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Post by Queerly on Dec 16, 2016 15:06:43 GMT -6
Hello Starborn, and welcome to Plot 303: Depths!Plot Journal | Chapter III Journal | Plot Music
Team Leader: Valerius Participants: Moonrise, Evalynn, Aralynne, Albella, Zipporah Please keep the following in mind!- Posts must be a minimum of 175 words. There is no maximum!- No strict order is enforced, but there must be at least two posts between your own character's.- No god-moding or reading characters' minds (unless your pony is a literal telepath, anyway)
- Always get consent before harming another character!- Your team is precious. Try to interact with everyone. <3- Have fun! Even if your pony isn't. 8'DPrompt: Three months ago, an ancient dragon was discovered slumbering beneath the city of Valore. You have been hoof-picked by the King himself to go investigate the creature, and return with whatever information you can. Zipporah, one of the original citizens to find the beast, will lead the way. Fortunately, your King has loaned three of the palace's enormous sabertooth tigers to protect you from whatever trouble you (hopefully won't) find. Time of Day: Morning |
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Post by annowre on Dec 16, 2016 20:44:32 GMT -6
Valerius | Chevalier
The sounds of hoof beats echoed against the cavern walls. It was damp, and dark, and entirely too eerie. The illumination of the torches they carried cast dancing shadows across the stone walls, causing the chevalier to keep on alert. Every flicker, every movement, he was sure to address it and eliminate it as a threat. Valerius was always hyper cautious, but this mission had him on edge for three reasons.
One, he had no idea what awaited them in the chamber deep below the earth. Zipporah was the only one in the group who had seen it. A dragon. Not the ones kept in the halls of the palace that the stallion had grown accustomed too, but a fully-grown beast. Who knew how it would react to their presence if it awoke.
Two, Valerius was the only chevalier assigned to this mission. The rest of the group was civilians. They were capable, as the king wouldn’t have assigned them to this mission if they hadn’t of been. Two masters of fire, one of which with an affinity for dragons, and one who could speak with animals. Yes they made sense, but Valerius would’ve preferred if there were a few more soldiers sent to protect them. At least Amadeus had sent three sabers with them. They weren’t chevaliers, but they would certainly be useful.
And three, the presence of a particular pale mare. This was a dangerous mission, and her being here made him even more nervous. With so many to protect, who knows what could happened. Thank Ignacio Amadeus had insisted that one of the sabers be assigned to her alone. Valerius wouldn’t have to be as distracted by her if the situation went south.
The group had been walking for quite a while now, and he could sense that they were deep within the earth. You would think someone with a magic tied to the earth, he would be more comfortable in such an environment, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Being such a large horse in rather cumbersome armor made for uncomfortable travel in these cramped conditions. But he wasn’t about to come unprepared. Especially under the circumstances.
Attention flicked to the white form following behind. He could sense that Astraea was uncomfortable as well. The she-wolf kept close to back of the group, dark nose quivering against the stale air. The unease she felt caused him to keep aware. She had the keenest senses he’d ever seen, and she rarely acted this put off. Though he supposed it didn’t help that she was caught between the other two beasts. Dogs and cats never did seem to get along after all.
Valerius shifted, armor clinking as it adjusted across his withers. He turned to the splashed courtesan next to him, blue eyes taking a quick glance at the rest of the group following behind them. “How much further?” he asked.
1/5 485 words
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Post by Silverfallingstar on Dec 16, 2016 21:22:43 GMT -6
Moonrise made a final check as she tightened a belt on her armor. The sword fastened tightly at her side crafted by none other than her friend and one of her most trusted fellow smiths. She hadn't been expecting the letter from the King, and had definitely not expected to both get confirmation that a real giant dragon was slumbering beneath the city and a request to both outfit and accompany the group going down there as well. Before the group descended into the hole she sent Evalynn a giddy smile she couldn't suppress. She had always been fascinated by the pygmy dragons when they stopped by on their annual migration, but this... this was going to be on a whole different level.
The dark sabertooth plodded along next to her, his soot colored pelt interrupted by the incandescent steel armor that protected him. As they traversed down through the tunnels Moonrise was glad she'd brought her bracers, horseshoes, and saddlebags along with her. The ground was untrodden unlike the rest of Valore, presenting plenty of opportunities to trip. She kept close to the front, but was sure to keep herself close to her fellow artisans as well, which ended up placing her in the middle. Her heart swelled with a sort of pride at how well equipped the group was, the two blacksmiths hadn't spent countless hours working on their gear for nothing.
Her ears pricked up at the broken silence from the Chevalier speaking up. She kept her attention on the two for now, the question on the stallion's lips having passed through her own head once or twice before.
Post 1|WC: 272
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Post by MusicalMagpie on Dec 16, 2016 22:18:21 GMT -6
Albella | Artisan
The cool and damp air of the cavern flooded Albella's lungs as she took in a quivering breath, exhaling an even shakier one. An all too familiar shiver ran up her spine and sickening feeling of dread weighed heavy in her gut. Separated once again from Alois and further more their son, the chimera couldn't help but feel that these premonitions weren't for her but for her family. She had to calm herself. Having been called upon as the city's most talented familiar whisperer, Albella thought to cover all her bases. This dragon, supposedly much larger than the pygmies above ground, had to speak with a similar pattern and language to it's tiny counterparts.
Blue and brown eyes gazed forward at nothing in particular, tired and longing for a familiar sight. She felt as though she were entering battle, destined to never return. While feeling great pride in having been chosen by the King, with every hoof step echoing off the walls, optimism was slowly draining.
Valerius' words drew Albella's eyes to focus on the Chevalier ahead. She hadn't kept track of how long they'd been walking, but the question stood as one she'd ask herself. Following the question Albella let her gaze drift to one of the sabers. Remarkable creatures she'd never seen until now. Dutiful and remarkably quiet, even for a feline, they acted like any other animal hell bent on following commands. Seeing them brought the thought of Milo, her son's zesla cub, to mind. A royal pain in her behind, but the closest thing to a sibling Jupiter could have. A smile crossed her previously grave expression, surely Milo wouldn't attain the size of these sabers.
Word Count - 280
Post 1/5
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Post by farquaadstarquad on Dec 17, 2016 19:26:04 GMT -6
She had seen the dragon once already and once had been enough for her. So when a letter had arrived for her with the King’s seal, Zipporah was all but thrilled to know about the expedition the that the boy king wanted to send her on. A tantrum had followed after she found out, Lady Lilith had not been too pleased when Zipporah bad mouthed the boy king.
A dragon was a mighty beast, to willingly seek one out seemed like a death wish in Zipporah’s mind. Zipporah did not have a death wish - at least not for the time being. Zipporah would have much rather gone to Onea and froze to death with the opium shipment that the Mistress had shipped.
The armor that she had been given to wear was uncomfortable. It was heavy and clunky. Should anything attack them, she reckoned that fleeing was out of the question. She knew the armor would slow her down greatly.
To traverse through the tunnel once again, this time with companions she did not know, made for a rather unhappy courtesan. Her face was twisted into a sour expression.
Zipporah lifted her head at Valerius question. A good question, she thought. Truth be told, she did not have much of an answer to give the chevalier. The last time she had been down in the tunnel, visibility had been dim, Ignacio could only know how long the courtesans had walked before they reached the scaled beast. However, Zipporah knew it would be in her best interest to cooperate with her companions, and so she put forth the effort to try and recall her previous journey in the tunnel.
The courtesan’s sour expression softened when she spoke. “I believe the beast is not far, dear Valerius. Should my memory serve me correctly, I recall a warm draft before we stumbled upon the beast.”
Posted 1 // 313 words
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Post by Queerly on Dec 18, 2016 21:01:31 GMT -6
 The tunnel is dark and damp, with the distinctive odor of organic decay. Luckily, you have each been loaned a necklace imbued with Light Manipulation, which generates orbs of light to guide your way. As you descend deeper into the depths, you notice that the temperature is curiously rising, and the saber cats are growing restless. The dragon must be close. |
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Post by gone-astrayy on Dec 18, 2016 22:39:26 GMT -6
Evalynn | Blacksmith
The continuous steady sound of hoof steps echoed mutedly through the cave, mixing with the sounds of quietly clinking armor. Evalynn found herself near the front of the six horses, her gaze looking over the damp walls as they all traveled further down into the bowels of the earth. Just behind her, was her fellow Blacksmith and best friend, Moonrise. The pair had gotten their letters from the King pretty much at the same time, and had rushed over to tell each other of the news, nearly colliding with each other in their excitement. A snicker rose in her throat as Evalynn remembered that afternoon. Since receiving the letter, Evalynn and Moonrise had spent every free moment in their respective forges, working tirelessly to make the perfect armor and weaponry. Though they didn't stay in their own forges for long before teaming up to make their items together, creating rather unique sets of armor and weapons. They truly were a sight to behold if Evalynn was being honest.
A low hissing growl shook Evalynn out of her musings, and she looked back, noticing the saber nearest Moonrise was acting the same way Cat did when he was uncomfortable around someone. Flicking her ears back, Evalynn gazed forward again, realizing the tunnel was growing warm and humid as they continued on. The Blacksmith rolled her shoulders, breathing in the warm air. This air was the kind she was used to breathing. The hot, damp air filled her lungs, and she felt like she was back in her forge, ready to make another set of armor. The same anticipatory feeling accompanied the feel of the heat, but this was an entirely new reason for the bubbling feeling. The rolling, rising temperatures surely meant they were indeed going in the right direction, and were nearing the dragon. She knew the stories of the ancient dragons, of how immense their size was, but getting to actually see one in the flesh, after believing them to be extinct... It was going to be a swirling mix of fear and wonder. As they continued to move forward, Evalynn felt her limbs warm up and tingle, and realized with a start that she had a rush of adrenaline coursing through her veins.
Word count: 375 Post: 1/5 |
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Post by RusticForrest on Dec 19, 2016 21:17:53 GMT -6
Aralynne
[ Servile Slave ]
This was not what the slave had expected upon receiving word from her leige and owner that she was to be sent on a mission. And not only a mission, a mission to find a dragon.A shudder ran down her spine at the thought. The small mare was a healer, she was no warrior. More attune to emotion than she was physicality, this was absolutely not her arena. And this was likely to be a foe none would be able to defeat. . . Her uncertainty had been evident upon her face, surely, as she walked along behind Valerius in the company of many she did not know. As a servile slave, she had long stayed behind the palace walls, hidden, not to be seen unless needed. Timid and reserved, she played her part well. But, she also always took orders without question. And, so, here she was, overencumbered with armor she didn't know how to use - though she thought it was probably just precautionary, and probably just to sit there, but what did she know. With ever step she took, it clanket against her flanks, buffering her pale wings uncomfortably.
Beside her walked the pale form of Aisling, the saber assigned to be her companion on this mission, for which she was most grateful. The two had already bonded, as Aralynne had always had a certain afinity for the feline race, and she respected the creature for her beauty and her strength. For there was no chance she could defend herself- she was too weak, both physically as well as mentally- hopefully Aisling would make up for her lacking. Though the cat was a great comfort, she took more solace in knowing that the leader of her group was the one horse she trusted aside from her sister. Valerius was more than capable, she knew, but with a flash of guilt, she worried that she would become more of a burden than a help.
In order to take her mind off of it, she turned her attentions to the rest of the horses in the small party. Each of their names she had been told, and she made an effort to remember them all, though matching them to faces was significantly more difficult. Two others walked with sabers, their pelts different from the lovely cream at her side. She didn't observe long, however, as Aisling emitted a low, humming growl from the back of her throat. Within it was the hint of a warning buff, and the animal moved closer to her charge, claws flexing from their hidden sheaths. The other cats had made similar noises, but it was Aislings who made her most uneasy. Swallowing hard, Aralynne lowered her head to the saber, brushing her nose across an ear in acknowledgement. Ais gave her a short glance, a somewhat mothering look crossing the cat's eyes before focussing again forwards.
As the air grew steadily hotter, she found herself longing to press against the stallion at their head. A few quicker steps carried her closer before she thought better of it, instead she glued her eyes to his swaying, cropped mane, and drew even closer to the instinctively protective animal at her side. "We can do this," she murmured, barely audible to any but Aisling, who, again, acknowledged her with a flick of a creamy ear and a sidelong look that to Aralynne said, "I know I can do this." That earned a tiny smile in response, an odd comfort in the deep shadows slowly creeping in upon the light emitting from the necklaces they all bore.
[ Post - #1 ]
[ WC - 600 ]
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Post by annowre on Dec 20, 2016 12:17:01 GMT -6
Valerius | Chevalier
The group remained close to him, not allowing much distance in their ranks. Valerius was glad of that. Sure the sabers and Astraea were bringing up the rear and they weren’t allowing for the mares to fall too far behind, but having them close gave him peace of mind. Moving as a unit was much safer than being spread apart. Though the stallion couldn’t help but wonder if that was his baser instincts talking.
“I believe the beast is not far, dear Valerius. Should my memory serve me correctly, I recall a warm draft before we stumbled upon the beast.” Valerius shifted his attention from Zipporah to the rest of the group, his eyes glancing from one to the next. They dwelled longer than he should’ve allowed on Aralynne. This was not the time or the place. And he certainly had more important things to do right now than incite a scandal. That didn’t make this situation any easier though. Especially when he felt her draw closer to him. He could sense how nervous and frightened she was.
Attention turned forward as the air changed. Instead of being chilled and damp, it was warm. It pulsated through the cavern like a breath or the flicker of a flame. Valerius snorted and shifted again, moving his weapon into a more available position. The stallion took a deep breath, warm air felt like it was scorching his lungs. His gaze turned to Zipporah and the rest of the group. ”It won’t be long now. Stay vigilant, and when we get in there, I’m in charge. You will listen to my orders and follow them precisely.” He was succinct and firm. Valerius didn’t need anyone thinking they were a hero. Or worse, cowards who ran into even more danger. He didn’t care what they thought of him. They could hate him if they wanted. All he cared about was getting them all back to the surface alive.
Astraea dashed up the ranks, between and under the legs of the rest of the group, stopping next to him. She growled deep within her throat, and even though he couldn’t see her fur under her armor, he was sure it was standing straight. The sabers were on edge as well. Eyes lifted to the chimera in the group who was sent to communicate with the dragon if possible. ”Give me updates on what the sabers are feeling,” he said, turning to face the widening tunnel ahead. ”They have sharper instincts than us, and I’ll be interested to know what they’re feeling when we enter the chamber.”
2/5 | 431 words
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Post by MusicalMagpie on Dec 21, 2016 18:18:33 GMT -6
Albella | Artisan
As the temperature grew Albella felt more and more cramped in the suit of armor. However skillfully crafted, it didn't change how she felt stuffed into a case of metal, baking away even while the tunnels were cool. Control your breathing. That should help cool off. The chimera drew in and exhaled even breaths both controlling her heart rate and easing hot ears just enough to be comfortable.
”Give me updates on what the sabers are feeling. They have sharper instincts than us, and I’ll be interested to know what they’re feeling when we enter the chamber.”
Taking Valerius' words as an order, Albella took a brief moment to assess the sabers visually. They were agitated, sure enough, but as they had descended further down the big cats were growing more stand off-ish. Taking her eyes off the sabers she spoke ahead to Valerius. "They're agitated, but that's to be expected. Generally I'd think the scent of a true dragon would scare off most animals." Albella passed an eye over to the wolf. Its near grimacing at the sabers worried her. The last thing they needed were for tempers to flare up further and anything to break out between their own animals. A dragon, however large, may not be too entertained by a scuffle between otherwise lesser creatures.
Word Count - 220
Post 2/5
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Post by Queerly on Dec 22, 2016 5:06:41 GMT -6
The transition from tunnel to cavern is a sudden one; almost before you realize what has occurred, you find yourself standing in open space. Stalactites drip from the high ceiling like the talons of beasts, and rock beneath your hooves echoes with each nervous step. Against the far wall rests your quarry: the slumbering dragon, colossal despite the ball it has curled itself into. Deep breaths rumble from its chest, and as you approach it seems largely undisturbed by the sound of your clinking armor... |
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Post by Silverfallingstar on Dec 22, 2016 22:58:10 GMT -6
The blacksmith walked in silence as the air around them continued to grow hotter and hotter the closer they came. Exchanging a few excited glaces with Evalynn along the way because the hotter it got, the closer they came. Half paying attention to the words of the others in the group she took to examining the walls and the material of the ground entombing them beneath the city. How long had these tunnels been in existence? Before the gods war? After? and if so how long after? They certainly didn't look at risk of collapsing even now, after they'd been unveiled to the outside world once again.
The sudden space above her head shook her from her thoughts. The tunnel had turned into a massive cavern, the stalactites in the ceiling reminding her of daggers she'd made before, so thin and sharp looking. The heat that bothered some of her other companions didn't worry her, this was about the normal heat she was used to back home, if a bit more humid.
The massive form at the end of the cavern caused Moonrise's mouth to fall agape for a moment. She had expected a large creature, but this beast was positively massive! She figured this creature could easily level the city it slept under in no time at all if it set its mind to the task. And yet as terrified as she was, there was a deep sense of fascination. This was a thing she'd only heard about in children's tales, and here it was, living, and breathing before her and the others. She tried to speak but her voice trailed off.
"By Ignacio...."
The beast at her side wasn't so awestruck. Flicking his tongue against the front of his jowls the sabercat let out a low growl.
"This one does not know what to think of this.... large lizard that resembles the pale one's cub."
Post 2|WC: 317
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Post by farquaadstarquad on Dec 22, 2016 23:20:39 GMT -6
She felt the beast’s presence well before she saw it. Its deep, rumbling snores echoed off of the cavern walls. The transition from the tunnels had been quick. Even with the anticipation of it, Zipporah still found herself surprised.
With the light of the imbued crystals, Zipporah was able to focus her eyes on the beast. The last time that she had been in its presence, she had not been able to observe its appearance. Its scales had a golden hue, mingled with shades of red and light brown. In its slumbering state, the beast had curled itself up tightly, much like a cat. Even so, its body took up a great portion of the cavern that it was tucked away in. Zipporah had half a mind to turn and leave her companions with the dragon. Perhaps if she had a head start on the beast, then she would be able to escape even with the heavy armor on…
She looked to the sabers and then to her companions, gauging their reactions. Zipporah felt her nerves begin to rise even more so than they already were. “Did the King give details on what we were to uncover about the beast?” She shifted uneasily on her hooves. “I do not wish to spend anymore time than necessary with this...this beast” the courtesan spoke, her voice low. “We do not know what this dragon is capable of, nor am I am invested in discovering that.”
Zipporah hated what her nerves were doing to her mind. It was unusual for the courtesan to find herself in an anxious state (which was perhaps made worse with the lack of her brother), and it brought a small feeling of embarrassment. In her fear she believed was her weakness and she could not allow such a thing to control her. The beast was still in a safe state of sleep.
Post 2 // 316 words
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Post by annowre on Jan 2, 2017 12:01:53 GMT -6
Valerius | Chevalier
It was... magnificent. Awfully magnificent. The awesome beast laid at the bottom of the chamber against the back wall. It's breaths controlling the current of the entire chamber. All at once, the stallion felt a way he had never expected to. Filled with a sense of awe at the beast from legend. A great creature worshiped by the nation he had always called home. And yet petrified by the immense creature. Dragons were beasts of destruction and chaos. Sure those were both things celebrated by Aodh, but it was certainly a different feeling when they were directed at you. This creature slumbered beneath the very city he called home. If it were to awaken and decide to escape...
"We've been tasked with investigating the dragon, and that's exactly what we will do," the stallion said authoritatively. He turned to the mares. "We're going to split into three groups, each taking a saber with them. No one goes unescorted. No one leaves their group." Valerius was firm. He wasn't about to tolerate insubordination. Not in this situation. Not with horses who were untrained. "Moonrise, Evalynne," he turned to the mares he was addressing. "Go to the beast, but keep your distance. I want you to report on its hide. How strong it is. What weapons could be used against it, what armor could protect from its claws. Hopefully it doesn't come to that, but this information will be imperative."
Blue eyes turned to the chimeric mare again. "Albella, you're with me. We're going to go to the creatures head. If it awakens you will try to communicate. If that doesn't work I'll be sure to get you out of there." His gaze turned to the final two, eyes softening as they passed by the pale mare. "Aralynne and Zipporah, I want you to investigate the cavern. See if there are other tunnels leading out of this cavern. Specifically one that could be large enough to accommodate the dragon."
With the assignments dolled out the stallion turned to address the entire group. "If the creature awakens, and turns violent, no matter what happens, you get back to this tunnel. You run and do not look back. It doesn't matter if some of us are left behind, that's my job to worry about. You get yourself out. Is that clear?"
3/5 387 words
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Post by Silverfallingstar on Jan 8, 2017 14:07:20 GMT -6
Blue eyes switched to the Chevalier as he discussed his plan with them. Her ears twitched and she spared a glance at Evalynn, then to Nero, the sabertooth. She nodded her head to their group leader, "I understand. Good luck to all of you, hopefully Ignacio looks favorably on us." Her eyes flicked back to Evalynn and she inclined her head towards the massive golden-red beast, mouthing 'lets go' before walking ahead.
She tried to keep her hoofsteps from echoing too badly across the cavern, making sure to place each hoof carefully to not disturb any rocks or bones that may clatter if kicked. As she got within a few meters of the dragon, she lowered her head in a respectful gesture, on the offchance that the beast was aware of her being so close. Keeping out of her arm's reach, moonrise began examining the scales and hide of the dragon with her eyes. Using her telekinesis she held the necklace up like a lantern to cast a better source of visibility onto the glittering scales. She glanced back at her companion.
"What do you think?" she whispered to the other blacksmith
Post 3|WC: 192
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Post by farquaadstarquad on Jan 9, 2017 19:58:27 GMT -6
For the first time since the mission had begun, she questioned why each of her mission companions had been selected. For herself, she knew that she had been picked due to the fact that she had been among the original group to discover the beast. Chevalier Valerius was chosen for what she assumed to be his strength and battle tactics. The blacksmiths had fashioned the armor they all wore, and they had vast knowledge on weaponry. Then there was the artisan, who was said to have a talent for speaking with familiars. And then finally, the slave. Zipporah knew of her healing abilities, and knew that she served the king, but why her? She looked incredibly frail, and if danger were to arise, Zipporah wouldn’t expect the slave to make it out safely.
Zipporah nodded at Valerius’ words. She was thankful that she would not have to get any closer to the slumbering beast, even if it meant she was with the slave. She noted how the chevalier’s gaze softened at the sight of the slave. A curious detail, the courtesan thought.
“Let’s go,” was all the courtesan said before she turned around to begin their task.
“There has to be more tunnels...no way the one we came through is the only one,” she spoke, primarily to herself. She glanced over to the slave. “Are you going to be able to keep up, darling? That armor looks awfully heavy on you - especially with those wings of yours.” A smirked curled her lips.
Post 3 // 253 words
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Post by Queerly on Jan 10, 2017 15:49:33 GMT -6
It is with a great, rumbling growl that the dragon suddenly heaves herself, still sleeping, into a new position. Flecks of stone rain down as the cavern trembles against her mighty weight, one massive wing stretching outward before ultimately falling flat over Evalynn and Moonrise's heads. The shift has revealed something extraordinary: eight dragon eggs, safely tucked within the crook of her arm.
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Post by RusticForrest on Jan 10, 2017 20:27:42 GMT -6
Aralynne[ Servile Slave ]
For a long while, the pale mare fixed her eyes on the saber cat by her side, afraid to lift her gaze lest her eyes fall across that which she dreaded to find. Though her talent allowed her to sense and interpret the emotions of those around her, she found that her own nervousness and fear was blocking out her focus and hindering her capabilities. Due to the expression of her own emotions, she primarily felt the terse energy emanating from the other horses as they moved ever closer to the unknown.
Aralynne dare not even consider breaking orders. Valerius' instructions had crossed her mind vaguely, and the saber cat drew ever closer to her. The pale cat's eyes were also fixed forwards, a lip curled as if to scent the air before her. Flicking her ears backwards, she listened to the soft clacking of their hooves upon the stone, the rustling of their armor, the-
Another noise soon broke the thought. Before them now, as they passed the cavern's opening, was the mighty beast. It's chest and flanks rose and fell with each deep breath it took. The slave's jaw dropped at the sight and she suddenly felt very, very small. All she could do was stare, awe-struck as thoughts whirled within her head. Beside her, Aisling uttered a soft, low growl. About to shush the animal calmly, Aralynne was interrupted by the conversation between Valerius, Zipporah, and the others, who answered quickly. She caught the look in Valerius' eye as he assigned her a place to go, and a small, curt nod was all she could manage in reply. It wasn't long before the small mare was at Zipporah's side, albeit slightly behind, to allow the higher-ranking horse to lead, the lithe form of Aisling not far behind.
Keeping her head down, as she had since joining Aodh, Aralynne searched the walls for any sign of tunnels. With many areas of the cave cast in deep shadow, it was hard to tell what might have been an opening, and what might have simply been a looming shadow. When Zipporah spoke to her, Aralynne instantly provided her attention, also something she'd learned from her position as a slave. Tucking her ears down submissively Aralynne replied softly, "I will do my best, m'lady." At the mention of her wings, she shifted them, indeed uncomfortable given the placement of the armor. "It is a right bit uncomfortable, that's for certain. If need be, I'll force it off. These things can be a right bit useful at times." Aralynne let herself loose a quiet laugh at the end of that statement, amused by herself. Imagine the thought, her, shoving armor off. . .
And it was with that thought that another rumble rocked through the cavern. Cowering backwards, the slave turned to view a horrific sight- the dragon was moving. Though she did not initially notice it, the beast was, in fact, still asleep, but the shift in weight unsettled the rocks, and soon, rubble was crumbling down from above. Not only that, but a single, massive wing fell over top two of their companions, Evalynn and Moonrise, shielding them from view.
By the stars, how did she ever wind up in this situation.
WC: 547
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Post by gone-astrayy on Jan 10, 2017 20:58:58 GMT -6
Evalynn | Blacksmith
The Blacksmith's ears barely flicked as the group members were talking. The air was steadily growing warmer, her coat no doubt had a fine layer of sweat building up under her armor. The familiar whisperer- Albella- commented on the saber's activity, and she raised her eyebrow. Judging from the restlessness of the giant felines, she could tell they were uneasy the further down they went. So far they were doing well, but who knows how the cats would react upon finding an exceptionally larger version of their pygmy dragons.
All thoughts on the sabers cut off however, when the cave opened up before them suddenly. A surprised snort and slight skittering of her hooves showed her shock to the rest of the group. There, sleeping in the enormity of the cave, between the stalactites, lay a dragon. Evalynn had imagined the enormity of the dragon's of old, but never had she expected them to be this large. The magnificence of the beast filled Evalynn with awe. She had always had a soft spot for pygmy dragons, and here lay their much larger counterpart, and she was able to witness it's glory first hand.
"Oh, Ignacio." the words left the mares mouth as a whispered praise. The dragon was truly breathtaking. Unable to tear her eyes from the beast, Evalynn merely nodded as Valerius gave his instructions to the group. Her and Moonrise were to check the dragons hide and claws. She noticed Moonrise looking at her, and she tore her eyes away from the beast for only a second to nod at her friend, and they both made their way together through the cavern, approaching the slumbering dragon. The pair made their way to its' belly, the scales shimmering from the lights contained within their necklaces. Evalynn had never seen something so beautiful, and she doubted she would again. However, it was time to work. Shoving her want to just stand there and gaze upon the dragon deep down, she brought out her work self- it was time to analyze.
"I wouldn't be able to tell for sure the durability of the scales unless there was a molted one lying around here somewhere, but from the looks of it, they seem built to endure a whole hell of a lot of damage should they need to... I wonder how this dragon maintains the sheen of it's scales, they are most impressively shining." Her voice was one Moonrise probably knew well. It was her work voice. Granted, there was still a tinge of awe laced through it, but her voice usually brooked no nonsense when she was working. Working with flames and burning metal day in and out, you learned when the time to mess around was, and working with something that can seriously injure you is not one of those times. Evalynn's work self was almost like a whole new horse.
Suddenly, a rumbling growl rose from the depths of the dragons throat, and a startled whinny left left her throat as the dragon repositioned itself, one large wing lowering itself over Evalynn's and Moonrise's bodies. Evalynn quickly skittered close to the dragons' side, lest the wing land on top of her. From her new position though, something caught her eye. If she wasn't properly awed before, Evalynn sure as shit was now. Lying just ahead of them, previously hidden, lay a clutch of eggs, massive and unassuming in their grandeur.
"By the Gods', it's a mother." her voice was soft, but loud enough for Moonrise to hear. Forgetting about their pinned predicament, forgetting that they were supposed to be checking out it's body and claws, Evalynn could only stare once more.
Word count: 612 Post: 2/4 |
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Post by MusicalMagpie on Jan 10, 2017 21:36:53 GMT -6
Albella |Artisan
Merciful gods...
As the great dragon came into view a rush of wonder overtook the chimera. Terrifying wonder. What a sight it was, to see a legend in the flesh and very much alive. Albella let the warm breath bathing the cavern flush previous fears away. The warmth washed over the cold pit of clairvoyant dread filling it with splendor. She would actually speak to the dragon. How to address it? With a plain Dragon or Beast? Lord? The chimera could hardly contain the excitement that was welling up more the closer they drew.
When Valerius spoke his orders Albella let her eyes involuntarily narrow, a certain reactionary trait she had picked up from Alois. While she trusted the chevalier completely, something about the suggestion of the dragon turning to violence made her uneasy. Perhaps her sudden trust in the legendary beast was misplaced.
"...You run and do not look back. It doesn't matter if some of us are left behind, that's my job to worry about. You get yourself out. Is that clear?"
Albella thought back to the attack on the Crucible. The group she'd been trapped in the crumbling structure with. When the floor gave way on three of them, the rest worked to raise them from the pit, they worked as a team. Her awe of the dragon waned as she weighted her split decisions to listen and abandon however many in case of an emergency or risk doom for them all to keep her moral head in line. Yet, she nodded in agreement. There was no time for personal opinions to be considered. Not while a sleeping dragon lay about.
Then the body stirred. Albella watched the dragon shift about with a rumbling growl that shook her very core. Evalynn and Moonrise disappeared from view as a leathery wing washed over like a block-out curtain. She was to speak with the dragon. Be that, if it awoke.
Word Count - 321
Post - 3/4
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Post by Silverfallingstar on Jan 10, 2017 22:15:35 GMT -6
"Yeah, and I don't know about you but I'd rather not try and pull one out of it's hide." She said back, watching the glittering scales twinkle oranges and reds in the light of their necklaces. "I bet it has great heat resistant properties, would make for excellent forge gear."
Her thought process was interrupted as a large, leathery wing suddenly appeared overhead as the beast shifted, causing stones to clatter around them. Moonrise ducked out of the way just in time along with her friend as to not get smushed, promptly bumping into her friend's side when Ev stopped. Moonrise opened her mouth to say something when she saw the glittering of a smooth, round surface.
Eggs, eight, large, black and gold eggs, nestled safely in the embrace of their mother. The blacksmith was awestruck once more and also overcome with a sense of gentle compassion. Despite how scary this dragon looked, she was also a mother, cradling her brood like any mare would her foal.
"I wonder how long she's been watching her eggs." She whispered, her words breathless. This mission just got more and more interesting as they moved on.
Post 4|WC: 193
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Post by annowre on Jan 11, 2017 11:57:25 GMT -6
Valerius | Chevalier
He wasn't sure if they had somehow disturbed it, or if the beast was simply shifting in it's sleep, but it moved. The stallion jumped back, pulling Albella out of immediate danger. All he could do was watch as Evalynne and Moonrise were tucked beneath it's massive wing. When the dragon settled again and all was quiet, Valerius stepped forward. His eyes widened when he saw them. Eight eggs cradled in the creatures forearms. Orders echoed through his mind. "Investigate the chamber. Retrieve anything of use." He shuddered. He had to obey his orders.
"Investigate the eggs," he whispered to Albella, trying to keep his voice low. Legs carried him toward where Evalynne and Moonrise were, Astraea close behind. He stopped at the wing and thought for a moment, turning to Astraea. "Bring Aralynne and Zipporah here," he said in a hushed tone. The white wolf quickly darted off, making her way toward the two mares investigating the chamber. The stallion turned back to the task at hand. Carefully, gingerly, he lowered the earth beneath the wing, creating a ditch just large enough for him to fit through. "Evalynne? Moonrise? Hurry out." The stallion darted back to Albella and looked at the eggs, sighing deeply.
"Alright, everyone grab one. We should return to the surface." He really hated following orders sometimes. And he knew he would hate it even worse if this mother awoke.
4/4 237 words
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Post by RusticForrest on Jan 11, 2017 19:27:58 GMT -6
Aralynne[ Servile Slave ]
When there were once more no immanent signs of danger, and no sound of struggle as the wing descended over the two mares. Aralynne's ears went back up and a few tentative steps pulled her forwards, as she tried to catch a glance of the horses. The bounds of her talent only went so far, and as a healer, she wished she could determine their state sooner.
But it was the sight of the eggs that drew her eye in closest- the main portion of them was black, and veins of gold rippled around them in elegant, yet sharp lines. Truly they were beautiful, like their mother. Beautiful, yet terrifying.
The white form of Astraea was the next creature to catch her attention, and her focus turned once more. At her side Aisling curled a lip over her long fang-like teeth and uttered another growl. Aralynne knew what her approach meant, and she proceeded forwards, motioning for the saber to follow her. Aisling was not amused, and followed behind gruffly, if only to protect her charge. Softly, Aralynne opened her wings, flapping them ever so slightly to lighten her footsteps as she moved closer to the beast. About the only reason why she drew so close was because Valerius and the others were close, and, though she felt utterly ridiculous as she moved in the armor, she knew they would utilize it well.
Arriving at the side of the dragon, she lowered her head in a respectful gesture to the others. The pale mare raised her eyebrows when he mentioned taking the eggs, and her heart almost skipped a beat at the idea of drawing so close. A part of her flashed with guilt at the thought of taking a child from its mother but. . . her soft eyes met Valerius' for a second. She doubted he would have said it if it wasn't an order.
And, she was a slave. What choice did she have? She'd not had one since the day she was captured. "Do you have a plan as to how to take them?" Her bridle would prevent the use of her telekinetic abilities, so she would either have to carry it or have it be given to her.
WC: 375
Post #: 3 |
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Post by gone-astrayy on Jan 15, 2017 16:37:10 GMT -6
Evalynn | Blacksmith
"I dare say, it's been awhile that she's been watching them." Evalynn's voice was softer, her eyes still glued to the absolutely stunning eggs. They stood nearly to her knees, and were a deep pitch black, with golden veins running all along the surface. It looked like lightning was contained within the eggs. Evalynn realized that she had been making her signature mark on her armor and weapons in the image, even if unknowingly, of dragon eggs. Since she had gained her Electricity Blessing, she had been using it to scorch electric veins within the metal as she worked it, giving it a one-of-a-kind look. No one else could replicate her work. Except apparently, these wonderful, beautiful eggs.
Suddenly, a hole opened up in the earth just inside of the dragons' wing, and Valerius' popped his head out of the hole, ushering them out from their unwitting confinement. Looking sideways at Moon, she jerked her head towards the hole, and quickly made her way through the small tunnel, slightly uncomfortable as her body was a bit on the larger side, and she found herself brushing against the walls more often than she'd like. Hopping out of the hole, the Blacksmith joined the other horses, watching as the feathered slave joined the group, led by valerius' wolf. Aralynne dipped her head towards the group, and Evalynn gave the mare a soft smile in return before Valerius' words sounded suddenly. Her gaze turned to the stallion, and her ears fell back against her neck.
"Are you kidding? Have we lowered ourselves to petty thieves? We were told to take anything that might benefit the herd. How does a sleeping dragons eggs benefit us exactly? When she wakes up, she will raze our city to the ground when she finds her clutch gone." her eyes were cold as steel as her voice snapped at the chevalier. She knew it was pointless to argue with him, he was only acting on orders he'd been given, but what good would come out of this? A mother is not one to be trifled with, especially when it's a bloody dragon! Evalynn's teeth ground together in anger, small sparks of electricity popping from her mouth. She was gonna be having words with their King. If she'd known that they were going to be stealing eggs from the dragon she would've told them all to stuff it. However, if they were going to take the eggs, Evalynn was going to make damn sure these eggs were handled carefully. Using her telekinesis to lift two of the eggs, she found herself thinking she was betraying the dragon, who slept so peacefully beside them, and even betraying her pygmy cousins with whom Evalynn had a connection to. The eggs slid snugly into either side of her saddlebags, the weight a now physical reminder of what she was doing.
"If anyone drops one of the eggs, I will personally set you on fire myself." her anger with the situation spilled over, and she looked at the other six eggs, hoping nothing bad happened to any of the clutch.
Words: 517 Post: 3/4 |
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Post by Silverfallingstar on Jan 18, 2017 7:18:26 GMT -6
Her awed gaze was immediately broken when Valerius spoke. Eyes blazed with anger as she looked at him, what the hell was he thinking? She opened her mouth to speak, closed it, opened it, and closed it again. Crawling out through the hole the chevalier had dug in the ground she nodded along with Evalynn's words. She turned and began walking around the area, she needed time to think about this.
There was a skidding sound as her hoof collided with something. She looked down, and was surprised to find that the floor had a scattering of shed scales across it from where the dragon had been before. She picked one up and examined it, twisting it around in her telekinetic grasp before opening one of her saddlebags and placing it inside. She picked up a good handful more before quietly walking back to where the others had gathered around the eggs. She just caught the tail end of Evalynn's threat and chuckled to herself, yep, that was Evalynn's motherly instinct alright. Quietly she looked at Valerius once more, a silent resignation in her eyes that spoke volumes, before focusing on the eggs.
She lifted one carefully from it's nestled place in the arm of the dragon, trying not to jostle the others, and slowly slid it into one of her saddlebags. Then repeated the process, observing how the shell glinted and glittered in the glow of the necklaces, before it too was placed into the other saddlebag. She lifted the flaps on the top of each bag and secured them as best she could to hide the eggs from view. Best not to let anybody see them that didn't have too, it would put the eggs, and the young inside, at a greater risk than was necessary.
Post 5|WC: 298
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Post by Queerly on Jan 18, 2017 16:15:01 GMT -6
FINAL CHECKPOINT
As you begin to gather the eggs for transport, a soft crack resonates through the chamber, followed swiftly by another... and then another! You watch in awe as one of the eggs begins to splinter, revealing a black hatchling the size of a full grown pgymy. The creature coos and hisses, garbling noises that are nonsensical even to its own language. It is a baby, you suppose... Perched on the remains of its egg, the tiny creature stretches its damp wings. She raises her head, and quickly enough you discern that she is blind. She chirps, crying for her mother perhaps, but the great beast doesn't wake, and so she follows the sound of the first voice to speak (next poster).
You know enough about baby animals to realize she'll need to be fed soon. Grab the rest of the eggs and hurry back to the surface!
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Post by RusticForrest on Jan 18, 2017 17:13:59 GMT -6
Aralynne
[ Servile Slave ]
The small mare stood as quietly as she could while the others lifted the eggs gingerly from the nest. Tucking her head low, she longed to be able to help, to make sure that they were each safe. Cursing the bridle that restricted her abilities, Aralynne watched as Evalynn and then Moonrise lifted four of the eggs, tucking them away safely into saddlebags, leaving four others behind. With a few steps she tentatively approached those remaining, keeping one eye on the sleeping mother, starkly aware of the possibility of her waking up from her slumber. Folding down her ears, the slave softly pressed her nose to a glittering orb. Within, she could feel the ebb and flow of life. It was as if the egg had a life of it's own, which, she supposed, it did, considering there was a life within it.
Before she could further contemplate the marvel of how a creature could live within such a shell, a crack appeared down the smooth surface of one of the eggs, a rapid motion that startled her and caused her heart to skip into beating, fearful of the mother's wrath. Stepping back, she waited for the inevitable. However, it would not come, for the egg split slowly, and the tiny creature within pushed pieces outwards and away from itself. It took but a little while, and before them soon stood the tiny form of a hatchling. It couldn't have been any larger than a fire lizard, though the fact that it rivaled the size of a full grown one was starkly surprising to her.
The hatchling was pure black, her glittering scales shimmering even in the dim light of the cavern where its mother had made her nest. As garbled, hungry sounds came from within her throat, Aralynne's heart softened, and she once again stepped closer. With this one, she could help. Telekinesis wouldn't be needed, as the little creature could easily climb onto her back and nestle within the downy of her wings. At least it would know comfort, even if it would not be raised by its true mother. . . Lowering her head, she tried to meet the hatchling's eyes, only to find them milky white and unseeing. With a gasp, she felt tears come to her eyes. "It seems we are both missing something that we should have," she whispered softly. "Let me be your eyes." Though it was unclear as to if the dragon understood her, it did totter forward upon unsteady paws towards the sound of the small mare's voice.
Disbelief filled her, and she glanced back at the others, appalled by what had come to pass. Her gaze broke quickly, however, and she helped the small creature onto her back by lowering her wing and coaxing it softly with whispers of reassurance. Growling in it's own child-like fashion, the dragon burrowed it's nose into the feathers lining her back.
WC: 488
Post #: 4
GOT FOUR YES -fist pump- |
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Post by MusicalMagpie on Jan 18, 2017 20:26:40 GMT -6
Albella | Artisan
A spike of ice lodged itself in Albella's spine. Were they mad? The Chevalier's words made her cast an upward look of disbelief. Her blue eye staring straight through Valerius, maternal fires burning hot behind them. "We know nothing of how to care for these eggs. How they are incubated or what care they require upon hatching." She hissed to the unicorn through bared teeth. Thoughts of her son flooded back and that feeling of dread crashed back into the ocean of her mind. She couldn't possibly feel concerned for the eggs while these terrible premonitions accompanied her very own child. Albella watched as Valerius freed the two from beneath the wing and upon his return at her side, said nothing.
Reluctantly, the chimera moved about the eggs. They were large, but not so heavy as to give her any trouble. Deep purple aura wrapped around one of the eggs gingerly lifting it away from the parent dragon. Her eyes saddened as she thought of the life that stirred within. Not even born and already ripped from its mother's side. What if there was some sort of mystical connection that complicated the eggs if they were separated? They could be ending the lives of so many before they even start. What pain would this cause to the mother? A sharp pang hit her gut. Not a physical one, but that nagging dread. She thought of Alois. Something had happened. As she turned around, egg held close to her now fearful body, a sound centered her attention. One had hatched. She watched in horror as the newborn totted around blindly to the winged mare Aralynne. A certain amount of relief warmed her body. Aralynne seemed a gentle soul, deserving of more respect than she got. The blind hatchling would be in good care for as long as they would be together. Who knew how long it would be before the hooves of higher ups would snatch the babe from the one it imprinted on as mother.
Letting out a quiet sigh, Albella turned a cold gaze back at Valerius. "When the mother wakes and finds her clutch missing. Don't expect me to defend our actions." The words left with more anger than she initially intended. Staring across at the tunnel they had entered through she added gravely. "We've all acted as a collective monster today."
Word Count - 394
Post 4
despite writing being inherently difficult i made it in the end
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Post by farquaadstarquad on Jan 19, 2017 15:19:03 GMT -6
There was a great temptation to take book it. She even planned how she could do it. With the others distracted by the eggs and the dragon, she could slip the heavy armor off and then dash back into the tunnel...
Zipporah had begun to strip herself of the armor when a loud crack resonated through the chamber. It startled her and she immediately turned her head to see what the source was. One of the eggs had begun to hatch. The courtesan felt a mix of awe and horror as she watched the tiny beast break free of the egg. There were a few brief moments where she feared the mother dragon would awaken, but it was to her relief that she didn’t, and continued on with her slumber despite the cries of her child.
Her gaze was then brought to the slave, who called to the little dragon. She was taken aback when Aralynne gestured for the creature to come close and spoke to it as though it was not something they should be fearful of. Regardless of it being a newborn, Zipporah believed the creature was dangerous and with one hatched, the others would be bound to hatch soon.
“Can we not leave the little beast here? We do not know how to care for it and we do not know what the mother could do should she come looking for it! It may look cute and helpless, but it will grow and what will you do when it starts to endanger the Valore?”
Post 4
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Post by gone-astrayy on Jan 21, 2017 20:05:10 GMT -6
Evalynn | Blacksmith
As she was situating the eggs in her satchel to ensure they were safe and snug, a soft, but distinct -crack!- filled the quiet of the cavern, followed by softer cracking sounds. Evalynn whipped her head around, panic flashing in her eyes, thinking that someone had just dropped one of the eggs. But no, one of the eggs that was still lying next to its' mother had lines criss crossing the smooth surface. Her eyes widened softly, unconsciously holding her breath as the dracling slowly broke its' way free of the egg.
Soft, innocent sounds of the baby cooing and gurgling now fill the air, and Evalynn's heart melts, watching the babe nestled amoung the shattered pieces of its' egg. A small, though demanding chirp clicks out of the draclings' mouth, and not even a twitch came from the mother. The blacksmith's ears folded back, wondering how it was that the mother didn't even rouse at the sound of it's babies cries. The slave, Aralynne, came to the little one's call though, and knelt beside the milky eyed baby. Her voice seemed to call to the dracling, and immediately she crawled to the mare, and clambered up, nestling and nuzzling into the crook between the mares' wings.
Ignoring her fellow Artisan's contemptuous, though truthful words, Evalynn looked directly at Aralynne. "She'll have imprinted on you as you are the first thing she heard. Keep her safe." Her own experiences with the pygmy dragons told her enough that there was now a bond with the pair, though she wasn't sure just how exactly it would show itself with the larger cousin of the pygmy.
Hearing Zipporah's uttered words, Evalynn turned now angry eyes to the mare. "How dare you ask that? The mother didn't even twitch once the dracling started crying out. If we left it here, and the mother doesn't wake soon, it would die. We may not know how much these dragons differ from their pygmy cousins, but they are of the same mould. Those who study dragons will be able to help us figure out how to care for it, and keep it alive. Many things could pose a danger to Valore, even its' own citizens. Do not impose a threat from the dragon where none has yet been posed." She couldn't believe the other mare. Maybe it was dangerous to take the dracling to the surface with them, along with its' unhatched siblings, and she still felt it was morally reprehensible to take them from their mother, but they needed proper care and the mother seemed unwilling to wake up. Leaving them here was close to a death sentence unless someone chose to stay down in the cavern to take care of them, and there just wasn't enough supplies in the cave for the dracling or whoever stayed to survive.
"We need to get back up to the surface quickly. The baby will be hungry very soon, and we'll need to figure out what it needs to eat, as well as procure said sustenance. Is that alright with you Valerius?" she was still irked with their orders, and found herself unfairly blaming the poor stallion though he didn't deserve it, and she knew it.
Words: 537 Post: 4/4 |
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