K A H L U A
As she walked with the wolf, letting him keep several steps ahead as per his suggestion, the mare tried hard to get her brain to ponder. For all you know you have just given a scout, sent out to find food, enough information to locate your home. The words troubled her because the wolf was right. Though she had been frightened, she had decided to trust the wolf enough to tell him of her home. She could hardly help herself, after all. She loved the place so much, she wanted everyone to love it and become a part of it. Everyone that upheld their standards, of course. Still, try as she might, she could not get her brain to figure out if he was trying to teach her a lesson or was being strangely open about clandestine plans- reverse psychology, if you will. The thoughts were more than she could bear and more than once she had sighed in frustration on the walk from Threshold to Edge. I know you are taking a great risk in offering me a place amongst you, or a chance at least. You are lucky I am not a threat to you or your home. The other words that had followed had left her mind no clearer. She needed Smoke, or Kaj, or someone more suited to thinking about such things. Even Aaron, hot-headed as she had found him, would be better for the contemplations of the world she was attempting. Thor would think the best of the wolf, of course, kindly as he was... for one of few moments in her life, Kahlua wished she was smarter. You never truly know who is the wolf or the lamb, until one bites you. It was like she could not get his words out of her head. Somehow he knew so much more than she did about the world. It was not hard to know more than her, she knew this, but a simpleton cannot become a rocket scientist just by wishing on stars. Still, as they walked, she found herself become more comfortable with his easy attitude and friendly manner. It was kind of him to stay several steps ahead of her, to let her guide him from behind so that she could see him as she went. If he had hoofs instead of claws, certainly they would have been the best of friends by now. “Halt here,” she said finally, finding herself brave enough to come up beside him. The mists that shrouded the land before them marked the line between World's Edge and out lands. With the moon shining down brightly above, the mists almost twinkled in the darkness. It was strangely beautiful, Kahlua thought. “These are our borders. Certainly someone will smell us and come soon enough.” Just for good measure, though, she nickered. As she stopped speaking, she almost felt bad for treating him as guilty until proven innocent. He had done nothing to her thus far, the many hours they spent together on their walk peaceful as the cloudless night. Taking a deep breath, she turned to look him in the eye. The vibrant orange of his coat was becoming of him, she decided. “You'll have to forgive me when this is all over, my friend.” A gentle smile crossed her lips. @[Vertigon] |
[OPEN] Keep Your Enemies Closer [Vertigon, Acceptance]
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09-09-2013, 08:00 PM
09-10-2013, 12:28 AM
He had remained quiet through the entire trip, obediently following Kahlua's instructions as they walked. More then once he had heard her deep sighs, his ears flicking back to listen before turning forward to face the path ahead once more. It seemed his presence and words had caused her quite a bit of stress, she certainly had been given a lot to think about. Her brain was probably hurting from thinking so much, he felt bad for speaking so cryptically. Maybe he shouldn't have suggested that he might be an enemy. Yet again he allowed himself to get carried away and he could end up paying for it the long run. He simply shook his head, disappointed in himself.
When the woman called for him to halt Vertigon obeyed, sitting down to wait for her to come up beside him. He cast his gaze down the way, admiring the way the moonlight played upon the fog. So this was the edge of their territory. The fog certainly served them well. With so much moister in the air it would dampen the scents, when thick enough it'd cut off all sound after a short distance. Not to mention any horse capable of using the moisture in the air as a weapon would be made all the more powerful.
He shuttered to think what damage water could do when formed into a blade or turned to ice that crept into the lungs of an enemy and freeze their heart. He was far too imaginative for his own good, but could he really blame it all on imagination? He had seen far to much of the world to believe that such horrible tactics were only in stories or dreams. This fog was deadly, anyone could be lurking not far within its white embrace, watching, waiting. Enemies could be trapped within their depths uncertain of the terrain whereas the natives could easily move within it, unhindered as they silently attacked.
Of course that natural defense could prove to be a weakness if used against them. It appeared as if someone put some thought into the land they had claimed for their herd. This was good, if Kahlua was anything to judge the other's by they'd all be pretty and very kind, but dim. Although he liked her, don't get him wrong she seemed like a sweet girl, he just wasn't entirely sure if he could deal with more then one of her.
Flicking back his ears his titled his head to the side so he could meet her gaze while still facing the mist, he flashed her a mischievous grin. "Don't worry, there is nothing to forgive. I would have done the same, my friend" he answered. Of course he wouldn't have given away information as easily as she, he would not have trusted himself if he had been in her hooves. He sat there allowing silence to envelope them once more, eager to see who would appear out of the mist to greet them.
Although patient he was still a teenager and his youth often made it hard to remain still for long. But he had learned how to keep himself still, if worse come to worse he could always pace up and down the border. For now, rather then allowing his body to move he let his mind be active as he wondered what these horses who had accepted Kahlua were like; and if they'd accept him or try to attack. With that thought he smiled, for all they knew he was some odd wolf holding the mare hostage. He would have to be ready for a hostile greeting just in case.
Unable to resist teasing her any longer, Vertigon spoke. "So, do you think they'll like me? I am a big scary wolf after all." he asked, grinning like a Cheshire cat in a way that was sure to show as many teeth as possible. Snorting in amusement Vertigon lowered his lips over his ivory fangs until they were completely covered, his lips still remaining curled in a sly grin as he tucked his chin close to his chest. His eyes narrowed in amusement and the tip of his tongue poked out of his black lips.
Walk "Talk!" Think @[Kahlua]
09-10-2013, 06:14 PM
09-11-2013, 11:08 PM
09-12-2013, 02:40 AM
He smiled once more, making sure to keep his lips drawn over his fangs knowing that it unsettled her. "I hope you are right." He said. A sound reverberated in the male's ears causing them to perk, angled toward the approached horse before flicking to face either side to allow his to detect any sounds approaching from left and right as well as behind. He didn't want anyone sneaking up on them, Kahlua might be safe near the borders of her land, but he was not. His eyes picked out the approaching figure wreathed in the fog, his keen orbs instantly recognizing the tense and uncertainty that filled every muscle.
Her cautious steps spoke of her distrust for him, yet poor Kahlua didn't detect any of this as she happily spoke to her friend. Ver gave a small shake of his head. Unbelievable. He thought. Offering a slight nod when Kahlua introduced him, his lips curling in a small smile. Standing Vertigon stepped back, putting distance between him and Kahlua before sitting down once more. Hopefully this would ease this new mare's worries about her friend.Of course it left the clay baked mare plenty of room to charge at him now that he didn't have Kahlua shielding him. The risks he'd take in order to find a home he'd probably destroy. Was this all worth it? Could he bring so much pain to another happy family?
This beating pain was intensified by his current actions and Kahlua's love for her home. He still loved his home, but all that remained of it was dead and rotting corpses, too numerous for him to bury. He couldn't think of this, not now, he had to focus, he had to make a good impression. "It is a pleasure to meet you miss." He said. "I'm sorry if I have startled you, I know my looks can be rather..." His mind said deceiving, but instead his tongue formed the word. "daunting. "
Flicking his tail over his paws he gestured toward Kahlua with his head. "Like Kahlua said she found me at the Threshold and was nice enough to offer me a place among your peaceful herd, if deemed worthy." Coming from a land where companions were few Vertigon was completely oblivious to the meaning behind Res's words, simply believing she meant a new friend or herd-mate instead of a companion bound to her soul. The idea would have been rather mortifying to the young wolf, he may like Kahlua well enough but he didn't want to bind his soul to her's. He remained silent preferring to only talk when spoken to in these kind of situations.
Walk "Talk!" Think @[Resplendence]
09-15-2013, 09:10 PM
09-16-2013, 11:44 PM
There was movement in the woods. Shadows, darkness, silver light from the Moon above, all convoluted, dancing, swirling, swaying, carved by the contours of the breeze that whispered through the thick trunks. Mists seemed to move of their own accord, not by the wind or the weather, their foggy touch breathed with a life of its own. The shapes it carved were the shapes of those who resided here, in the World's Edge, the lands had gifted us with the ability to become its very mists - an ability I embraced, and used quite often. My connection with the mists had always been deep, they obeyed my call, they followed me wherever I walked, they informed me of danger, of news, of change that occurred on our borders and lands, and now, they allowed me to travel as part of them, truly. So I became one with the mists, and the tendrils of my nerves seemed to become a part of the lands themselves. There was no delay between their communication with me - I felt every footstep, saw every motion, comforted every member who was welcomed in the herd they called the Qian. And now - what was that? A newcomer, crossing the borders for the first time, being welcomed into the family that always seemed to be growing, expanding, gaining new blood, new ideas, new inspiration. I moved myself towards them, my ears forming atop my pewter crown just as a horn extends from my brow. There was something different about this one, something more foreign than an equine of a different shape - he was different in every way, from the paws that held him upright, to the teeth that lined his gums. The Qian accepted creatures of all walks, however, and so if this one proved to be of an obliging nature, I could see no barrier that would halt him from making this his home as well. As I came into existence before the gathered, I tilt my crown to each of them, beholding them with my violet eyes, considering them carefully. "Greetings, and welcome to the World's Edge. I am Hellena." My voice is a smooth hum, a deep and reassuring stroke of an artist's brush against their eardrums. With smooth strides, I near the shivering form of Resplendence, a mare I recognised when speaking to a former prisoner we held. I offer my muzzle to her, my shoulder for her to lean upon, should she need it. The fragile girl was so close to breaking, and I felt genuinely saddened by that thought. "Please forgive us for our quiet, our Protectors have recently defended our home from invaders, and many are still recovering." I add, as a quiet explanation for the lack of a greeting party. A small frown creased my brow at the thought, though it passed swiftly. My expression softened again as I looked to the new creature, my inquiry gentle and light behind those deep violet pools. "What is the name of the newest soul to walk amongst our borders?" bg - table
09-17-2013, 10:36 AM
09-20-2013, 05:38 AM
He nodded slightly at Resplendence, taking care to never reveal his teeth when ever he smiled. "Lets certainly hope that others of higher rank think so." he said, amused. He could never fully guarantee how he would react or treat another, even that of a high rank. Tending to match another's personality with his own special blend that tended to light some fuses. he was fully aware of kahlua's actions even though he did not glance her way. She still did not trust him, although understandable the woman's actions were becoming rather tiresome.
Seriously with all the signals she was giving off a predator that was out to hunt her would have a hard time resisting their instinct to attack, even if it meant a bigger payload at the end. But he made no complaint, he understood and would not hold it against her. Her fleeting thought mirrored Vertigon's to some degree as he found himself wondering if he would have to apologize to every single horse he came across for being born a different animal.
It wasn't that he didn't like being a maned wolf, no he was quite proud of what he was and what he could do. But his appearance made things rather frustrating when trying to approach prey animals such as equine, no matter how pure his intentions or friendly his tone and body language most creatures fled from him. One could allow such depressing things to ruin their attitude, but Ver saw it as a challenge for him and a test for others. If one were to pass such a test and actually see past his ruff exterior then they would find a friend who's loyalty was beyond measure. But few saw his true heart, only seeing the teeth and scars.
Something was coming. It was not his senses that told him this, for the next stranger to appear gave no sound nor scent to her presence until she was upon them. Rather a gut feeling or instict informed him that another was approaching a second before she materialized. Vertigon's right ear twitched then angled downward as Kahlua panicked at the sight of the unicorn appearing out of the mist . Like he said, horses could use the mist to their advantage add a pointy horn on top of their head and you have death waiting to happen, well, for the person that ticked that unicorn off. Of course if it was Kahlua with that sharp stick atop her head everyone would be in danger of being stuck, most likely in a very unpleasant place.
A normal predator would have reacted to the painted mare's fear by attacking, their instincts would push them to sink their fangs into her flesh. But he had long since forced that side of himself down, stamping the instinct into a dark corner by training and willpower. It didn't hurt that he had spent a few years with other animals such as horses, allowing him to become accustomed with their presence, behavior, and tendency.
Instead he moved a little closer and ahead, making sure to keep within Kahlua's sight, allowing him to be able to intercept the unicorn if it proved to be a threat. His body language was calm his eyes still pools as he watched the white mare, nodding a greeting in return. "No forgiveness or explanation needed." He answered, saying little seeing as Kahlua had taken the liberty of introducing him once again. "I am sure your protectors can rest easy knowing that the borders are being watched over by other, dedicated members, as they recover."
The comment Helena made although innocent enough revealed precious details to Vertigon. The warriors of this herd had indeed fought off the attacking force, but it had been a hard won battle and many were injure. So many in fact that their patrols were reduced enough to be of mention even in casual conversation. This could mean little, some horses were eager to gossip about anything and often blew things out of proportion to make it all the juicier. But he didn't feel that was the case here. There was his tactical side rearing its head once again, always looking for an answer, advantage, or weakness he could exploit. The darn thing made it rather difficult to think of anything else aside from battle and survival. Next he would start thinking of worse case scenarios for himself and this herd of another enemy should attack while they were recovering. As he was now.
His soul heaved a heavy sigh giving a resigned mental shrug, what was a guy to do? There was no way he could change the wiring of his brain this late in the game, might as well just deal with it, ignoring in in hopes that it would go away certainly wasn't working. of course it was handy, but only when he wanted it, he didn't wish to dissect everything and assess is military power or use. If only he had a switch he could flip to make his mind somewhat normal.
What was a normal teenager's mind supposed to be anyways? The only creatures he ever really knew of his own age were ones he had been pitted against in a fight to the death. Again he gave himself a mental shake as he realized he was allowing his mind to wander as he settled into a mode where his senses merely paid enough attention to the world to know if there was danger afoot. Not the best mode to be in when you're trying to appear somewhat acceptable. Maybe he wasn't as far from an average teenager as he had thought.
Walk "Talk!" Think @[Hellena] @[Kahlua]
09-22-2013, 01:37 PM
10-01-2013, 06:33 AM
It was intriguing to watch the dynamic of a predator amongst us, conversing in a civilised manner. The Edge and Qian welcomed sentient creatures of all shapes and sizes - as long as their souls believed in the same core values, that of equality, and justice. My gaze looked to Kahlua, my smile tilting as she introduced the canine who stood before us. I wondered just how much she had explained of the World's Edge to him. However, I trusted her enough to have brought only the finest to the borders - not everyone earned themselves an invitation, those who did usually were accepted and welcomed. The shivering mare by my side seemed to find some comfort as her warm skin pressed against my own - I felt for her, but I was more used to the strange that Helovia offered us, more understanding of the violent nature these lands seemed to draw out of even the most innocent of beings. My gaze flicked to the wolf as he spoke, a single brow raising at his comment. "Indeed, we have many strong Protectors and other dedicated members more than willing to ensure the safety of the family which resides here." I confirmed for him, my posture shifting slightly - I did not take a step, for I did not wish to separate myself from the mistily decorated Resplendence, but I did lean somewhat closer to the canine. I showed no fear, for I held none within myself. I could turn to mist at will, I held a horn upon my brow, and I had some faith that this brute was not like most other predatory beings - he had self control. "Tell me Sir, are you interested in joining our ranks, and lending your teeth, claws and cunning to the cause of defending our home?" I asked him directly now, unwilling to dance around the subject any longer. Would he join us? Was he willing to commit to the cause of the Qian? [ Sorry for the wait! ] @[Kahlua] bg - table
10-01-2013, 01:45 PM
10-21-2013, 12:22 AM
[Sorry for taking so long, life has been hetic.]
Resplendence's reaction to the woman who had appeared was sad but funny at the same time, how easily one's mask falls when caught off guard. Tucking his chin to his chest he gave a soft sad smile, it was depressing how many people had to pretend to be strong, he was no exception. Over the year he had carefully stitched his broken soul back together only to have it torn open again by his families death, now with a new patch upon his heart he hid the sadness and grief behind a mask of joy and calm. So he did not laugh at the clay baked mare's fright, no matter how much his less sensitive side desired to. In all honesty it would feel good to allow his body to be wracked with unbridled laughter, but not at this not at her, no he wished to laugh alongside a friend light he had done not so long ago. But he would not have that, not here, he could not afford to become attached to this family only to bring them ruin. He would stay and if their values proved similar to his own he would help protect them, but right now he was not ready to create bonds, to truly love again.
When Hellena spoke his ears perked, he had seen the way she had leaned toward him with no fear and had held his ground. If she had truly wanted to kill him she would have done so, instead she was giving him the benefit of the doubt, most likely because K had brought him here. Had he come alone he'd most likely end up dead, seen as an enemy instead of a potential ally. He remained silent for a moment, holding the mare's gaze as he thought about her words. Did he truly desire to devote himself to this herd? He knew little about, going off of what Kahlua had said and the examples given by her and these two mares. If a herd had Resplendence in it did not desire strength above all, for she was emotionally weak and easily frightened, Kahlua was most definitely not a warrior or a cunning tactician.
No a herd centered around strength would not allow either of these mares to be apart of them. Hellena was strong, confident, but gentle and accepting at the same time, she was a better example of what the herd as a whole would be. She had not flinched or judged him by his outward appearance, but looked within to determine his true worth as a creature. She was someone he felt he would come to respect. His gaze had drifted to the paint and clay bake before returning to Hellena looking her directly in the eye. "I am." he answered simply and honestly, holding her gaze steadily. Did not expound upon his words and would not do so unless asked, preferring to allow this mare to gaze into his eyes and determine the truth of his words.
Walk "Talk!" Think @[Resplendence]
11-07-2013, 10:35 PM
Strength of the body was different to strength of the mind. The two were often compared and forgotten, each described as important and yet, never truly understood. The young Resplendence that shivered by my side was perhaps seen as weak for showing her fear so openly, but why would she have been accepted into this herd if our WeyrLeader had not seen something worthwhile within her? Everyone had something to give, and perhaps I was being too judgmental in assuming that this wolf had only teeth and claws to offer - maybe he had more beneath that rich auburn pelt of his, behind those deep, inquisitive eyes. He replied to me, and I considered his words, and found myself satisfied. It would be interesting indeed getting to know him further, which was something I found myself wanting to do. Perhaps he would prove to be a scholar as well as a protector. Perhaps he would prove to be nothing more than a mindless predator when exposed to the youth of our herd. Could he be trusted? "Very well," I said, dipping my horned crown to his as silent affirmation. "Be sure to seek out our WingLeaders, Destrier and Kaj." I could accept him as a citizen, but he would need to gain the approval of more than I to be raised to a Protector. "Welcome." I added, before nudging the mare beside me, and sweeping the mists around us with my leonine tail, I allowed myself and Resplendence to be absorbed by our home, to find peace and security within the misty darkness of the realm gifted to us by the Goddness of the night. [ Sorry for the wait! Just wrapping this up. Abba gave me permission to say Res followed Hellena <3] bg - table | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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