"Where brilliance is good and madness is better..."
Helovia Info
Helovia opened in February 2012! We are an active fantasy equine RPG
Where once the world narrowed into naught but gray dust and desolation, the gods called for life. Wielding the elements of fire and light, dark and wind, earth and water, spark and time, they have created Helovia. The realm is set within the mythical globe of Loorien, a planet rich with all variety of creatures and blessed with all manner of magic. Originally populated by nomadic, tribal characters, they've since grown into massive empires saturated with culture and history. Separated into four distinct segments of Helovia, called "The Regions," each band of horse strong enough and capable enough, took up the power and responsibility of leadership. Unicorns, old, wise and mysterious, took to the north, hidden in forests of mists and shadows and rarely making themselves known beyond their cliffs of the World's Edge. Equines, vast, organized and militaristic, split into two, one group went north to the Windtossed Foothills and the other group went south to the Dragon's Throat. Pegasus remained nomadic, making their homes in various parts of The Wilds in a migratory manner. For many generations, the land was peaceful and calm, but peace was never the way of the gods. With a clash of argument, war and bloodshed massacred Helovia, and in the aftermath, the realm was eerily quiet. Now, as newcomers sweep into this land, they are met with the lingering bitterness of the gods and the struggle to reclaim what was lost. Nothing remains safe or certain while sorcerers and soldiers alike brood and bide their time for revenge, honor and glory.
Site Wide Plots
Kaos :: The Beginning of the End ☼ - 6/2017 - Kaos placed Helovia in a time-bubble for a short period of time, but the Helovian gods are fighting back. But Kaos is powerful- far more powerful than anyone thought. This may be the beginning of the end of Helovia as we know it.
Kisamoa :: A New Kind of Kaos ☼ - 3/2017 - Kisamoa asks Helovians to help him restore the Spectral Marsh. Which side will you choose?
Invasions :: All Out War ☼ - 5/2/16 - New layout and the brand new invasion rules are up! Thank you for your patience and we look forward to getting started with this new adventure.
The Rift :: Gods Do Die ☼ - 8/2015 - Helovia Gods are saving the Rift from corrupt gods! Can Helovians band together against these foreign deities?
The Literal Ship ☼ - 2/8/15 - Oh no! You have to pair up for Valentine's day!
Sky Island :: Murder ☼ - 10/25/14 - Vesta has been found dead on the island, and the gods have called to you to solve the murder!
Sky Island :: Peace ☼ - 7/7/14 - An island has appeared in the sky! Clouds carry Helovians from the Veins to the sky.
Restoration :: We Welcome the Dawn ☼ - 9/21/13 - The sun has finally risen on this day, giving the land new light, but the Time God and the Sun God have yet to be seen.
Endless Night :: Broken Magic Plot ☼ - 8/30/13 - The earth god has returned and is walking across Helovia to heal the land. Every area can now be considered lush and prosperous, but the sun has still not risen.
☼ - 7/19/13 - The moon has risen in the sky, heralding the return of the Goddess of the moon. Lamp trees which light the paths have grown brighter, moon flowers which grow in dark places have begun to grow and prosper and the world is brighter, filled with a new hope.
Endless Night :: Dead Magic Plot ☼ - 6/22/13 - The gods of Helovia, in order to protect the world, have disappeared into the rift, leaving the world sunless, moonless and magic-less in their absence. Only the herdlands have a source of light, but lamp-trees with glowing leaves and branches sporadically line the popular roads and paths from place to place.
Doppleganger Plot ☼ - 6/20/13 - The God of Time is still struggling to close the rift though which the dopplegangers have come. He has requested that his brothers and sister assist in closing this hole, but without knowing why it opened, the task is proving difficult. Magic still remains faulty and hard to control, but the herdlands continue to be places of refuge for those who are fortunate enough to call these lands home.
ORANGEMOON cools off the lands with a a viscious force. Colder than normal, a sign of things to come during Frostfall, Helovia is bathed in a rich tropical lushness - albiet a cold one. The coastlines of the Dragon's Throat are pelted constantly by tidal waves, and the desert climate is humid but chilly. Ice begins to form early in the Aurora Basin leaving the winding trails slick and dangerous. The mists of the World's Edge coat everything in a glistening crystalline shine which encourages mould to grow everywhere. The Spectral Marsh is the only area which remains fertile, blissfully temperature and lush.
Cotm
Character of the Month for
June, 2017
WEAVER, Corporal of the Aurora Basin, is a relatively recent addition to Helovia and has taken it by storm. Branded with the seal of Death on her chest, intrigue and interest follow both her past and present. Though she is assuredly beautiful, her sometimes sharp personality reveals that there is more to this uni-peg hybrid than meets the eye. Proving herself able on the battlefield in the Basin’s warrior ranks, we can’t wait to see her test her mettle against the looming Kaos happenings! Congratulations!
Helovia RPG was created by Tamme and Blu and coded by Tamme also known as Schwartze. All coding, palettes and imagery are copyrighted to the website and are not for use outside of Helovia. Thank you to our ServerMaster for hosting Helovia. A special thanks goes to Neo for all of her coding help and fixing Tamme's errors, Boom, for her loyal service and creation of the Time God, and to Ali for her consistent contributions and dedication.
Most of the young group trailing her enthusiastic tread could not fly. In fact, as she turned to encourage them with gently smiling lips pulling clear from marbled teeth, the Starry-Eyed noted vaguely that no other had wings but herself. It was strange to think that barely a year before, Dragon’s Throat had harboured a majority of Pegasus; primed warriors mostly. Now there seemed to be a far better multicultural influence and she was learning (the longer the time spent in their company), that the wingless population of Helovia were not nearly as terrible as she had been led to believe.
Africa guided them along the bridge towards the mainland, picking carefully her path so that they would hopefully not stumble on the scattered rock and loose gravel. Their home had undergone such a significant physical shift while they had sheltered beneath the earth through the time of darkness and wraiths, and even though she had passed along this link many times already since, the way through never seemed to grow any safer. Angry waves lashed the cliffs as they fell away to each side, and the dull roar of the ocean below rose steadily to flood the indolent waver of long charcoal ears.
She skirted the coastline in a westerly direction once they had parted from the bridge to the Throat, and already the giant mass of land looming above the Veins was as plainly obvious as a summer storm brewing on the horizon- a mountain raised where no landmark existed before. “There, can you see it?” She paused by the southernmost point of the river running through Helovia’s centre, the lush green carpet of grass swishing restlessly about her fetlocks as the warm breeze rushed by. With her wing extended, primary feathers flared to point, Africa showed them the silhouette of the strange phenomenon.
Fire licked wildly through her mane and tail as she turned again to continue. The final leg of the familiar journey would lead them to stand above the blue lava- normal perhaps, but the Starry-Eyed knew already that powdery clouds would gather beneath their hooves like miniature islands and carry them up and away. She wasn’t sure if she should tell them of the surprise flight soon to follow, or let them discover the wonder themselves. With a playful chuckle, the one-winged chose silence. Sure enough, when they came to stand right under the hovering mass of land, they were lifted, and Africa watched her family with both amusement and thoughtful confidence bracing her expression.
She could not have imagined what flight would be like for those not born with such a gift.
Briefly she paused where the clouds delivered them. “Interesting, no?” She stood there for a little while. There was no reason to rush; and the beauty of the flower-filled valley was not a picture she wished to abandon too quickly. Gaping eyes wandered more carefully this time, absorbing the intricate detail of the landscape, the bodies scattered now throughout, and the little village that lay down the hill towards the centre of the island. With a broadening smile the Starry-Eyed turned to them. “Shall we?” she asked, and set off through the long fresh grass towards a little path which wound eventually down to the town.
A large sandy arena was the focal point (she thought), and they passed by it slowly, as well as a stage and a great communal tent before their own replica desert welcomed them forward. Africa paused before wandering between the iron spears into the oasis, “I’m sure Sohalia will be here soon. What do you think? With expanding interest, she studied them, eager to learn their opinion of Sky Island.
Quiet for the whole way, listening to the sounds that arose from movements of others. Occasional snorts, a nicker given when it felt needed, the swish of a tail swatting out the biting flies that she was not even spared from, filled her ears, alerting her that no members had been lost along the way. Three faces, unknown to her, brought themselves along.
The small hybrid colt had brought her attention when he had come behind her, his small frame worrisome. She wanted to speak to him, but as her lips had opened to offer some kindness that was coming in with her usual emotion, the outburst from the vibrant, pastel mare had hushed her. Remaining cranky after an awakening she was aware no rude was meant, the odd shaded unicorn instantly brought dislike to her. Yes, she would speak her time to strangers, mainly so they may find it easier to trust her, but blasting it would to a group left Sikeax with unneeded amounts of surprise. Sacre and Inari had come after, and for the boisterous woman, it was good fortune.
Now, after Africa's words to her had been settling, a gentle smile handed to in return to show she meant no ill to her sister(she felt bold in thinking that, but as the single winged had called her, she felt it was normal to call her as well), her lips sealed themselves. Nothing came to her to show that she had come here before. Grass turned to stone, and when she felt that the clouds would come to them soon, brought herself down to the earth, and relaxed.
As if to be on cue, the clouds gathered, glazing moisture across her pelt, pulling her upwards when they felt she was ready. Faint breaths of wind ruffled the messy locks of her hair, tail already soaking in the wet. Her ride was short, standing when the cloud did allow her to do so, placing wobbly legs that had grown too relaxed during the ride. Africa speaks, talking about Sohalia. Sikeax paid no mind to the absence of her other leader. She knew better than to seek out those on top to make sure she wasn't bothering them, and Sohalia was not taken off that list. The Swan of the Dragon's Throat would come soon.
Nodding to answer, lips still quiet, she strolls closer to her lead with a light gait. Moving onwards without the others would be rude, though there were already others she wouldn't mind leaving.
"If you could hear me then, can you hear me now?"
In winter, some voices are like coats - Mosteghanemi
The last he had seen her the world had looked entirely different. That golden form was sumptuous and sleek, appealing and captivating, the flow of light coloured braided locks crowned a magnificent piece. She had shone brighter in his heart than ever before and like a bird to dawns sleepy gaze, Sacre had quite literally fallen spectacularly for the wild Tandavi. Yet, two minutes earlier, he had been fawning over another mare by the name of Phaedra. His pure and innocent life had taken a sharp turn from there and now, whenever he looked at the fire maiden, the guilt rose from his chest making him glance downwards as she appeared before their Sultana. Did she hate him now? Sacre wouldn't blame her. Even now the stained boy had no idea what had come over him that day, magic sounded realistic as the colt couldn't think of anything else to explain it. A blue eye tried to sneak a glance at Tandavi with his face contorted into a mixture of pained emotion. How do I fix this? He asked of the ground.
Inari, on the other hand, sighed at his companions state and looked longingly over at Natraj. His tail beginning to twitch as he wished dearly he could go over and play with the three tailed yet he the vulpine didn't wish to put his bonded friend under anymore pressure and so the child remained. Twitching ever so slightly as he bubbled over in restrained excitement.
However, soon after Tandavi's arrival the meeting took place with the first words of Africa capturing the young colts mind immediately. A piece had broken off? Sacre listened to her next words in rapt wonder, his eyes wide with elation over the prospect of travelling to a real floating island! This was like the stuff of dreams! Both horse and fox were almost wiggling on the spot, willing their bodies to wait just a little longer until the Sultana was finished and for them to begin the journey. The Starry-Eyed explained that their herd had its own camp up there and then proceeded to begin her guided trip, to which Sacre quickly trotted after her. His dark legs doing their best to keep up almost alongside the grey leader.
Cloven hooves ate at the ground across the bridge and soon they were off southerly through Helovia's wilds and to the Veins of the Gods. As soon as they reached the volcanic stretch of land Africa ushered upwards and the stained colt followed her gaze eagerly until he saw it. A massive floating rock in the sky, like something read from a fairytale, out of a myth or written down in legend. Surely this could only be the making of an immortal being whose powers exceeding all others. Sacre stared at it with his mouth half open in awe, absently following his leader up the narrow and rocky path until they reached the top and something incredible happened!
Clouds! Light, floating clouds formed under the hooves of Sacre as Inari made a sharp noise of surprise and jumped quickly onto his bondeds inky rump. The colt snorted at the fluffy white thing with his eyes wild around the edges when then it rose upwards, like they were flying! Sacre looked out across the world from a perspective he had never had the privilege to see before and his soft lips allowed small sounds of excitement to escape. His new form of transportation took him up higher and higher before finally setting him down on Sky Island with the child just about ready to faint in all the awe and thrills, he could only dumbly nod to Africa's words.
They began their journey again, this time on a completely different territory where the boy had no idea what would be behind each corner. Fields of juicy looking grass was everywhere along with glistening water and magnificent falls. Tents set up for other herds could be seen flying their flags in the distance and for a moment Sacre wondered if Roux had made it up here too. What was the Basin camp like? The image in his head of all the floating unicorns made him giggle a little.
Soon they were led into the Dragons Throat camp that welcomed them with marvellous looking spears before finally Africa stopped and asked of them their opinion. For a moment, Sacre stared out across the new scenery blankly, his youthful mind trying to take it all in. Inari was crouched on his rear end, sniffing the air with uncertainty whilst beady eyes tried to look at everything they possible could. "It's amazing!" All the admiration was filled into the young spy's words, conveying his feeling of joy through that one simple statement as his gaze continually cast around him. "I want to see more" he laughed boyishly.
image by strideroo
There's something wretched about this Something so precious about this
He dithered still longer, unsure just how much he wanted to plunge into the sanctuary offered by another mare, another mother, potentially. Fathomless blue pools watched carefully from the distance he’d chosen as the one-winged mare who had been so pleasant in the cave (she alone had offered to help him find Shadow), gestured for him to come; but he didn’t, tiny, fawn-like frame swaying as uncertainty in the warm sunlight, as introversion, plumed through his core. Perhaps it was his curse to be alone... though I don’t know why, he mused silently, eyes wandering hurriedly away from the endearing lull of her white-golden gaze. Kari was reluctant to place his trust in another like her (like Shadow, or Circe). It seemed that his touch was a deterrent, his faith a joke.
Another arrived soon after. It was Alija, coloured like the clash of sunset against a sunrise; an ocean in the desert; snow on a summer’s day. His gaze was equally as confused as her coat, dizzy, stunned (even after their first encounter) and he thought as she introduced herself to the few gathered before him, that she was far too gaudy for his liking.
The clatter of hooves across gravel, and the whoosh as they neared through the sand, pulled the little colt’s attention around suddenly. He was both glad for the distraction and surprised by the source; the crimson stained colt and his friend, met when the unruly rock had been rambling so recklessly below the Heart. A half-smile was given by the child with bruised trust, and with reserved curiosity Kari watched him still by the side of the horned mare he had followed. Why is he here? he questioned, eyes narrowing as they stared unabashedly at the still nameless Unicorn. It never occurred to him that any not discovered before the darkness might actually belong- before the monsters and the caves when still he’d strolled by the flank of Shadow. Though wise on matters passed, the grey colt had a very narrow perspective about the wide world surrounding.
His stomach groaned, irritated and empty. Hush, not right now , he scolded.
Eyes ahead turned, and Kari hunched his shoulders reflexively, but they were looked well beyond his insignificant form. Relieved (and ever so slightly insulted), he turned to find what had captured their attention- the girl who fell from the sun... another foal found on the brink oblivion. Small ears fluttered curiously for a moment, she looked older now; and fleetingly he glanced to check the black and red boy. His form too was less childlike, it was not as gangly as the little winged colt remembered, and a sigh was pushed from his lungs. The world was moving ahead, leaving me behind, and he couldn’t help but sulk a little at the thought; pulling resentfully from her golden-red presence, jealous.
The hum of her voice- a sound perhaps he thought was forgotten; pulled back up his ocean-blue eyes and they widened, carefully interested that she had remembered his name. She had moved closer as well- she was standing by his side, and Kari shifted his weight restlessly, put off by her bold arrival and yet excited all the same. What he felt begin to boil through his mind was not the same as that which the vast proclamations of well-meaning mares stirred. She was still young, like him, maybe, and cheeks blushed helplessly as her (he thought) exclusive attention flattered his immature ego. Her eyes were just as he remembered, as black as an empty night, but he was startled because they were no longer bathed in the shadows of that cavern. Kari couldn’t bring his own gaze away, he was perplexed, fascinated.
His jaw dropped to speak, to impress, but the name of her was gone. His mind drew a blank, and he stiffened uncomfortably, searching desperately for the memory they’d shared- but it never came. He was frustrated, and his nose pinched beneath his shifting expression, displaying all bother candidly, oblivious. She spoke again, and Kari was secretly thankful. “I missed you too,” he answered, speaking as though she’d never left his thoughts; like their paths had been clearly bound for eternity. He was glad for her company then, and his focus strayed as the one-winged mare began to speak again, towards the strange, three-tailed canine brooding by her legs.
Kari didn’t know what Africa was talking about, but excitement seemed to radiate around her- mist from a waterfall, and it took all his strength to not sink beneath the contagious lull her mirth. She was soon leading them from the parched, uncomfortable desert sands, and north along the cliff-flanked bridge he’d followed to find home. He was careful not to stray from the side of the girl with the flaxen braids, her hair shimmering as sunlight caught between tendrils dancing to the rhythm of her stride; but he walked quite independently all the same, unconvinced that she wouldn’t just evaporate like the others.
Before he knew it, the intimate troupe had wandered along another peninsula, and even before they’d set foot upon it, a giant mass of land suspended midair had given reason for concern. It all seemed to make sense, the dots were connecting, and the colt gazed warily upwards, into its dark shadow. Blue lava bubbled by their feet, even more unsettling, and suddenly the clouds mentioned while he’d half-heartedly been listening, began to collect around his feet. They hardened like little concrete pedestals, and eyes wandered down to assess them. When he lifted, the beginning of the ascent to Sky Island above, his legs splayed apart and be glanced to see the reaction as the same happened to those around him.
Small, weak wings opened as though to balance him (they had lost their capacity to fly altogether), but there was no need. Each support beneath his diminutive weight held firm and Kari was carried to a lush carpet of green, a valley spreading before him like nothing he had encountered previously. Africa led them to a camp nestled amid others, an arena (with great rolling potential), and various other structures that defied his narrow-minded belief. There was an oasis which they did not enter, and he peered curiously around the dappled mare to view all that lay behind. Still he said nothing, and soon retired to the relative safety of his copper chestnut friend, right as the red-horned colt spoke.
Image by Ina
HP:42.5 Helovia Hard Mode
Permission granted at all times to use magic and violence on Kari
Alija trailed behind her family just enjoying being with these people. Steely blue eyes roved over her family, was this all of them, or were there more? Even if there wasn't anyone else in her family she already loved them all dearly. Everyone here, besides Mistress Africa and herself, were young which only made her love them more. She made a pact with herself right then to do her best to help her family grow in size and strength, even though her strength wasn't in a war sense. Smiling she picked up a trot to catch up with the group. Her thoughts were drawn to the winged and horned colt, Kari. She was still very worried about his malnourished physic and his brittle state. What had happened to the poor boy and where was his mother, Shadow? Sighing she pushed the troubling thoughts away.
Lost in her thoughts she missed most of the journey to their finally destination. That didn't really bother her once she looked up towards the blue sky. A gasp of awe escaped easily from her warm purple kissers. The island was floating high above them causing her antlered head to tilt back the trinkets woven in her horns clinking softly. As they moved closer she thought her neck would snap since she was unable to take her gaze from the island. Suddenly the earth shifted under her large golden feathered hooves drawing a startled snort from her tender nostrils. She cast a startled gaze towards her Mistress; clearly this was really this was supposed to happen. Either way her body tensed as they rose higher into the sky. Gulping she cast a nervous glance over the edge of the cloud that was now carrying her. The doe's stomach flipped and she closed her eyes breathing shakily trying to calm her fears. Once they came to a stop Alija quickly jumped from her ride and stood trembling slightly eyes taking in the solid earth under her hooves.
When she calmed down her attention turned to the island's beauty. Her kind voice whispered from her lunges, "God's bless Africa this place is..." Words failed her as she followed her Mistress eyes trailing lovingly over the cherry blossoms. The doe seemed to be drowning in the perfume the pretty pink flowers gave off. Steel orbs found the tents and stands along with the sandy arena. a slight grimace crossed her pink and purple features before she turned from the battle ground. The smile returned back quickly as Sacre's excitement spread to her own heart.
Tandavi</style> the frenzied pace of the mind inside the cell.</style>
He flutters like a butterfly caught in a web, excited and uncertain, his body shifting eagerly beneath the weight of her onyx eyes. For a moment she fears he will dart away from her, that somehow he knows of her past crimes and sins; she fears she will be left alone in this slender group of strangers and lost friends, cast out among her 'family' and left behind once more. Melodramatic, her brother yawns, disgruntled and grumpy with the girl's state of mind.
And once more he is right, for the boy speaks at last, youthful voice returning the memory's promise. She wonders if it is not quite a lie from him, too, and chooses to believe that in fact it is. She uses this as fodder in her fight with Natraj- I can be positive, she tells him, and he does not reply. Instead he leaps toward her shoulder, long claws sinking into the tangle of braids, and pulls himself up to sit on her back. His talons leave winces though do not draw blood; he has not been careful, and settles into the small of her back. Behind a shield of tails he continues to brood, grumpy and unsatisfied with the girl's morose mind.
She is saved from her inability to think of something more to say, rescued by Africa's tale of a piece of the earth, dislodged into sky. Bold eyes open wide at the words, amazement skirting across her face- the concept is novel, beyond novel, it is unfathomable, unheard of, and fills girl and boy with unquenchable excitement and a thirst to know more. A gift from the Sun... of course it must be, for who but her God could create something so great, a segment of world risen high into heavens? Her hooves ache to start on the long journey there, and as they begin she quick to fall in stride, though she lingers at the side of the frail little boy.
From sand bridge to stone the small troupe treks along, an odd group to be sure: four youths led by two misfits, the loud purple mare and the one-winged lead. A thin line stained by crimson and copper and navy and steel, the children march on through the whisper of sun, until finally they come to the isle of Gods: and then, only then, does the real fun begin.
Just as they wonder how any of them are going to get to the surface (for surely even Kari's wings are not enough to sustain long flight), clouds bloom at the girl's gold hocks, wrapping them in a cold embrace before shifting to solid and lifting her mass. She gasps, and the air catches tight in her throat, emerging as mixture of laughter and choke. Around her the world is falling away, and she watches it eagerly, greed in her eyes, wind in her hair and and a grin on her face. We're flying! she thinks, and she wants to call Sacre- but she stops in the process, remembering there's a chance they're no longer friends. Instead she turns her black gaze to the colt, brilliant excitement dimmed only in slight, and as they land on the ground she graces him with a radiant smile, wistful envy lacing the dark alto tones. "I wish I could fly," she murmurs, gaze drifting from him to the blank sky beyond. "That was amazing."
She follows the group but straggles behind, still unable to draw her thoughts away from the world. Green grass fades away to reveal a tent, and she pauses belatedly, nearly colliding with a tall iron pole. Embarrassed, she backs hastily away, pleasantly surprised to find Kari once more by her side: a shadow, she thinks, unaware of the quiet irony inside that thought. Africa speaks, and she wonders where Sohalia is, why she did not come when the herd was called- and where Andromeda is, too, and the filly Amani, and the countless unnamed others who reside in the Throat.
And then Sacre laughs, and she echoes, "Me too!" boldly, thoughtlessly, flushed with excitement and the sound of her own voice. She has no idea what many of the strange structures are for, but she wants to find out- and more, more than that, she wants to keep flying, to feel her heart lurch as she falls and ascends on the weight of a cloud.
image by tambako @ flickr.com</style>
o. pixel pony credit to tamme
o. permission granted to use force and magic on Tavi
o. only tag me in opening posts, please!
08-01-2014, 11:53 PM (This post was last modified: 08-01-2014, 11:54 PM by Rei.)
Rei had caught a strong scent of the dry sands of home blown to her on the wind while she still gallivanted across the island. The land that belonged to the sky hovered over the wrong section of Helovia for the scent to be so strong. Meaning that her herd had to be gathering on the island. Could it be a herd meeting?
It would be the first since she joined Dragon's Throat. Rei had to be there for it! Her spots rippled as her muscles flexed, pushing her body from the ground and into the sky quickly making her way towards the iron spears that guarded the Throat's tent.
Once she arrived Rei hesitated before stepping past the spears that reached towards the sky as if they wished to impale the sky itself on their pointed ends. She wished someone would use one to prod her forward.
Rei had been stricken by a case of shyness as she observed her herd-mates milling about. Many of them had never met her before, she had to prepare herself to make a wonderful first impression.
The laughs that bubbled out from the meeting place shattered the shell that had began to form itself around Rei. Laughs contain all sorts of magic unlike any other that could be possessed, yet all who let it in could cast its spell.
With her confidence regained Rei approached the meeting, "I hope that I haven't missed all of the fun!" Rei called out to all gathered as she walked in. She figured that if she greeted them all in some way or another that someone was bound to acknowledge her.
It was one of the first times she had seen Africa in action as Sultana. The mare had grown to be a dear friend to her and it warmed her heart to see that Africa didn't behave any different while leading those that she ruled over than how she acted among a few friends. She thought that Africa seemed to glow with the joy of being able to introduce her herd to such a promising new land. It was a contagious feeling, Rei felt herself grow antsy. She wanted the entire herd to experience the island together as Rei, Africa, and Nasreen had. It had been a bonding experience, and there was nothing that Rei wanted more than to bond with the Dragon's Throat members.
Listening to those who were without wings speaking about their trip to reach the island Rei took a pause in the conversation as an opportunity to join in on the conversation "It is thrilling to find yourself in the sky for the first time isn't it? It is a feeling that you will never forget, and the breathless feeling that you get whenever your hooves kiss the sky is a thrill that never fades."
Settling back on her hooves Rei contentedly basked in the presence of those she considered family. To her there were only two types of members: those that she had met and loved, and those that she loved but hadn't met yet.
It was not lost on the dove that she was late, but it was such a lovely day on such a beautiful island that she could not feel abashed. Surely the rest of her herd was just as enamored by their surreal surroundings as she? As a pegasus, she could simply spread her wings and be lost in the clouds for hours, soaring and swooping, laughing with glee as water droplets clung to her ivory pelt, light refracting into a million tiny rainbows as she flitted from cloud to cloud. And it was so much easier to lose track of time when she could look down and see the magical, floating land, complete with cascading waterfalls that fell into the ocean, presumably originating from some endless reserve deep within the mountains adorning the island. Cherry trees, or something similarly pink, dotted the landscape, creating a colorful backdrop to her midair antics.
The Gods did not err in creating this place.
Astraeus crooned his agreement, and the angel laughed.
When she fell from the sky to land gently and gracefully just outside her gathered companions, she nickered a soft greeting and then took her place beside her fellow Sultana. Her bi-colored gaze flickered from one to the other as she took them all in, her eyes filled with warmth and affection. These individuals were her family, her friends. They had become her life, and she would gladly give her own for their well-being. Though she was still newly come, she hoped that they had or would come to view her as she did them.
"I hope I haven't kept you waiting," she told them with a smile. "This is a lovely place, isn't it?"
"talk talk talk"
@[name]
Live... I want to live on fire
Die... I want to burn out brighter
Brighter than the northern lights
Want to live to feel the daylight
At first she thought them to be stunned. Pale eyes watching dotingly as each of her family took their own time to savour this plate set before them. Africa too had been captivated initially, taken aback, completely speechless. The pretty healer, Alija turned her focus from the island for a moment, whispering as though entirely awe-struck. Some were silent, displaying their interest quietly and with modest reservation. The one-winged didn’t mind at all, and followed the path of wandering eyes to admire the surroundings again.
When at last Sacre spoke, she nodded eagerly and glanced by the fox who was crouched by cloven hooves, silken black threads draped a little around him. She wasn’t sure for how long Sky Island would exist, and having had the time already to explore a little of its wonder herself, Africa did not want to hold the herd here waiting for long. “We won’t keep you long,” she smiled warmly after Tandavi too had expressed her desire to explore promptly after the colt-Sleuth. The Starry-Eyed was referring also to Sohalia who she was certain would find their group soon.
There was the scrabble of hooves crossing the first stretch of gravelly desert sand nearby, and Africa looked towards it quickly, expecting wholly to see the snowy dove stepping to join them. A smile lifted her gentle expression when she saw however, that it was Rei who approached them, and the speckled mare’s effervescent voice danced forward in greeting. She went on further to describe the sheer ecstasy of flight- something which Africa had only recently been gifted, and she nodded with brisk enthusiasm (seeing the perspective of those with no wings perhaps more easily than any other). It’s a thrill to be in the sky indeed... she mused quietly as the herd interacted together for the moment. There seemed little reason to but in.
Without delay, Sohalia’s elegant form swooped down from the skies. As she landed and moved to stand close, the dappled mare snuffled softly in tender greeting and dipped her long skull graciously. As the white mare spoke, Africa asked gently and silently for Silas to gather those missing- from Sky Island, and afar. His black body swept away, soft star-glitter falling in his awake.
“Welcome to Sky Island,” the Starry-Eyed beamed fondly, when the herd, her friends and family, were gathered at last in the miniature version of their cherished homeland. For some, she knew, this was the first encounter with the God’s of Helovia; their existence and their generosity. She continued, demure voice light and bright, but only loud enough to fill their private plot of land. “Let us first honour and praise the God of the Sun for this divine gift after the Darkness, and also thank humbly the Moon, the Earth and the Spark.”
She paused then thoughtfully to offer Cera, or any other in the group, a chance to further the devotion.
“You might have noticed the disappearance of the Mother of Companions.” She smiled softly turning her face a little so that kind creamy eyes could rest upon the lovely features of Ampere’s successor. “Sohalia has been blessed by our God, and will stand rightfully as our second Sultana.” Already golden dragons danced across her crowned brow, and Africa was so glad to have her white sister and Astraeus right there beside her (far more comfortable then she had been beside the outspoken blue mare). The herd was blossoming, expanding, and a grand new direction awaited these loyal followers of the flame.
“We were recently visited by Midas the Gallant, our Sultan of old.” Considerate gaze swept across the newer faces, those who had not known Dragon’s Throat under his reign (and that of Gaucho the Wildfire). “He has been called to serve as Czar of Hidden Falls, and Seele the Necromancer, leader of the Asylum, is his Czarina. Naturally our two families swear friendship and alliance.” Africa had paid them an impromptu visit recently (revelling in the company of her so cherished brother), and their numbers swelled far beyond the Throat’s intimate clan. “We invite you to visit them to the north. Be respectful of their border always, and please welcome their members warmly, and treat them as our own when they travel to our desert.
An agreement has also been made to enable both herds’ Sneak classes to steal from each other's ranks. This will provide excellent opportunity to further your skills without causing conflict with distant neighbours.” Eyes searched quickly for Sacre, the Sleuth, and the two budding Informants beneath him, Satanic Silk and Destry. “No formal captives will be held, and no items kept, of course...”
Africa paused then and drew a deep breath.
“Recently Sun Physician Andromeda and her Apprentice Sikeax, were sent on assignment to World’s Edge. They presented a bag of herbs, a token of friendship and good will.” The dappled mare glanced around the group to locate those mentioned with a smile. “Please, treat their members kindly. Hopefully the foundations have been set in place for another prosperous alliance between our two families.” Then, her expression stiffened a little as she thought of the Basin, the conflict- the fragile and most bitter relations still standing. “Aurora Basin.” Soberly she looked across at Sohalia and offered a subtly pained grimace. “Treat the Unicorns of the snowy mountains cordially, and with extreme caution. They cannot be trusted and we will not endeavour to befriend them for that reason, and others... they have proven only that they are sly, and more recently in the Threshold, rumours of their racism were confirmed to me. They are not welcome in Dragon’s Throat.”
08-09-2014, 05:08 PM (This post was last modified: 08-09-2014, 05:08 PM by Andromeda.)
There are clear benefits to attending a herd meeting, and I have yet to attend one since returning to Helovia. The benefits? Sucking up, though I feel I have no need for that. I think I am already on great terms with Africa and Sohalia. But even more importantly - meeting and catching up with other herd members. I can easily count those herd members that I've met (and actually know their names): Africa, Sohalia, Tandavi, and Sikeax. Everyone else is a mystery to me. I briefly saw the sun-colored stallion hybrid, but I never learned his name. I know Rasta, but she is not from the Throat.
I am late to this herd meeting, and I have no excuses. But at least I am here now, right? I see the gathering of Sohalia and Africa, Tandavi and Sikeax too. Silas flies overhead, squawking at us to gather. I trot up slowly to the group, hoping to not draw too much attention to myself. As I approach, I hear my own name mentioned as well as Sikeax's. I hear that there is an alliance between the Edge and the Throat, but I already knew that. I didn't realize we should be unfriendly toward those of the Basin. I, too, had heard rumors of their racism and cruel ways, but it is always sad to have to distance ourselves from others of our kind.
I near Sohalia and Africa and murmur my presence, and apologize for my lateness. It surely does not reflect well on our leaders that some of their top appointees are not timely for herd matters. But perhaps this is just evidence for why I will never be suitable for such management. (And that's quite alright with me.)
I wonder if my love will be surprised that I am late to a herd meeting. All I can say is, at least I show up. I wasn't great about participation when I was in the Falls, and I doubt that I'll do much better in the Throat. I arrive at the gathering, for me only marked by the presence of Africa and Alija, and sidle up not far from Africa. It is not my place to be in any sort of leadership position, but I want to stay next to the mare that brings light into my dark and hopeless life. I arrive just in time to hear her mention some herd agreements that have been made. Greatly in my favor, we have an agreement with Midas and the rest of the Falls to practice stealths. My ears perk and my red eyes brighten - that is excellent news for me. I can make my way as a good sleuth and get in the practice that I sorely need. We are on good terms with the Edge, and things with the Basin are .. well.. no good at all. I make a note to myself to be angry at anyone from the Basin. A little hypocritical - judging those who are judgmental - but that's politics isn't it?
I scoot next to Africa and nuzzle her shoulder, then look around at those gathered. I recognize none but Alija, the one that I lead here to the Throat. I murmur words to my sweetness. M'dear, I am sorry I am late. Old habits die hard, I suppose. I pause, and take one last look at those gathered, trying to rack my brain to see if MAYBE I recognize them, but all in vain. Would you introduce me to some of these herd members? I know none but Alija. I glance over at who must be Sohalia, the other reigning queen. I hope that she doesn't mind my close presence to the queens in this meeting. Put a joker hat on me, if it helps. I just don't want to be separated from my love.
08-12-2014, 08:36 PM (This post was last modified: 08-12-2014, 08:37 PM by Sacre.)
Dear fellow traveller,
under the moon
Sacre is happy to see everyone else sharing in the similar joy and wonder he was experiencing himself. It was one thing travelling and discovering new things, it was something entirely different and much more enjoyable when surrounded by many beaming souls. A thrill rattled his body when Tandavi agreed and briefly he was reminded once again of their fragile relationship that existed, almost like there was an invisible wall shoved between them. The colt allowed himself to extend his bright smile and enjoy the moment of content between them before it galloped back off into the sunset, along with their once strong friendship. It's brief, the comfortable bliss he feels, it was followed by heart wrenching uncertainty that he quickly chased away by turning to the spotted fellow with a warm like aura. "I will never forget! You have a beautiful gift" he nodded to her wings, blue eyes sparkling with sincerity.
His father would murder him, if not take his own life, if he heard such words from his own son. Alas, Sacre had forged his own path and formed his own opinions. Only time would prove the victor.
He nodded thankfully to Africa who promised him a swift meeting to allow him more time for his boyish pursuits. On days like this the colt forgot he had duties and responsibilities, an immature move, the months would hopefully bring better control over his wild emotions. It was soon after that, that they were joined by the snowy form of Sohalia, the first official figure he had met upon entering the Dragons Throat. He knew very little about her, but she had been kind and generous in offering her home to him and so he greeted her like he owed her his life. With a swift bow of the head.
The meeting began soon after, led in quickly by Africa and the colt listened intently. Hooves twitching ever so often as he fidgeted to move and explore. It began with offerings of thanks to the Gods and Sacre took a moment to close his eyes, casting his head skyward, thank you for the home, Sun Lord. Gratitude filled his thoughts toward the patron who gave him a land to return to. Thank you, Lord Time, for watching over the Aurora Basin. I hope my brother remains safe home no more, but the boy still felt fondness towards the snowy mountain upon which he had grown up on. Information moved swiftly then and Sacre took in each bit, carefully stowing it away. His interest noticeably glistened when Africa mentioned the agreement of stealth practise between themselves and the Hidden Falls, something that made his heart skip with excitement. "We will use this practise wisely!" He responded with bubbly vigour, speaking for the first time on behalf of his small contingent of spies, that he had yet to meet formally.
What came next, however, Sacre wasn't expecting. He listened with a concerned frown as the Sultana mentioned the distrust of his former home and their orders to not befriend them. The child looked to the Starry-Eyed with a stricken look that spoke clearly of his torn heart. Roux. His brother was by no means a sly horse and Sacre had yet to see a racist drop on his soul. Did that mean he was to remain in the Dragons Throat without seeing him?! Sacre fought hard with his raging emotions that twisted from apprehension to old loyalties to desperate uncertainty. If they knew where he came from would they think differently of him? Did they judge all of the unicorns from the north this way? Were they even given a chance of redemption? "But-" the words stuck in his throat as he looked despairingly at Africa.
image by strideroo
There's something wretched about this Something so precious about this
The dove was greeted with a soft nicker and a smile from Africa, to which she responded with a respectful dip of the head. Astraeus crooned his own greeting before settling carefully upon his bonded's withers, gentle sparks radiating across his wings. The golden tiara atop the angel's poll twinkled merrily in the sunlight, twining beautifully with her ivory mane and marking her new position to any who had yet to hear the news. She smiled shyly at the group, bashful in her inexperience, hopeful that they would accept her as a second leader as easily as their God had.
Africa went on to address the herd, taking the first step into their herd meeting. As it was the first time the angel had stood before her family as a leader, she was happy to allow her one-winged friend the spotlight. A naturally shy creature, it was not in Sohalia's nature to stand before them and recite some lovely speech, however adept she may be with one-on-one diplomacy. She watched the Starry-Eyed with admiration, for Africa showed no nerves as she spoke to the gathered audience. It appeared that the pair complimented one another - where Sohalia had taken the lead in discussing alliances with Midas, Africa would prove better able to discuss their decisions with the herd.
But as Africa paused, the dove realized that it would soon be her turn to speak. There were many changes to be made in their homeland, and as several of them had been her idea, it was only fitting that she would be the one to bear the news. And, of course, it wouldn't hurt to give herself a voice. Before she could speak, though, she noticed the look of despair on Sacre's face, the gentle rebuke from his lips, and she frowned, upset for him. She did not know his history, did not know of his family, but she could clearly see the emotions playing across his features. Hoping to dispel his concerns and ease any thought of reverse racism, she spoke up. "It should be noted that although we do not welcome those of the Aurora Basin within our borders, they should still be treated with respect and dignity should they be encountered elsewhere. It is unfortunate," she added with an apologetic glance towards their Sleuth, "But we are charged with the protection of our herd, and we feel this is the best decision at this time.
"We have other news, though, and it is my hope that this news will be a step towards bridging the gaps between the herds and forging strong relationships with our neighbors." She smiled then, barely able to contain her excitement. "After a great deal of consideration, we have decided to found an academic institution within the Dragon's Throat. We will welcome anyone, from any herd, who would like to pursue a discipline that we offer. We would like to teach combat skills, magic skills, and support the development of wisdom, history, and the like. We are very optimistic about this idea, and we hope that you will all find it as exciting as we do! We will be looking for instructors in the three areas I mentioned, so if you are interested, or if you would like to be a student, please let us know."
"Finally, we will soon be holding a tournament to decide a Gladiator to lead our soldiers! A timeline will be determined shortly, but should you have an interest in combat, we would like you to enter."
"talk talk talk"
@[name]
Live... I want to live on fire
Die... I want to burn out brighter
Brighter than the northern lights
Want to live to feel the daylight
Long lazy strides carried the copper warrior past the arena whose soft bed of sand had been churned up now by many sparring hooves, along with his own. Hector had spent many days lounging beneath the bright atmosphere of Sky Island, soaking up the warm (but not obnoxiously so), clear days and mingling with creatures he thought never to see again once the Darkness had cleared from Helovia and the caves had been abandoned. That day though, the Sultana’s strange night-like bird had passed overhead, pausing above the chestnut stallion as though to summon him, to call his attention away from the holiday. Naturally, he had obeyed the silent word of the avian, and a he drew nearer to the Throat’s miniature desert, iron posts rising formidably into the vast blue, he could see that a group was gathering.
Attentively, downy red ears dancing forward to meet the hum of business, Hector moved to be with them. Hard hooves grazed the gravelly, golden sand as he stepped between bodies to stand by a spotted mare whose name was yet to grace his ears. Nevertheless he officered to her a quiet brotherly murmur as his lips twisted to smile.
Then the voices seemed to hush all at once.
Following the trend of the crowd, tangerine eyes sauntered forward and settled upon the two mares at their head, Sohalia and Africa. The latter quickly began to speak, the same nervousness which had lathered through her voice during the last meeting like this apparently gone. It pleased the giant. Their leaders, from the perspective of one who had lived through the militaristic rule of the Resolute, and those following, needed to wield confidence in both themselves and their duty. Strength did not stem from imbalance and frayed nerves. As the dappled, fire-trimmed mare spoke on about alliances and such, the stallion listened carefully with a cocked ear. It was imperative that he understood the nature of the herd’s relations, their allies and their enemies, and he nodded inwardly when at last the information ran dry.
The paler mare spoke soon after, announcing that the pair were leading the herd in a new direction- away from the former focus of strength in battle. The idea intrigued him, though he held apparently not the same enthusiasm that burst with Sohalia’s message. He was quite used to the old way, fierceness ingrained, duty and honour his priority. Perhaps, while this institution blossomed at the hand of two so unlike him, a small sliver of normalcy could remain. Either way, he was a loyal stallion and lifted his skull beneath whirling copper tendrils to welcome forward the new age.
The Sultana went on to introduce a tournament- refreshing, exciting, and Hector knew instantly that he would partake.
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HP:42.5![[Image: 53a4c3e87d453]](http://images.helovia.net/index.php/view/53a4c3e87d453)
![[Image: silkicon2_by_lainey_lou-d73bsek.png]](http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2014/022/e/b/silkicon2_by_lainey_lou-d73bsek.png)
![[Image: sohtable.png]](http://imageshack.us/a/img402/8306/sohtable.png)
