the Rift


[OPEN] Finding my place (joining)

Ilios Posts: 200
Dragon's Throat Informant atk: 5 | def: 9 | dam: 6
Stallion :: Hybrid :: 15 :: 4 (Frostfall) HP: 66.5 | Buff: NOVICE
Isabella :: Common Rougarou :: Flame Parelia
#1

"I'm gazing upward, a world I can't embrace..."

Today was the day, he was going to his new home with his sister and Kaj, and he couldn't ask for a better entourage. At least with Kaj he had a better chance of being excepted into the herd than without him. Taking a deep breath he called out for his sister and father figure. he was sure Ciceron would be pissed that he hadn't gone to see him and explain, but the colt did not care. It would take a while to get to the Throat, since Areli couldn't fly yet. It would give them all a chance to hang out one last time, before he would have another family. A shiver of excitement mixed with dread coursed through his young body. He was finally two years old, and almost fully grown. Damn his mother's short genetics, thanks to her he was going to be on the short side as well. Ah well, he would surely thicken up, hopefully take after his father's strength. If not the colt feared he would always look young, cursed, with the kiss of youth. The arrival of the Kaj and Areli shook the boy from his thoughts.

After what seemed like days the trio finally made it to the end of Helovia. Silver eyes squinted as the hybrid gazed out over the glimmering water where there was a glimmer of sand. "Is that it?" He cast a glance to the much larger stallion beside him. As soon as the answer was given the boy took flight. "Stay here Areli I will be back shortly." He flew towards the island and circled once sending out a call before flying deliberately slow back to his sister and Kaj. Landing with a heavy thump he turned silver eyes to gaze between the pair a sliver of sadness glimmering behind his excitement.

Who would come to meet him? Maybe the ruler, Gaucho would show up, he hoped so. There would be nothing better than to meet his leaders even though he didn't know the other he assumed there was. It made sense, the Edge and Falls both had two leaders so why wouldn't the Throat? He turned quickly to Areli, making sure she was safe was his main priority, "Be polite, okay?" He looked at her firmly before turning back to the island.

I L I O S
My heart's an endless winter filled with rage...
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Tags; @[Kaj] @[Areli] @[Mesec] @[Ampere]
Words; 386
OOC; Joining! Anyone and everyone come jump Ilios
You must be true to your heart..
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Tag me

Kaj The Aurelight Posts: 381
Hidden Falls Conscript atk: 4.0 | def: 9.0 | dam: 7.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 17.2hh :: 8 Years 9 Months HP: 69.5 | Buff: ENDURE
Arabella :: Common Zephyr :: Wakiya Brit
#2

Though it had arrived far too soon for the Czar's liking, the day for Ilios to depart had finally come. Though he had carried the boy's comment inside his heart since the moment it had been uttered, Kaj could not help but still feel sorrow when he recognized that Ilios would be leaving. Leaving and not returning. Boys had to branch out on their own regardless, and Kaj was aware of that, but Ilios had been much like his own son and the Falls would be a little emptier in spirit and heart without the soulful boy there to color it up. Nonetheless, Kaj would support him, and so he had set out on the lengthy trek with Ilios and Areli under careful, somewhat mournful watch. The Storm Bringer was aware of the fact that he would not be seeing Ilios for some time, at least while he settled, and he drank in the image of the boy throughout the entire journey.

Waking up to both children beneath his wings as they traveled had become an addiction, filling little holes in his heart he'd never realized were there. Something inside him ached to be a father, and though he held quite a hand in raising the pair all things considered, they would never be his by blood. It made him long for a mate, foals of his own, a huge family that he could surround himself with forever. Kaj was a man who held family as an integral part of his makeup, and it killed him to be in Helovia sometimes. Though his herdland was harsh and unforgiving, kinship held great deal and weight there, and touch was far more freely given. Loyalties unquestioned. To be without immediate, blooded family was wearing on him more than he had expected, as it had so fully escaped his notice.

And when he at last had grown to love and appreciate waking up with both foals beneath his wings and against his sides, Ilios was leaving and Areli would be returning with him to the Falls where she would be reunited with her mother once more. It was painful, but he plastered on a smile each morning, not wanting to worry the young filly or lead Ilios to think Kaj did not support him in his newly desired independence and freedom.

They arrived far too quickly, sand easily gathering in places Kaj did not find comfortable at all. Ilios asked a quiet question, and Kaj rumbled an assent when he turned imploring, searching eyes upon the Czar. But Kaj was mostly involved elsewhere in his mind. The scents, the sights...it was heartbreakingly familiar. Kaj had spent nearly three seasons in this land, beneath Kri and alongside Rishima. It had become a secondary home to him, and its familiarity brought with it both a pang of bitter longing and a comforting cloud that settled over him. There were no doubts that Ilios would be safe, would prosper and thrive beneath Gaucho and Megaera. Perhaps one of those two would even arrive to accept Ilios, Kaj sorely hoped so because he was not sure any others would recognize him nor care for his rather intimate ties to the desert.

When Ilios slowly returned from where he'd flown across the channel in hopes of attracting attention, Kaj turned to the boy with a quiet, encouraging smile. "Take a breath. Everything is going to be okay, Ilios," he assured, certain that the boy was probably feeling jitters in that moment. He was leaving home, going to live alone in a new land with no friends and no support. Kaj was proud of him.

KAJ
we're all young and divine on the inside

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credit bronzehalo
Please only tag starting posts, spars, and threads collecting dust!
Plot with me here!

Mesec the Nightwind Posts: 476
World's Edge Glazier atk: 5.5 | def: 9 | dam: 5
Stallion :: Tribrid :: 16.3hh :: 7 years old HP: 76 | Buff: NOVICE
Lucius :: Royal Zephyr :: Roc & Lyra :: Common Kitsune :: Dreams Sarah
#3

I'll fight to survive through this thunderous life
without you by my side

A call from overhead distracted both him and Lucius and they looked upward to see a figure with soft green wings loop around in the sky before returning to the other side of the channel that separated the Throat from the main body of Helovia. Visitors? Lucius started hopping around on Mesec’s neck, digging his talons into the flesh in his excitement - all four of his still-downy wings flapping as he tried to get his bonded to hurry forward and follow the figure. He was always so eager to meet someone new, this little zephyr, when all he did was hide in Mesec’s wings and peer out. Lucius enjoyed spying on others, not interacting with them, though he appreciated being noticed and admired. He was growing, getting bigger every day it seemed. Soon he would be too pick to perch atop the demigod’s head and his talons would do more than prick lightly at his skin.

“Alright, alright. Let’s go, little one.” His assent was met with a shrill call of delight and Lucius clamoured down to cling to the feathers covering Mesec’s withers. He was still learning to fly but risking his young wings over the water was not something that either of them were interested in doing.

On silver-lined wings they took off and coasted across, weaving through the pillars and over the ocean that was more grey than blue with the change in seasons. He saw there, on the far coast, not just the stranger he had seen fly overhead but a trio - all pegasi. His own nerves mingled with Lucius’ curiosity. Maybe it wasn’t a good idea - he had no position in the herd, yet, and would be of little help… though he could at least figure out who would be best to hunt down if they were looking for someone in particular.

Gracefully, Mesec descended on the coast just down from where the trio were standing and trotted the rest of the way toward them. In his now-folded wings, Lucius was settled happily - his head poking out between the folds of the two wings and with purple-ringed, silver eyes the zephyr regarded these strangers. As cold as his companion’s gaze was, Mesec’s own smile was warm when he came to a stop. “Hello! Welcome to the Throat. My name’s Mesec, can I help you with anything?” He had little doubt that Ampere, Gaucho, or one of the other warriors would be along shortly - the young stallion had circled above the Throat and called out before returning to the border. Perhaps someone with more experience in greeting visitors? For now, though he hoped that his nerves were not too obvious and that he could provide some help.

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@[Ilios], @[Kaj]
please tag Mesec in replies
non-life threatening force is allowed at all times
Ascended Helovian

Gaucho The Wildfire Posts: 1,004
Deceased atk: 8.5 | def: 11.5 | dam: 8
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 17.2 :: 12 HP: 85 | Buff: PINNACLE
Mara :: Black Mamba Snake :: Paralyze & Vorsa :: Plain Zephyr :: Phoenix Odd
#4

GAUCHO


[Ahhh sorry I meant to reply to this the other day x.x]


On wings of ebony and fire Gaucho glided. Much bothered his primitive mind, but at the moment he shoved all thoughts of conflict and diplomacy to the depths of his thoughts. It felt better to stifle the urge than to act on it. Although perhaps later, should this creeping feeling of anxiety continue, he would find himself a suitable sparring partner and see if he couldn't beat it out of his mind.

Down below, he spied a gathered trio -Kaj, Mesec, and someone unknown. Had Kaj come on a diplomatic visit? To bring news of warriors, scouts, or some other herd related matter? If so why was Mesec the one to greet them? Where was Ampere or Meg? Even Buce, Maren, or Cera could receive them, but the Moon's child? Gaucho appreciated him taking the time to greet their guests, but part of him wondered why he was forced into that position at all. Where was everyone?

Descending smoothly, Gaucho landed a few feet away from the party so that the sands that his hooves disturbed would not fly towards them. Tucking his wings against his flanks, the Sultan nodded his antlered skull towards each. His steely gaze rested on Kaj, as he exhaled the rest of his pent-up breath. "Kaj. What brings you here?" He inquired with a tone just slightly short of formal. Kaj, as a pegasus and an almost-friend was welcome upon his sands at anytime, and Gaucho trusted his judgement in who he brought with him.

Vorsa landed high in one of Gaucho's antler-tines, her bright orangey-red body awash in firelight that caused warm shadows to flicker across her bonded's face. Mara, appreciating the heat, slithered forwards slightly to watch the exchange.






Image by Yewrezz/Nikki!
Please tag me in every post! Magic/Force is allowed on Gaucho at any time.


Areli Posts: 82
Absent Abyss atk: 6.0 | def: 10 | dam: 4.5
Mare :: Pegasus :: 15.3 hh :: 3 (Birdsong) HP: 65.5 | Buff: NOVICE
Bee :: Grey Wolf :: None Shady
#5

ARELI
Do you still believe in love, I wonder?

Tucked safely behind Kaj, you had watched as Ilios had flown off, traveling towards the island on the other side of the sea. Normally the ocean would have fascinated you, but as the waves churned blue below him, your eyes only remained focused on the gold dot that was your brother. Though he had promised to return, the tears had already begun pooling. They slipped down your face in silent lines, nearly invisible on your dark hide, but you felt them nonetheless.

Ilios turned in the air, and for a moment you wondered—hoped—that he had changed his mind. You’d tried to give him plenty of time to come to his senses. The whole way here you’d dragged your feet, feigned exhaustion, slept for as long as Kaj would allow you to, lingered over the sparse grass (even nibbled like you actually enjoyed the stuff), and begged him not to go. But if there was one way in which you and Illy were alike, it was in your stubbornness. He was dead set on it, and now your only hope lay with Mama. And Mama wasn’t here.

As you were still caught in thought, your brother landed with a thump that brought you back to the task at hand. If Kaj wasn’t going to help you and Mama was nowhere to be found, it was all up to you to keep him where he belonged. It wasn’t hard to muster the tears that were already falling, but you needed something a little more—you were just beginning to screw up your face to bawl when he turned to you and whispered to be polite. He sounded so much like Mama that you lost focus. Instead of a despondent wail, all that came out was a moderately sad hiccup, and then the moment was gone. His attention shifted to Kaj, who merely smiled and told him that everything was going to be okay.

You stifled a scream of frustration. You didn’t know why Kaj kept saying that, but you knew that you couldn’t defy him outright. It had been explained to you since you were very young that Kaj was the king of your family, and that there were things called laws, and that laws were stronger than rules, and what’s more was that Kaj made the laws with the other king. Sulkily, you pouted at his side and tried to come up with some other way of convincing Illy that this was a huge mistake.

Frowning in deep concentration, you were nibbling on the pendant he had given you when a figure appeared on the horizon. He approached on outstretched wings, introducing himself upon landing as Mesec. Though you knew Mama (and probably Illy) would be upset at you, you barely acknowledged him. You peeked out from behind Kaj and gave him a slight nod, but you were still chewing away, scheming. Maybe you could—WHOA.

Unlike Mesec’s arrival, Gaucho’s caught your attention. Perhaps it was his impressive stature or the flaming wings, but the sight of him made the thin glass chain drop from your mouth with a hasty tinkle and you pressed closer to Kaj with a quiet whimper. With the grown stag there, you weren’t quite afraid, but you had a healthy respect for the antlered stranger.

To your surprise, the big stallion seemed to know Kaj, greeting him by name. You dared to peer up at him once again, letting out a squeak of surprise as a firebird landed on his massive rack. Who were these pegasi that Ilios wanted to join?

OOC: Areli's kinda lurking, feel free to skip her if I'm slow!

"speech"


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Icon base: Bronzehalo
Please do not tag Areli except in opening posts!

Ilios Posts: 200
Dragon's Throat Informant atk: 5 | def: 9 | dam: 6
Stallion :: Hybrid :: 15 :: 4 (Frostfall) HP: 66.5 | Buff: NOVICE
Isabella :: Common Rougarou :: Flame Parelia
#6

"I'm gazing upward, a world I can't embrace..."

The poor lad could still hear his sister's please for him to stay. A soft sigh ruffled his golden nose as silver eyes flicked her her before turning to Kaj. He could tell she was crying, but there wasn't anything he could do for her now. He could almost feel her pain vibrating through his own young heart. Ears pricked to catch Kaj's kind words, before following his advice. His sides expanded slowly before the hot breath puffed from his muzzle. How many times had his role-model done this exact thing, or had he always been with the Edge? His thoughts were quickly interrupted as another, young, stallion flew into sight. His horned head dipped low in greeting and respect. Better to cover all bases if he didn't know who he was speaking too. It didn't hurt that Parelia had drilled manners into his head. A soft smile graced his features as the black and silver introduced himself as Mesec. "It's a pleasure to meet you Mesec, I am Ilios, this is my sister Areli." He shot a quick nervous glance at Kaj. it felt odd not to introduce him, but he also thought it might be rude to put words in his mouth.

Before he could elaborate on why the trio was there, another came into view. This massive bay flew in on wings of fire with a fire bird, and a black snake both within his impressive antlers. This stallion, unlike the other, seemed to demand respect. Ilios bended his knee, in a slight bow. Unsure if he should speak for Kaj or not the boy went with his gut his eyes shifting towards the golden male before turning back to the bay. Taking a deep breath the teal ivy marked colt drew himself up and spoke, "Sir, Kaj kindly offered to escort me here. My name is Ilios, and I come seeking a home." He paused for a second trying to keep his voice even and brave, "I'm apologize if I'm being to bold, Sir." Carefully the colt lowered his horned head once more waiting for words he was sure would come.

Turning to his sister the boy lowered his head a kind sad smile painting his features. Flicking his ears the boy beckoned her forward. In all honesty he needed her now just as much if not more than she needed him. Did she realize how much he loved her, how much he meant to him? Now wasn't the time to tell her though. He needed to be strong, not only for the herd he was trying to impress, but for her. It all boiled down to his little sister. Ilios was leaving for her, sure she didn't know that, but no good would come from him being around all of them. Fighting with Ciceron in front of the naive girl, it would only do her harm. as he watched his darker golden spattered sister he was carefully to listen to the others, if they were speaking. He extended his muzzle to her trying his best to embrace her, give her the strength he was sure she needed. Lifting himself up once more he waited for a lull in the conversation, "This is my sister Areli, she lives in the Falls with Kaj and my parents. You might know of my mother, Parelia, or my father Ciceron. I do not seek anything more than a place with your family. I wish to learn everything, and find where I fit best. I promise to be an assent, I am willing to do anything to help your, my, family." Lifting his dome high pride and sencerity etched in ever muscle of his young body, he met the silver eyes with his own, before turning to stare into the bay's. This was his first and last chance to make the best first impression he could.

I L I O S
My heart's an endless winter filled with rage...
image credit

Tags; @[Mesec]
Words; 646
OOC;
You must be true to your heart..
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Tag me

Kaj The Aurelight Posts: 381
Hidden Falls Conscript atk: 4.0 | def: 9.0 | dam: 7.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 17.2hh :: 8 Years 9 Months HP: 69.5 | Buff: ENDURE
Arabella :: Common Zephyr :: Wakiya Brit
#7
Kaj
the Stormbringer

Though she retained her silence, it was obvious that Areli was having quite a hard time with the current events. Kaj let her rage in her own quietude, knowing he could only deal with one thing at a time. Areli's meltdown would have to come later, because making a good impression for Ilios was far more important. It was not that the Czar was not sympathetic to her cause, her emotions. In fact it duly broke his heart to see her in such agony, such frustration. But he had sworn himself to Ilios, and he knew - as someone removed from the situation - that this was going to be good for the young stallion. Areli could not see that, and it was regretful, but so long as she behaved Kaj could save his energy to console her later in the fallout.

She was bustled behind him regardless, safe. So long as she remained there, his heart would not be forced into too much worry.

They were not left in solitude for long, as Kaj had anticipated. Gaucho was a fine man with a good sense of direction and leadership, and people seemed to follow him with ease and deep loyalty. There had never been any doubt that the tight ship effect was entirely voluntary, rather than the staple of a tyrant. The boy who approached could not have been more than Ilios' current age, but Kaj let a smile twist its way onto his lips regardless. He was proud to see the pale boy move forward to intercept the Throat member, taking the initiative but not enough to exclude Kaj from introducing himself. Pride nearly choking him, Kaj nodded to the newcomer respectfully.

"Greetings, Mesec. I am Kaj, Czar of the Hidden Falls." Another form on the horizon caught pale eyes, and Kaj turned to find Gaucho quickly descending, a familiar shape and color on the winter skyline. Fire seemed to permanently rest in his skin, imbued in hues of his bay color, and he was just as massive as Kaj. Rather hard to miss, especially when one was alert on the herd borders with a mission in mind. Kaj turned away from the conversation that would undoubtedly stall to proffer a smile to the guardian of the sands.

Though they were not close friends, Kaj held Gaucho in high regard. He was a good man from what Kaj knew of him, and the times they'd met had always proven fruitful and concise in a way Kaj was fond of. A fellow flier and lead, Kaj trusted him. Ilios would be safe beneath his care and guidance.

Speaking of the youth was quick to find his words once more, though Gaucho had not called upon him. Kaj sat back, awaiting patiently for the boy to finish before lending any of his own thoughts. "Hello, Gaucho," he greeted, warm but with a touch of formality. Lifting his nose towards Ilios, he continued. "Young Ilios seeks to join your ranks. I cam to vouch for him, to ensure his safety and speak for his abilities." Of course, there were always other benefits to visiting the Throat, but that could come a little later so as not to insult Ilios or Areli.

"He is a bright boy, and willing to work. He will follow you faithfully, I have no doubt." There was no need for extravagant words or flowery promises, for he spoke truth and there was nothing else necessary to convince Gaucho in his eyes. As someone who was similarly word-conscientious, Kaj doubted that Gaucho would mind.

@[Mesec] && @[Gaucho]
IMAGE CREDIT

credit bronzehalo
Please only tag starting posts, spars, and threads collecting dust!
Plot with me here!

Mesec the Nightwind Posts: 476
World's Edge Glazier atk: 5.5 | def: 9 | dam: 5
Stallion :: Tribrid :: 16.3hh :: 7 years old HP: 76 | Buff: NOVICE
Lucius :: Royal Zephyr :: Roc & Lyra :: Common Kitsune :: Dreams Sarah
#8

I'll fight to survive through this thunderous life
without you by my side

The two pegasi offered their names in response to his own and Mesec's nerves did not cause his smile to falter once. After all, it was not so bad meeting such polite individuals as those he was speaking with now! "It is wonderful to meet you both as well."

No sooner had the words been spoken than their group was joined by the familiar massive form of Gaucho - for which Mesec felt immediate relief. Whatever this group needed, their Sultan would be able to provide more help than he would have been able to. Sure, he could have easily gone and found the help that was needed but he was also interested in standing nearby and watching this scene play out - especially now that he was on the other side of it.

Lucius, his dark head camouflaged almost perfectly in Mesec’s black feathered wings - were it not for the silver and violet eyes and the bright silver plumage sticking out of his head - squawked at the sight of Vorsa. It was a… friendly squawk? It came out all distorted, his voice not yet matured and he still was rather high pitched. Mesec learned quickly not to laugh at the proud little chick, however, and simply chose instead to focus on those that had gathered. He greeted Gaucho with a nod and a smile, watching as he addressed their visitors.

Unsure of what he could say that would add to the conversation at all, especially when it was Gaucho that they needed to talk about joining, Mesec remained as an observer - a friendly face, an encouraging smile, for the young Ilios seeking to start fresh in a new herd. That was something that he understood very well, after all, and he hoped that the acceptance was only a formality at this point. The Falls and the Throat appeared to be on good terms, from how their leads had addressed one another, and Mesec looked forward to getting to know who might be his new herd mate.

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picture by xdjurax at deviantart



UGH it's not very good but I wanted to get something up so @[Gaucho] can reply and make it all official :D
please tag Mesec in replies
non-life threatening force is allowed at all times
Ascended Helovian

Gaucho The Wildfire Posts: 1,004
Deceased atk: 8.5 | def: 11.5 | dam: 8
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 17.2 :: 12 HP: 85 | Buff: PINNACLE
Mara :: Black Mamba Snake :: Paralyze & Vorsa :: Plain Zephyr :: Phoenix Odd
#9

GAUCHO


Vorsa hooted happily to Areli as she hesitantly peered out at Gaucho's arrival. The young phoenix couldn't understand why everyone seemed to afraid and apprehensive of her bonded - couldn't they see into his mind as she could? Couldn't they feel the protective ebbing-flow of his life, constantly frothing around his herd?

Gaucho's stoic gaze fell upon Ilios as he dropped to a knee. The Sultan regarded the oddly painted hybrid for a moment as his blackened ears fell forward to catch the sounds of his voice. With Kaj vouching for him, Gaucho could see no reason to bar the ivy-adorned stag from his sands. It wasn't every day that a fellow ruler would accompany such a voyage. Yet ... this certainly was strange, wasn't it? That the boy's sister would follow as well? Couldn't they say their goodbyes at home? And why did Kaj come in the first place? Surely he knew that Ilios' wings along would gain him entrance into the Throat? Ahh well. Such social customs were beyond Gaucho's comprehension.

"I Gaucho, Sultan of Throat." He greeted Ilios with a gentle nod of his antlered skull, smiling as the younger male already called the Throat his family. Such was a trait that Gaucho liked to see among his recruits, and it made the decision to allow him entrance all the easier. "Welcome home Ilios."

Gaucho nodded to Kaj appreciatively before turning his gaze to Mesec. "Mesec will show Ilios the Throat. " As a fellow hybrid as well as a newer family member, the dun thought that perhaps the dark stallion would be able to put their new brother at ease.




Image by Yewrezz/Nikki!
Please tag me in every post! Magic/Force is allowed on Gaucho at any time.


Ilios Posts: 200
Dragon's Throat Informant atk: 5 | def: 9 | dam: 6
Stallion :: Hybrid :: 15 :: 4 (Frostfall) HP: 66.5 | Buff: NOVICE
Isabella :: Common Rougarou :: Flame Parelia
#10
Ilios
The boy stood with baited breath as he watched the leaders greet each other. Had he over stepped his boundaries by speaking so quickly? He hoped that was not the case. Gaucho seemed to listen to every word he had to say, which made him feel better. The massive male introduced himself in an odd rough voice accompanied with even stranger words. It took all he had not to ask about it, maybe he could ask someone else later on. There was no point in being rude, or that blunt. He was much to old for such nasty things, a youngster could get away with it, but not him. Silver eyes watched the stallion trying to catch every thought that passed over his face.

Relief was followed by an audible sigh as he was welcomed home. He bowed once more, not as low this time though. "Thank you sir, I promise to do everything I can for our family. If you ever need anything please do not hesitate to tell me." A warm excited smile painted his lips as he rose a new stallion. This was what he needed, a new start and family. It was as if a giant weight had been lifted from his young back. Taking a few deep breaths the boy turned to his sister. "Areli I have to go now. I will come and visit on your birthday. I love you be good for Mother and Kaj." He smiled and moved forward to embrace her for a moment.

After a moment he pulled away and turned to his new brother, Mesce. "I'll follow you then brother?" The words felt amazing as he strode around everyone to reach the taller and older stud. Maybe this would be his first friend in the Throat, he sure hoped so. The boy paused a foot away before reaching out trying to gently bump his muzzle. Ilios couldn't remember the last time he had been around anyone his own age, especially a fellow stallion. Yes he knew Mesce was older, but he was closer to himself than Kaj or Ciceron. He smiled hopefully at the male ready to take flight whenever he was.
Wonderings   Talking
Words: 363
OOC: @Areli @Kaj @ Mesce @ Gaucho
His voice
In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on. ~ Robert Frost
You must be true to your heart..
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Tag me

Areli Posts: 82
Absent Abyss atk: 6.0 | def: 10 | dam: 4.5
Mare :: Pegasus :: 15.3 hh :: 3 (Birdsong) HP: 65.5 | Buff: NOVICE
Bee :: Grey Wolf :: None Shady
#11

ARELI
Do you still believe in love, I wonder?

You stick close to Kaj as the males talk amongst themselves, watching silently. Despite the sheer novelty of the scene before you—the flames, the wings, the glorious birds—you have eyes only for your brother. He draws himself up proudly as he converses with the adults, talking and nodding with a self-assurance that you’ve never seen before. And though your heart is breaking, you can’t help but feel a tinge of pride for your older brother as you watch him begin to make his way in the world. He is brave, you think, huddled against Kaj’s side. Maybe stupid, but much braver than you. You can’t imagine life apart from Mama, can’t picture any home but the one you share amongst the trees and rushing rivers, but maybe Ilios can.
 
When you hear him call these strangers his family, you can’t help but release a small sob, a quiet hiccup. He barely knows them! What about his real family: Mama, and Papa, and the rest of them back home? What about you? Angry tears prick at the corners of your eyes, but you refuse to let them fall. Let him abandon you then! Let him leave, the traitor. Sniffing, you turn your face away to stare at the cracked sand beneath your hooves. In this moment, you realize that there will be no changing his mind, and you steel yourself against the reality that he has chosen this life over you.
 
You feel numb for the rest of the brief conversation. Dully, you watch the ants crawl to and fro at your feet, their little legs scuttling rapidly along before they disappear into the earth. Just like Ilios, they go where you cannot follow.
 
And then there is a pause in the hum of voices, and Ilios’ cuts through the silence. “Areli, I have to go now.” You say nothing, not meeting his eyes. “I will come and visit you on your birthday.” You fight the tears that threaten to spill over and drown the ants. “I love you…be good for Mother and Kaj.” You stand stiffly through his embrace, as the cool glass of the pendant he gave you presses against your heart. Then he backs away, out of your life and into the new, with the happy anticipation of one who is going on a grand adventure.
 
You peek up and see him beginning to walk away, turning to Mesec. The sun beats down on him as he moves confidently towards the future that is awaiting him, without a glance back, and you know you cannot let it end it like this. “Ilios, wait! you choke before bolting after him, kicking up a cloud of golden dust. You skid to a stop before him, then tumble forward, wings outstretched in a final embrace that you desperately hope he’ll accept. “I love you, too,” you whisper, just for him, and the tears now are both happy and sad. You linger for a moment, remembering the feeling of his nearness, and then you pull away, standing straight like him. “Goodbye, Ilios,” you bid him, and though it takes all of your strength, you turn back towards Kaj. It’s time to go home.

OOC: Sorry that I've kind of messed up the posting order, just wanted to get one last one in before he takes off!

"speech"


Image Credit || coding by Tamme
[Image: areli_by_moonstone_designs-d9dgh47.png]
Icon base: Bronzehalo
Please do not tag Areli except in opening posts!

Mesec the Nightwind Posts: 476
World's Edge Glazier atk: 5.5 | def: 9 | dam: 5
Stallion :: Tribrid :: 16.3hh :: 7 years old HP: 76 | Buff: NOVICE
Lucius :: Royal Zephyr :: Roc & Lyra :: Common Kitsune :: Dreams Sarah
#12

I'll fight to survive through this thunderous life
without you by my side


“Gladly.” He accepted the charge from Gaucho of showing around their newest herd member with a grin and a touch of pride - he had not been the most active of herd members lately and any chance that he had of actually helping was one that he would eagerly step up to do.

With a smile he reached out his silver and black muzzle to bump it gently against the pale brown of the younger stallion. “Welcome to the herd, Ilios.” It felt a little strange, playing the part that Ampere had for him - the host, the tour guide. He had not so quickly declared that the members of the Throat were his family, but then he had been afraid that he would not be accepted by them. Mesec had come to the Throat followed by his usual cloud of uncertainty and self-doubt but a quick conversation with Gaucho had dispersed most of it. He stepped back when the younger filly came forward, wanting another moment with her brother to say goodbye. He could not begrudge either of them that, and looks away to give them a moment of privacy while she gave Ilios a hug.

When they were done, he returned to stand beside Ilios once more and reached to give him a bump on the shoulder with his muzzle, this time in an effort to be comforting. “Come along, it’s a short flight to the island.” Stepping away again, he unfurled his silver-lined wings and - checking to ensure that Ilios was following - picked up a trot and beat that great wingspan to return to the air.

Instead of landing directly on the other side of the watery expanse that separated the Throat from the rest of Helovia, Mesec moved further inland, coasting low over the surface of the lake before finally landing among the grasses and reeds that lined the oasis near the Dragon’s Blood.

A cool breeze stirred up the surface of the lake, scattering the sunlight there, and stirring the plants that crowded around their legs. Lucius, knowing that they would not be flying anytime soon, crawled out from Mesec’s back and perched atop his head, crowded the crooked horn that was there and peering at Ilios with what could either be loathing or curiosity in his bright, moonlight gaze. “When I first came to the Throat, just in the most recent Tallsun, I thought this place was going to be a desert.” He chuckled now, reaching down to brush the soft grass with his muzzle - he had obviously be proven very wrong. Frostfall was a distant memory here, only increasing the number of dust storms, but on clear days like today there was no spot in Helovia as beautiful as where they stood now. “Have you given any thought to which of the ranks that you’d like to join?”

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