the Rift


[OPEN] [welcome!] hes a riot

Pippigrin Posts: 77
Dragon's Throat Gladiator atk: 6.5 | def: 8.5 | dam: 4.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 10hh :: Two HP: 68 | Buff: NOVICE
Brandybuck :: Wolverine :: None Neverrmind
#1













home is behind the world ahead
there are many paths to tread


Wings flared wide to tread the current like water, Pippigrin was overjoyed to be showing his new friend the home he so loved, and he hoped that the gent would find the same home in the sands of the Throat that the halfling had.
Checks to the ground where his flightless friend ought to be following ensured that his travelling companion did not get lost and cheerful coos when landmarks came into view offered the newcomer some insight into the locations near to the southern land.
Chatter about the sun god was also a prevelant topic of conversation, with the little knowledge Pippigrin had on the subject leaving him with ample rom to make things up. In truth, the pegasus had not ever seen the diety - he knew that one day he would, though, and he had heard enough information from herdmates to picture the supreme being.

Skiming over the dunes, it was only when the hobbit grew truly weary that his altitude declined, the distant, welcoming shore of their Island home growing larger with each wingbeat.
In no time at all the hobbit had landed upon the beach, craning his head over his shoulder to wait for the one unblessed with flight (assuming he had followed and not got himself lost). "That's the Throat!" he cheered, gesturing to the distant figure upon the horizon, a dark patch of land far across the ocean. "Ready to go?" He spoke as he crossed the sands, plucking his key from one of the many knotty locks of hair. Already Pippigrin had forgotten that the gentleman he had brought from the threshold might not be acquainted with magic nor with the magic the Throat's key would grant him; it was anyone's guess how the flightless stag was to reach the Throat without wings. Luckily, Pippigrin carried his key; a perfect solution.

@Gulliver




art: © x coding: © x

Gulliver Posts: 18
Dragon's Throat Apostle atk: 4.5 | def: 8 | dam: 6
Stallion :: Equine :: 16.1 :: 3 HP: 62 | Buff: NOVICE
.A.
#2
It amazed Gulliver just how far the Dragon's Throat was to his little oasis in the forest.  It seemed like he had crossed mountains and rivers following Pip.  The little bird almost radiated with excitement, and that kept Gully moving forward.  He had changed paced a couple of times, switching from a lope to a lengthy trot, and back to a run.  He didn't struggle to keep up to the flying man, but he could feel the strain it had on his already aching body.  At least the long journey gave him time to ponder on this new home.  Pip seemed confident and truly proud of his "nest".  Gully hoped that he too could find such a place in the herd.  It may take some time, but he was excited at the prospect of putting his brain to use.  He wondered how the leaders would react to a new face...

His thoughts were interrupted with Pip's decent.  He slowed his limbs, coming to a stop as the pegasus landed.  When did the grass and rocks turn to sand?  He must have really been deep in thought.  Taking his brief opportunity to rest, his back legs bent underneath him, giving him an unusual stance as he sat like a dog.  He let out a huff, shaking his head and shoulders.  At least his hide is now dry, but he longed for that little icy creek.  The tangles in his mane gave it waves, something that didn't happen too often.  It compared to the worst blow-out ever.  Little sticks and burrs covered him, and somewhere, he had nicked his right knee on...something, and his white patches were grey with mud.  He definitely looked worse for wear.

Gully's ears pricked towards the little speck of land that seemed so far away.  That is the Throat?  He wondered how Pip expected him to cross such a vast body of water.  If he was expected to swim, he would have to ask for the night to rest.  Pip seemed to have a trick up his sleeve, though, and it prompted him to stand back on all fours.  He eyed the little foreign object Pip produced from his mane, closing the gap between them.  "What is that, Pip?  Why do you have a key if there is no door to unlock?"


He walks. | "He talks." | He thinks.

Pippigrin Posts: 77
Dragon's Throat Gladiator atk: 6.5 | def: 8.5 | dam: 4.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 10hh :: Two HP: 68 | Buff: NOVICE
Brandybuck :: Wolverine :: None Neverrmind
#3













home is behind the world ahead
there are many paths to tread


Eyes tracing from the sparkling key held within his teeth and to the dog-like companion who sat upon the sand, Pippigrin gave an ushering gesture of his crown and attempted to speak between his closed teeth (really, all that came out was a distorted jumble). "'ome on! 'e 'eed 'o 'et 'o 'a 'roat!"
His flailing tongue allowed him next to no consonants throughout his speech, so it was with great frustration that the hobbit spat the key into the sand and repeated himself. "We need ot get to the throat" he clarified, whiping his slippery mouth upon his leg as the painted stag closed the gap, quizzing him about the key and the fact that there was no door for it to fit into.

"Do all keys need locks? Do all locks need keys?"
As he spoke this with all the mysticism a hobbit might possess, a smile wound upon his face once again as he stomped upon the key in the hopes of activating it. In truth, he really had no idea on how it was activated - he was sure that they were in the right place, though.
Picking it up between his teeth once again, shaking the sand off, Pip brought it to the traveller and brushed it over his skin in one final attempt to unlock the door; the same hinges Gulliver doubted in.
"Ah!" Pippin announced, the warmth of it's magic filling his sides and covering his already-existing wings.

Should the key work, Gulliver would soon find himself lifted by a pair of temporary wings - the kind gifted by their father of sun and fire. Giving a bright coo, Pipigrin allowed his own wings to be guided by the mysterious power that the key and the magic it should grant his companion - in no time they would be in the throat.
"Don't look down!" Pip instructed, ever fearful of the deep blue sea their flight took them over.

@Gulliver




art: © x coding: © x

Volterra the Indomitable Posts: 785
Dragon's Throat Sultan atk: 8.5 | def: 11.5 | dam: 8.5
Stallion :: Equine :: 17'2hh :: 3 HP: 80 | Buff: SENSE
Vérzés :: Common Red Dragon :: Frost Breath & Toxic Breath & Vadir :: Royal Gold Dragon :: Fire Breath & Shock Breath Snow
#4


It's been a while since they had some fresh blood in the herd. It's sorely needed, given the amount of children residing in the Throat - foals will grow up and lend their strength, but for now they're essentially spare weight that cannot really be utilised. Adults are the lifeblood of a herd, and an able-bodied one to help with tasks and ranks is a fine prize indeed. It seems the recruitment contest is going well, and Volterra has noticed with a hint of pride that Pippigrin has been doing a very good job of bringing newcomers back to the herd. At least he, more than most others, is truly trying, and it has been noticed by the colossal Sultan.

He makes his way towards the new arrival with a distinct spring in his heavy step. The herd is growing, blossoming beneath his reign, and it gives him a great sense of pride to know that he and Ampere must be doing something right. The beast arrives at the outskirts of the Throat in time to see Pippigrin and the newcomer arrive in a haze of fiery wings, and Volterra casts a quick, interested glance across the unknown arrival. It is a stallion, tall enough and well-built, and the goliath's eyes glimmer with approval as he looks first to miniature pegasus. "Pippigrin," comes his rumbled greeting, his great head dipping in silent thanks to the tiny warrior for his hard work. Although initially wary of the pony, it's suffice to say that Pippigrin has grown on Volterra like a rash. He might be small - and prone to underhand tactics in battle - but he's a hard worker, brave, and dedicated to the herd. The Indomitable has a certain fondness for the little fellow, as though he's a favoured son - sometimes irritating, but always loved.

Then, the leviathan looks to the newcomer. "Welcome to the herd. My name is Volterra, and I am Sultan here." His level crimson gaze lingers on the other stallion, his expression authoritative but not unkind. "You must be tired from your journey. Come, let us walk to the oasis as we talk." Volterra turns, inviting both Pippigrin and Gulliver to follow him as he begins to wander towards the Oasis. "I'm afraid I didn't catch your name?"

THE INDOMITABLE
IF IT FEELS GOOD, TASTES GOOD, IT MUST BE MINE
HEROES ALWAYS GET REMEMBERED BUT YOU KNOW LEGENDS NEVER DIE
image: neverr

[ you can't stray from what you are, you're the closest thing to hell i've seen so far  ]
[ use of force/magic on him is permitted aside from death/maiming ]




Gulliver Posts: 18
Dragon's Throat Apostle atk: 4.5 | def: 8 | dam: 6
Stallion :: Equine :: 16.1 :: 3 HP: 62 | Buff: NOVICE
.A.
#5
Guilliver's laugh was hearty and low-toned, but needed.  When he arrived in this foreign place, his spirits were low and his energy lower.  Maybe it was fate, but he thought that meeting Pip was just what he needed.  And now, as the little stallion spoke as a child as he held the key in his mouth, Gully was reminded that it is okay to let loose a little, even on a perilous journey.  He again grinned as Pip spoke his mysterious words, talking about locks and keys.  Maybe hobbits were much deeper then they appear to be.

All of a sudden, a strange sensation filled him.  It was tingly and he could feel every nerve ending and strand of muscle bust open as if awakened by a higher force.  What was this, magic?  His lips opened to ask, but before he could get the words out, he was lifted up, the ground becoming smaller as the clouds above whisked about his head.  His eyes grew wide, but instead of filling with fear, they gleamed with fascination.  He was flying?!  Pip's warning of not looking down didn't reach him.  His eyes rolled in his head, taking in a true birds eye view.  The ocean's deep blue clashed with the desert red, and Gulliver loved every bit of it.

The flight seemed short, and before he knew it, Gulliver's hooves touched ground.  His face beamed with excitement.  If the whole of Helovia was as mystical as his travels so far, he knew he could find home.  He swung around, looking out at the vast sea that they had just crossed; just flew over. His gaze was pulled away as a booming voice approached.  Gulliver glanced behind him, looking for the man. His vision was filled with a large, dark colored stallion.  Turning around, he smiled widely, his mood hitting a high peak.  The man introduced himself as Volterra, the Sultan of the Throat.  Realizing that the leader of the herd that he hoped to call home is personally welcoming him, Gulliver quickly composed himself, trying to control his childish energy and excitement.  Though the large stallion radiated with authority, Pip was correct.  He also seemed welcoming and kind.

"Yes, sir.  It has been quite a journey to get here, but i believe it was worth it.  My name is Gulliver, or Gully if you like, and I am very pleased to meet you.  Pip has been telling me about this place, and how you and Ampere have made it florish.  I am excited to be here."  Even though he seems gushy, Gully meant every word.  He wanted to prance after Volterra, but his tense joints only allowed him to follow at a stiff walk.  Maybe he had finally found a home that can appreciate him for more then his reproduction and battle stats.


He walks. | "He talks." | He thinks.

Pippigrin Posts: 77
Dragon's Throat Gladiator atk: 6.5 | def: 8.5 | dam: 4.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 10hh :: Two HP: 68 | Buff: NOVICE
Brandybuck :: Wolverine :: None Neverrmind
#6













home is behind the world ahead
there are many paths to tread


woith his wings flared and toes pointed, the halfling touched down to the sand with a bimbling amount of precision, and not a moment later with a hop and step the hobbit was planted firmly upon the ground. The fire lacing his wings seemed to burn up upon his arrival on the island, the key left dangling with slobber and saliva in his mouth.
"Tadaa!" Pippigrin hooted to his travel companion, keen blue eyes crossing to the first-time flyer. "How'd you like that? Fancy isn't it!" was his next boom, raking his face over each leg in an attempt to wipe the grassy slime from his chops (though really, this only caused the dirt and sand upon his legs to gather on his mouth).

Turning his ram-horned head south, Pippigrin was greeted with the emerging image of the Sultan.
"Hallo Mr. Volterra Sir!" the guardian cheered, his half-sized legs taking him in great strides towards the man who would forever be his commander, sovereign and brother. "Look! This is Gully, he's from-" The hobbit trailed off when he realised that he had not yet established that, only that he'd stumbled upon him in the threshold. "-the threshold. He's had a big trip, so you can come and have a rest in my nest Mr. Gulliver if you'd like! Of course not while I'm in it, that would be a tight squeeze"

As the Sultan posed questions and their conversation began, Pippigrin finally piped down, though allowed himself ahead of the pair and stepped in large, proud steps toward the oasis. He couldn't wait to show his new friend his nest, his friends, the temple, the manticores! But oh, would he actually care? As it always did, doubt began to creep right into the hobbit's skull like a weed and began to catch him in a snare, his mood changing like the weather.

@Gulliver @Volterra




art: © x coding: © x

Volterra the Indomitable Posts: 785
Dragon's Throat Sultan atk: 8.5 | def: 11.5 | dam: 8.5
Stallion :: Equine :: 17'2hh :: 3 HP: 80 | Buff: SENSE
Vérzés :: Common Red Dragon :: Frost Breath & Toxic Breath & Vadir :: Royal Gold Dragon :: Fire Breath & Shock Breath Snow
#7


The man introduces himself as Gulliver, and Volterra offers a sage nod. "A pleasure, Gulliver." His usually stern face breaks out into a broad smile as the dual-toned stallion reveals that Pippigrin has been singing the praises of both him and Ampere, and his fondness for the miniature warrior increases another couple of notches. "Yes, we are still working on rebuilding after a couple of leadership changes. We seem to have found stability, though, and Ampere and myself intend to raise the Throat to greatness again." The place had been spoken of in awe during Gaucho's reign, so it is Volterra's ultimate aim to reach those heady heights of glory once again.

Pip's excitable voice causes another small smile to grace the Indomitable's regal features. It isn't long before they are at the oasis, and Volterra introduces it with a sweeping gesture of his great head and whiskered muzzle. He moves immediately to paddle his forefeet in the shallows, unleashing a sigh of pleasure as the cool water lashes across the thick feathering around his hooves and chills the searing flesh beneath. "Feel free to drink your fill. As you have probably realised, the Throat's climate is rather on the warm side." He looks from Gulliver to Pippigrin and then takes a long, deep draught of the water at his feet, feeling it trickle pleasantly down his throat.

His muzzle still dripping slightly, he glances at the newcomer. "Tell me about yourself, Gulliver. Have you any particular area that you may wish to specialise in here? Fighting, healing, spying?" The man has the build for a warrior, but Volterra knows better than to assume that he wishes to be one.

THE INDOMITABLE
IF IT FEELS GOOD, TASTES GOOD, IT MUST BE MINE
HEROES ALWAYS GET REMEMBERED BUT YOU KNOW LEGENDS NEVER DIE
image: neverr


@Gulliver

[ you can't stray from what you are, you're the closest thing to hell i've seen so far  ]
[ use of force/magic on him is permitted aside from death/maiming ]




Gulliver Posts: 18
Dragon's Throat Apostle atk: 4.5 | def: 8 | dam: 6
Stallion :: Equine :: 16.1 :: 3 HP: 62 | Buff: NOVICE
.A.
#8
He tossed a smile to Pip, nodding his head at his kind offer.  He really could use a good night's rest.  His mind started to wander, wondering where Pip's nest was.  Was it up a tree?  The little bird did call it a nest, but maybe it was a cute nickname, rather then a statement on its looks. "Thank you Pip.  I may take you up on that. Maybe soon you can show me around?"  He really did enjoy his time spent with the stallion.  It was amazing how he seemed to have a boyish energy to him when the pegasus was around.  He wondered if Pip had the same effect on others...

The trio had reached an oasis that broke up the sandy landscape, and immediately Gully waded into the water.  It was surprisingly cool, and it gave his aching hooves relief.  He really does have an affinity for water, and dove in the liquid at any chance he had.  He stood knee deep, taking Volterra's offer in mind, lowering his crown and lapping up the water.  It is true that this land is much hotter then where he was from, but it was just another excuse to go swimming,  The thought made him smile.  His ear swiveled towards the ebony sultan, his swallows slowing as he thought about what to say.  His life story wasn't that interesting.  Gully lifted his head, shaking the water from lips before parting them. "There really isn't that much to say about me.  I was born in a kingdom, a rather large one.  I kept myself away from the politics and armies, and spent my time instead in the company of the Wise.  They were the ones who were charged with passing down stories and our history.  Actually, other then being at home with my mother, that was really the only place I went."

His heart gave a twinge, the image of his painted mother coming to mind.  He still has yet to grieve her properly, but the mare had left her youngest with a little trinket, and Gully was proud to wear her rosary in his mane.  It was like she was still here with him, guiding him towards his goals and desires. "We spent a lot of time foraging, so I am adapt at that, but I am more academic and..well a book nerd...I have never been in a true battle, and I am not sure if I would be any good at it.  Of course where ever I can fit in, sir.  I just appreciate you willing to take a stranger in."

He offered a smile, flashing it at Volterra and Pip. Though it was like the interview of a lifetime, he wasn't nervous. All apprehensions he held during his travel to the Throat towards the leaders, Volterra was nothing like the King of the herd he was born in. That stallion was cold, and wouldn't give someone like Gully the time of day, let alone ask where he was more comfortable. He sent a silent prayer to his mother. He knew she was looking down at him, and it was like she was gently pushing him towards this place. She would approve, he just knew it.


He walks. | "He talks." | He thinks.

@Volterra @Pippigrin

Pippigrin Posts: 77
Dragon's Throat Gladiator atk: 6.5 | def: 8.5 | dam: 4.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 10hh :: Two HP: 68 | Buff: NOVICE
Brandybuck :: Wolverine :: None Neverrmind
#9













home is behind the world ahead
there are many paths to tread


"YES!" The halfling chirped at the offer to show him around. Of course! Pippigrin would love nothing more. He would show him all of his favorite spots, the best places to find food, and where the best shade was. The idea that Mr. Gulliver might actually want to come and see the throat with him excited the hobbit once again, lifting his mood from where it had dropped.
When the man spoke of the land he was from, it sounded vastly different to the one he had been born in and just that thought caused his nose to scrunch. Everyone truly was so different here, but similar in a way... all except for Pippin. No one else was as small as he, and there were numerous children already towering over him in the throat. If he was home in the Shire he would know his height was normal, but in Helovia it seemed it was something never seen before. He was an oddity, and one that he hoped people liked.

"Does that mean you'll go to the temple and work with Mrs. Maren? She's really mean, don't go there!" spoke the halfling, pale eyes crooning over the beads that swung from the stallion's mane. A curious trinket, he'd never seen a rosary before. "What's that!?" he then quizzed, tucking his wings against his ribs and aiming to trot right between the Sultan's legs. "Does it do magic like mine?" He asked, shaking the Kaos amulet from a rather knotty lock in his overgrown mane.

@Gulliver @Volterra
so sorry it tok me so long! i've been unwell this week :(




art: © x coding: © x

Volterra the Indomitable Posts: 785
Dragon's Throat Sultan atk: 8.5 | def: 11.5 | dam: 8.5
Stallion :: Equine :: 17'2hh :: 3 HP: 80 | Buff: SENSE
Vérzés :: Common Red Dragon :: Frost Breath & Toxic Breath & Vadir :: Royal Gold Dragon :: Fire Breath & Shock Breath Snow
#10


To Volterra's great interest, Gulliver reveals that he prefers the ranks of the Wise to those of the soldiers or healers. Whilst the mammoth man has only a rudimentary interest in the Wise Ones of the herd, it's nonetheless a great boon to know that they may be able to add another to their ranks, as he's only ever known Maren to specialise in such an area. "Ah, then once you are settled in I would advise that you speak with a mare named Maren. She is our Diviner, and in charge of the Wise ranks of the herd. She consults with the Sun God, our herd's patron deity, and passes his advice on to us." Truthfully, Volterra hasn't made his mind up on Maren. The pegasus mare is rarely around, and she's also aloof and sometimes cold and abrupt. That is the antithesis of the Indomitable, who wears his heart on his sleeve and says exactly what he's thinking, for better or for worse.

The mare is a long-serving member of the herd, however, and that deserves some modicum of respect. "I would be happy to place you as an Apostle for now, which means you would work beneath Maren with the opportunity to rise up higher in the Wise ranks with time and activity." There's another mare named Xolani in that rank, but Volterra has never met her and does not even know if she still lives here. Gulliver seems almost apologetic that he isn't a warrior, and Volterra gives a booming chuckle. "I confess that I am more knowledgable about the soldier ranks, and I usually encourage new members to join them. I accept that not everybody is suited for combat, however, and it's important that the herd has a good blend of scholars and warriors." The Throat will always be more militant than most herds, but Volterra intends for it to be famed for its healers and other ranks, too.

Pippigrin's words cause the mighty white-stained head to turn, surprised at the small warrior's outburst. He wouldn't describe Maren as mean, exactly...more distant. "Now, Pip," he chides gently, as though scolding his child. He does not want the pegasus scaring Gulliver off, and feels honour-bound to defend Maren even though he's not completely sold on her either. "You may not see eye to eye with Maren, but that does not equate to being mean. She spends her time consulting with the Gods, which is bound to have a knock-on effect upon one's social skills." Volterra couldn't think of anything worse than staring at a fire all day, but he's not going to say that. He turns back to Gulliver. "Would you care to visit the temple, Gulliver? It is the jewel in the eye of the Dragon's Throat, built by our own crafters and Wise Ones. It is a splendid feat of architecture." Glowing praise from a man who cares little for pointless beauty, but even he has to admit that the temple is magnificent.

THE INDOMITABLE
IF IT FEELS GOOD, TASTES GOOD, IT MUST BE MINE
HEROES ALWAYS GET REMEMBERED BUT YOU KNOW LEGENDS NEVER DIE
image: neverr


@Gulliver

[ you can't stray from what you are, you're the closest thing to hell i've seen so far  ]
[ use of force/magic on him is permitted aside from death/maiming ]





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