A R A H I never live in the past like the forsaken. A meeting. With a soft sigh Arah opened her golden orbs, blinking furiously as the light flooded in. During the early hours she'd been meditating, patiently waiting for a word from their Lady while reflecting within. Of course she wasn't expecting to hear from the Goddess, after all there was the seer with whom she communicated. But it was best to be available for the Goddess, it was impossible to know the will of the Gods, one day she might need to speak with someone other than the seer. Stretching out, she smiled and shook the dust out from her coat. Turning smoothy and swiftly away from the sharp drop, the silver doe made her way over to the gathering at a leisurely pace. Arriving and remaining on the outskirts of the meeting the doe took a moment to study those who had gathered. Most she knew or had seen about the herd land. Some she had even taught, to those who had attended her lessons she smiled in gratitude. Finally her gaze landed on Maude, her daughter had settled in to the meeting quite confidently. Arah smiled proudly, their daughter truly was becoming a beautiful, intelligent, kind and caring individual. Lastly she spotted Tilney's chestnut coat and made her way over to his side. Gently she nipped his shoulder in greeting, a coy smile tugging at the corner of her lips. As the announcements began she settled in silently, grinning at Sacre's promotion. She knew that the young man and her partner were close. The following announcements earned glances and grins from the silver lady. Then her own promotion followed, her golden gaze settled upon Tembovu. "Thank you." She nodded at the King and then the Queen, then her gaze momentarily floated up towards the heavens. Chuckling at Maude's proud whisper, Arah returned her gaze to the front waiting for any further announcements.

Considering that the medicine hat mare had lost a portion of her memory, one might find irony in the fact that she enjoyed the coming of new life when she couldn't remember her own. She couldn't remember where she came from, the names of her parents, or... anything of the life really. So far, the only thing she could remember, significantly, was her name, and, of course, how old she was.

But non-significant memories seemed to stick, such as her favorite plants to munch on, and her favorite activities to partake in as the weather allowed. One such memory that would always stick with Nitika was her live of the coming spring season. Winter had to be respected; not only was it a time for the earth to sleep and regenerate what it had lost, but it was a dangerous element, powerful and harmful to those who did not recognize its power. Nitika had learned such a lesson the hard way many moons ago, and so had come to knowledge of the most important lesson any wild creature could know.

Never disrespect the powers of Winter.

When spring had finally arrived, the mare could not have been more thrilled. The fresh morning sun that caused the melting of the last vestiges of snow in this land she'd recently arrived in. The growing of fresh meadow grass and plants for horses and other such animals to eat and keep healthy. The awakening of forest creatures that had gone to sleep for the Winter season, now bustling the land with life once more.

Activity that only increased when she had heard the call.

Bear in mind, Nitika was not a mare fond of following orders, but did not appreciate giving them out either. She was fine working for another, but preferred to follow her own set of rules. Instincts had gotten her out of hard jams many times, so she'd learned to trust them over the opinions of others. It was such a way that had saved her life just mere suns before she'd found herself galloping at top speed through the Threshold.

However, if she did want to stay here, she knew she had to at least make an appearance at this... gathering, of the herd that served the King and Queen that Raeden had told her of. So, with a grimace and a limp in her step from her still-healing bruises around her formerly broken rib, she headed for the meeting ground. She found it within a short time, pleased that it was under shade of a canopy in case the weather suddenly decided to turn and drench all the pour souls out here.

The King and Queen, whose names Nitika was still working on remembering, were, of course, the first ones to speak. The medicine hat mare remained in the back as she listened to what the rulers had to say, speaking of members that had left the herd lands as well as those who were being promoted or added to the ranks.

One such stallion that had been added to the ranks was a powerful beast that possessed wings like Lyanna, the mare that had healed Nitika when she arrived here. She was unable to determine which one of the names the Queen used belonged to him, and since that was the case, she brushed the care for that thought from her mind.

Raeden, the palomino, spoke next of her and some other horse named Iona, that they were planning some sort of activity for the herd members. That moderately interested Nitika; she was always up for a good challenge.

Another stallion, a dark-coated one with a long horn on his forehead, expressed his gratitude for the position he'd been given. A yearling with a long tail that identified her breed of mixed heritage spoke of training the foals in different ranks so they could be prepared for when they could officially take positions. Something about a creature named a 'griffin' was in there too, but Nitika had no knowledge of what that creature was, so she let the thought slip too.

Some expressed agreement, including a black and white spotted mare with long, very thick, strands of... whatever those long things were, protruding from her forehead by her ears. Nitika made a note of her request; that mare wanted to recruit warriors. She allowed a couple others to speak first, whatever they had to say, before she started moving a little from her spot in the back towards the warrior mare.

Nitika was quiet in all other manners except battle. She may be frightened of some things in life, but when she was fighting for her life, she was another animal all together. She did not give in, would not unless she was laying on the ground, practically dying, along with all her limbs being severed. That had obviously never happened, but Nitika's will to fight, and live, was strong; she had a feeling such battery to her body would be the only way to truly end her fighting spirit.

Taking in a deep breath, mustering her voice and shutting out her quiet self, the medicine hat mare addressed the black and white mare with the long hairs, "You say you need warriors? If it pleases you and this... Nyx, you say, I would like to be trained to defend this land."

@Roskuld @Nyx

zubari Golden eyes opened as he heard the elephant call of his father. What the fuck did he want now? The boy mumbled and thought to himself as small legs stood to the ground. He mumbled and walked through Edge looking for his damn father. He never heard the original voice of his queen due to the heavy sleep he was in. No offense to her, but Zubari did not really listen to adult voices. Unless it was his father; he wanted to hear the babbling fool and what he had to say to everyone. Bright golden eyes finally caught sight of everyone gathering around. They rolled with aggravation and annoyance, Tembovu really liked a crowd of people. Note the use of name Tembovu, the elephant king was no longer a father in the boy's eyes. The elephant did not care about him, nor did he care about his mother and sister. They have been gone for what felt like seasons, and there was no search party scrambling to find them. Bitterness brewed and boiled in the boy's chest. How is that fair? it wasn't. Nothing was fair for him, he had to raise himself while Tembovu acted like his father. Golden eyes narrowed upon the king standing with the queen. Their voices reached out speaking about promotions and other things. Zubari did not care, nor did he want to pretend like he did. None of it involved any of the foals, and it never did. Children were simply sent on their way to figure out life. A plethora of voices rang out commenting on different things for the herd. One about games, the other about warriors, one man said something about an outing trip. He intrigued Zubari, and the boy took note of having s conversation with the man at some point. Silently the chocolate-toned boy sat there waiting to see what others would say, and what his so called " father" would say next. "Talk." Can you see my scars, can you feel my heart? This is all of me for all of the world to see.

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-- I O N A -- As always, her appearance to the meeting is unremarkable. She remains quiet - listening to Alysanne and then Tembovu speak until she finds something relevant to speak about.  Gods know that Iona has a lot to say, considering the circumstances, but little that is appropriate for a herd meeting.  Much of what needs to be said is more well suited for a private meeting, so for her this meeting is an exercise in self-control. She allowed a sigh to escape her lips.   Silently, she filed away the new promotions, committing the ranks and the faces that went with them to memory.  The painted mare is pleased when Raeden speaks up of the plans they’ve been working on.  She’s been proud of how the pale mare has handled the situation - with as much grace as could be expected considering the circumstances. Only when Raeden has finished does Iona add anything. “Raeden is correct - we’re hoping to have the activity fully planned and ready by the end of Birdsong. And all ages will be able to participate, foals included. There will be prizes we’ve worked hard to collect for all of you!” she adds, with a small smile, as her emerald gaze flicks between the gathered.  Again she falls quiet and allows the meeting to proceed.  And then Toulouse has something to contribute. Iona again fought hard to suppress rolling her eyes as Toulouse spoke.  Clearly this probationary period was off to a great start. Iona couldn’t understand why one who had tried to murder another for this position of power was being allowed to remain in the herd, and found herself bitterly disappointed in Tembovu’s decision. However, she had a suspicion that her sister still did not know of the exact circumstances of what had happened. That was something she sought to rectify as soon as this meeting ended.  Formalities first, and all that.  “You overstep, Toulouse. Tread carefully - just because you have taken a position by force does not mean that you have now assumed control.” she says, quietly, unwilling to cause a scene but willing to do so if that is what’s necessary.   “Seeing as how that is the very assignment I gave following our last meeting, an assignment no one in the rank felt compelled to complete, I will not be reassigning it this season,” she speaks louder now, ensuring that she can be heard so her instructions will not be confused.  She turns her attention to the newly appointed general next, “Roskuld. I’d like to arrange patrols between the Warriors and the Stealth ranks this season.  Between both of our numbers it should be adequate to provide appropriate coverage. I’m certainly concerned with the increased activity surrounding with this new God and all those that his presence has drawn.” It was a point of paranoia for Iona - this new presence and all those that had flocked to him - but it created a good opportunity for successful patrols.  There was one other matter she felt she had to mention, so she then turned her gaze toward her sister and the King.  “Also, I recommend that we send an emissary to the Dragon’s Throat. It has come to my attention that their borders were violated by one of our own. I think we’d be smart to send a diplomatic party quickly to avoid compromising any alliance with them.” she said, finally, concerned about the implications of one’s unsanctioned visit to the sands.   "WE'RE CAUGHT UP IN THE CROSSFIRE OF HEAVEN AND HELL."

Lines: x x

I'll carry you on my shoulders, never set you down. Ferry you through the coldness, never let you down. Her forest herd meeting. It wasn't excitement that drove her to attend, nor was it the need to not appear rude. In fact she wasn't quite sure why she wanted to show up but she did. One of the last to arrive she looked around those gathered with a natural expression. Firstly she noted the Queen standing at the front, looking elegant and graceful as ever. She managed a small smile for the woman before turning towards the large stallion. The King was a beast, a solider. He looked capable of defending the land with his body perhaps a little less so with his mind. Still, she supposed, the herd was still standing and he was continuing to lead them. Settling in, she turned politely towards Alysanne as the painted lady began to speak. To crafting positions left open. Crafting had been an interest of Ráeru's for some time, through it was the healing crafts that truly captured her attention. At the mentioning of her half-brother's name she looked up curiously. Well, as far as she was aware the demigod was a sibling, she'd never heard any counter intelligence. Her icy clue eyes flittered over to the dark coloured stallion, half a smile tugged at the corner chops. She supposed she ought to meet him one of these days. Well she certainly wouldn't be 'stepping up' to fill in the crafting ranks but was pleased to hear that some were willing to serve. Next came discussion about the healing ranks, at this her ears pricked and her blue eyes narrowed slightly. The girl, of course, was not expecting a promotion or any sort of welcoming statement into the ranks. No, her sudden interest was in learning who she would be taught by, who would in charge of bettering her skills. The painted lady mentioned her brother's name and the pale girl grinned, seeking out the dark boy from the crowd. Once she spotted him the girl laughed and called out, "well done Sacre!" Once all had settled she returned her attention to the King. Ah yes, it was a fantastic idea to add more glass to the snow. Considering how she'd sliced her leg open her first night in The Edge, they should most definitely add more. None of these thoughts reflected on the girl's face of course. Instead she stared directly ahead, studying the King who ruled the crumbling cliffs. She did not recognise the names of any who served at protectors, warriors or Generals. Through she did look towards any who served within the fighting ranks as these where the ones she would be most likely to help patch up. Next he spoke of the sneak ranks and it's new Specter. Yes, she'd heard all about this fight, apparently it had been abysmal. As she hadn't been summoned to tend to any injuries she could only guess the most wounding had been words. Ah perhaps the wise ranks would be able to teach her more about The Basin and her past. One of these days she ought to speak with the Seer or sages, see if they could help her fill in the blanks. As she was already ranked as a nurse she had no need to speak, instead she remained silent, listened to any who raised their voices.

She had hardly followed her mother to the meeting. Instead, she took a more roundabout way, diverging on different interests that popped up on her journey there. First, Khairi needed to eat once again. Then, a few other things such as following other birds while her companion chased after them for fun. Until finally, she arrived after a few others. Her sapphire gaze danced around the boring crowd as words were uttered from Alysanne and her father, both of which she listened to briefly but didn’t put too much thought into it. She knew her brother would be along soon, and that they really needed to talk about a few pressing matters – mostly about their mother and what had occurred during the twins’ birth. But for now, she kept her mouth quiet as she made her way to her mother’s side, offering a slight nod to Oizy’s in greeting while Khairi remained perched on a branch in a nearby tree. Rexanna seemed far more intrigued than the filly did, but she placed the mask of interest on her face as she looked to her father then around at all those that had received promotions. Never did a smile truly reach her lips, as she remained quiet alongside her family, waiting for her other half to show up. "Talk."

it was in my flaws,

I found a much deeper truth

and it is from them I bloom:

a black rose

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not my best (stupid headaches) but I needed to get it up <3

Aelfwine Cloven hooves took her swiftly across the ground as soon as she heard the call. She had been far away from the location of the meeting, and so the dappled doe hurried her ventures to hopefully arrive on time. She was quiet as she moved, despite moving quick, until finally she heard the voices at a normal volume. Aelfwine slowed her pace, despite the small amount of sweat that had dampened her grey pelt as she broke into the gathering. Immediately her emerald gaze scoured the group, spotting Toulouse and her family among them. She made her way toward Arah and Tilney, offering a brilliant smile and a nod of hello in their directions. Then, she heard what Toulouse announced in terms of patrols and information gathering and she turned her heavy horned head to better view the gelding. Her ears perked to listen to him then to Iona and Raeden as they announced things of their own that had to do with her rank, and she continued to quietly listen, not uttering a single word. Roses hang like paintings of you Oh, How beautiful you are

Pattern Credits || Pattern Credits || Image Credits

yay headachesss, mentions @Toulouse @Arah @Tilney <3

Elsa,

Feel lucky for what you have, when you have it. Happily ever after doesn’t mean happy forever.

Elsa is royally fucking late.

And by royally she means that a whole bunch of shit has changed.

During her brief absence, she comes back to an entirely different Helovia. Nothing feels the same, there is a lingering tension which she can't chalk up to either true trouble or the nerves of returning to a land that so often ostracized her. There was no reason for her abrupt leave, nor was there any explanation to her return. There was nothing here for her, and Darwin, the one light that had lingered long enough to actually know her would probably never forgive her for leaving. He didn't deserve the abrupt abandonment, and after all that's she been through, she was no better than the ones who scorned her.

A meeting was in progress upon her return. Many were gathered, some new and some old. So the Icebound approached from behind. For once there was no drama, no happy greetings, no worried souls approaching her. It was just herself, and Edgar, the bird who sat quietly atop her head, surveying all of the change.

She had arrived far too late to understand what was going on. Maybe if she grew the balls she'd ask Tembovu or Alysanne what had occurred but something inside of her still recoiled at the thought of talking to the Elephant King- even after all the time that had passed since their falling out. Edgar crowed loud enough to send his greetings to the monarchs, before the icy duo settled back into the usual routine. Return, accept, live, and leave. It was a vicious cycle that seemed to ensnare the Icebound for eternity. For now Elsa kept her head down, and eyes averted. She had fallen so far, and the angel she once believed herself to be was clipped of her wings and forced to face the purgatory cycle.

"talk" 

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image credits | coding by Neo

It took her longer than usual to arrive to the meeting ground, but though her own slow pace and heavy limp annoyed her, Erthë knew she should be grateful that she could move at all. Everything in life came at a cost, and the price was well and truly catching up to her now, sins of the past demanding their due, toll taken in the form of mobility. Did they know, all those who hurried past her on the winding forest trails, what it did to her soul to be grounded like this? To be unable to fly because her weak fractured legs would no longer bear her weight as she came in to land? For as long as she could remember, from her very earliest recollections, the wanderlust had been there to tug at her heartstrings, making the horizon and the far side of the mountain more dear to her than the warm embrace of family. Now, as she found herself stranded within the woodland realm unable to do more than look, she felt as though the beloved land was slowly sucking her dry, emptying her of that blazing vitality that had been a hallmark ever since she was a foal. There was a new, listless gloom about her that just wouldn't lift. Though her coat was sleek and shiny as ever (still marred by scars but never faded, never dull) there was a thinness about the ribs that defied the season, a certain hollowness about her eyes even as she joined the ranks and bowed to the Queen and the King. Though she listened to the declarations, though she managed a half smile and murmured words of gratitude in the face of her promotion, the joy and pride that would have turned her radiant in the past just wasn't there. Erthë knew she ought to be happier about this step up among the herd ranks. It was proof that she was inching closer along the path she had set herself upon, one step closer to the goal, to the stars, to the midnight sky and the radiance of the Moon... But though she tried to be genuinely happy, her smile faded on its own much too quickly, and the sigh that escaped her as she drifted back into the crowd again was much too heavy for someone who had just received praise from one she admired. It was just so... tiring, all of it. The pain, the longing, the struggle to keep those negative emotions from consuming her and embitter her to all she had become. She just wanted to sleep, to push it on to tomorrow, to drift off into sweet, numbing oblivion on a stream of red flowers. Did that make her weak? She couldn't really recall why it mattered, only that the deep blue of the kings eyes made her feel slightly ashamed, as though she ought to have said more. Or done more. Or... been more?   "I can do that" she heard herself say in response to the Queen's suggestion, and was surprised to find some initiative still remaining within her. Perhaps she was not all lost then, not beyond recovery? "Just send those willing to me, and I will find a way to save the tales for the future..." There, she had spoken. She had offered. Somewhere the seed of interest was stirring within, but why was it that the taint of guilt upon her tongue still tasted so bitter? (Because it was not enough.) But Erthë ignored the thought, and busied her mind instead with ideas on how to accomplish this new task. It isn't what they say about you It's what they whisper in the dark

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Erthë offers to hear and record the histories of the herd members! I have an idea for a custom item that might help with this, just gotta run it by admin first. :)

@Alysanne @Tembovu

Of the lessons which Tilney taught Maude, the ones which had stayed with her the most strongly were those about healing; surprisingly, these weren’t just instructions on how and where to use what herbs, or what parts of the herbs to use, but also how to care for the plants themselves, and the spirit of one’s patient. Just like she’d noticed Nyx’s forlorn, lowered head and thin frame, so too does the vivacious child take note of Erthe’s arrival, her body in similar disrepair, and her steps heavily burdened by a limp. Not trying to ignore the predicament of the poor mare alongside her, Maude cranes her head about to look more fully at the pale, naturally cold (literally so, for she was also very kind!) woman who had shared stories with her, over glow cherries. Had she limped when Maude had met her the first time? The ginger and cream sapling could not recall, looking at the way she slowly hobbles, and deducing that it is two of her legs that cause her the trouble, and, when the girl notices the peculiar angle of the right, in particular, she physically winces. Of course, there is a meeting going on, which she turns an ear back to, trying, truly trying to pay attention, but finding it rather hard with a worry as to her friend’s legs nagging at her now. If you’re tossing & you’re turning, & you just can’t fall asleep, I’ll sing a song beside you. and if you ever forget how much you really mean to me, every day, I will remind you.

Art by neverrmind @ DA

tembovu

The Elephant King’s navy eyes drift over the crowd, searching his mind for those missing—and it is with a heavy heart that he realizes @Mauja , his friend and Emissary, is not present. A soft, low sigh pushes out of his nostrils as @Sacre gladly and with apparent confidence accepts his new poison. His warm gaze is met with @Raeden ’s cold ones, though her words are ones of avowal to the Edge. For that, he is happy—though her dark and cool gaze worries him.

His troubled thoughts are pulled away by @Oizys ’ brash, young, but confident voice. At first, unease rumbles through him—the youth’s outspokenness caused an uproar at the last meeting. However, the King is pleasantly surprised when her words are not only useful, but clever and helpful to the Edge. His dark brows rise as his heavy head nods, just as Alysanne (and @Glacia ) verbally agrees that such lessons would be a welcome addition to the Edge. Though he pauses mid-nod when his navy eyes find @Nyx , her dull stare , and her prominent ribs. Concern flashes through him for his old friend.

But, as meetings go, he is not left long to dwell on the iron mare. Matanye’s proud presence and flashing feathers let him know that his childhood friend is present—though he does not actually see @Kiuaji . (However, for the poisoner, that is not entirely unusual). The King cannot help but feel @Ru ’s sharp gaze on his thick hide, and his navy gaze swing to meet her narrowed eyes. His brows raise, head tilting slightly as his eyes flickering to her restless plumage, not entirely certain what earned him such a response and how he would get an answer from the silent woman—but that was a question for another time.

His attention swings to @Roskuld , and he cannot help the grin as the stocky mare accepts her new position with gusto, jauntily giving a challenging call to arms in the Edge. For this, he is glad, as he has always felt the nagging absence of warriors to protect the herd. Mbwene’s tasseled tail swayed around her haunches, thick grey lips curling into a small, private, and happy grin as her bright blue eyes met Chico’s staring, suggestive ones. The little elephant would assuredly find him after the meeting.

Warm blue eyes swing to @Rexanna as she offers her skills with spying—and the man is glad that his lover is becoming involved in her new herd. Though he is glad to have her, there is no small part of him that feels the guilt of making her leave her position in the Basin. Ears swivel to @Alune as the Seer offers guidance, and the King wonders if the Moon would choose to visit them this season.

Though all is not easy at this meeting, for tension radiates from Iona and Toulouse. Though the King is glad that the new, serpentine Specter so fully grasps his new position and seeks to scour the Meadow for the Edge’s enemies (and he has already claimed another for his ranks, as @Manon ’s announcement proves)—he cannot miss the (not-so-gentle) rebuke in Iona’s tone towards her new, fellow Specter. A heavy sigh pushes out of his nostrils—this would be yet another issue to address after the meeting.

@Mesec accepts his position with ease, and offers to help Ros’s need for warriors. Navy eyes glance around for his children, and offhandedly the King wonders where they may be. His own eyes then search for his own brood, finding only @Kiada and @Zubari —and a small frown crosses his thick lips as his dark son’s aloof distance. He knew he had spent most of his time with Rexanna and their twins after Zo’s return… He would need to rectify this with Zubi.

Another mare speaks up, one he does not know (though he quickly commits @Nitika ’s pale, brown-splashed appearance to memory), and she also answers Ros’s call to arms. A offer the newcomer an approving, lopsided grin. A few others say things or arrive quietly (or late, as both Elsa’s and Erthe’s appearance garner a glance from the King). Though one thickly accented question draws a response from his deep, rumbling voice, “Yes, you may learn two crafts, @Yael . Though, should you ascend the ranks of either or both, you will only be able to hold the magic of one.”

The King’s attention swings to his fellow monarch as she gives out tasks and agrees with Iona’s need for emissaries to other herds. “I will lead an emissary team to the Throat. It is long overdue for myself to visit there,” his navy gaze glances to Alysanne—if the Edge was to remain on good terms with the Basin, then perhaps sending the man who stole away their lead Thief was not the wisest of choices. “And for Emissary, the Frozen Light—” it was easier to demote a friend so close to his heart when he used his moniker rather than name, “—has been absent too long in his position. It will remain open until another proves their worth for it.”

He pauses, shifting his massive bulk on his thick legs, before continuing, “It seems that our sneak ranks already have tasks, but perhaps gathering more information about this new presence in Helovia could be added?” His gaze swung to Iona’s, before continuing, “And Roskuld has already spoken of our need for warriors. I would be glad to see those we have training and honing their skills in spars.”

Finally, after a pause, he finished with, “Those with any issues may see your King and Queen after the meeting.”

the elephant king

Sorry for the delay, everyone! I was eaten by clinics.

Summary:
Promotions/demotions:
Mauja: Emissary --> WE Stallion
Announcements:
Tembovu will be leading a Diplomatic mission to DT! If you would like to join him, either post in response here or lmk!
Rank tasks:
Sneaks : find out about Kaos (this meeting was set before his reveal, that's why it's phrased very vaguely in Tembo's words)
Warriors : SPAR SPAR SPAR

The following characters have not replied (and are not on absent) and have 1 week to reply. Otherwise keep an eye out for the "missing-meeting-punishment" thread and post to that to stay in the Edge!
@Evangeline @Anzanie @Katua @Vesper @Verro @Sansa @Merida @Luciérnaga! @Tandavi @Roux @Imani @Ravel @Caenan @Thranduil @Naerys @Noe

Tandavi I'll light a fire in your new shoes. She is there - quietly, a muted corona in the back of the crowd, but there. The firelit filly watches through somber eyes as more and more gather, their bodies heated and heaving, their tide of their voices a steady ebb and flow. The girl always finds it strange, unnerving, to be in the company of so many; she is uneasy and on edge, her body tight and her mind alert. Her mind reaches out to Natraj, but he is quiet on her back, still sulking; he offers his sister little comfort, preferring to assert his own great interest in the goings on. The girl sighs and fidgets further, two-tone ears pivoting on her crown as they try to pick out the relevant from the not. Sacre is promoted; pride for her friend fills the filly with warmth, and she seeks him out among the crowd, but he is buried deep and beaming, surrounded by those who do not hover, do not fear. More announcements are made, some of which pertain to the girl, many of which do not. One thing in particular catches her attention, a story of travel to the desert, and the girl's heat catches in her throat as conflicted emotions flutter within her breast. She yearns to see the golden sands, to smell the arid air and see the burning sun, yet... I want to go, Natraj announces suddenly from her back, and that settles it. The girl resolves to find Tembovu after the meeting, to volunteer herself for the trip, frightening as the prospect of facing her failure might be. Now armed with purpose Firedancer settles down, the embers on her back calming into a steady swirl, her lips a line of determination, her veins pounding with anxious happiness, the excitement of being given an opportunity, a chance to mend bridges between herself and the fox.

Image Credit

When the King gives his assent to her question, Yael cannot help but smile and nod to show that she understands; it is not rank magic she was after, but knowledge and the ability to help others. Which makes Alysanne’s request to Arah and Erthe (Oh! Erthe! She hadn’t seen the pale mare all winter!) all the more… potentially important. Did she want to tell her story? Did she want others to know about her past? What is honorable and noble in one eye could be damning in another. Ah, well… it is something to think about. The little golden mare listens to the rest of the meeting, the tasks that are given out, and resolves to seek out Lyanna to begin learning about becoming a sans-magic healer and… umm… someone else about whatever it is the philosophers do here.

Oizy’s suggestion echoes in her head. Maybe it wouldn’t be such a bad (though odd) idea for her to join the Foal’s lessons. She is, after all, starting at the bottom of the ladder all over again. And is as petite as some of the large yearlings.

yael

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Please add Yael to the Doctor and Philospher tracks! Thank you!

As she waited and words were exchanged from Alysanne and soon after her father, info of which she wasn’t sure she particularly was interested in. Though the filly listened quietly, ears flickering and wavering in the only outward display of her sheer boredom. Promotions were handed out and the talk of lessons were announced, and she found her blue gaze dancing around the faces that had received them and those willing to teach. She sighed quietly through her nose continuing to seek out her brother, only to be at a loss. Wolves began to flare up along her spine before she covered it up again with deer in an attempt to seem curious, but despite how much she tried to mask it with the gentle creatures, the prowling shadows of wolves began to mingle in, prowling after the deer. She continued to search in the hopes of her brother’s mirrored face, but when she didn’t find him she let her gaze stare straight ahead, her eyes growing sharp and narrow in her frustrations. Didn’t he understand the importance of knowing what was happening? Even if Kiada wasn’t interested she still showed up at the very least. "Talk."

it was in my flaws,

I found a much deeper truth

and it is from them I bloom:

a black rose

image | coding

so i listen to the    wind for an answer

More come, as they always do, until the group is filled with some faces that she knows, and many that she does not know. Her teal eyes rove from one face to another, trying to learn them, hoping to eventually put names to all those faces. A perhaps nearly impossible task, but she could certainly get to know more of them than she does. Oizys – oh, she certainly remembers the girl – speaks up about teaching the foals. Something she has always agreed with, rather then setting their young healers to weeding all the time. Roskuld speaks up, asking for more warriors and in the meantime, volunteers.

There’s much she could say, but for the moment, she stays silent, waiting to hear what others say and what their monarchs would say first before interjecting every few minutes. When Alysanne and Tembovu say their pieces again, and there’s a gap in the conversation, she finally speaks up again.

“I’d be happy to teach some healing lessons to the foals, and we’ll get some general first aid lessons going as well.” She nods to Alysanne, not in the least bit upset to get direction from her. She may not be a healer anymore, but she is their queen, and one with knowledge of what they can help the herd with.  

Tembovu speaks of the Throat, and there’s another mare quick to offer to go. Lyanna almost misses it, the diplomatic part of being a Princess. It was something she’d been comfortable with. “If you need more horses to accompany you, I would be happy to go to the Throat. I’ve been hoping to meet with their healers as well.” She would like to exchange herbs and knowledge, but has not gone after the little debacle with Toulouse. She would like to make sure it is okay for her to go, be it now with Tembovu, or later, once he and his emissary group have returned.

lyanna

art by yewrezz

Lyanna offers to go to the DT if Tembovu needs more horses - otherwise she can stay home :)

S A N S A I had been slow to gather to the herd meeting. After all, I turned a year old this BirdSong. Mother has been missing since OrangeMoon. I have been, alone since OrangeMoon. I hide towards the back, green eyes taking everything in. My emotions are high, which of course means my face is lit up with flames dancing across the heart shaped markings on my face. I listen as names I don't know are raised into higher positions and others are pulled back down for not doing their job I guess. Isn't that how a herd works? Either way, I stay back here unnoticed and unspoken to. That is, until a mare offers to go to the Dragon's Throat along with the King. I know I am young, but i'd like to go too. If that's okay.. I find myself speaking up. Why, why did I have to go and draw attention to myself? Oh well to late now. I work to shove my emotions back, so that my face will stop glowing at least. I don't want to be seen as a risk to take along. It would be the first time I really travel very far outside the Edge. Maybe, going with the group to the Throat... Which I assume is another herd... Maybe it will be good for me? That is, if i'm allowed to go. Typi non habent claritatem insitam; est usus legentis in iis qui facit eorum claritatem.

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-Arrives late, stays to the back, and only speaks up to ask to go to the Throat with Tembovu and the others-

RAEDEN
but what is love without lust

Her gaze turnes to each person who speaks out. Nodding her head to each one agreeing with the tasks that they are given. Teal eyes flicked and met the eyes of her king. He saw the coldeness and pain flooding into teal orbs, she could not help it. They turned to the ground breaking the stare that their orbs interlocked on. A meek smile softly fell to her features as she listened carefully. The queen spoke about going to theherd lands to check up on everything. A light flicked into her soul as she looked to the paint woman. It would be a chance to see her twin again, and visit the Basin.

Some spoke up wanting to go to throat with the king, but she would go to the frozen world. Speaking into the air her voice rose when the other voices fell. "My QueenI would love to coe to the Basin with you. I would like to maybe meet with their Sleuths. I would like see if they have some information they would be willing to share about everything going on. Oh, and my Twin is the Lady of the Basin, I would love to see Hotaru once again. " She smiled softly looking to the painted mare. "If it helps any, I Have made the trip severial times." Lightly the smile brightened and her hard gaze grew a bit warmer. Hopefully the queen would allow her to be her travel companion. "Also I would love to acompany the warriors on a patrol. I think it would be good to work together. "



"talk talk talk"

@Alysanne

Kianzo

The dark prince watched his father from the shadows. He had seen the Reaper call a meeting—it had been the first thing to arouse his interest in power. That interest had grown in to an obsession as time wore on. And it was not until now that he was able to see the power his own father held. Thus far it had only been evident it deferent glances or respectful nods; nothing overt, nothing really powerful.

But now, in front of such a large herd, the ashen heart began to understand the ’King’ part of his father’s moniker. He was so absorbed in all the workings of this power (the doling out of tasks, the stripping of ranks, the ascending of promotions) that the gold yearling didn’t think to join Kiada. Their relationship was tenuous at best.

Though she would always remain his other half. Regardless of his (or her) actions. He felt her, like a gravitational pull. But he resisted, remaining in the shadows to watch.

i want the world or nothing

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naerys

It would be unrealistic to suggest that Naerys hadn't wanted to disappear. Truth be told, she couldn't even lay all the blame on the season despite how much she wanted to. Her hatred of Frostfall is, as of late, really only an excuse to push away everyone she cares about. It was a handy excuse to escape to the warmer climes of the south but it could only be short-lived out of necessity. The Edge had always been her home - it was the only place she'd ever known and, frankly, as long as there was a possibility that Caenan would return someday she couldn't leave it behind. Things with her mother seemed to be okay when they were together - no matter how few those times were - and though she wanted to hate Tembovu, she couldn't deny that he'd been good for the Edge.

Every time she managed to return (or, perhaps more accurately, she sent Petyr to check on things) the herd seemed to be larger. It hadn't been this big before Tembovu took over so it is simply a logical assumption that he played a role in how well it was doing. She still didn't forgive him for burning the shit out of Mauja but she was beginning to see that he isn't all bad. So with the thought in mind, the girl begins her journey back to the Edge. Petyr had flown ahead hours ago and was already there. He'd settled into a tree near the meeting place once he discovered everyone gathered. His brightly hued form nestled prettily on a low branch where he could easily overhear and take notes.

By the time Naerys flies within sight of the Edge, the border of her home was surrounded by large glass spikes. The scene caused her to pause for only a moment before she flew over them to land inside and quietly make her way to the meeting. As much as she longs to shift into her small cat form and hide near the back or curl up on a sturdier branch near Petyr, she doesn't. Instead, she slips quietly near the outermost edges of the gathered group. She is here but she is silent.

musonart!