mad, and he was sure Passoa was beginning to feel like something was wrong with him. With a tired sigh, the Entertainer rested his head back down on the pillows, comforted by Passoa’s warmth and the fresh scent of pine needles in her curly mane as he hoped to catch a few peaceful moments of rest before the sun rose. Sven hadn’t been able to stand it any longer. He was already wide awake before the sun peaked over the horizon, and he had come to the decision that he needed to find out what Cascade wanted of him or he risked going completely insane. When Passoa awoke, he had told her where he was going (or at least planned to go), and while she seemed skeptical about him following after simple dreams, it seemed that she understood that this was something that he had to do. “I’ll be back soon, and you better be here when I get back.” Sven said playfully as he placed a quick kiss on her lips before heading out the door. His legs carried him over the sandy beaches toward Inaria from his home on the shores of the Southern Gulf. That seemed like as good of a place as any to start this ridiculous quest that he had put himself on. If anyone asked him where he was headed, well… they’d probably think he was crazy. Oh yeah, I’ve been having these dreams where Cascade calls for me to follow her, and now, here I am! It sounded completely insane even to him, but all he had been able think about the past week were those dreams and Cascade’s voice calling him. Where he would end up, Sven had no idea but what he did know was he was being drawn down this path to find whatever it was that Cascade wanted him to find. It felt like some kind of subconscious pull down certain trails and roads like his body knew exactly where he was going. He was like a bird migrating south for the winter. Minus the fact that he had a feeling that this might be just a little bit different than that. As he traveled down the road, Sven’s gaze studied his surroundings, looking for anything amiss or different. The tropical landscape around him though was as ordinary as ever. No crazy horses jumping out of the bushes trying to attack him, no predators stalking him, not even the squawk of a bird could be heard. Just when he thought he was alone though, he heard the sound of hooves on the road ahead of him, and his head lifted up to investigate the stranger walking toward him. His eyes squinted in the harsh sunlight as he started to make out more shapes in the distance: more horses and some of them were familiar faces from that terrible day all those months ago. He stopped in his tracks with a nod of greeting toward the horses traveling his way, casting a few smiles toward the faces he recognized. “I have a feeling you all aren’t traveling just for fun.” Sven called out with a quiet chuckle to himself. At least he wasn’t the only one getting these crazy dreams it seemed, and if his gut was right, he had a feeling that they were all going to be in for a hell of a ride. [Post 1 l Word Count:1035] |
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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 5, 2016 19:56:28 GMT -6
 Checkpoint 1// As you set out, you are met by others who have also felt that something was amiss. As you talk amongst yourselves, you choose to travel together as you answer the call of your goddess. There is safety in numbers after all. |
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Post by strixx-variaa on Aug 6, 2016 14:29:43 GMT -6
She couldn't quite shake the feeling of awe permeating her unease. Nearly a full season's turn had taken the earth on its axis since her father had disappeared amidst the chaos of Nereida's Solstice. The weather had turned warm again, and Væna had even fewer answers now than she'd tentatively held through winter's end. Now the only possibility seemed to be that he had died either in the sea or on the rugged mountainsides, and in such a fashion as to prevent most folk from stumbling across his remains. It was hard, being grown. The little tawny mare saw his face under every cloak, around every corner, behind every dancing tree -- and of course he was nowhere. Væna ran The Pink Lady as if nothing had changed, but... ... it had. It had changed, and she didn't know how to live in this unsettled frame of mind all the time. The restaurant was all that remained of her old life, her normal life, her quiet life. It was a bastion of hope and of comfort, always open, always welcoming. Home, forever. And so when she locked its doors and bolted shut the shutters on every last window, knowing that she may not return for many moons, Væna wept as though a part of herself resided in the old wooden beams. (And, in a way, that was true.) Because of late, her father's face had been replaced by the Face of the Most Holy, and that was an odd thing. Væna was religious, but she'd never dreamed of a God before. And the dreams wouldn't go away. And they made her hair stand on end. And they made her stomach churn in the morning. And they tended to leave this little lingering sting in the back of her mind, like a nettle just gently brushing against the tail end of an idea that she couldn't quite see all of. And each time she saw Her Face, Væna felt the nettle sting a little sharper, a little quicker. Go on, child, it seemed to say. Go.And it was something she'd have never done if her father were still around, nor were it something she'd have ever done if Aquore hadn't felt so odd in the last few months, but he was gone and Aquore did feel odd and why the hell shouldn't she take risks? She couldn't break her father's heart if he was dead. (For the record, she never thought the last bit in conscious, full sentences; she could never be that callous, and she'd probably just break down crying again anyhow.) And so in the new light of morning Væna found herself on the road to Inaria, a wide path well-traveled but largely empty now. She had her keys and some food for her journey, and some money, and that was all. And some ears, too. Yes, two ears. Two ears which heard the muffled conversation of the only other travelers on this stretch of road, and some of them... Væna's soft pink eyes grew wide, but she turned away so as to not appear to be eavesdropping. Some of them were having a hushed, excited conversation about visions of the Mother. words: 533 notes: first post! tl;dr væ hasn't seen anyone she knows yet, but is on the road, and is casually trying to listen in on someone's (or a group of someones') conversation about the cascade dreams. i think she's only met cygnet IC in this group? but she'll introduce herself to everyone else in time, i promise <3 also here's her bio for easy reference! |
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Post by fynli on Aug 6, 2016 14:51:58 GMT -6
Three months ago, everything had been okay. Relatively, at least. Then the sacrifice came and Cascade was angry, and suddenly Luna was thrown into the fray.
Ever since that terrifying night, Luna's sleep had been plagued with horrible nightmares. During the day, she could keep busy by doing her duties: taking care of the palace, looking after the concubines, following her master's orders. Night usually was her safe haven when everything was settled down and quiet, but now it was her demons' playground. She spent countless nights staying awake and pacing the quiet palace halls, and it was starting to show. She'd resorted to purchasing a cloak and even a Familiar. The cloak hid her weary expression and William would distract her from her thoughts. It was a perfect combination and it helped for a while, yet not all good things last. While William's gentle songs helped her get to sleep, different dreams began to infiltrate her mind. It started off as quiet whispering, like the hushed wind after a storm. Then it got louder and Luna would wake in a cold sweat. One night she had awoken in such terror that it caused her to heave her dinner onto the bedroom floor, and she had William's annoyed chirping in her ears while she rushed to clean it up. The other nights weren't so horrible and she grew used to the soft voice in her head.
Be still, child. All will be well. Heed my instructions, and follow the others.
It took her a while, but Luna eventually came to conclusions that this was none other than the Wave Mother speaking to her. Oh if only her mother knew. Laelia would be absolutely ecstatic that the Goddess Herself was speaking to her own little moon. But her mother was still dead, and it only made her feel more lonely.
Now Luna walked along a path all too familiar. It had been months since she had traveled from her quaint village home to Inaria in search of work, back when everything was okay. No threat of war, and everyone was okay. Luna stopped in her tracks, turning a soft gaze back to where the palace lay, a sharp ache in her heart as she yearned to be back by Hawkeye's side. Everything was easier when she was following his orders. But she had a different quest now, yet she was uncertain where that quest would lead her. She wasn't sure if she wanted to know either. Her trust and faith in her Goddess was absolute, however. She would not let Cascade down.
As she walked down the path, she took note of other equines traversing in pairs or looking just as lost as her. With William tucked away in her cloak and being unusually quiet for once, she could listen and pick up other conversations. Luna recognized few, mostly from glimpses of horses that entered the palace or perhaps in Inaria. While some others were gathering to listen to what each other had to say about their own dreams, the mare shrunk back away from the majority, watching quietly from a distance.
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Post by swaggalatte on Aug 6, 2016 18:44:30 GMT -6
Kenneth
Agriculturalist
Pacing. Endless pacing. That was all that Kenneth could do as his mind raced, the lightning scar on his front shoulder stinging and causing his entire foreleg to feel numb. Although the injury happened three months previously, it still caused him issues on a day to day basis. Recently, along with whispers in his dreams, he had been returned to that night. Blood and screaming and destruction. He would wake up sweating, his muscles twitching, and all he could think to do was walk. He found himself up again in the early hours of the morning, his muscles aching and a headache forming at his temples. The whispers in his dreams continuously urged him to leave, but he knew he couldn't. He could not leave Isabelle here alone. Sure, she had her family, but what sort of a husband would he be if he just abandoned her? He'd be no better than his previously family. Kenneth could not put her through that. He knew who the voice belonged to. He knew he should listen. His thoughts were interrupted by a gentle pressure at his side, a soft scent of citrus enveloping him. "Are you having those dreams again, Kenneth?" Isabelle questioned, leaning her head gently into his neck. He nodded, sighing as they watched out the window at the growing light on the horizon. It was quiet for a few moments longer before either of them spoke. "I can't leave you," Kenneth whispered, still looking out the window. "I won't let our family fall apart like it did last time." "You aren't leaving forever, Ken. She would never ask that of you." Kenneth went to speak, but Isabelle interrupted, turning to look at him. "If Cascade is calling to you, you cannot ignore her. There is something that she needs from you. There are more powerful things happening here than us. If we are meant to be, my love, then she will bring you back to me." Her tone was sharp, but it held a hint of sadness. The possibility of him not returning was there, but she was right. He packed very few things, a small amount of food and water, an idol, and a trinket of Isabelle's. She watched him go, a passionate kiss and a long embrace being the send-off. Kenneth tried not to think too long about her, knowing that he would most likely change his mind if he thought too much of home. With heavy hooves, he started his journey away from home, unsure of where exactly he was going. He knew the area well enough not to get lost, or grown concerned with where he was, but he had no idea where his legs would take him. Eventually he grew hungry, and he knew he had to stop. Before he could, though, the sound of voices traveled on the wind. Kenneth slowly approached, taking in the figures that stood conversing in hushed tones. He recognized most of them, but there were a few that he had not seen before. "Morning, everyone," he greeted, the presence of others being a bit soothing to him. Post 1 || 521 words |
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Post by mariahwhy on Aug 6, 2016 22:21:18 GMT -6
Seven | Tenderfeet
Seven, seemingly in a deep though restless sleep suddenly sat bolt upright, blue eyes piercing the darkness of his room. Quietly he slipped from his bed and the house as he had every morning for the past week. Tiny hooves carried him down through the town towards the sea, his body a speck of light in the dim twilight. As with most of the Talorians who had suddenly lost all sense of peace and safety since the extremist attacks a few months ago, Seven's nights had been plagued by nightmares. Night after night he dreamed of being lost in a sea of black. Lightning bolts would appear out of nowhere, lighting up grisly, twisted faces in the shadows, only to plunge him into darkness a moment later. Each time one of the dream bolts would eventually strike him, and he would wake up sweating and crying to find the all too real spiderweb-like scar upon his rib cage. It had healed easily, and caused him no pain now, but the feeling of extreme shock was renewed with every nightmare. The normally outgoing colt had begun to change, the war taking its toll on the innocent. He was always tired. He tried to remain hopeful and happy, but it was forced. Simply a mask to hide the fear he felt thinking about that night outside the temple. And he couldn't help thinking about it. It was all anyone thought about, and his family was too self-involved to worry about his well-being. He spent more and more of his time curled up in the back of the Golden Temple. At first he prayed, but more and more he simply lay there, letting the silence envelope him. But a week ago things had changed. He had fallen fitfully into sleep, as the prospect of being met with lightning often kept him awake late into the night, but instead of the dark he was met with light. He was on the beach. There was nothing but sand and sea for as far as he could see. The skies were so blue, and he felt immediately lightened of all of his fears. He knew Cascade was here, though he could not see her. But he could hear... it wasn't a voice. It was the waves themselves. A susurrus rolled in and out with the waves. It was not words, and yet he knew they were speaking to him. They were calling him to come. To follow. Joy leaped through him as realization sunk in. The goddess was calling him to join her and his brother. They were coming to get him. He would finally get to join them under the waves, away from all of the tension of the city. He awoke, feeling more rejuvenated than he had in a while. The first rays of sunlight were just beginning to lighten the sky as he skittered down to the sea. He met few horses on his way, and paid little attention to those that he did. He was a colt on a mission. When he arrived to the beach he ran along the shoreline, only stopping when he had reached a certain spot: the spot where his brother had disappeared when he had gone to join Cascade as a hippocampus. This is where they would come to get him, Seven was sure of it. It never crossed the foal's mind to enter the water, though no one ever came. He stood there all day until the last rays of light had filtered out of the sky. And thus he kept his watch all week, both in his dreams and awake. He spoke to no one, and ate and drank only when he returned home for the night. Already lanky as a growing colt, he shed weight easily and his ribs began to show prominently. But his eyes gleamed brighter than they had before the dreams arrived. His hope had returned, and even if it would turn out to be wrongly placed that small spark was all a young foal needed. But the beach dream slowly changed as each night wore on. The voice in the waves became louder, clearer. It became obvious that it was a female's face - Cascade's voice. And though the message was always the same, on the last night the beach changed. Something in her voice made him turn around away from the ocean. Instead of just sand now he could see trees. And not palm trees but the jungle. It grew closer and closer. Or perhaps it simply grew larger, he couldn't tell. It stopped just before him, as if not daring to come closer, but daring him to go inside. The sky darkened immediately, and a lightning bolt struck the sand just behind him, waking him. On this morning he continued to his spot on the shore. When he got there he looked out on the water, just beginning to sparkle with sunlight. A smile crossed his lips. Perhaps they weren't coming for him yet, but Cascade herself was entrusting him with something else. What it was.... well, he didn't really know. But his goddess had asked it of him, and he had accepted. He turned away from his post, and trotted up the nearby path. He wasn't entirely sure where he was going, but it felt right. He was even more sure when he saw another horse on the path ahead. No, several horses! He bounded ahead, no pretense of secrecy surrounding him. Now that his spirit had been renewed even his lack of sleep and food could not stop him, much less the fact that he knew very few of the horses here. He would have talked to anyone about the Wave Mother at the moment. "I've had the most amazing dreams!" he called bluntly. He pulled up just short of crashing into the group, remembering his manners only at the last second. He dipped his head quickly to his elders, before looking back up at them. "Cascade has called me to go on a mission!" The last word was said in a stage whisper, as if he had tried to add some shroud of mystery but failed. Maybe they will help me. Having adults might be helpful! he thought, never once assuming that they would have been brought to this spot for the same reason. He was quite used to older horses brushing him off as overly imaginative. No matter. He'd go either way, and it would be them losing out on a fun adventure if they didn't. (Post 1 : 1,092 words) |
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Post by posy-punch on Aug 7, 2016 13:00:45 GMT -6
S I N C L A I R C A S I M I R ❧
Sinclair had to take time to heal from the last injuries she sustained at the hooves of the dissenters. The gash in her neck had healed with the help of gifted Clerics, but remained hairless and visible. It was horrible for Sinclair, for every time she looked into a mirror or at her reflection she saw the mark of turmoil on her neck. A wound brought upon by a rift in the herd and backlash from it. Then in the following weeks she began to get the same recurring dream, and for once she trembled in the wake of a voice. It beckoned to her, the voice of a dove, with the power of a roar. And yet, it still seemed soft and inviting. Divine, and godly it was. One thing and another. Nevertheless, Sinclair experience fear of her Lord. For Cascade was a force to be reckoned with, one that you must heed, one that you must listen carefully to.
So when once again, three months after the initial riots, Sinclair was plagued by this dream she felt electrified. She felt called to go, finally seek her god. So, the mare did what her dreams asked and rose up from her comely bed in Zenith's empty brewery. She kept the place tidied and free of robberies while the horse was in Torrine. A place that, while Sinclair understood the purpose of and slightly agreed with, seemed excessive to the pale and gentle mare. She missed her employer greatly, but today was the day she'd take a "short" leave. She quietly scribbled out a small note for Zenith, should the horse come back soon, and then left, locking up the shop and home. The first step she took into the warm and slightly humid air was what freed her. She was like a bird set free from it's cage, except she'd built her cage of loyalty herself and finally had decided to become lax about it. But, only for her Goddess.
"Go." The word echoed in her dreams, showing her the jungle of the Wilds. Showing her perhaps one of the only places Sinclair feared wholeheartedly, and putting that fear to ease. Cascade wanted her to find or visit something, and so she would do so. Her pale hooves clipped on the cobble streets, mostly empty, as the sun was only just rising, but as she got closer to the beaches, she noticed Sven –a horse she respected, especially so since the fight not so long ago.
"Greetings, Sven, I take it, you too are having a troubled sleep." The mare didn't feel opposed to just talking about her dreams with the other horse. Someone that, while they were only mere acquaintances, she trusted more than any other besides perhaps Zenith. "It's like our Mother is calling me, telling me to go someplace. I've finally heeded her call, I feel," and though she was talking to him about her dream, she did not expect him to say that he too, had experience the same with only the slightest differences. The mare felt her heart flutter as soon as Luna, another servant, but one in the Palace, appeared on the road just a little ways off, just calmly watching. Sinclair felt that of all the horses around, it was perhaps Luna that she thought she'd get along with best. Comfortable silence and understanding went a long way with Sinclair. When she looked away from Luna, however, she looked right to another familiar face. This time, Kenneth. "Morning, everyone." He greeted them simply as if he'd already known what they were talking about, and that he probably did. She was not given time to properly greet the agriculturist before a shrill voice pierced their small cluster.
"I've had the most amazing dreams! Cascade has called me to go on a mission!" And Sinclair's surprised frown softened to a small smile as she returned the little one's dip of the head. "Come now then, we have to, join our circle while we decide what to do." Her voice was like honey and her eyes gentle as she moved aside a bit to let the small Seven situate himself neatly within their group.
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Post by strixx-variaa on Aug 7, 2016 16:55:33 GMT -6
"I'm -- I'm sorry, excuse me, but -- I overheard, and -- "
Væna approached them now. She was sure of it.
She glanced around her at the faces she didn't know, feeling the hesitation in her breast and thinking for one wild moment that there must have been some gene she didn't get from her father which prevented her from adventuring all these years.
It was hard not to whisper the words, "I've been seeing Her, too."
There, thought the little tawny mare. There. Done. Introduced.
Well, not quite, but the proper introduction had its foot in the door now.
There was not a single familiar face among them.
One mare, pale like the moon and looking just so serene, reminded Væna of her late mother. Another one, pale through the white markings lapping at her sides, projected a similar sort of quietness. She looked at these two more than she looked at the others, for she felt that they might best of all understand without words the unease in her breast and the natural shyness she worked so hard to overcome. It was only within the four walls of her restaurant that Væna felt truly at ease and in control of her environment (and the people in it, by proxy), but those walls were many miles behind her now, and she felt naked.
"Can I come with you, wherever you're going?"
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notes: second post! :) |
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Post by fynli on Aug 7, 2016 22:26:24 GMT -6
Equines continued to gather and Luna's anxiety jumped to her throat. Her mouth was gaping in a silent gasp and she felt frozen. There was still time; she could turn back if she wanted to and pretend like none of this happened... Yet she would be disgracing her Goddess.
She felt her skin prickle as someone laid eyes on her and she found the source. Another mare, paler than her, was looking at her and a jolt went through Luna's body as she recognized her. While she hadn't seen her old employer in Cascade knew how long, she had seen the roan with this mare by her side on her occasional trips outside the palace. Luna remembered through her fear that Zenith was outside when the extremists attacked, and she felt horribly guilty for not keeping in touch. Swallowing a thick ball of nerves in her throat, she edged her way over to the group, but only to be close enough to Sinclair. "Excuse me," she murmured, just loud enough for the mare to hear. "You work for Zenith, right? How is she? Is she safe?" While Luna was not too keen to show emotion, there was a certain desperation in her eyes that peeked out under her hood.
As she stood beside the mare, she took notice of the other horses. A child was among them, and Luna regarded him warily. Nothing against him, children were just... Wild. She smiled slightly as he took up the attention of the group, quietly glad that she wasn't noticeable.
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Post by GingerBlues on Aug 7, 2016 23:18:54 GMT -6
Thalassa
Talori Cleric
It had been almost three months since the fateful attack that almost brought Aquore to it's knees, and ever since that day, nothing felt right. Everything the Talori stood for, coming into question after just a few words screamed by an angry bystander that would sparked a rebellion, throwing the herd into chaos. Many of her own sisters, mares who had also taken up the calling to become a cleric, had been rounded up in one swift movement. Taken to the gated community of Torrine, where they, along with other citizens who had strayed a bit too far from Cascade's path could be watched, but also protected from those who couldn't understand. It was a terrible time for the country she loved so dearly, and Thalassa wasn't the least bit surprised when he sleeping hours became fraught with nightmares. What was surprise, however, was that her nightmares shifted to one singular dream over the past week- The Wave Mother speaking to her. At first, the spotted mare didn't think much of it, as many Clerics had dreams and visions of the great sea goddess; but as the week drew on, it became clear that this was something out of the ordinary. She first thought of attempting to Bring it to the Divine's attention, but the holy mare seemed rather preoccupied with the trial that would soon be taking place. So instead, she chose to attempt to seek answers on her own, going to the place she felt Cascade was drawing her to- the Wilds. It was early morning when she left the comfort of the Temple, walking down the massive sets of steps with a sense of renewed purpose. What she would find in the wilds was a mystery to be sure, but Thalassa would do anything to get a sense of peace and a good night's rest once more. As she made her way along one of the worn paths the Agriculturalists frequented, the familiar sound of voices reached the mare's ears. Strange... She thought, approaching with a bit more caution than before. Most of the herd avoided the Wilds like the plague for good reason, and the Agriculturalists who did venture into the Wild's dangers never made this much unnecessary noise. Flicking her ears forward, Thalassa's ears caught the voice of a small child as he spoke.
"Cascade has called me to go on a mission!"
The mare tilted her head slightly, listening in as she tentatively approached the voices, which she could now see belonged to a decently sized group of equines. Many of the faces she had seen in passing, as she had tended to most of Inaria's population at one time or another, but none of them were horses she knew personally. Even still, it quickly became obvious to the cleric that she was not alone in her dreaming. Each of the other equines gathered here seemed to be discussing a similar call, one they all felt drawn to answer. Though mildly dissapointed that the Wave Mother's message hadn't been entirely unique to her, Thalassa was relieved to know that she would not be alone in this venture. Inhaling deeply, the mare stepped into an opening within the circle and dipped her head slightly in greeting, smiling slightly as her eyes caught the small form of the unicorn child who had spoke earlier. Seven. Though she didn't know the child on a personal level, she had stopped in on his family many times, and had even presided over his twin's funeral. The tender youngling had already been through so much, and it worried the mare that he was here for such a dangerous mission. Then again, the gods worked in mysterious ways, far beyond mortal understanding, and Thalassa was not about to question them. It was then she noticed a few eyes glancing her way and the realization that she had just walked into the group uninvited and hadn't even introduced herself. "Oh goodness, where are my manners..." She chuckled softly before speaking once more. "Good morning, my name is Thalassa, and though I recognize many of you, I'm afraid I don't know many of your names." She smiled brightly, looking around the group. "I couldn't help but overhear some of your discussion as I approached, and it would seem that we are here for similar reasons. I too have been hearing the great Sea Mother's voice in my dreams for at least a week now, calling me to venture into the wilds. Forgive me if I'm mistaken, but I assume you are here to do the same?" The spotted mare tilted her head to the side slightly in anticipation as she awaited an answer.
Posting Frequency Commitment: Once a Week
(May post more often if time permits)
[Post: 1, Word Count: 769 ]
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Post by BlueUnicornJ13 on Aug 8, 2016 4:46:15 GMT -6
Sven | Talori | Entertainer
Sven watched as more and more horses seemed to appear. Their ears pricked and eyes round with curiosity as some began to speak of their reason for traveling this far. The young stallion gave Kenneth a friendly nod of his head, remembering fighting alongside the older stallion all those months ago to defeat that retched extremist. His nightmares were still plagued by her screams and the final thud she had made on the cold, wet ground as she was dealt one last blow.
They formed a loose circle as more joined them, warily approaching the strange scene. "Good morning, Kenneth and Sinclair." He muttered when the mare approached. While both of them were acquaintances, it was a relief to see familiar faces. His ears perked up with interest as she began to describe the strange dreams she had been having of Cascade's call and nodded his head. "I've been having them too. It seems there are a lot more horses having these dreams than I imagined when I left this morning." His olive green eyes wandered over the group that was forming. His head turned to look down at a familiar, unicorn colt as he trotted up. A playful grin crossed Sven's lips at the foal's enthusiasm, and he bent down to talk back to him in a hushed tone. "Really? Cascade must have a really big plan for you, bud. Do you want to be apart of our super special, super secret team to try and figure out what exactly Cascade wants us to know?" Sven asked him with a playfully raised brow. While others were intimidated by foals, he absolutely loved them. He supposed it helped having five younger siblings that he had babysat and played with growing up, but he had always found their company enjoyable and fun.
His head lifted from speaking with the young colt as he heard a stuttering mare shyly approach them. The Entertainer offered pink eyed mare a friendly smile, giving her a nod of approval when she confessed that she too had been having the same dreams as they had. "Of course. Come join our little pow-wow over here for now. We're still kind of letting everyone that's gonna show up come and deciding what exactly we need to do." Sven explained, tilting his head toward the makeshift circle they had formed on the path.
Allowing her to get ahead of him and join the rest of the group, his gaze swept over their surroundings, looking for any remained wanderers that wished to join them. When he was satisfied that the majority of them were there, Sven returned, standing beside Kenneth and Væna and listening to what everyone was saying. His head ached for a moment, remembering his own dreams more vividly. 'Follow me to where I need you to go, and they'll follow as well.' The sea goddess had said to him. It hadn't made sense at first, but now, with all of these horses standing here, he knew they shared the same mission. The young stallion cleared his throat, looking around at the gathered equine around him. "I think most of us are here now, and I'm pretty sure we're all here for the same thing. Cascade has been calling us in our dreams to follow her into the wilds. To find what? I'm not very sure, but if Cascade is sending us dreams, it must be pretty important." Sven spoke with a small smile on his face, his voice raised just enough for everyone in the group to hear him clearly. He was no leader nor was he any good at any kind of inspiring speeches, but at least he was used to speaking in front of large crowds! "Is everyone ready? I'm sure that if we're going into the wilds that this won't be any kind of luxury trip."
Word Count: 643 | Post #2
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Post by astrumnauta on Aug 8, 2016 11:18:08 GMT -6
Cygnet - Talori BrewerCygnet was dreaming again, Cascade whispering softly to her. More now than ever
Cygnet felt she needed to listen, she needed to follow.
Go to the group, child. Follow them
Cygnet woke startled and covered in sweat. The pale mare was breathing heavily,
she had only dosed off for minutes after an evening of brewing and now it was morning.
Cygnet looked out of her window and mused quietly to herself, she would have to move down to the
beach she should probably get a move on. The tall mare yawned and looked around wondering what
the mission would be, she rolled herself off the cushions she arranged on the brewery floor and flicked
her legs from under her to stand. She mooched around the place making sure nothing was left on.
Cygnet felt urgency to move to the beach, but she simply ignored it. If it was meant to be it would wait
She drank her morning cup of tea and closed her large wooden shop door, turning the brass key in the lock
and pushing the door with her nose to make doubly sure she had locked the door.
Cygnet quietly reflected on the past few months and the reoccurring dreams plaguing her. She let out a long
sigh and started towards where she felt she needed to go, she chewed her lip and wondered what Cascade had
set out for her. Maybe it something to do with this, that and the other. Surely she would find out when she joined
the others...The others? she wondered silently - where did she get that notion from. Cygnet snorted loudly and shook her
head clearing her mind from any thoughts left and quickened her pace towards the beach.
Once she got to the beach she could hear murmurings of dreams and she watched other equines whizz past her and join
the group announcing dreams and things they'd seen. She must have been in the right place? No other place felt right.
Cygnet moved towards he group edging nearer when she saw Vaena. She moved next to the mare and looked around the group,
many she did not recognise and many were introducing themselves.
"Uh, Hello all. I am Cygnet. I know Vaena here...but i don't know the rest of you. Im a brewer in Talori...Uhh...I'm a little bit late
I go apologise but have you all been dreaming of Cascade? I think i heard you talking about her"
Cygnet just looked around the circle of equines picking up bits and pieces of the conversation. She saw a child, who her eyes lingered over
Surely Cascade couldn't be sending them on a dangerous mission? She would be keeping and eye on the little Tenderfoot. She straightened up and little
and took a little breath looking around. She moved nervously wondering if she was in the right place, or maybe she was going a little bit mad
and had made up the whole notion in her head.
500 words
1st Post
Sorry I was late to the party guys.
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Post by posy-punch on Aug 8, 2016 11:24:44 GMT -6
S I N C L A I R C A S I M I R ❧
"I– I'm sorry, excuse me, but... I overheard, and..." Another mare approached the group, Væna, adding to their numbers. They were at a total number of what seemed to be four... for the moment. Sinclair met the mare's gaze, eyes softening as she noticed the other mare's nerves. "Come along, Cascade called you as well," Sinclair gave a small smile and made sure to give the other mare her space; consequently, it was at this moment another mare came closer. She kept herself removed from the main group, but had come close enough for Sinclair to hear her soft voice.
"Excuse me, You work for Zenith, right? How is she? Is she safe?" Sinclair twitched an ear before dipping her head to greet the other mare, "She is my employer. She was moved to stay in Torrine and I've not heard much of her since the move; I'm merely making sure the brewery is tidy and keeping it safe from robberies. Zenith should be safe though, she's got Farsight with her and he has my respect and trust." She noticed the mare had come closer to just standing next to Sinclair.
Then the thought came to her as well, "I have a brother, who's often in the Palace. He's stopped visiting because of the riots, but he's a Councillor. Do you know... what the situation is there?"
She couldn't even conceal her worry. "You may not know him, he likes to stay removed from everyone he can, the grump. His name is Cethin? Cethin Casimir." But it was at that moment that another mare joined their group, allowing Sinclair to shift again to give the aura of a welcoming presence. She waited for the mare to stop speaking before smiling again and softly introducing herself, "I'm Sinclair, and it seems to be so." She referred to the venture into the wilds. A dangerous journey, something Sinclair was not too keen on. Her eyes softened as Sven addressed both Væna and Seven. Such a welcoming stallion, very kind.
Then another mare joined the group, another Brewer if Sinclair recognized. She kept tabs on those much like Zenith. She was skilled at her work assisting them, and so she made sure to know who they were. Cygnet, the mare introduced herself as, another horse who had the same dreams. Sinclair nodded her head as a way to confirm the mare's words. They had all had the messages.
"I'm ready, but may we pray for Cascade's protection before venturing out. Our lord did send us here, after all." Sinclair spoke quietly, but loud enough for at least Sven to hear her. Even if her group prayer request was not granted, the pale mare could resort to whispering little lines as they journeyed. Sinclair shifted on her hooves, long white mane rippling on her neck, held up off the ground by the slightest touch of telekinesis. A skill of hers that was not strong at all, but that could do enough to keep her from tripping on her hair.
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526 Words
Post #2
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Post by mariahwhy on Aug 8, 2016 20:48:56 GMT -6
Seven | Tenderfeet
Seven beamed up at Sinclair as her motherly voice ushered him into the circle. He took to her immediately. She reminded him of his mother - well, in color anyway. His mother hadn't spoken so sweetly to him in many years. But the small similarity was enough to instantly put the foal at ease, though he hardly felt like a stranger in any situation. Thinking of his mother, he remembered what she so often told him - "This is an adult conversation, and it does not need the silly words of a foal." As the horses around him talked, he got the feeling that this was an adult conversation. And yet, Cascade had called him on the same adventure apparently. But, nevertheless, he held his tongue for a moment. It helped that he was constantly being distracted by the arrival of other horses. He knew few in the crowd. The big appaloosa had been at the temple that day. His name was... was... well, he didn't remember names so well. The paint stallion and the pale mare next to him had also been part of the battle. The others he didn't know, but he was sure they were great. Cascade would only call on the best to serve her. Sven echoed his thoughts, as Seven suddenly realized the stallion had bent down to address him. He leaned in conspiratorially, trying to keep a solemn, super serious look on his face though his tip tapping hooves gave away his puppy-like excitement. He wasn't able to keep the serious expression long before his face broke into a wide grin, and he nodded wildly. His gaze stuck to Sven as he stood up to talk with another approaching horse. The stallion had suddenly planted himself in Seven's mind as a great leader - the one who would lead Cascade's most trusted servants. He would have done anything that Sven said in that moment. But, now that the adult introductions has resumed, his short attention span was quickly distracted by another newcomer.... but this one was a hippocampus! He knew her. She said her name was Thalassa, but he already knew her - had known her for a long time. Not well, but... somehow she seemed often to be around. Her presence here now comforted him, as it did when she visited their home. Not to mention he had always loved her electric blue fins. He imagined them now, as he often did, lining his own body. His own bright blue eyes stared tactlessly at her even after her introduction had finished, and it wasn't until Sven started speaking again that he pulled them away. It was by some miracle of youth that he didn't give himself whiplash, nodding with each word that the paint spoke. His "serious" expression was plastered to his face again, light eyebrows knitted together thoughtfully. "I bet Cascade is in there! Or no, she'd be in the ocean, I guess. Maybe it's the Emperor! Or maybe some horse is in trouble and we have to save them! Maybe it's the Emperor who's in trouble..." his spoken stream of conscious trailed off, considering his own ideas. "But yeah! It'll be important!" "I'm ready!" he answered the rhetorical question, because if there was one thing he did know it was that he was ready. He was ready to follow Cascade. Even if he didn't know what a "luxury trip" meant. The white mare next to him spoke up again, and his eyes widened. Yes, of course! They must pray! He bowed his head instantly, waiting for someone to begin the prayer. (Post 2 : 577 words) |
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Post by sansatine on Aug 8, 2016 21:03:17 GMT -6
Laurens Lewis | Personal Assistant to Nagisa
The morning was still dark when Laurens woke. Nagisa was called to court and Laurens intended to see her off before taking advantage of her few days off. She was going to visit her brother, Ian, back home, but a stronger pull ached at her heart. In the night she had a dream. Cascade, her dearest god, called to her. Cascade spoke in many of her dreams, often giving guidance, but never had she manifested physically. She always appeared as the moon or the tide, whispering ever softly to her. For cascade to actually appear to her was astonishing, but what she told Laurens was far more. "Go. Follow the others. Follow your heart." was all she said before waking Laurens.
Laurens spent the remainder of the morning darkness praying. She prayed for guidance as always, but also to help Nagisa. She had a rough day ahead of her and Laurens knew a nice relaxing face mask would be called for when she returned. Either way, her morning prayer was finished and she went to see the trial begin before taking her own leave. She stopped at an alter and prayed again, as she often did, and continued out of Inaria.
The sun was fully risen and bright, but Laurens kept going. On the horizon she saw a group of horses- five or so- talking. She dared not inturrupt them, but she was curious. Follow them... Surely not them. Another them. As she drew closer and closer to the group, she gained an uneasy feeling in her chest, pulling her to the group. She was not yet within talking distance, but she was far too afraid to outwardly ask them of their purpose.
Please... someone make the first move...
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Post by astrumnauta on Aug 9, 2016 13:33:35 GMT -6
Cygnet- Talori Brewer.Cygnet was immediately put at ease by Sinclair's recognition and she bowed her head in a short thanks.
She looked at the mare and felt like she recognised her on some sort of level, she was trying to recall where.
Maybe she was part of the brewing community or she had bought from her stall. She snorted softly and chewed
her lip and looked away.
The little tenderfoot caught her attention again and she felt like he would have much to say, when he spoke again
she gave a soft smile "I'm ready!" he piped up and her smile broadened and she lowered her head slightly to get a better look at him,
She was about to introduce herself but a brown shape caught her eye.
She turned her head and looked at the mealy bay mare looking like she wanted to join their group.
Cygnet raised her head and left the group shortly walking over to the mare "Hello, have you been having the dreams too?
You look like you're meant to be here, My name is Cygnet. I think we're either about to say a prayer for protection or
plan what our next move is..."
Cygnet turned her head to look back at the group, they were an odd bunch to be thrown together, but it must be meant to be.
Cascade had a reason for bringing all these equines together, The breeze ruffled her overly long mane and she could smell
the salt. Strangely she felt totally at ease and exactly where she should be.
She turned her attention back to the nervous mare. Cygnet smiled and flicked her eyes to the mares face
"Has Cascade called to you too then?" Cygnet was at a loss for words now and dropped her eye contact.
What happened if the mare hadn't had the dreams, would Cascade mind her just coming along, but then again she was sure
Cascade was ushering all her chosen horses to this part of the beach. Surely the mare would make up another member
of their team on the unknown mission.
350 Words
2nd Post
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Post by swaggalatte on Aug 9, 2016 19:45:11 GMT -6
Kenneth Agriculturalist
The elder stallion could not help but smile as Seven bounded into the group, excitement practically dripping from every inch of his body. Whatever venture they would be having would shape this tenderfoot's life. Even if it was not a perilous journey, such a quest instructed directly from Cascade herself would be an impact. As the youngling stepped further into the group, Kenneth could not help but rest his eyes on the scar that matched his own. A wave of guilt washed over him. He had not been able to protect him on that night. He was caught off guard, and the tenderfoot had paid the price. He would have to keep a closer eye on Seven. The paint entertainer, Sven, he believed his name was, seemed to take a shining to the colt, and Kenneth was thankful that he would not be the only one monitoring him. More equines began to trickle in, and Kenneth could not help but notice how many mares there were. Most of them either shyly introduced themselves, or stayed back away from the group, anxiety keeping them at bay. A pang of sympathy squeezed his heart. It was going to be tough for them going on a journey like this. Ken listened quietly as they gathered, relaxing a bit as they all assured each other that they were having the same dreams. He introduced himself, confirming that he was definitely in the right place. Raising his head above the group, he glanced around, his eyes wandering across the beach. There did not seem to be anyone else around, but he felt they should not leave yet. " Does anyone have an idea of where we're going?" He questioned, trying to delay the trip a little bit, just in case there was anyone else that needed to arrive. Post 2 | 304 Words |
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Post by teapocaiypse on Aug 10, 2016 0:23:49 GMT -6
Heidi | Indentured Servant
Roughly three months had passed since the extremists had attacked Aquore. Not a day went by without Heidi being reminded of that horrible day, where Heidi, along with several others had been ambushed by the group of Revolutionary pegasi at the Temple's steps. Heidi couldn't remember the last time she was truly at peace, envying the ones who were at least able to get a good nights rest. During the day she was forced to remember those horrible days where outbreaks of violence were normal, and at night horrific dreams plagued her subconsciousness. Heidi would go without sleep for days at a time, stubbornly denying those haunting nightmares from entering her mind, but even when awake she couldn't stop the visions of blood pouring into the streets strewn with bodies.
Weeks had passed and sleep had come and gone. The nightmares were almost considered normal at that point, and yet she still woke up in a cold sweat. It was rather shocking when a new dream finally took over her mind one night, but she couldn't exactly be thankful for it. She remembered a hearing a whispering voice, so alluring and corrupting. She remembered the face of the almighty Sea Mother. It was Cascade, calling to her, drawing her out and toward the deep wilderness of Aquore.
Go. Follow them. Follow them.
When Heidi awoke, she was stunned, dumbfounded. What did Cascade mean? What did she want from Heidi? The grey mare couldn't wrap her mind around it, but Cascade's soft voice still whispered in her ears. She couldn't ignore her call. In the earliest hours of dawn, Heidi had set out, praying to Cascade for guidance. She followed one of the main travelling roads, keeping quiet but never failing to have her ears alert.
Today was no different, she walked alone to one side of the road, her long mane and tail swept into hairbands to keep it out of her eyes and from under foot. The common chatter of horses was normal to her at this point, almost soothing to listen to the quiet voices exchange stories and experiences. In all honesty, it wasn't of much interest to her. She had set out under Cascade's word, things would only effect her if they involved Cascade. However, to Heidi's surprise, when nearing a small group had settled not far ahead. Though it wasn't odd, Heidi couldn't be the least bit curious. Instinctively, she slowed her pace, keeping a calm and relaxed demeanor. With each step that brought her closer, Heidi halted when hearing a few discussing none other than Cascade. Could this be the them that she was talking about? She couldn't just assume.
Tentatively, Heidi drew herself towards the group, faintly recognizing Kenneth and Seven. The last time she had seen the two, it wasn't under good circumstances. They had all briefly met before the attack outside the temple. "Kenneth," She dared to speak out, advancing towards the older stallion, "I'm not sure if you remember me, but we sort of met outside the Temple that day of the ambush with the revolutionists. Do you have you any idea what happening here?"
Post: 1 | Word Count: 524
( So sorry it took me so long to join in! I had totally forgot ; o ; ) |
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Post by fynli on Aug 11, 2016 7:25:15 GMT -6
With a soft sigh, Luna lowered her gaze in remorse. So Zenith was in Torrine with all the other... criminals. Maybe it was because she was with that pegasus. No, Luna shook her head subtly, knowing it was unfair to deem every winged horse in Aquore to a lowlife. It wasn't their fault, right?
The mare continued to speak, drawing Luna away from her thoughts. Cethin Casimir? She recalled seeing someone with that name that night, but everything else was fuzzy. At the mention of the Palace's situation, she grew stiff. This mare meant no harm, surely, but she guarded the secrets of the Palace heavily. After that fiasco, who knew who would go out of their way to find a weakness in the heart of Inaria. Luna shook her head slowly, her voice low as she spoke, "Everything is fine, but I haven't seen your brother since after the attacks. I apologize." Her voice was soft but curt, suggesting that Sinclair shouldn't ask further.
As the unicorn colt continued to ramble on about their mission, Luna noticed others trickling in and introducing themselves. The small crowd was enough to jerk her anxiety back into gears, and she lowered her head to allow her hood to hide her face. God, did she hate crowds. The Palace was quiet enough that she didn't have to be around too many people, so this was just nerve-wracking. She knew no one here, except- the voice of a last mare piped up and she turned to see who it was. Heidi. A soft breath of relief left her body as she recognized the Divine's servant. It felt nice to recognize at least someone. She offered the mare a slight smile as Heidi joined the group, turning her gaze towards the stallion she addressed.
Words: 299
3rd post |
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Post by BlueUnicornJ13 on Aug 14, 2016 19:06:44 GMT -6
Sven | Talori | Entertainer
Sven listened to everyone talking around him, introducing themselves or connecting with old friends and acquaintances. There was a strange atmosphere hovering around their quiet chatter however. It was one that couldn’t quite be described. The one thing that he knew was probably buzzing in everyone’s mind including his own was uncertainty. Dreams like these were unheard of as far as he knew, and it felt even more concerning that Cascade wished for so many of them to go on… whatever this was. It must mean that they were probably in for some trouble if she chose so many of them for this task.
His ears turned toward the older, appaloosa stallion as he spoke. A frown of concentration created creases on his face while he thought. There was something in his dreams that was vivid enough to remember details: a path that he had traveled on toward... somewhere. The dream always seemed to end just before he reached his destination, but Sven remembered the path he had taken in his dreams quite well. “The Wilds. In my dreams, there was a path that I followed, and I feel... drawn to it. Does anyone else?” He asked the group, wondering if anyone else had shared the same details in their dreams.
When Sinclair asked for a prayer before they departed, Sven nodded his head at the white mare’s request. That seemed like a good thing to do especially since it was Cascade herself that had brought all of them here. Bowing his head, he waited for silence before praying. “Cascade, please give us your protection and further guidance to find what it is that you brought us all here to do, and please lend us your power to get through whatever difficulties may arise on our journey. Help us to fulfill your destiny for us. Amen.” Sven prayed, lifting his head again once he was finished to look around at the horses around him with a determined expression. It wasn’t the best prayer, but hopefully Cascade was feeling generous enough toward her chosen ones to answer them. “And if everyone’s in agreement with where we’ll be traveling, we should head out before it gets even hotter that it already is.” He joked slightly about the tropical heat that surrounded them even this early in the morning. It wouldn’t be long though before the midday sun would make it even worse if they stayed there much longer.
Word Count: 415 | Post #3
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Post by strixx-variaa on Aug 15, 2016 12:54:36 GMT -6
The Wilds.
That was as good a place as any, wasn't it? And the danger...
Why, the danger was something Væna relished right about now. Or at least, that's what she felt she ought to relish. Her sire could've respected that, she thought, having sometimes seemed more at home in the Wilds himself than most anywhere else, including his own family home.
In truth, though, the cacophony of voices and the closeness of these others -- all strangers to her, except for tall, lithe Cygnet, whose presence sparked a tiny ember of hope within Væna's heart and threatened to hold it burning there in the face of all rational thought -- the closeness of them was on the verge of sending the little tawny mare into a panic.
So many faces she didn't know, some speaking to her, some looking at her. If they'd been her patrons, she'd have embraced them with an easy smile and something witty to whet their aural appetite, but she was far from home and she knew it.
And they knew it, and that was probably worse.
"Fine by me," she muttered, wide-eyed, speaking so quietly that she didn't truthfully expect to be heard, and speaking at all only because she felt almost required to do so.
The anxious restaurateur sidled her way away from the group a little, and more towards Cygnet, desiring both distance and familiarity and achieving both in small parts under the pretext of braiding her long blonde hair tightly down her crest in preparation for their journey.
Their journey.
words: 258
notes: third post! :) |
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Post by sansatine on Aug 15, 2016 19:46:23 GMT -6
Laurens Lewis | Personal Assistant to Nagisa
Her face became hot when the mare addressed her outright. She stuttered a bit, still in shock. Cascade, my goddess, you surely work in strange ways. Laurens gathered herself before actually replying to Cygnet. She was so shy, but she tried to push those feelings to the back of her head. Cascade called her here for a reason, there is no time to be wary, Laurens.
"Yes, I have had some dreams about Cascade. She calls to me, and pushes me down a familiar path... I've asked for guidance from her, but none yet comes." she replied, beginning to ramble. "I'm sorry, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Anastasia, but please call me Laurens. I work under Nagisa, the councilor."
The group began to chat, and a stallion asked, “The Wilds. In my dreams, there was a path that I followed, and I feel... drawn to it. Does anyone else?” A path? Laurens thought. She felt the strongest urge to head homeward, through the woods and grass, but in her dreams, the path changed from the one that took her home to an unfamiliar, dark one. It gave her this sense of uneasiness, but now that others were there, maybe it would be less difficult.
"Yes!" she declared, realizing she was in her head again and regretting her volume. "Yes, I have been drawn to the wilds..."
Laurens removed herself slightly from the group as they prayed. She stayed quiet longer than the others, silently adding to the stallion's Prayer. She prayed for safety, for guidance, for cool weather, for anything that came to her mind. Cascade would protect them on this journey.
She always did.
284 words
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Post by swaggalatte on Aug 16, 2016 13:58:13 GMT -6
Kenneth
Agriculturalist
He turned his head to the mare that addressed him, studying her features. She seemed familiar in his mind, although he could not be certain. After pondering for a minute, recognition clicked in his head. She was there with Seven. A smile grew on his face and he nodded a greeting. " Ah, yes, I do remember," he replied, then glanced around at the other gathered equines. " Cascade gathered us here. We seem to have all had similar dreams or visions of her." His answer was short, but he figured that idle chat would not be preferable in this time. He had just managed to catch the tail end of Sven's statement, and Kenneth perked up a bit. The Wilds. He had been to the wilds before, more particularly as a younger stallion. He had not been to the wilds since before the revolutionists attacked, what with his shoulder injury. Kenneth could feel all of his nerves tingling in anticipation. He craved the long journey, the tension of awaiting for something to happen. He assumed that they would be traveling to a place that he had never been before, and that did not help with his excitement. As they bowed their heads, Kenneth added a few more quiet things, muttering the end of the prayer under his breath so just he would hear. "Keep Isabelle safe as I am absent from her, and make our path straight and true as we follow your guidance." His heart ached for only a moment and the thought of leaving Isabelle behind. He dared not ponder on it too long. Post 3 || 267 Words |
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Post by mariahwhy on Aug 16, 2016 14:21:30 GMT -6
Seven | Tenderfeet
Seven kept his eyes screwed shut, waiting for a prayer to begin. But the low rumble of conversation continued, and as another set of hooves approached he popped one eye open to see who had joined them now. Ah - another familiar face! He'd met her outside of the temple with the appaloosa - oh, yes, Kenneth! His other eye opened, and he flashed the white-faced mare a broad grin. He couldn't remember her name, but maybe Kenneth would say it, as she had said his. He would have to ask the others their names. That was supposed to be considered good manners, after all. But all of the other horses were currently engaged in conversation, whether speaking or listening to someone else, so he'd have to wait. Surely he'd have plenty of time to talk on their journey. The colt suddenly realized that the group had grown quiet, and he frowned, wondering what was wrong. But as others closed their eyes, he realized the prayer was starting, and he quickly ducked his head, eyes shut. He listened intently to the paint stallion's words, internalizing each one. "Amen!" he answered when the prayer ended. Cascade would be so happy that so many horses had accepted her journey - surely she would protect her servants. "Yeah, let's go! he called immediately as Sven suggested it. He would have left at any moment, hot or not. Foal's rarely noticed temperature when so excited, and Seven was no exception. All that mattered to him right now was answering Cascade's call with these other Talorians. Nothing would slow him down, least of all the stifling sea air. His hooves, which had remained still simply out of reverence during the prayer, began prancing again. The colt looked around excitedly at his herd members, wishing to share the good fortune of this mission with them all. His large, blue eyes traveled over each horse, trying to assess who he would like to walk with. It was certainly a hard decision, though - they all seemed so cool! He would just have to switch between them, he guessed. The colt never even assumed that he might be a nuisance to some. (Post 3: 364 words) |
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Post by astrumnauta on Aug 17, 2016 2:04:58 GMT -6
Cygnet - Talori BrewerCygnet watched the mare who called herself Laurens, she simply nodded and gestured for her to join the group.
She felt she had already said enough and the mare looked a little overwhelmed by all her talking. Cygnet turned and
wedged herself in next to Væna, touching her nose to the small mares shoulder "It's nice to see a friendly face"
She said softly giving a warm smile and looking around the circle.
Cygnet looked uncomfortable when the prayer started, but closed her eyes. Religion didn't play a big part in her
life but she wouldn't stop others if it made them feel a little better, but maybe this time she could say a small
prayer
"Just keep us all safe, you've brought us here Cascade and if anything life threatening happens, I shan't be pleased"
Cygnet flicked her eyes open and thought about the gathering of equines. They were just going to move. They had no
plan, they didn't really have many supplies apart from the few potions she had stored on her, what protections
from the elements did they have?
"Can I make a suggestion before we move at all?" she paused and looked around the circle
"We need a vague idea of who's going to lead us, can everybody swim?
Because I would dread to find out somebody couldn't swim when we were neck deep in water. I have
a feeling anything to do with cascade would be something to do with water - I might be wrong."
She paused again and arched a brow.
"Or is everybody happy just to let cascade lead us and we hope she doesn't throw anything lethal at us?
I might be being stupid, but we haven't really discussed anything, just introduced ourselves and let's go."
Cygnet wouldn't back down on this, she hated to be the pessimist but she had to question going without really
communicating with each other, and other equines had just arrived. It was all good being ready, but Cygnet
wasn't ready just to throw herself into the wilds. She raised her head, and sighed softly.
Post 3
Words: 355
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Post by strixx-variaa on Aug 18, 2016 12:50:20 GMT -6
I don't feel anything.
Væna stayed on the edge of the group on the road, staving off a panic attack. I just... don't.
She was beginning to doubt herself, and to doubt her plan to leave The Pink Lady and follow -- follow what? Follow her heart? Follow the calls of her God? Follow some base instinct?
Because it had felt like a command, like a true calling, but only briefly, and only until she'd gotten far enough away from home that her self-confidence started to wane.
Now it felt like a trap.
All these people seemed to feel something still, something telling them where to go and who to trust and Væna felt none of that security. And she was just about to lose her damn mind trying to go along with it.
"Why the Wilds?" she blurted out, skipping her own insecurities over the calm water that was Cygnet's level-headed concern. "I -- I have seen Her face, and I have felt the call, but -- but why the Wilds? Why not go to Inaria, to the temple? Or to Her sacred waters? Or to the sea? Or to -- "
She almost couldn't say the last bit, but in the breath of her hesitation the little mare realized that now she'd called attention to herself regardless, and she'd look even more foolish if she didn't finish her thought.
" -- or to the Leap?"
words: 232
notes: fourth post! so not knowing the checkpoints etc i fully recognize that this might be a terrible idea, but i thought maybe provoking discussion would be cool, idk. also, i'm really sorry for my inactivity. my horse has been struggling with his health since last thursday, and i've been spending a lot of time with him. |
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Post by BlueUnicornJ13 on Aug 18, 2016 17:01:21 GMT -6
Sven | Talori | Entertainer
Just as they were about to head out, voices from within the group began speaking up, questioning this and that. Sven blinked his tired eyes. Gosh darn, this lack of sleep that had been plaguing him. He hadn't really thought about what dangers there might be or if they should talk about it now or as they wandered towards whatever Cascade was wishing them to do. Sven looked toward the grey mare who had spoken up and chuckled. "You're not being stupid. I guess I just got a little too enthusiastic about getting to the bottom of these dreams that I didn't really stop to think about anything dangerous that might happen and figured we'd figure it out as things happened. These dreams have been driving me crazy." He admitted, shrugging his shoulders. He wasn't much of a worrier. If Cascade wished for them to do this task, then she'd open up the path for them to do so, but they couldn't leave until everyone was in the same boat. "Does anyone happen to have any combat training or experience in traveling?" Surely having a couple of horses with skills like those would be helpful and ease the minds of anyone having any kind of doubt. "And swimming might be a thing we have to do. I know I'm a pretty good swimmer." He spoke, looking around at the group to see if anyone would speak up about either their inability to swim or something else alarming.
His head swiveled to a unicorn mare that was obviously having some kind of meltdown over all of this, not that he blamed her for it at all. This was a lot to process, and it would take even more effort to actually do. "Some of us have seen a path in our dreams and feel... drawn to it." He tried explaining the feeling that he felt in his gut, a feeling that they needed to travel into the unknown depths of the jungle that was the Wilds. "I remember the vines and jungle around me as I followed Cascade's voice through the brush, and I also remember traveling through a bog of some sort. Maybe I'm wrong though and don't remember right, but that's just what I feel and remember." The painted stallion said, offering the mare a kind grin.
"I know this is really intimidating. I totally get it. I'm pretty nervous myself actually, and I'm not the type to worry about anything at all." Sven chuckled, casting her a playful smirk. "What I'm trying to say is, if Cascade didn't want each of us here, we wouldn't have had those dreams. We'd be tucked into our beds and safe at home, but she chose us for this mission for a reason. She knew each of us had the capability of doing this."
Word Count: 472 | Post #4
OOC: Sorry about your horse Strixx! I hope he gets better soon <333 And as for checkpoints, I have them if anyone would like them!
I didn't provide them in case anyone wanted it all to be a surprise, but I could share them with anyone who would like to see them c:
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Post by teapocaiypse on Aug 19, 2016 16:44:25 GMT -6
Heidi | Indentured Servant
Heidi studied the stallions face as he spoke, giving a faint nod when he finished. Cascade had sent dreams to all these horses? She let her eyes scan the small crowd, relieved that she recognized a few faces-- even if their meetings had only been brief in the past. When the words of a prayer were spoken, Heidi dipped her head and closed her eyes. If Cascade had chosen this many horses, surely there would be danger ahead, they would all need guidance from their Goddess. The prayer was short-lived, and the conversation quickly shifted to the wilds. The mare tried to think back on her dreams. She remembered following Cascade's voice along the beach, the sound of waves crashing on the shore almost drowning out Cascade's whisper. She remember stopping, starring into the tangle of jungle known as the wilds. It opened up like hungry jaws, taunting her to enter. Cascade would call to her. Go. You must follow them. Her voice still echoed in Heidi's ears. But whenever she stepped forward to advance into the wilds, she would jolt awake, an unknown fear seizing her chest. Heidi blinked out of thought, hoping no one had really seen her space out like that. She found her attention resting upon a unicorn mare who seemed rather anxious and troubled by the idea of all this. Heidi couldn't blame her, who knew what they were all getting themselves into chasing after Cascade's message, what dangers lie ahead, or if this was what Cascade really wanted from them. Ugh, stop thinking so much. She thought to herself. A young, paint stallion seemed to be offering the unicorn words to help relax her worries. "Do you think we'll ever find what Cascade has sent us out for?" Heidi muttered to Kenneth, suddenly wondering if the unicorn was right to feel this way.
Post: 2 | Word Count: 309 |
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Post by sansatine on Aug 20, 2016 12:57:25 GMT -6
Laurens | Personal Assistant
Laurens watched the horses around her speak. They all brought up separate, but valid points. Cascade had picked a fine group, but Laurens wasn't sure why Cascade summoned her, too. She wasn't a fantastic swimmer- not even a good one, she just flailed about in the water- so unflattering. And she always worried she stunk of wet swamp after. She worried about most things, though.
She let the conversation wash over her. Laurens was a worker, not a talker. She prayed that someone less shy would reach out to her and be friendly, but she probably wouldn't meet these horses again, and she's always moving around. Cascade had always been her friend, and that was just fine. Laurens looked over her shoulder, something pulling her away from Inaria. Some force that said go this way. She shook the thought from her mind. The force lead her off the path, surely Cascade wouldn't endanger them.
But she would, Laurens knew that. Cascade knew she had to push them. Laurens thought for a moment. If everyone just closed their eyes and took a few steps in the direction their heart called, she knew they would all be pulled the same way. With a sigh, she looked back into the group before closing her eyes.
She took a few steps...
222 words
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