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Post by Queerly on Jul 1, 2018 12:42:29 GMT -6
Hello Starborn, and welcome to Aodh Plot 603: Desperate Measures Team Leader: Roulette Participants: Illidis, Clythus, Adrian, Caron, Galloway, Umbra, Margot, Athelstan, Cael Date: April 11th, Morning 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: Desperate times call for desperate measures and the nation comes before personal and private property. At least, that’s the line being rattled off by Chevaliers to confused owners and slaves alike. Servile and pit slaves are being rounded up and herded toward the Dark District to try to rebuild the city in the wake of the labor slaves’ mass escape. Surely this isn’t a permanent arrangement? It’s only temporary, right? The Chevaliers guiding you don’t have that answer. |
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Post by FaunaFawn on Jul 1, 2018 18:15:06 GMT -6
Roulette A Pitfighter Roulette snorted as he stomped his hoof a few times on the pavement looking around at the other slaves that were being rounded up, like sheep the slaughter, he thought bitterly. Eyes narrowed as he looked over to one of the chevaliers ushering them on wards. He was taken out of from under Juliet, as if it was nothing. Of course he was nothing to the city though, just entertainment, good sport. It never bothered him, until now. When he was taken so early this morning, still morning now, to be ushered to the Dark Distract.
"When will we return back to our homes?" he asked eyeing the closest Chevalier, who seemed to ignore his question all together. But then again none of the nitwits could really answer any of their questions. Babbling on, about how this was for the good of the city, there was a job and they had able bodies to do it. Roulette spat at that notion. Instead of focusing on the useless nitwits of soldiers he turned to the other slaves. "You all alright?" he asked a bit curiously. "Well from besides the apparently usual being stripped away from our home. No one hurt?" he inquired gently eyeing them. He'd be damned if anyone of them got hurt.
WC:216 | Post #1 |
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Post by Western-Witch on Jul 1, 2018 20:09:26 GMT -6
G A L L O W A Y
Aodh | Pit Slave
... ...
Galloway was still rubbing the sleep from his eyes. Something had happened. He was already up and readying to train by the time the Chevaliers arrived. He almost panicked too. The last time Chevaliers had been involved was the branding. It took Lady Scarlet some time to calm him down.
And he was still riled up. They had taken him again. But this time directly from his home. His anger was sitting right below the surface. After everything that Illidis had speculated a few months back and with this sudden change of rank from Pit Slave to Labor Slave; it was becoming exhausting. Being a slave wasn't amazing obviously, but this was not okay.
He looked around himself and spotted Illidis. He wanted to see how the paint horse was after the accident in the pits. Galloway pressed close to Umbra who had popped up all of a sudden with the group. How a kid could help with labor was unimaginable to Gallow, but he would keep an eye on his son. He recognized Roulette, a fellow pit slave and the others he only knew in passing.
Roulette spoke up for everyone's question. How permanent was this? "I'm fine myself. No cuts or brusies...yet." He muttered under his breath. "You alright too?"
Then Gallow turned to a Chevalier, "What is it you want us to do?"
... ... Word Count: 226 Post #1
Art by strixx-varia |
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Post by Disastercorn on Jul 1, 2018 20:17:05 GMT -6
CLYTHUS
The large stallion stood frazzled and distraught. Having just switched owners he hadn't been too happy with the change but at least it had been a good home with shelter and food. Now he stood, surrounded by others who where of the same rank. Seeing the larger stallion from his old home, the tall lithe stallion stepped close to him. Fear was evident in his eyes. "This can't be happening..." After everything that had happened within Aodh for them to go to these measures... Head shook, having not even had time to brush or detangle his mane and tail. "Roulette... I'm scared..." Clythus hated saying such things allowed but he had to tell someone and with his brain such a mess, he stuck like glue to the beef equines side.
He adjusted the metal bridal in mouth with his tongue, worrying it as there wasn't much space to move around. "So far it doesn't look like any of us have been hurt..." The tall look out tower of a silver stallion took another look around, trying his best to help. But he was just as lost and unsure as everyone else.
Word Count: 197 || Post #1 |
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Post by misttheelf on Jul 1, 2018 20:45:21 GMT -6
"...I'm fine." Caron muttered at the question. Their head was lowered, and they avoided eye contact with the others.
They were worried. Honestly, they were scared for Shiya. She was still asleep back at the manor, and that damnable Sea Hag had all but pushed them out the door to the chevaliers. They had no idea how long they were going to be here at this... job, and they had no way to contact Shiya... They needed to return to her as soon as they could. Shiya... She had suffered far too much at the hooves of Calypso. Caron dreamed and prayed for the strength from Ignacio to save her from her grandmother. But this... Calypso surely is going too far in torturing Shiya... Their Shiya doesn't deserve that... She deserves so much better. And Caron wanted to give everything to her. But what could they do? They are a slave, after all... They sighed at their internal monologue. Calypso surely wanted to break Shiya with this... And that made Caron worry about her, far more than they worried, or to be honest, cared, about their own current situation.
WC:189 Post 1
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Post by purrsain on Jul 1, 2018 22:33:13 GMT -6
Athelstan Athelstan lifted his head up as a voice was asking if they were okay. Roulette he believed was the stallion’s name. “I-I’m okay, no injuries.” He stammered. Athelstan looked around nervously; He recalled the events that led him to where he was currently.
Athelstan had been cooking himself and Rania breakfast when there was a knock on the door. Rania answered it and the next thing he knew, there was a bridle being forced upon his head and he was being led out the door. He looked back to Rania and cried out “Master? What’s going on? What’s happening?” Rania responded “Don’t worry Athelstan, I’ll come for you. Just hold on.” her face blank of all emotion, but Athelstan knew better than to think she held no emotion. He could feel the anger rolling off his sister in waves.
Athelstan was pulled out of his memory by the overwhelming feeling of fear that the group was emitting. Pushing aside his massive amounts of anxiety, Athelstan started to hold himself in a calming way, and attempted to project feelings of calmness to the group. “ Everything will be okay, my master can get us out of this.” Athelstan attempted to assure them. Whether it worked or not would be something else he would have to deal with later, for now he needed to attempt to calm everyone down.
{Post: 1| Word count:227} |
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Post by Superior-Caesar on Jul 2, 2018 2:10:10 GMT -6
Umbra - Servile SlaveUmbra had been woken abruptly by the sound of soldiers at his master's house. It wasn't often that chevaliers came, when they did it was never good news. He was taken from Caspian and the filly he was there to care for. No word came to him about what was going on, all he knew was something about labor.
When they reached the group, Umbra quickly ran to his father's side. They always seemed to be thrown together in such odd situations. He was happy to have someone to cling to. The colt was confused at hearing he would be used as a labor slave. He saw no way in which he could help with such daunting, tireless tasks. And yet, there he was.
Umbra's ears perked at the sound of Roulette's voice. He shook his head, "I think I'm okay. Are you okay, mister?" Umbra figured someone should check on the one guy who was checking on them. His glance flicked over to Galloway. His dad seemed just fine, but just as worried. He wasn't sure what to make of the whole situation.
Word Count: 184
Post: 1
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OOC: Sorry, not in the chat yet, but I had time |
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Post by Moose-On-Ice on Jul 2, 2018 2:20:20 GMT -6
No, no, no, no, why was, how- Illidis swallowed thickly, his mouth dry, forelock falling into his face from the lack of time to properly pull it back. The labor slaves were gone. They were meant to replace them. But for how long? How much good could they really do? How much good could he do himself? Gaze locked on the stone beneath him out of habit, Illidis focused on putting one foot in front of the other, struggling to even keep that much going. He was not yet accustomed to the prosthetic limb Dorjan had purchased for him. What true strength and physical prowess he used to have as a Pit Fighter was gone, replaced by a crippled, paranoid, maybe slightly insane personality.
He thought he might be as such. The morning, when the Chevaliers had come, and he only had time to properly put his prosthetic on and make sure his shape shifting amulet was on his neck, Illidis had stumbled to the front door, only to be met with Chevaliers who forced him out and into the streets to join a parade of slaves, with a bit in his mouth, and his paranoia screaming that Isador had found out, and this was his punishment. Even now, a small voice in the back of his mind repeatedly nagged him, 'Isador knows, he knows and he's sending you to the Dark District to die.' Squeezing his eyes shut and stumbling from the momentary loss of focus, Illidis hastily fought to regain his footing.
A voice cut through the anxiety, the fear that clouded his mind, and he opened his eyes, lifting his head for the first time since he had been dragged from Dorjan's home. Alright? He was quiet, simply staring at the one who spoke. He wasn't sure. He didn't think so, honestly. He wasn't hurt, but... He selfishly wanted to go home, to return and hide in his room. He'd thought, maybe, he'd gained some sort of resolve after the accident, that he wouldn't let his spirits be crushed by those higher than him, but the shock of the situation simply dragged him back to his old habits, and he went crying to them seeking stability. Slowly looking to the equines among them, searching for a single familiar face, his gaze landed on Galloway, and quietly, carefully, he edged his way towards him, saying nothing, but taking a place beside him, trying to quell the shivers threatening to wrack his body.
Most, if not all, sounded just as shocked as him. They made empty promises, a cynical part of him said. How could one master get them out of this? It simply wasn't possible. Tucking his head towards his chest, he again stared at the stone, trying to simply stay on his feet. He couldn't handle this... :... ...:
Word Count: 407 words; Post 1
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Post by DawnsComing on Jul 3, 2018 16:41:32 GMT -6
Cael
The dark mare snorted as the lead that bound her face was tugged forward. The bit in Cael's mouth clicked against her tongue, its familiar metallic flavor causing waves of irritation to roll off her pelt. The Chevalier pulled again, urging the slave to move more quickly as she took up the rear but Cael was not having it. Swinging her head back she forced the stallion to stumble slightly and each exchanged dirty looks with one another.
Her disobedience was a risk for which she could easily be beaten for. This Cael knew, for not all masters were as kind as her Lady. Still, she tried to restrain herself from going too far, for she was property of a noble house and to bring shame on them was certainly the last thing she wanted. But like the others in her presence, there were questions in the back of her mind. To be forced away from the equine that owned them, well the Kingdom was going very far indeed. Their owners had paid shards for their purchases, and unless the Kingdom had the intention of buying them (by force or not) they did not belong to the state. So what was going to happen? The equine of Aodh would surely LEND their slaves for the betterment of the kingdom but for how long? How long would they be held, away from their homes and masters?
Cael's ears flicked toward the low muttering ahead of her, golden eyes focusing on the slaves she recognized. A few were from her own house, and others she knew from the pits where they fought. The mare had never been one to socialize. Slaves did not often get such a luxury and never knew where their friends may end up. As a filly, she had spent a lot of time talking with the labor slaves who worked outside the bars Aaron had frequented but that had been so long ago. The world was different now so perhaps it was time for her to change as well.
Picking up the pace the pit slave moved closer to the group, her gaze briefly meeting the chevalier's who had tugged her forward earlier. Even from here she could tell they were afraid of them; some of them anyway. The pit slaves were trained fighters and like dogs, they were owned, trained and taught to win. The chevaliers themselves were not ill-equipped to handle a fight either but in Cael's eyes, it was only the bridles that suppressed the mutts of New Valore. This, she felt, they knew which is why slaves were belittled and prodded every chance they got. Aodh could not afford to let the slaves know they were of equal strength and will.
WC: 450 | Post #1 |
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Post by Ehrendi on Jul 5, 2018 6:56:23 GMT -6
Adrian | Servile
Adrian stood uncharacteristically quiet, watching Roulette through a veil of long hair. The pit fighter had been rounded up alongside him back at Juliet's. They had been herded together with another mish-mash of slaves and the things he heard along the way made him feel cold on the inside. He thought back to all the times he had wished and wished with all of his might to be freed from Juliet's cruel grasp. No, surely this was not his wish coming to light? He glanced around, looking at the chevaliers who remained quiet despite the slaves asking them questions. This, this was not what he had meant. He chewed absently at the bit in his mouth, looking around the slaves and listening in on their conversation. It was all he could manage through the nerves that had set within him, he didn't trust himself to speak, in fear that he would say the wrong thing and only sealing his fate here. Adrian was not built for hard work, despite his tall and lanky stature. There was a reason he was not originally chosen for labour work, or as a pit fighter.
Post 1 | 191 words |
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pond
Nebula
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Post by pond on Jul 5, 2018 17:30:54 GMT -6
 SLEEPWALKER 18 Years | Servile Slave Thinking | Walking | Talking
MARGOT was tired. She didn’t question the roundup, because every thought she has tinges the brand on her forehead. She had become absent ever since she was given it; months have passed and she can’t recall a moment of that time. She was an automaton. She wasn’t present. She let herself be led away from Cyndane, only watching her feet fall below her, but not seeing anything.
SHE heard Roulette’s comment, but didn’t listen. It was background noise amongst the percussion of hooves upon the red brick road. If she had the urgency to speak she would have let her subconscious talk for her. “I’m fine thank you how are you?”, she would have said. Her voice would sound scripted and hollow, and would lack the natural pauses and intonations that a sentient answer would contain. But she didn’t answer.
THE soundwaves of other voices drifted into, and out of, her ears. If she were looking at their faces she wouldn’t recognise them, but then again, she barely recognises herself in the mirror. Her mouth was dry, and as she swallowed she felt the collar around her neck restrict that motion. She let her eyes glaze, her lids hang low, and her lips droop. The state figured they hadn’t broken her yet, eh?
post 1 | 213 words
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Post by FaunaFawn on Jul 5, 2018 20:18:09 GMT -6
RouletteA Pitfighter Gods what a crew this one, he thought sourly to himself, Not that he was mad at any of them, Gods no. He was more upset at the fact hardly any of these equine was suitable for the life of a labor slave. There was a mere child among them. Some of them he'd assume if treated like labor slaves would perish in a month span. No he didn't like that at all.
As he asked them all how they were, well they were as good to be expected, from being ripped out from their homes. He looked to familiar faces and new faces and saw something in each of them. As the small child asked how he was fairing, well gods be damned he was touched, and felt a strong desire to protect, hell it was part of the reason he was purchased by Juliet honestly. "I'm alright kid." he offered a smirk. Well they all will be alright if he had anything to say about it.
"It's okay we'll be okay." he remarked to Clythus as he heard him mutter of being afraid. Gods weren't they all? "I'll fix this I'll do something." he remarked softly to them. He eyed Cael, enjoying the small acts of defiance. Yes, thats what they needed. Rou had no shame, he has played the fool many at times in the pit, for he lived his name of being a gamble in the pits. Roulette slowed his pace, a chevalier tried to get him to move, but one kick outwards and snort showed Roulette was not going to move. It seemed another tried to usher him to go faster, but Roulette instead nearly plopped down and shook his head. "We need to rest look at us, we are all shaken, just give us a second, the city is still be wrecked even if we get there five minutes slower." he snarled, which ended up with lashing on his hide, but still it seemed the Chevaliers gave in allowing all the slaves a break before continuing on. So, they had but precious moments to try to do something. Rou sent a wink to the other slaves, showing he was alright and prayed someone had a good idea to help them in this situation.
WC:379 | Post #2 |
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Post by Disastercorn on Jul 7, 2018 21:29:35 GMT -6
CLYTHUS
The slave watched and listened and stepped carefully. There was so many of these squished together... Breathing hard he tried to calm his racing heart. If only they could remove the bits on their faces... Maybe then something could be done. But Clythus was not a fighter. Seeing the other tall Dapple slave the silver Thoroughbred mix stepped towards Athelstan and touched his shoulder with the tip of his nose. He had friends, they where here with him. As the whip cracked against Roulettes hide, Clythus nearly jumped out of his skin and bounced into the others slave body. He was scared, more then he cared to admit. A worst nightmare coming to life... Panting unevenly silver mane topped forward as the slaves mind raced. Surely this couldn't be what they had succumbed too... The city surely couldn't be forcing equines to do this... Eyes flickered up to Athelstan. There was even a child here!
"Can you take off my bridle?" He whispered voice tiny, clearly more to his ploy then just removing the accessory from his face. If he could use his blessing... Then everyone had a chance to scramble... He would take the fall for it but this should not be their life anymore!
Word Count: 212 || Post #2 |
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Post by purrsain on Jul 7, 2018 22:12:32 GMT -6
Athelstan
Athelstan shifted in his spot nervously, he saw the chevalier give in to Roulette's demand to allow them to rest but he couldn't bring himself to let his guard down and relax. Feeling something gently touch his shoulder, Athelstan looked back to see his friend Clythus. Athelstan immediately noticed an overwhelming amount of fear and anxiety coming from the smaller stallion. He attempted to send calming waves to him but it appeared to do virtually nothing, his talent was rendered useless in this situation.
Upon hearing the silver haired male's request to remove his bridle, he cocked his head to the side for a moment in confusion, but went along with it. "Okay, Clythus what do you plan on doing?" he whispered to his friend in an equally quiet voice.
In an effort to not be noticed by the Chevaliers, Athelstan opted to not use his teke for fear it may alert them to any ' suspicious behavior'. " Put your head down for a moment please, Clythus" Athelstan requested quietly. He slowly used his teeth to pull the bridle off of Clythus' head and set it on the ground painfully slow, to reduce the noise of the impact the metal would make when meeting the concrete. He hoped whatever his friend had in mind would help them in their current situation, at least till Rania arrived to help them.
{Post: 2 | Word count:229}
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Post by Superior-Caesar on Jul 7, 2018 23:03:34 GMT -6
UmbraUmbra watched everyone closely, trying to figure out how things might go down. Everyone was just radiating an aura of anger and confusion. He was happy he wasn't alone in such a feeling. He smiled as Roulette responded to his question. It was nice to have someone looking out for them who was also willing to speak with them. Umbra had gathered over the past year that pit fighters actually weren't scary at all, and such was another example.
Umbra jumped in his skin, pulled from his thoughts, as he heard the whip crack against Roulette. The colt sucked himself further into his father's body, but quickly ran to Roulette's side after the chevalier left. "Are you okay? That sounded like it hurt!" He gently pressed his nose to the area that had been hit. In the corner of his eye, Umbra noticed something strange happening between two of the other slaves. He glanced in their direction and just about yelped. If the chevaliers noticed, like Umbra had, they'd be dead meat for sure. But, Umbra kept quiet, he would not throw his fellow slaves to the wolves. Instead he focused on Roulette. "Thank you for helping us. It's very kind of you to stick up for all us and not just yourself," he whispered in a caring voice.
Word Count: 219
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Post by Western-Witch on Jul 9, 2018 14:21:51 GMT -6
G A L L O W A Y
Aodh | Pit Slave
......
We're more than they are, He thought as he counted the Chevaliers surrounding them. There had to be something they could do. If the Labor Slaves of the city could escape then they could too. Or at least turn the tables so they had the answers and the Chevaliers had the questions. Suddenly Roulette stopped the group. Gallow watched as the whip came down hard on the pit fighters thick hide. He knew the unicorn was fine. They had both been hit harder than that in the pits.
Finally they had a chance to stop and asses what could be done. Umbra was consoling Roulette, the others were only milling around still nervous as before. Behind him Gallow saw something particularly interesting. Smiling darkly to himself Gallow caught on to what was happening. Just as he was about to suggest the same to Roulette he caught a tan blur in the corner of his eye.
Was that...Todd?! Something small and furry came bolting into the group and slammed against Gallow's leg. Damn it. It was. Annoyed he looked down and saw his familiar Todd panting. He must have escaped when he saw Gallow being taken away. Rolling his eyes Gallow nuzzled the small dog on the head. And then an idea bloomed.
"Hey Todd, wanna do something useful?" The Corgi tilted his head and shook his nubby tail. "Go be a distraction. Keep those Chevaliers occupied. We've got things to do here." Gallow whispered and sent him off.
And true to his annoying nature Todd began to yap and nip and at the Chevaliers attempting to herd them away from what was happening behind them.
"Roulette, if you've got a blessing come here. Same with the rest of you. If you want your lives back." Gallow was done being careful. He wasn't going to lie down and take this anymore. "Someone help me with my bridle." His resolve was palpable, his anger rolling off his coat, he was back in the pits. This was a fight. He was going to win and he wasn't going to play fairly.
He did glance over at his son. A flicker of fear crossed his face, but he knew his son was capable. He was Gallow's son after all. However Gallow's blessing had began to grow stronger so he knew he could keep him safe if needed.
"Let's show them who we really are."
... ... Word Count: 400 Post #2
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Post by misttheelf on Jul 9, 2018 16:15:51 GMT -6
Caron wasn't fully paying attention to the others, their thoughts almost entirely focused on how Shiya was going to be without them there - they were her only confidant inside of Calypso's manor... That sea hag didn't give two damns about her!
Caron only paused his worry when they stopped, looking up, and then turning their attention to the others. They recognized a few - They had met them a few months ago. Caron glanced around, blinking when he saw two of their fellows start removing their bridals... This could get interesting. And as they were the only one of the slaves owned by the sea hag here... they should be able to get away with something, to return to Shiya sooner. The sooner, the better, because she was already so hurt...
He saw the corgi dash towards one of the members of their group - Galloway, if Caron remembered correctly. A Pit Fighter. He said something to the corgi, which then ran off, and started trying to... herd? the chevaliers. Caron let a small grin slip onto their face. If others were fighting... then they certainly could. and if it was reported to the sea hag? They could claim self-defense. After all, they had been careful to never slip in front of her. It should be simple enough to return to Shiya, once they made their way back home.
Then Galloway asked for those with blessings to go over to him, and so Caron did. "...I have one of Ignacio's blessings." They said. "I'll do anything to return home." Home... to Shiya's side. Caron's eyes were set. The black horse wasn't going to let Shiya be alone for long.
WC: 277 Post 2
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Post by Moose-On-Ice on Jul 10, 2018 0:15:48 GMT -6
Sinking into his own head, the noise around him faded into grey noise. He was afraid. Deathly afraid. He'd seen the labor slaves, seen their conditions, heard about their fates. That was going to happen to him, happen to everyone around him. A crack of a whip made the tall ex-pit fighter startle, stumbling forward and nearly falling to his knees after losing his balance. Breathing heavily, Illidis' ears twitched, the small surge of adrenaline clearing the fog from his gaze for a brief moment and it was enough to make him come back down to the earth. He hastily looked around, looking for the source of the noise.
Everyone had stopped. Were they supposed to stop? He didn't know. Shakily shoving himself back up to his feet, a faint whispering caught his attention, and he looked out of the corner of his eye, seeing two of them working at one of their bridles. Oh Ignacio... Sharply looking away, he tried not to watch them too much. It felt wrong, he felt like he should say something, maybe it would help them, make the Chevaliers take mercy on them when they found out.
It was a good thing his throat was dry and his tongue felt like lead... A small blur darted past towards Galloway, making Illidis jump and again fight to keep his balance. He hated the leg. He couldn't get used to it... Especially not now...
"Someone help me with my bridle."
Shivering, muscles twitching, sweat rolling down his neck from the anxiety and fear, Illidis slowly looked at Galloway... It had been more risky to... Speak of his suspicions in the palace, than to just... Take off a bridle... Swallowing thickly, Illidis crept closer to Galloway. "I... I don't have a blessing... But... I can help with..." He mumbled quietly, moving up beside him to start carefully pulling at the bridle straps with his teeth. This was wrong, it was wrong, he needed to say something, he needed to get help-
...It was wrong of them to be taking him and everyone else from their homes... Some, families, he supposed. He never felt that connection to another, aside from Algren and Luciano... He swallowed, the taste of leather dripping into his mouth. He wanted to help fix Aodh, he could start here... :... ...:
Word Count: 385 words; Post 2
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Post by Ehrendi on Jul 11, 2018 5:37:39 GMT -6
Adrian | Servile
The slave ahead of Adrian jumped at the sound of a whip crack, bumping into his slight chest. He grunted, but soon forgot about it as his eyes drifted to Clythus's bridle-free face. He took a worried look at the chevaliers, knowing full well what the consequences would be for such defiance. However, Adrian couldn't help but hope that it would work. His heart beat rapidly in his chest, the chains on his wings jingled as he stretched them up as far as he could. The slaves around him were growing restless and he could hear more whispers. Another bridle was removed, and talk of blessings filled his ears. Adrian had not been lucky enough to recieve a blessing and right now the reality of it meant he would not be of much use, which stung. Adrian felt useless among so many blessed slaves, they could at least provide a good distraction. Even a dog had gotten into the mix. Adrian surveyed the milling crowd and took a breath, whispering, "if anyone want's their bridle removed, come here." He wanted to feel useful, especially when so many were willing to risk their lives for this.
Post 2 | 195 words
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pond
Nebula
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Post by pond on Jul 12, 2018 5:46:09 GMT -6
SLEEPWALKER 18 Years | Servile Slave Thinking | Walking | Talking
CRACK. The sound of leather on skin echoed on the street. Margot’s pupils constricted in an immediate reflex that she could not control. Her eyes widened, ears pinned, all in an instant, and her body felt hot; the back of her neck burned and her spine was pricked with needles. Everything appeared to move in double time as she caught up with the world around her. She felt the sting of the whip on her own back and winced, but the real victim appeared unscathed; he winked at her? Was she so weak? She wallowed in doubt for a moment…
BUT was distracted by the air. It was so thick with tension that you could bite out and chew on it, and as she watched the other slaves, a scheme unfolded before her. The passage of time still quick, she felt she was involved in something out of her depth, but even if she had wanted to, she could not have distanced herself from the events.
HER eyes darted this way and that as she watched teeth on leather, teeth on leather. The gentle tinkling of buckles and bits trying their best not to be heard was indistinguishable from the general noise of a bridle when worn. Would this go unnoticed for long? Her whole body felt as though it convulsed rhythmically to the beat of her heart; a beating so powerful that it obscured her hearing and pounded through her eardrums. “If anyone wants their bridle removed, come here.” She froze for a moment, with what felt like a dribble of ice cold water filling her chest cavity. Should she? She shifted her head towards the noise, hesitating, before turning her face fully to meet eyes with a tall, cream angel, his eyes large, and his long mane obscuring most of a dragon shaped scar; the icon which every body in this place bore. His wings were outstretched, and to Margot he appeared imposing in this position. She looked down at her nostrils flaring and relaxing as she struggled for breath through a tightly cranked flash noseband. Wrapped around her nose. Tearing her skin.
HER eyes bore into his. She hadn’t made contact with another being in this way in the months she had been closed off, and oh, how she missed it. To see through their eyes the life in another being again? A rush of hope fleeted through her body. “Please do mine”, she quickly whispered, eyes darting back at the chevaliers (backs turned) as she said so. She was desperate now. She imagined how it would be: the instant cool on her face as the pooled sweat beneath those tight strips of leather met air for the first time in weeks. She closed her eyes. She couldn’t wait for the release.
post 2 | 465 words
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Post by FaunaFawn on Jul 12, 2018 17:14:31 GMT -6
RouletteA Pitfighter The whip stung, but Gods it awakened his senses, felt himself go back to the stage of the arena, back into the pits. Ears flickered back a bit as he took in a steady breath, he watched things begin to unfold, the faint hint of hope filling them all. Good, he wanted this, no he needed them to be better, to show they are more then to be used to rebuild this city. He would not die for a city that would not die for him.
A voice of the small child got his attention. "It's alright kid. Always been in my nature to look out for others. Plus Im always best when Im acting." he chuckled a bit. Giving the child a knowing wink. He listened to Gallows and shook his head, he had no blessing nothing to offer but himself, but he was willing to be what was needed.
Watching them all work, he knew he needed to help the dog with the attention. So Roulette shook his body lingered a bit awya before suddenly coughing and wheezing. Nostrils flared as he let out deep chesty coughs, bringing the attention of the chevaliers to him, and away from the others. Gods they better hurry with this bridles.
Roulette began to hack more and more. "Water please." he pleaded. Hacking more and more, he turned to shaking his legs. The only blessing of being a pit slave, he had muscle, could work faster then the average slave. For now he was an asset. Something the city needed. He coughed more and more, heaving a bit as he played on his role once more. Not like this was not a move he had done in the pits to throw a match. Rou had no shame, and prayed this would work, and smiled weakly as a chevalier took pity, or grew tired of his loud coughing and threw him a water skin, letting Rou take a drink.
This was their chance, please let them take it.
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Post by Western-Witch on Jul 13, 2018 17:47:48 GMT -6
G A L L O W A Y
Aodh | Pit Slave
......
And like that first ripple in water, waves were created. All around him slaves were moving. None were holding back and he felt incredibly proud of his people. Illidis shakily came to Gallow's aid. As the first buckle was undone Gallow helped him using his teke to gently lower his gilded bridle to the ground. Almost immediately a force field built around him and Illidis. Straining, Gallow brought his gift under control before it would be useful.
"Thank you Illidis. You do have a blessing. You helped spark hope in me for a better future." Galloway knew the ex-pit fighter was dealing with his own internal struggles. He gave him a nudge with his muzzle to let him know he had friends. He had equines who would support him.
A black horse sidled near to Gallow. Gallow's ears perked as they mentioned having a blessing. "Perfect. I'm Gallow." He introduced himself as he deftly removed the bridle from the dark horse's face. "Give 'em hell." Gallow winked and stepped back to see what else could be done.
Todd was still able to keep a few Chevalier's at bay. No one had caught on quite yet. But the tiny dog was growing tired. Behind him he saw a grey mare offering to have her bridle removed by a white pegasus. Gallow thought if someone could remove those chains they would really have someone on their side who could fight. But his strength couldn't get through metal and neither could his force fields. "You two, if you can fight, get ready." He shook his head to the two of them.
Gallow caught Roulette's head shake before he could reach him to remove his bridle. No blessing then. But Gallow knew the flea-bitten pit fighter was plenty powerful just himself. He grinned as Roulette began his own diversion.
"Let's just have a little fun shall we?" Gallow kept his distance as he continued to observe. Todd was about to be nailed with a hoof to the head when Gallow sprung a tiny force field around the pup. The Chevalier stumbled as his hoof cracked against it's surface. And then it was gone and so was Todd. The tiny dog panted in between Gallow's hooves.
Confused the Chevalier turned to follow where Todd had gone. And came across Gallow. He gave the soldier a fierce grin, "Surpise," and leaped towards the armored horse. It had been too long that Gallow had felt the feel of a real battle beneath his hooves. The Appaloosa-Friesian cross felt something snap...or rather click into place inside himself.
He was never meant to be owned by anyone.
... ... Word Count: 438 Post #3
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Post by Disastercorn on Jul 13, 2018 18:46:43 GMT -6
CLYTHUS
As the bit was carefully pulled from the back of his head and out of his mouth, the silver dappled slave felt a new source of energy score through him. Body quivered, eyes fluttering to Athelstan. A different type of smile came to Clythus's face. "We are getting out of here. All of us." He had no ties to this herd anymore. He was nothing but an object, a possession. He longed to be so much more. With a touch the others wither he looked towards the other smaller more lithe slaves. "One of you should know this city well. We need an escape root and somewhere to lay low until we can go home."
The moment his speech finished, one of the other pit fighters started their attack. Clythus quickly moved to stand in front of the ground, his blessing would come in handy, he was sure of this. Roulette would no doubt start his attack as well and with Cael by their sides, the three of them would be a force. As one chevalier moved up to Gallows side, trying to flank him with a whip raised high, Clythus used a force field to block the hit and stepped back as their attention turned to him. Eyes widened and the stallion instantly felt small again. He couldn't do this... He wasn't that strong. He was just an object. Legs widened, needing to protect those behind him.
"We don't deserve this."
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Post by misttheelf on Jul 13, 2018 19:53:54 GMT -6
Caron nodded at Gallow, taking a breath after their bridle was removed. "Caron." They replied to the introduction, before turning slightly to face their captors... These chevaliers had given Calypso an excuse to hurt Shiya... And they'd be damned f they let that sea hag have her way. Shiya deserved so much better... And to Caron, Shiya was the only good horse they had the pleasure of getting to know... So they would shock these chevaliers as much as they could, until they could return to her side.
For once... Caron didn't care about how he appeared to others. An opportunity to return to Shiya, and save her from her grandmother was an opportunity they couldn't allow themselves to pass by...
They needed to protect Shiya. And to do that... well, the sparks started flying as Caron started to move. Any chevalier within a few feet of them had a shower of electric shocks rain down on them. Unfortunately, to Caron at least, their sparks weren't really enough to hurt them. But they sure would be annoying. Hopefully, distracting.
Caron glanced around, and went to help those who weren't as strong as, or as big as others, their sparks of electricity raining down on any chevalier about to crack a whip on anybody. It wasn't as effective as those with forcefields in stopping those whips, but it distracted a few, which was a start.
WC:234 Post 3
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Post by purrsain on Jul 15, 2018 20:33:24 GMT -6
Athelstan
Athelstan felt the spark of hope in the air as all of the slaves were slowly getting bridles removed and planning something. Athelstan had not been blessed by the gods, not yet at least. But his time in the pits made him strong enough to fight back with brute strength alone. Clythus was right, they don't deserve to be treated this way. They were going to fight for their freedom, the freedom they deserve. They've bent to the will of the city for far too long.
Athelstan saw Clythus look afraid as the chevalier turned his attention from Gallows to Clythus himself. Seeing the smaller stallions fear, the larger unicorn took off towards the chevalier threatening his friend and rammed his shoulder straight into him. The impact of the two horses caused them to both fall to the ground. Athelstan quickly got up and into a defensive position in front of his small friend, daring the chevalier to make another move towards him again.
Looking back to Clythus, Athelstan smiled a toothy grin. Finally breaking free of the shell he's been in for so long, Athelstan's true self is finally coming out, the side that would only come out in the pits and it craved freedom and bloodshed. He whispered to himself "Its time to fight back."
{post: 3 |word count: 218} |
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Post by Superior-Caesar on Jul 16, 2018 0:25:16 GMT -6
UmbraUmbra watched as everything around them seemed to fall into something more organized and dangerous. He was happy to see they were all being brave. He was surrounded by fellow slaves who were not afraid to take a stand. No one seemed to argue like they had in the past. Everyone was willing to risk whatever it took to prove the city wrong.
The colt quietly trotted to Galloway's side. "I... I'd like my bridle off. I have a little bit of an illusionist blessing, it's not super great, but maybe I can help," Umbra whispered to his dad. He was ready to risk everything as well. He felt a tinge of guilt at the idea that he might leave his master. The older stallion and his niece needed Umbra. But, Umbra preferred the idea of freedom. So he was willing to fight.
Umbra turned his gaze to the chevaliers and felt his heart begin to race. "This is a bad idea. We're all going to die," Umbra whispered under his breath. Despite the fear coursing through his veins, he stood tall. The colt lowered his head to bare his horn. His eyes flitted between all of the slaves and the chevaliers. It was now or never and he wanted it to be now.
Word Count: 214
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Post by FaunaFawn on Jul 16, 2018 12:19:14 GMT -6
RouletteA Pitfighter Everything was falling together and he prayed this would work, that someone would not break and risk this chance for others that wanted to escape, to leave. Eyes followed the others and watched them all with ease and soon Gallows was the first to move, the beacon for the others. With that Roulette threw his body into a Chevalier. Toppling down as another chevalier cracked the whip on the stallion. Roulette snorted all the more and looked to the group.
"This fight is for us, and our freedom, we owe you all nothing!" he bellowed out at the Chevaliers, as he wrestled with the one below him before another with the whip shoved Roulette off. The Chevaliers changed into defense mode ready to bring down the slaves, but Rou was willing to fight for this freedom. Fight for something more then the cheers of a crowds. Gods for once he was fighting for himself, for others that actually needed him.
"If we get a chance we run, we leave, this place owes us nothing. If you wish to stay well gods I pray they will be merciful to you here in the city that cares nothing for your life." He called out to the others before decking it would with a Chevaliers, hoofs smashing into each other as, blood was spilled so freely from the two. Rou lived the hard life, lived under the intense training he doubted these Chevaliers had ever experienced. Gods and they all have something worth fighting for, it was what gave them all the better odds of a better life.
WC:265 | Post #4 |
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Post by Moose-On-Ice on Jul 16, 2018 14:43:08 GMT -6
Ears twitching, Illidis heard the hacking of the one who started this all. Roulette was his name, he believed, having at least heard the names of the other pitfighters passed about when he had still... Been one.
The surge of energy, building a force field, made his legs shake for a moment, metal leg rattling on the cobblestone. At first wincing out of reflex, but then relaxing, Illidis turned his gaze to Galloway, listening quietly. Hope? The nudge caused his shoulders to sag some, a tiny bit of tension leaving him. His attention was caught by the new horse moving up, and shifting anxiously on his feet, he wasn't quite sure if he should stand back, as, after all, he was just... A crippled, discarded ex-pit fighter by now.
Taking a few steps back, Illidis looked to Umbra as Galloway charged into battle. "U-Umbra, here," he quickly moved over to the colt. "No, no, we're- We won't die, no one here will let that happen." He again lowered his head, pulling on the buckles and leather of the colt's bridle. At least... At least he could do this. If he couldn't fight anymore.
Metal and leather filled his mouth, both from his own bit, still sitting heavily on his tongue, and from the material of the bridles he was removing. He accidentally jerked a bit hard on one of the straps once bellowing and shouting began. Freedom? The word made his legs quiver, and he quickly proceeded with removing Umbra's bridle.
He wasn't meant for freedom. He was a slave. He was born one, and-and... He was sure he'd die one. His papers declared his breeding, showed his bloodlines were that of mere slaves. He belonged to Aodh, to Dorjan. The thought of freedom terrified him. It wasn't... Entirely new. But he didn't like the word, or what it meant. 'Freedom' had taken his parents away. His father, burnt for his disobedience and desire for freedom, his mother... Sold. As a Labor slave, separated from him when he was only a child. Freedom had destroyed what little he held dear as a child.
Yet, his chains, that he once felt so secure and safe in, now felt like they were hooked to weights that were dropped down a bottomless pit. He was scrambling, clawing on the edge of a ledge, trying not to fall down with them, to fall to his death, at Isador's hooves. Swallowing thickly, Illidis' mind raced. He wanted to contact the vindicators, to pass the information he had to them in hopes they would help Aodh, to help clear the potentially corrupt government. He struggled to do so in his current role. He struggled to simply gather information without drawing attention, and he was fairly sure it was more difficult due to the fact Isador was watching. Somehow. He was watching.
He didn't want freedom. But he wanted to expose the death of the former king. He...He couldn't do that with these weights. He had to step outside, he had to run, as fast as he could to the vindicators. Maybe- Maybe he could come back, he could- he could find Dorjan, after this all, and he could beg to be taken back. But he needed... He needed to stay alive until then... :... ...:
Word Count: 547 words; Post 3
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Post by DawnsComing on Jul 18, 2018 9:12:16 GMT -6
Cael
'Freedom', it was a word she has heard plenty of times before. It had been whispered between the labors slaves she befriended as a foal, spoken in dark corners of the crucible's stables where pit slaves went to rest after a match. Even within the homes of nobles, the word freedom slunk along the walls and seeped into the hearts of many. It was a word Cael rarely thought about.
Her life had started out like any other servile slaves, taught to obey and learn the proper etiquette. She had been fortunate enough to grow up in a home that kept her well despite her troublesome manners. Aarron, while arrogant and drunk, rarely laid a hoof on her, unlike the other horror stores she had heard from fellow slaves. And the pits, well she had grown to accept them (even enjoy the vigor of combat that released her wild streak). Then Lilith had come, given her a home that actually felt like family despite her status among the herd. Luxury, perhaps not the to extent of a citizen but to a slave, it was more than Cael could have ever asked for. Now, she watched with golden eyes as the slaves before her pulled off their bridles; freedom just feet in front of her.
Turmoil rolled in Cael's gut as one after another, the slaves helped each other. Grey scorch marks of the dragon flashed on each one of them, marked by the herd they called their own. But these slaves were ready; ready to give up everything to have a chance to rise above. It was now or never. She would already be associated with the group of escapees, already labeled one of them despite her attempts to steer clear of the madness that was about the ensue. Still, the word 'freedom' repeated itself in the mare's mind.
"Take mine too..." Cael whispered against Illudis' ear, lowing her head as far as she could. There was an immediate release as the bridle slide from her face, as if a cold gust of wind had caressed her cheek. A rock set heavy in her stomach, the fighters mind unsure of the choice she was about to make. She would loose everything and with that realization came a pang of sadness. Was this 'freedom'?
Suddenly, Galloway flew forward beginning the attack on the Chevaliers. It took mere seconds for the scene to erupt into chaos, with hooves flying one way or another. The stallion that had pulled Cael's lead earlier came up beside her, trying to throw a rope around the her neck. A sly smirk caught his eye as she quickly pushed the smaller equine off balance before kicking him to the ground. There was no turning back now. As she turned to face another attacker, flecks of sparks lit the street. Someone shared the blessing of electricity and exhilaration flowed through Cael's veins. Without her bridle, she was free to use her own.
It started as warmth against her dark pelt, the tingle of current running beneath her skin. Soft blue waves sparked over her fur like a storm brewing in the far western sea. Another chevalier ran at her, his armored head bowed in an attempt at an attack. But Cael had seen this one too many times in the ring and sidestepped the equine. As he passed, golden eyes focused on him and a large bolt of lightning passed between them causing his form to crumple to the ground with a groan. This power, Cael realized, was one she had never felt before. The power to change one's own fate.
WC: 600 | Post #2 |
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Post by Western-Witch on Jul 18, 2018 22:11:18 GMT -6
G A L L O W A Y
Aodh | Pit Slave
......
It had begun. Gallow felt mane tear in his teeth as he gripped hard on the crest of the unfortunate Chevalier he had chosen. His years of training hardened his body to the random hits he received. This time he would not succumb as he had with the branding. This time he would fight to the death if he had too.
But he heard his son's voice. And stopped dead in his tracks. He felt the cut of a blade across his face and instantly threw up a force field forcing the attacker back hard. Umbra. He couldn't fight to his death. He had to move his son out of the city safely. He couldn't be like his own father. This brought Gallow in check. He began to use his talents to asses the situation.
Illidis had helped Umbra remove his bridle. Gallow winced at not doing so immediately himself. There was a lot more to fatherhood when danger was a player. All around him others were joining in. The dark equine named Caron began to spark with energy. And Gallow reveled in the fact there was another blessing from Ignacio. He had never been religious but the god had given Gallow a blessing and Gallow had felt his presence often. He felt the Kirin god's watchful eyes even now. Felt that fire that burned deeply within.
Beside him appeared a silver dapple, Clythus, who deflected a whip raised for Gallow with a force field. Grinning wide Gallow turned to the nervous stallion. "Thanks for that. You're right we don't deserve any of this. But that's why we're finally fighting back." Gallow knew he had it in him. He also brought up a good point. They needed a way out. "Maybe we can escape the way the labor slaves did? If anything we have the sewers to run in. There are smugglers there that should help."
There wasn't much room for conversation but it seemed everyone was on the same page. Athelstan appeared beside Clythus and supported him, deflecting another Chevalier. Gallow turned his attention to the next target, blood dripping over his brow. Adrenaline kept the pain at bay. He'd feel that in about twenty four hours though.
Roulette was a powerhouse. His large frame was taking down Chevaliers left and right. "Roulette!" Gallow threw a force field around the stallion deflecting a weapon from the pit fighter. "Do you have an idea of how we escape? I know Valore, but should we just run through and out? Or through the sewers?" Their fight wouldn't last long and soon there would be even more Chevaliers to suppress them. They needed to figure this out.
Before he could receive an answer Gallow recognized Cael. The pit fighter with fire for hair. He had always admired the way she fought and now with her bridle removed he saw the full power she wielded. And what Electricity Manipulation could really accomplish.
Gallow howled with encouragement. He had never felt more alive then now. He looked around him and watched as these trodden souls grew and raged against their bondages. This was the first time that he had been surrounded by so many who felt that freedom was an available option.
With the other Chevaliers preoccupied, Gallow turned to his son. "Umbra, your blessing. Can you conjure up something to scare the Chevaliers?" He nuzzled his son, keeping his injured face away from the colt. He knew his son was beyond his years, but he still didn't want to traumatize him anymore than he could be.
... ... Word Count: 593 Post #4
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