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Post by DawnsComing on Jan 16, 2016 22:32:48 GMT -6
It is a Royal’s sworn duty to keep the peace in the herd, but recent tensions has brought about much disagreement. As Kali travels to Sterling, she tries to reason with some of Breim’s citizens until a group of strangers is found at the edge of the city. Who are these foreigners and what could they want?
Hello Starborn! Thank you for participating in Plot 002: Stranger in Our Midst. We hope you all enjoy this chapters twists and turns! Be curtious to each other and most importantly, have fun!
Please keep the following in mind!
- Posts must be a minimum of 175 words. There is no maximum!
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- Five posts is the minimum to earn the event AP/CS/FVR rewards. After you've posted five times, you receive 1 AP for every post after!
- 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! |
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Post by DawnsComing on Jan 17, 2016 18:14:50 GMT -6
Kali | Royal Family
The streets of Sterling were packed with horses, the markets overflowing with goods to trade. It made Kali smile to see the herd so lively, so full of energy and life despite the recent events that sent shock waves through the community. The cremello mare nodded and smiled to the citizens as she passed; most of their names seared into her memory as she walked the same road a million times before. Still, today was oddly silent despite the large crowds and murmurs reached her ears as she walked past. "Good Morning Aris," she nodded to the street vendor but was only met with a frown and a curt acknowledgment. So many had changed their views on the royal family in recent months and part of her did not blame them. Yet that only meant she must work harder to relight the connections she once fostered.
A glance behind reminded her of the two tag alongs, their silence evident of their inexperience for the job. Dionysus, who was usually a quiet soul, was asked to take time from his usual tutoring schedules and act as a bit of a guard to the Royal mare. The palace now thought it wise not to allow any member of the Royal family to travel alone, even those with Kali's experience. It was a bit frustrating but she would take it in strides, as she always had. Aengus, on the other hand, was a bit of a mystery guest; one who the cremello had never had the opportunity to meet. She had heard much about his work from other friends of hers, echos who followed his passions and looked up to the tattooer with much praise. Having met him along the way, Kali had formally asked him to travel with her as he knew much more about the city of Sterling than she. Still, conversation had been minimal at best.
"Tell me, Aengus, what do you enjoy most about Sterling?"
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Post by DawnsComing on Jan 17, 2016 18:15:53 GMT -6
It is the duty of the Royal Family to keep the relations between the palace and the citizens strong and positive, as this is the only way Breim has survived for countless generations. But tensions between the Old Generation and the New have slowly begun to tear apart this trust, now even more so with the disappearance of the previous King. Can the Royal’s convince the common people to trust them once again, or will these attempts end in more division? |
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Post by sansatine on Jan 17, 2016 20:03:03 GMT -6
Diony | Royal tutor
Diony was shocked when he was asked to accompany Kali to Sterling. The stallion himself had just recently returned from that direction after parting ways with his dear Little bird about the vast lands. Birdie did not tell him why she was called to Eithne, but he knew the roan mare could handle herself and would always return to him and his books in Nariah. Never mind all his worry for her, Diony was also confused. Confused on why he was called in place of an actual guard for this trip. Sure, the times have been rough within the palace, and his students there were more than a little distracted, but they hadn't lost every guard. Though, guards were more waiveable than most horses, and Diony was hopelessly devoted to the family who had given him so much.
Never mind, Diony thought to himself as he watched the whiteish mare, I'll do as they have asked of me. He sighed gently, mind returning to Little Bird. The streets around him were busy, but sluggish compared to Nariah, was Diony homesick? Surely not. He'd just moved into a new house closer to the palace and everything was settled. Surely he was just distracted and this "sense of impending doom" was just worry and fret for Little Bird.
Diony was brought out of his thoughts by Kali asking the third member of their party, Anegus, what he liked about Sterling. Diony himself thought about the question himself. The grullo was a well traveled stallion, but Sterling wasn't one of those cities that he visited often because it was so close to home. Even so, the city was remarkable. Anegus, Diony thought as he turned to their third, a strange one indeed. He had a tattoo of remarkable detail of Argus, similar to the one embroidered on Diony's cloak, but more stunning. Diony had heard talk of the Mule before, and he was quite interested in understanding the technologies and secretly hoped to have the first published book on it held in his own library.
Enough enchantments, he reminded himself, do what you were asked.
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Post by loudish on Jan 18, 2016 18:00:48 GMT -6
Aengus | Maker
While the streets were flooded with horses, business had calmed down a bit lately in Aengus' little crook in Sterling. Not that he was too bothered by it. It was a rather nice break after the constant flow of customers for a spell there. He had been a bit distracted brainstorming a new invention when he was startled a bit by a member of the royal family, Kali if his brain didn't fail him, and a darker counterpart whom he assumed was her guard. He couldn't quite place him, though he swore he had just seen the dark stallion in passing. As for Kali, he had noticed her making regular rounds to Sterling. She had never approached him though, that is until now. He flashed a polite smile towards the pair and asked each of them how they were, though was taken aback slightly when the pale royal asked him to accompany the pair in their travels. Confused yet delighted, Aengus threw his cloak on and walked alongside the duo.
Aengus knew that neither of the two were from Sterling, rather just merely passing through. He knew that Kali was a member of the Royal family, and assumed Diony was from around that area as well. He also knew of the drama that had surrounded the royal family not so long ago. A large part of him wanted to bring up the topic, more out of curiosity than anything. It's not every day that Aengus got the chance to socialize with the royals. They shared little in common when it came to views on most things, yet he respected them nonetheless. His usual tendency of being outspoken faltered as he decided it was best not to pry at any potentially sensitive topics. So he kept rather silent until the pale mare finally broke the silence. He nearly missed the question as he was mentally arguing with himself, though perked when he did hear her question. He paused and furrowed his brows slightly as he filed through all the things he loved about Sterling, finding it hard to pick just one.
"Oh, it's definitely the overwhelming amount of creativity that flows through the residents of this city! I don't think anyone who passes through could deny the talent that is born and displayed in Sterling," Aengus beamed. "Don't even get me started on the annual Artist Convention!" He really could go on for hours about what Sterling had to offer, but managed to bite his tongue. He had the tendency to get carried away and forget to let anyone else get in a word. He was genuinely curious of these two, though, and wanted to know more about them.
"What brings the two of ya to Sterling today? Enjoyin' yourselves?"
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Post by DawnsComing on Jan 20, 2016 17:38:27 GMT -6
Kali | Royal Family
A smile spread across the mares face as Aengus seemed to take to the conversation. She could not disagree with him in any way, at least not about Sterling. Despite her more traditional views, the horses of the Skylit city were beyond anything she had ever seen or heard of. Creativity and passion flowed like the waterfall that fell over the edge of the skylight, roaring and powerful yet full of life and wonder. It certainly was an amazing place. "We are here to create connections and answer the question of those who are unsure of its leaders." A moments thought reminded her of the young king, now thrust into the division of new and old. Even she had had her doubts that he was ready but what other option was there? Of all the horses who dwelled within the palace, he was the most prepared.
Her gaze turned to Dionysus, inviting him to participate in the conversations but noting the unsuredness on his face. "Dionysus here is a tutor most days, teaching the royal foals their proper edict. But today, I asked him to accompany me on my journey." Kali hoped she was not getting ahead of herself, as she had not meant to be so forthcoming when it came to the dark stallions' life. There had only been hope to break the ice between the pair and to better understand the both of them.
The moment was silenced, a flutter of wings catching the royal's attention as the group moved across the cobblestone streets. From far above, Kali noticed a small dark speck, its wings carrying it over the city as it searched. Even from here, the mare could tell it was a swallow and one she knew well. The familiar belonged to the palace, carrying messages through the Labyrinth from city to city. Mentally, she reached out, whistling a low tune until it spotted her and descended lightly onto her shoulder.
"What brings you here, Sora?" A seed of worry began to grow in her gut. Sora was the swiftest of all the messengers meaning only one thing; something was not right in the world.
"The palace requests your return, Kali. Return, return!"
A frown crept across her lips, the bird's message sinking in. The cremello sighed heavily, looking from Aengus to Dionysus and back. She had hoped to spend more time with the citizens of Breim but it seemed it was not to be. "I suppose we should head back," she spoke more to herself than any other.
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Post by ryrtia on Jan 20, 2016 18:31:35 GMT -6
Memory |Echo
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The dark cream flank of Memory trotted awkwardly and brokenly through the crowded, but oddly still in a sense, streets of Sterling. She did not like coming down here since her move to the surface years ago but today she had no choice. She had put off bringing her collection of newly crafted trinkets and accessories to the markets for far too long. She walked slowly, head swinging slowly from side to side as she tried to get her baring in Sterling. She cursed silently, losing herself in her search for the regulars that bought her wares to sell, becoming nearly oblivious to those walking the streets as well.
Stopping abruptly to avoid nearly running right into the rear Dionysus she managed to stutter out a soft apology, scolding herself for getting lost in her thoughts again, stepping quickly to the side, only to side step right into Aengus. This caused her to practically jump out of her skin, sending her bags of items off her back and onto the ground. Whipping her head and body around in a fluster " I'm so sorry! I- I'm- " she started in a flurry, trotting a circle before backing away from the small group. Oblivious still that she had lost her wares she stared at them like a deer in bright lights as she realized she had just disrupted the entourage of a Royal Family member, and gasped in horror suddenly. Had she bumped into the royal member!? Did she leave a mark!? Bruise!? Did she perhaps accidentally offend her and now she were to be excepted and made an example of!?
Suddenly, dropping to her knees and nearly butting the ground with her head, she bowed before Kali and her entourage " My apologies, Lady Kali! I didn't mean to interrupt you! Please don't have me executed!" She blurted without thinking, slamming her eyes closed, too embarrassed to even look at their hooves.
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Post by sansatine on Jan 20, 2016 23:15:34 GMT -6
Diony | Tutor
Diony waited for Kali to introduce him and the nature of their visit. He nodded at her dignified response, just as a royal should act- she knows what shes doing, he thought while watching her. Diony turned to Aengus and commented on the mood of the city before his attention was brought away buy a nudge from his rear. He almost didn't notice it at first because it was so slight, and the foals he tutored were more than obnoxious. Especially those accustomed to climbing Diony like a mountain, screaming "Professor! Professor!" because they didn't do the reading assignment. The mare apologized and tried to scurry away before ramming into Aengus and spurting more apologies. Diony let a smile appear on his face before helping the frantic mare gather her wares.
When she begged against execution, Diony laughed. Surely if the royals executed for every misstep, they'd be out of a herd and out of rule. "Child, don't fret. The business of the city leads us to make mistakes! We-" Diony said in a fatherly tone, sparing a glance to Kali at the mention of we before finishing with "understand."
The white mare's attention was drawn to a bird from the palace. It wasn't one of those damned Devil-Birds from the garden, but rather a swifter breed. The swifter the bird, the more urgent the message. Return? Was the king okay? What has Hoshi done now? Diony thought urgently. Kali suggested return and Diony nodded in agreement before turning to the two before them. . . Should we bring them? He thought to himself as their curious eyes pried into his.
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Post by DawnsComing on Jan 21, 2016 9:59:11 GMT -6
Kali | Royal Family
A slight chuckle left the royal mares mouth at the outlandish thought of execution, and for no more than mere hastiness. "Why child," her voice was soft and warm, hoping to put the young mare at ease. "Where ever did you get such an idea?" Kali could not keep the grin from her face but it vanished quickly, thoughts running across her mind and poisoning her composure. Did the citizens of Breim really think so little of the palace? Did they live in fear, worried their ever mistake may be punished. Blue eyes look over the three horses before her. She had been called to return to the palace anyway so perhaps...
"Why don't you both follow me and Dionysus back to the palace? I can certainly answer any questions you may have along the way but it would be good for the citizens of Breim to learn exactly who we are; as both your leaders and your friends." Besides the help, few seemed to understand what went on behind the Palace walls and with mounting tensions rooting deeper, she thought it best to show them. 'Still,' she hoped. 'My summons is unusual. I hope it is not of grave importance.'
Sora squeaked, his beady eyes meeting the cremello's with a questioning look. She knew his concerns but the citizens had a right to know. Breim had always promised to treat its people as equals in every aspect and she, as a royal, and sworn t uphold such a promise. "Let us move out. We have a lot of ground to cover if was want to make it back to Nariah by night-hour."
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Post by sansatine on Jan 24, 2016 14:52:51 GMT -6
Diony | Royal Tutor
Kali had invited the two strange horses to join them in going to the palace. The summons was more than urgent and equally out of place. He made a point to keep Kali beside him as he headed to the gates of the city. Through the crowd, little conversation could be heard among the four, but it ensued either way. Diony watched the people bustling around them and chimed in every once in a while. There were mostly questions about Nariah and the family, but a few about other odds and ends came up.
Diony's mind started to wonder. We'd only just arrived in sterling, this was something the Palace knew, yet a summons came. Why? What happened? He was worried, but worrying was common for Diony. He shook his head and looked at Kali, but he did not meet her eyes, but the bird's. The bird looked at him menacingly. Surely he was in cahoots with the devil birds- oh how he hated the devil birds. They dove at him and peck his glasses, pulled his hair- they were worse than the palace children! Again, he shook he head and kept moving, being careful to keep unwanted interaction to a minimum. He was here to protect Kali, and he would.
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Post by ryrtia on Jan 27, 2016 12:40:41 GMT -6
Memory |Echo
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The young filly kept her nose touching the ground as she kept every fiber of herself from shaking. He gaze raised as Diony started picking up her wares and reassuring her that she would not be executed over such things. A worried frown still plastered on her face, she slowly got up as Kali chuckled and added to the stallions reassurance. As she began to help the stallion gather her wares, first by using her telekinesis to put her bags back on her back and filling from there, she couldn't bring herself to look at the royal family member for more than a couple seconds at a time as she answered her " I-... I don't come down her often anymore.. I really haven't paid much mind to what goes on down here and I hear all these stories abou- " She stopped as she realized the mares and stallions gaze was on her. " I meaannn, it was very silly of me to think such a think. It was a bad way to react to meeting a royal family member and her guard, I do apologize.." She finished hastily. 'She's very pretty... I can she why she is royalty.' she thought to herself as the last of her wares were gathered.
As she shyly side stepped away from the stallion a bit she noticed Kali's attention was now on a white bird, and that this little white bird and the guard did not get along. As the royal family members attention was on the bird, she found herself staring at the large guard. He was large indeed, but didn't really seem the guard type. His flax colored mane and tail standing out against his dark brown coat, but complimented it nicely. Then her eyes rested on his legs, his fore legs to be more specific. He had scars there and she wondered to herself how he may have gotten them. ' Maybe in a fight? But with who? Was it a battle or a war? Maybe he tripped on a fence?' the thoughts speeding through her head and gone as fast as they had appeared.
A surprised whinny was the immediate answer she gave Kali as she was snapped out of her minds wanderings and back to reality. Her head whipped up and forward after having subconsciously been lowered to get a better look at the guards legs. Standing alert now, and a little flushed from embarrassment, only to turn to shock at being invited to join them at the royal palace " I- I would be honored.. but I wouldn't want to intru- Thank you.." She fumbled. As they began to move Memory made sure to stay towards the back, knowing she was technically the outcast of the little band wagon that oozed of sophistication. She did have questions to ask the mare, about why they still sought shelter underground when above ground had healed and come back to life, about why there was even strife between new and old when everyone should understand that change happens, sometimes without warning and abruptly, and sometimes slowly and visible to the eye. But change couldn't be stopped, no matter how hard anyone tried to.
As she kept pace with them, apologizing to anyone she bumped into she perked her ears at Kali's exclamation at hopefully making it to the palace before dark. Her gut wrenched at the thought of staying beneath the ground for so long, but she fought it back down, not wanting to offend anyone of the royal family. Instead she decided to take her mind off the matter and ask a question, but could only bring herself to look at Diony as she inquired Kali "So, you won't be offended by any questions I ask? I mean, as long as they are obviously not a loaded question.. but a question concerning the herd as a whole?" She offered politely, finding it hard to word things properly.
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Post by DawnsComing on Jan 30, 2016 20:00:38 GMT -6
Kali | Royal FamilyA gentle smile touched the mares lips as the looked at Memory, her small trembling form nothing short of adorable. It made the royal's heart ache to think she thought so little of her family; the rulers of the herd beneath the plains. It would certainly take a lot of convincing on her part, if she were to rectify this situation. "Of course," the words were smooth and kind. "Ask whatever you want as we travel. We have a bit of a journey ahead of us and talking will most certainly pass the time."The Labyrinth was long, winding, dark, but far from quiet: creaks of growing roots from above and drips from the steams below. The party's voices alone echoed through the vast tunnels, proclaiming their presence to every sleeping stone. Here and there, gems glittered in seams of rainbow colors, reflecting the dull light the emanated from Kali's opal horn. Yet time passed quickly, hours turning into days as they traveled along the cavern walls the mare knew all too well. She filled their heads with stores of the past and answered tentative questions about the future, all the while aware of their every emotion that reflected in their eyes. As the final day approached, Nariah's glimmering lights came into view, illuminating the vast expanse of the tunnel walls with gold and white hues. It made the mares heart beam with pride and she lifted her weary head a bit higher. This was home. Quietly, she sighed, coming to rest on the edge of the ledge that looked out over the city. Below a set of steep stairs wound their way down to the cavern floor, each one delicately carved into the rock with precision and grace. But the moment was short lived as far below, a group of horses stood only strides from Nariah's grand gates. Their faces too far away to be recognized but their attire already announcing their identity. "Serora."
Standing at the edge of town, you can clearly see a small group of weary travellers. At first you think they are merchants here to trade like many have done in the past but it is quickly realized that this is not the case. These horses are from Serora and they are here to ask for aid. But one among them stands out as different. Serorans you can tolerate… but Talorians?
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Post by Elphora on Feb 1, 2016 8:02:30 GMT -6
Cardinal | Councillor | Serora | Unicorn StallionUpon his recognition of the younger stallion's royal status and etiquette, the Seroran delegates' unlikely travelling partner seemed to puff out to twice his size. What had been a rather prickly silence swelled at once with the stranger's charming tones - Though not fooled by the sudden amicability for a single moment, Cardinal was at least pleased to have polite company with which to converse. Surely, they would have spoken further along the lines of regal lineages and trading embassies settled in the underground kingdoms of Breim land, but Nariah was a sight to steal all breath, and smother all words.
For the desert-dwelling souls, this magical place seemed utterly unreal. The Councillor's ruby eyes gleamed with reflections from the multitude of lanterns and streetlights, his awe (and apparently the awe of the entire travelling party) so great that, for some time, they all stood with muzzles agape and stared at the surreal cavernous city.
When at last Cardinal's senses returned to him, it was with a sprig of urgency. "Miss?" He called out, looking at once for the guide who had led them, unnervingly quiet, through the treacherous and impassable winding tunnels of the underground. His urgency blossomed swiftly into unease as the stallion noticed that she was nowhere to be seen. "Booker, do you see her? Do you know which way she went?" He asked of the tall, lean stallion, whose eyes seemed as keen as his tongue was stubborn. The milling citizens below had begun to notice their arrival, and the foreigners were drawing a multitude of gazes.
Some were curious, but by and large, the folk of Breim stared up at the Seroran party (and the lone Talori in their midst) with open suspicion - The occasional glare seemed even hostile. All at once it seemed to Cardinal that the vast beauty of Nariah was as dangerous as it was inspiring. They were utterly out of their depths, so far below the surface of the world they knew. "We need to find somebody who can take us to the royal houses," The unicorn said to his travelling companions, studious voice softly spoken so that the growing crowd of onlookers mightn't hear. Something in his tone suggested that this was of the utmost urgency. Somewhere down below, a group of stallions were gathering, and their gazes seemed confrontational.
Unaware of his doing so, Cardinal sidled a little closer to Booker.
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Post Count: 3 Word Count: 410 OOC: Jumping in from this thread over here! Serorans (and our wee Talori prince), tally-ho! ♥
Recap of the last Seroran Checkpoint:Checkpoint 2//
At long last, you’ve reached your destination, but you can’t deny there is a strange tension in the air. As you enter the city, it feels like every pair of eyes is watching you, suspicious of your existence. It doesn’t take long for a group to approach, and quite to your surprise, you find yourself in an impromptu interrogation.
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Post by sansatine on Feb 2, 2016 21:37:36 GMT -6
Diony | Royal Tutor
Diony was more than ecstatic to see the winding tunnels of his home, Nariah. He'd been awake most of this trip tending to their little band's protection. Sleepless nights weren't an oddity in Diony's life, too many books and too little time in the day made him accustomed to these things. He could finally sleep.
As they drew nearer to the city, a band of misfits were waiting just outside the tunnels. Kali uttered 'Seroran' in a pointed tone. Diony certainly didn't mind Serorans, or any other herd for that matter, but seeing them being guided into his home when such an urgent summons arrived only days ago made him less welcoming. He took point and followed the horde into the city. One seemed a bit out of place with the desert horses, but perhaps they were a newcomer.
Once in the city, Diony trusted Kali to mind herself and approached, making sure to look less intimidating than a scar-ridden tall stallion would normally. He approached the red eyed unicorn leading the group before starting his inquisition.
"Hello, I see you have entered our fine city. Welcome to Nariah, but, if you don't mind my asking, what brings you here?" he asked him, mind wondering to his home further up the hill just behind him.
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//OOC: hello my children add me on skype if you can (hubahuba02) ily
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Post by TyraDragoness on Feb 2, 2016 21:48:40 GMT -6
| Kenji | Emissary | Second Prince of Talori
At first, every sound other than the hustle and bustle of the glowing city before them was muffled to the once proud prince,
who had seemed to shrink down to his original 15-year old size before the massive awe before him. For a single moment, it
almost seemed as if the mask slipped off, revealing the little colt who'd always dreamed of traveling the world with his uncle.
A prick of sentiment stabbed Kenji's heart, realizing how his uncle was confined to bed rest back at home in Talori...he...he'd
promised he would take Kenji to see Nariah one day...and finally he was here! Yet...alone.
At last, Cardinal's nervous rambling became more than muffled noises, breaking through Kenji's thought barrier and causing the
prince to raise his defensive persona once more. "Miss? Booker, do you see her? Do you know which way she went??" At first,
Kenji's emerald irises performed their half-lidded expression at the Councilor's worries, yet as his vision darted left and
right...Cardinal was right. Their guide had simply...vanished. "Brilliant, our only guide ditches us at the front gate, how
hospitable," he groaned, masking his slight fear with an air of annoyance, "Indeed, unless anyone else in this group knows how to
get to there." Catching himself, he bit his sarcastic tongue and choked down any further complaints so as to not appear
completely immature in front of his Seroran party. He needed to make a good impression...as he kept trying to remind himself.
Noticing Cardinal's line of sight, Kenji's intense green irises peered out from the dark, sultry eye masks he'd inherited from his
royal father and followed it, eventually coming to the small party ahead. From what he could make out, there were two
stallions...and an elegant unicorn mare of pure creamy white. Her ribbed horn reminded him of the shimmery pearls back home
in Talori, and her pale color definitely stood out amongst the dark hues of underground Breim. She had to be important...Kenji
guessed maybe even royalty. Seeing as they were getting closer, Kenji found himself once more trying to appear as tall as possible,
though he instinctively took a few tiny steps closer to his group. Yes they were Serorans...but right now they were all in the same
boat, foreigners to this land, which from the glares of the citizens who began to notice them could also turn out to be
quite...hostile. There was always strength in numbers, no matter how few.
As one of the stallions stepped forward from the group ahead of them, Kenji decided to keep his mouth shut for now and let
Cardinal do most of the introductions. At this point, he would rather simply observe.
Post #3
Word Count: 485
OOC: *toddles along behind Mentalities* ;u; | Kenji: "I am NOT wee.." >B| | Shush Kenji, yes you are. |
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Post by ryrtia on Feb 3, 2016 13:10:33 GMT -6
Memory |Echo
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Memory had kept to the back nearly the entire trip, but stuck close to Diony's side when she could. Being underground for this extended amount of time she was the exact opposite of Diony, the prolonged absence of the sun on her flank made her stomach seemingly twist into a permanent knot. Her head had fallen to shoulder length as she trudged on, only clearing her voice once or twice to as minor questions, more towards how the royal family was doing and why they never really come above ground, too nervous to ask what she really wanted to know.
Though the tunnels had been dark she found it hard to sleep on their little journey, and now was paying the price, feeling absolutely exhausted as she dragged her hooves when they finally reached the city of Nariah. She didn't find it as breath taking as the others, though it was open and spacious, it was still underground ' Still a prison of sorts... ' she thought to herself as new voices caught her auds, ears swiveling to locate the source.
When they approached the group she could tell they weren't from around Nariah at all, seeing travelers all the time above ground and her heart jumped a little in excitement until it dawned on her how they held themselves, just like Kali and Diony. They were royals or of the sorts, and that was rarely good news. Her eyes locked onto those of dark red, then vibrant green, before falling to the ground. She didn't belong amongst the group, she was probably the lowest on the totem pole there, and that made her feel worse. Her head stayed low but her eyes flitted up as Diony stepped forward, engaging the visitors. She had no idea how to act around so many of high standing, and this made her step nervously sideways behind Kali to try and high from sight, she wouldn't want to be accidentally thought of as someone who was of high standing when she was merely just an Echo who accidentally crashed into Kali's little entourage.
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Word Count: 350
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Post by swaggalatte on Feb 3, 2016 17:33:20 GMT -6
Booker | Screamer | Serora
Discomfort.
That was Booker's initial feeling as the members of Breim slowly began to turn their heads up to the small gathering at the gates of Nariah. He felt his ears tip backwards, and he shuffled his feet a bit. His attention was drawn back to Cardinal, though, as the unicorn spoke. His head swiveled as he looked for their guide that had been their moments before, only to realize that she was not there.
Of course.
Booker's anxiety slowly crept up to a higher intensity, and it took almost every fiber of his being not to back up and out of the tunnels. This wasn't his home. He was not beneath the blue skies that brought him comfort. He was beneath the suffocating earth in a foreign land. The citizens of Nariah had the right to be suspicious and mistrusting. They were outsiders.
"We need to find somebody who can take us to the royal houses," Cardinal had uttered, and Booker agreed. Who they would ask, though, was an absolute mystery to the chimeric stallion. They could not just waltz in and demand they be brought before the leader. Things would turn hostile VERY quickly. In this desperate time that was literally the very last thing that they needed.
As a small group approached them, Booker lifted his head a bit higher, his ears tipping forward. Cardinal shifted towards him more, and the Screamer readied himself for anything. He doubted that the Breim equines would attack them, but they could not be too careful. The first of the group to speak was a darker stallion, who appeared to be about the same age as him.
"Hello, I see you have entered our fine city. Welcome to Nariah, but, if you don't mind my asking, what brings you here?"
Booker's eyes flicked to Cardinal, expecting the more verbally adept stallion to take the reins on this one. Turning his eyes back to the group, he took in the members of the welcoming party. "Welcoming" was a loose term.
Word Count: 340
Post: 3
OOC: Sorry it took so long!! I didn't see the message saying we had moved and I've been busy with college this week ><
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Post by DawnsComing on Feb 7, 2016 21:41:28 GMT -6
Kali | Royal Family
Each step was well placed, each word perfectly chosen but there was no need. Diony moved first, his head high and his gate firm, a smile gracing his face. Kali had to admit she was impressed with his educate and why shouldn't she be? He was a royal tutor after all. Blue eyes moved carefully over the group, each face printed against her mind just as each emotion was calculated and studied for obvious signs of mal-intent. Yet the royal mare could see no such mischief in the travelers eyes, only weary nervousness that seemed to soak their dusty coats.
It took mere seconds for the crowds of Breimian's to form, leaving silence to rest against the party. There were no shouts, no questions, only curious looks mixed with doubt, fear, and spots of anger. The mare could only wonder what was going through these horses heads, surrounded by a massive city of unknown and met with faces of hostility. But Breim had always been like that: don't trust the outsiders. As much as she wanted to understand their doubts, she could not condone such behavior. "All of you," she addressed the crowds with a firm yet gentle voice, turning to face them head on. "Please return to your daily routes. These horse are not here for you, and you will do well to leave this matter to your King."
The still of hesitation gripped them, a heartbeat of unrest passing over all before the crowds moved to disperse. It made Kali's heart ache to see the scorn in their eyes but she would not falter. She was a royal, the structure of the herd, and she needed to stand firm lest the whole of society come crashing in on itself. Releasing a heavy sigh, the cremello mare turned back around to face the seroran's...plus one. Her pale gaze studied the youngest member, a mere colt. He was obviously not of the desert herd, her pelt too smooth, his body too sleek. Sora, who had been perched against her shoulder, chirped in agitation. 'Who you? who WHO?!'
"Please Sora, that is no way to treat a guest of the city." Her scolding was light, finished by a light laugh before returning to face the red-eyed stallion. "I assume you are the reason we were called back here today?"
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Post by Elphora on Feb 10, 2016 4:14:53 GMT -6
Cardinal | Councillor | Serora | Unicorn StallionAs with many times throughout the arduous journey from Osulas to Nariah, Cardinal was desperately grateful for the presence of the Screamer. Even if it was just their small band, at least the Sultan had not sent Cardinal alone to meet with the royal dignitaries of Briem - He felt terribly vulnerable, out of place in the wonderment and awe of the grand underground city.
It was important not to let that show, though. As one stallion broke apart from the group and headed steadfastly toward them, the ruby-eyed unicorn took a deep breath, and felt a most diplomatic and grim expression grow about his maw. The approaching stallion was tall and dark, and had a number of rather serious-looking scars. If it weren't for the fact that the Councillor had dealt with much gruffer-looking types back home in Sedo, and for the comforting presence of Booker at his side, he might have felt intimidated. As it was, he felt almost relieved - At least here was someone willing to hear their story.
As he was gathering the appropriately polite words to reply, the rest of the nearby group came over to join them. With the strangers was a small dusky-colored mare, who looked swiftly and himself and the Talori prince before darting her eyes shyly away. The stern look on the scholar's face melted at once into something more sympathetic, and he smiled generously at the pretty mare before raising his narrowed pupils to the dignitary at her side.
And here, clearly, was royalty. The pale unicorn mare was utterly beautiful, from her startling teal eyes to the pearly horn that spiraled from the crown of her head - Putting Cardinal's own black arched horn much to shame. For a moment, her beauty stumped the Councillor; But he was a middle-aged stallion, not some youngster to be rendered tongueless by the fickle whims of attraction. From her noble stance to the way she commanded the lingering masses to dissipate, he could clearly see that this mare was the most high-ranked among her peers, and likely it was she who would be able to guide them to the rooms of the palace, and the council of the High King of this underground realm.
Politely, the Seroran returned his attentions to the stallion who had spoken first. "Many thanks for your kind welcome, friend. We have traveled far from Osulas, in Sedo, bringing a dire message from our Sultan - it is for the ears of your High King, if he would be so gracious as to hear it," This was the truth of things - Feeling a tad guilty for previously deceiving the Talori prince in their midst, Cardinal shot him an apologetic glance. But he would not lie to the elite of Briem, and it was growing ever more important that their message be heard.
"Perhaps it was," He began again, this time looking directly at the pale mare who had addressed them, "And if so, I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience. We would not have made the journey if our message was not of the utmost importance, my lady. I am Cardinal, a Councillor of the Sultan," He paused here, so as to gesture with his dark nose to each individual as they were announced, "And these are my comrades, Booker and Gael of Serora; And our coincidental travelling companion of the Talori, who I am most certain can introduce himself." His eyes lingered on the son of the Talorian Emperor, only now wondering how he would be received by those of Briem.
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4 Word Count: 605 OOC: Sorry for the wait, guys - I hope I haven't skipped anyone!
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Post by sansatine on Feb 27, 2016 14:35:08 GMT -6
Diony | Tutor
Diony watched the stallion as he talked, still highly on guard. Kali made sure to ease the worry of those herd members aroung them with a dignified dismissal, but he studied the group more. The red-eyed stallion had a message for his king, surely of great importance. Diony gave a small nod as Kali then addressed the group, who, inturn, introduced themselves.
Cardinal was the red-eyed stallion for which Diony had addressed directly. His to herd mates were called Booker and Gael and the fourth of their party was a dignified youngling for the Talorian herd. A strange bunch to say the least, but they had a message for the High King, and dinoy swore to make sure he heard it. Even so, there was a small voice in the depths of Diony's head telling him that certainly they were not here for diplomatic reasons, but out of menace.
"Come." Diony stated sternly. "I will bring you to the high king's council so you may have your hearing with him."
He lead them closer to the palace, and before they reached it's glorious doors, they passed his home. A light was on inside the main room, but Diony wasn't worried. More than likely it was a student of his who needed a book for an exam. He nodded to the statue of Argus as he passed it, as if to thank the god for a safe journey. Diony returned to their path and finally stopped at the palace.
Diony allowed them to enter before him and spared a warning look to Kali as she passed. He would act on her word, should she need him to, but they would have their say with the King.
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Post by swaggalatte on Feb 27, 2016 19:25:39 GMT -6
Booker | Screamer | Serora
He remained silent as they made their way to the King's court, and he kept proximity to Cardinal. It was obvious that he was discomforted by the situation and the residents of Nariah. Booker knew he was not the best conversational piece, and figured that his protection was the least he could offer. He actually was extremely grateful for the unicorn's presence. He was exceptional at speaking, which would definitely benefit them here. It was easy to get along with him, even if Booker felt a little guilty for being so awkward.
On their journey through the city, children on the streets gawked at the Serorans, the desert-dwellers appearance very obviously not of this region. Booker occasionally would glance their way, giving them a small smile or a polite nod. Any way to make them as comfortable with the presence of outsiders would be beneficial for the small group. Some of the smaller kids rushed away when he looked at them, and some smiled back. Some of the teenagers looked a bit uneasy, and Booker could not blame them. Outsiders meant unfamiliarity, and unfamiliarity meant danger.
The more that Booker saw of the Breim city, the more that he desired to see more. Shops held many different machines and doodads and he even saw a tattoo parlor. Booker had never seen one done before, but it was definitely something he was interested in. Vendors on the streets sold tinkering toys and tools and potions. Despite the bustling nature of the city, it was strangely organized and quiet. Booker could get used to Nariah. At least, until they passed a statue of Argus, and a slight pinch in his chest made him miss the deserts and the open sky. He would be glad to go home when the time came.
When they approached the palace Booker gazed up at its grandeur. It was so different than the buildings and tents he was used to in Serora.
Word Count: 326 | Post 4
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Post by TyraDragoness on Mar 1, 2016 21:51:56 GMT -6
Kenji | Emissary | Talori
Kenji's intense emerald irises flicked from equine to equine, studying each of their movements and thus trying to gauge their feelings on their unruly Seroran traveling party. Thankfully, the cremello royal held an obviously high status among the unruly citizens and was able to calm them quite swiftly. Or rather deter them for the time being at least. The prince could still feel a few piercing glares boring into the back of his head as the Breimans sulked away in anger or quickly fled in fear of their spectacle. So the history books were true...the Breimans really did trust no one outside their community. It surprised the Talorian prince that they were even let in at all.
"Who you? Who WHO?!"
The sudden screech jolted Kenji nearly out of his wits, and he quickly scowled at the source of the ear-piercing noise before recomposing himself. It was on everyone's minds anyway, no one was too impolite to say it. Putting on a more pleasant expression, he graciously bowed low, his soft muzzle brushing against his right knee before the gorgeous Breiman royal.
"I am Prince Kenji of Talori, my lady, second son of Emperor Hawkeye and new emissary apprentice to the primary emissary, my uncle. Unfortunately he fell ill most recently and was not able to make the journey with me, thus I am sent alone in his stead. I hope you have already received the letter from the Emperor about this situation and preparing my arrival, but if not I apologize for such late notice," Kenji introduced himself, calm, collected, and extremely polite despite his original impression he'd given to the rest of his Seroran party at the beginning of their trip.
Glancing at Cardinal, the two locked eye contact, though Kenji retained a more curious expression than one of anger about being deceived earlier by the Councilor. He very well knew the stakes, and he would obtain the information he needed one way or another. Unknown to Cardinal himself, the Talorian emperor was actually looking to create further bonds between the other nations, not to pick battles. If Kenji were able to discover more about Serora's need, he may be able to send in Talorian resources if necessary. As much of a "Palace Jerk" as he was, a name bestowed upon him by those he lived with in the royal sector of Talori, he truly was passionate about becoming an official emissary, and that meant mending bonds and creating ties, not tearing them down.
The connection was soon broken, however, as one of the royal's company agreed to lead them to the high king's council, and they were soon on their way, trailing behind their new guides and finally welcomed into the gates of Nariah.
Post 4 | Word Count: 513
OOC: I will make the formatting on this pretty later, only had time to submit the bare content. Also so sorry for such a late reply, I have literally been under mountains of college projects and homework and simply haven't had the time or energy. ;-; ;-; Forgive me!
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Post by Elphora on Mar 31, 2016 6:46:30 GMT -6
Cardinal | Councillor | Serora | Unicorn Stallion
It was the scarred stallion who relented first, informing them in clipped and blunt tones that they would be taken before the High King, and have their chance at a desperate parlay. Cardinal kept the relieved sigh that wanted to bubble forth locked up in his lungs, unable to believe their good luck - That they had traveled all the way from Osulas to Nariah in relative safety, and would now reach the true purpose of their journey in the same day as their arrival!
He was eager - and rather nervous - to see the court of the High King. The denizens of Nariah were a mysterious lot, shrouded by the shadows and beautiful glowing lanterns of their hometowns. As the group passed down cobble streets, markets and houses, Cardinal eagerly drank in the exotic architecture and sights. He decided that on his return home he would begin a new book, describing this journey and all that the group saw in as much detail as possible. It would be a worthy addition to some of the Breiman tomes in his library's collection.
He had wanted to spend some more time conversing with Kenji, also - But as they passed a great and regal statue of Argus, it seemed more fitting to remain quiet and allow their strange underground companions to lead the way. Whilst they did, the Councillor tried to prepare himself for the meeting that was soon to come; Tried to think of what words he would say, that would be so poetic and moving that the High King would instantly leap to Serora's aid...
Before he could do overmuch more than that, however, it seemed a great shadow fell upon the party. Looking up, Cardinal saw one of the most imposing palaces that surely had ever existed. It was too late for planning - They had already arrived.
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5!! Word Count: 333 OOC: Just popping in here to get my fifth post done before the Chapter wrap-up <3
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Post by TyraDragoness on Apr 14, 2016 16:10:28 GMT -6
Kenji | Emissary | Talori
When the young prince received no reply to introduction, but instead a mere motion to follow their new guides to high king's council, the smile quickly evaporated from Kenji's lips, as they once more formed a hard, crisp line with that cold, annoyed stare once more returning to his emerald eyes. This wasn't how this was supposed to go. No... Firstly his uncle was supposed to have been here, to be witness to Kenji's amazement and wonder of Breim's lands. Secondly, the royals were supposed to have received his letter of introduction weeks prior and to prepare him a proper greeting, one fit for an emissary that would soon be weaving fresh bonds between the two realms. Thirdly, his servant was supposed to have accompanied him here to serve him during his stay in Breim, but his father had forbidden her accompaniment in the last moments before he set out on foot to the underground city. Lastly, he was not supposed to have been forced to join a straggly Seroran party. He should have received all the glory in his arrival, yet instead he had to share it with his Seroran groupmates, who's priority held more weight than his own due to the peril in their homeland.
The prince had to admit it to himself. He was disappointed. Adjusting his pack and tossing his slick black forelock from his knitted brow, he trudged on, some of the wind lost from his sails. He would have a lot to write about to Addie back home... As much as he hated to admit it, the twinge in his heart was most certainly due to missing his servant...or rather his only companion that would put up with him back home in Talori. As much as she annoyed the hell out of him...he missed her presence more than ever now that she wasn't around. The young prince could feel it: it was going to be a long night...
Post 5 | Word Count: 334
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