the Rift


Chasing Dreams [The Grey, Lakota]

Murdock Posts: 198
Outcast atk: 9 | def: 10.5 | dam: 2.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 16.2hh :: 8 HP: 61.5 | Buff: ENDURE
Gaz
#1

M U R D O C K
If I go crazy then will you still call me Superman?




The celestial audience was no doubt an elaborate sight. Elliptical and spiral galaxies nestled together, various nebulas and glittering star-clusters dappling the seemingly perpetual canvas with brilliant and various lights. The inky heavens were partially hidden by a dark net of young leaves that stretched out eagerly from the thin, crooked branches of the aged trees. A haunting stillness dwelt in the depths of the forest like an ominous mist, clouding Murdock's mind and giving life to the shadows. He had successfully found his way south from the steppe to the dark forest he had visited only once before, and he planned on remaining here for a short time. He was eager to learn more about the land he had been a part of for what seemed like such a short time, and the labyrinth of trees proved a challenging and intriguing place to begin.

He wound his way through the gnarled grip of the roots and the maze of undergrowth that lay across the faintly worn path in wild disarray, making his way carefully towards the sloping edge of a pond. He slowed as he approached the lip of the pool, iridescent hooves slipping through the wavering surface of the water to rest upon the uneven floor beneath the cool liquid. The even face of the pool was disturbed by his entrance, and he felt the water sway gently about his lower legs. He gazed down at the red stones littered across the floor of the pond, almost invisible in the poor light that filtered unevenly through the tangled canopy overhead.

He thought about Chernobyl, the mysterious mare from the Basin with whom he was planning to explore the far reaches of the land. He was looking forwards to travelling about the lands in search of adventures, as he used to when he was a colt. He had been a part of Helovia for several months now, yet he still did not feel as though he truly belonged here. He was eager to find a herd or some group that would take him in and offer protection. He was content to wander in peaceful solitude, yet he longer for the companionship of allies and the comfort of friends at his side. He longed to return home, but he knew that was no longer a possibility. Perhaps one day, when he was long forgotten, he would be able to return to what was left of his family.

Lowering his head, Murdock pushed his lips into the rippling surface of the pool. His curly forelock fell across his face to cover his emerald eyes, and the cool purity of the water cleared his weary mind. He loved night-time, and he could often be found out wandering in the peaceful darkness that came with the fall of the sun and the rise of the moon. Though the light of day was favourable, he had always preferred to be out at night, and to fly when it felt as though you were up among the stars and planets that seemed to be millions of miles away. The faint glow of his markings was reflected in pastel shades upon the black surface as he drank, and absently he watched the disfigured shape of the moon dance upon the rippling face of the pool.


"Speak"




Phaedra the Opulent Posts: 343
Deceased
Mare :: Pegasus :: 15.3 :: 6 Buff: NOVICE
Stella :: Secretary Bird :: None Aud
#2
 Phaedra</style>
 & from your lips she drew the hallelujah</style>



Being one of the only pegasi in the Grey, Phae felt particularly burdened by their choice of location - the Woods' thick canopy barred her from flight, and increased the sense of claustrophobia she felt as she moved deeper and deeper into the dark. However, she had come to know these woods so well, and was so confident that the other members of the Grey would instantaneously show up, should she need their aid, that she felt almost no fear here, anymore. As that feeling of confidence increased, her desire to protect their forest also increased, and the sooty palomino found herself using her spy-skills to her advantage more and more, as she watched those who entered into their woods.

Catching the scent of another along the dusty trails, Phae picked up a light and soft trot, easily moving her slender body through the maze of trees. Stella, her secretary bird companion flew gracefully beside her. It constantly amazed Phae how the little bird was already so adept when it came to flying. Up ahead, near the water, Phae saw what appeared to be a black stallion with green tipped wings. She was reminded once again, how seemingly common her own appearance was, in relation to the vibrant creatures of Helovia. As she neared, she could make out some blue on his body as well, and also what appeared to be symbols on his shoulder and eyes. Narrowing her sea-green gaze, Phae slowed to a walk, silently emerging from the trees.

Phae stood several inches smaller than the stallion, but she noted that they shared the same slender build - yet he appeared to be more narrow that she given that he appeared to be a thoroughbred. Or perhaps it was merely his height that made it appear that way? Her green gaze washed over him, once again taking in his odd colouring. Phae herself, was strikingly beautiful given her subdued colouring - her coat was sooty and golden, only marred by the odd bird-catcher spotting on her shoulders, and by her eyes - like beauty marks. Her creamy mane and tail cascaded in loose curls around her, as she stood watchfully observing.

"You have entered the woods of The Grey, sugar." She cooed, her voice diplomatic, but ever flirtatious. "Is it us you seek? Or are you simply passing through..?"






 HP: 45.5

Lakota the Poisoner Posts: 278
Deceased atk: 5.5 | def: 9.0 | dam: 4.5
Mare :: Equine :: 15.1hh :: 7 Years HP: 64 | Buff: NOVICE
Aodaun :: Polar Bear :: Terrorize Brit
#3

Lakota



Patrol was not necessarily needed for the Grey, considering they could handle whatever came their way. Nevertheless Lakota found herself doing rounds nearly every morning, black listeners attentive. Awaiting the approach of more prey, whether they were aware of the group within the shadows of the forest or not. Long legs walked the edges of the land, sharp violet eyes observing movements that were suspicious in any way. Nostrils flared when foreign equine scent touched them, ears pinning halfway as she pondered this. Movement approached it, clearly another horse. Lakota slipped forward towards the duo, listening for hope of catching whatever was said. Relaxing slightly only when she recognized Phaedra's voice. She did not approve of females that did not fight, and looked down even more on those that used their looks to fool others, but until the day Phaedra stopped bringing in useful information the femme would keep her mouth shut. Perhaps unhappily, but she knew that Phaedra was useful in her own way. As she spoke Lakota shrugged her way through the undergrowth and appeared at the side of the spotted lady. Watching the newcomer with cool, intelligent eyes. She wished to say something about Phaedra so willingly throwing their name out there, but did not want to see split apart to the stallion. That, and she could not bring herself to be as angry as she normally was. The incident with Phaedra and the sea monster kept her from being able to yell at her. For that moment at least, Lakota would not be so lenient next time. Deep down she ignored the taunting voice that said the opposite, for Phaedra was young and pure and Lakota would kill to protect that. But it was nice to know that she could still rip into her if she needed to, but it would more in a big sister fashion. Thoughts turned back to the stallion and she watched him carefully, leading off of Phaedra's words. "If you are passing through, we shall escort you. I am Lakota, and this is Phaedra." Keeping their titles hidden, for the stallion could be a possible threat. Giving him the information of their different group aspects could be dangerous. Lakota shot a look to Phaedra, showing she should cut the shit and stop flirting.

It disturbed her, and she was no girly woman. Phaedra was younger than her, and Lakota felt far too wise around her sometimes. But her flirtatious nature made her grit her teeth, especially now when they were dealing with someone who could swing either into threat or ally territory. Flirting was not well accepted by some, and it would give them a bad reputation if Phaedra flirted with someone who would look upon it as weakness or with disgust. Oh it helped, don't get her wrong. But Lakota did not have to like it, and the warning, cautious look she sent her told her to be careful. Taking a step forward and angling her body somewhat to stand in halfway in front of Phaedra. Taller frame towering over the both of them, gaze regarding the stallion cooly. She still remembered that day on the beach, and lately she had been finding herself adding Phaedra to her list of people to shadow and protect. Lakota had protected her once, she would do it again, and already she was bodily placing herself between the mare and the newcomer that could still be dangerous. It was a blatant show of protective instincts, though she fondly thought that Phaedra was a bird brain flirt anyways. Eyes turned cuttingly back to the stallion, observing him thoroughly. "What is your name, stranger?" Voice cool, diplomatic. She would not have her family harmed, whether they were childish or not. Somehow they had wormed their way into her heart, and had become her precious sociopathic, awkward, idiotic family. She was exasperated with them most of the time, but memory of Phaedra screaming and getting knocked unconscious had her muscles tightening. Big sister instincts screamed at her to shove her hooves into any threat that dared come near her, but her herd instincts told her that this stallion could be a possible addition to their family, and quieted that urge. Lakota watched him, waiting. His words would decide his fate.

slime-stock @ dA  |  xxmynightmarexx @ dA  |  table- tay<3

Murdock Posts: 198
Outcast atk: 9 | def: 10.5 | dam: 2.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 16.2hh :: 8 HP: 61.5 | Buff: ENDURE
Gaz
#4

M U R D O C K
If I go crazy then will you still call me Superman?




The water was pleasantly cool against Murdock’s lips as he drank, watching the silky ripples that rolled across the surface of the pond as his muzzle disturbed its glass like, reflective surface. It was like a window into another world of endless depth, adorned with glittering stars and the meandering spirals of distant galaxies. In the peaceful silence of the night, the winged stallion almost felt himself being pulled towards it, the cool water swirling around his ashen limbs. He shifted his feet against the muddy bottom of the pool, watching as the ripples made the stars dance across the water. He almost didn’t hear the soft noise of hoof beats approaching, crunching against the dry leaves and fallen twigs that had lay beneath the blanket of snow in winter. Moonlight rippled across the surface of his charcoal pelt as he raised his head from the pool, water dripping from his chin. His white wings unfolded ever so slightly from his sides as he watched with the faintest hint of annoyance at being disturbed from his thoughts, though apprehension made him tense his muscles.

He was well aware that the dim iridescence of his markings stood out in the tall shadows created by the pale glow of the moon, but surely he hadn’t been that easy to spot. Perhaps the stranger was coming for a drink as well. Through the shadows, the slim figure of a Pegasus mare appeared and stopped before him. A soft sigh of relief escaped Murdock’s lips, and he offered her a crooked smile in greeting. She spoke in a colourful voice that was formal but unthreatening, giving the stallion a sense of ease. He backed out of the pool, water running in streams down his limbs to pool at his feet. Just as he opened his mouth to respond to her question, another shape moved in the shadows. The pale moonlight illuminated the mare’s blue roan coat as she slid into view, casting him a guarded look that suddenly made him feel unwelcome. The equine placed herself at the sooty mare’s side as Murdock tipped his head in greeting, ears perked. Apparently these two knew each other, and were likely both part of The Grey.

The stallion’s wings folded against his sides as he absorbed their names for future reference. “I do seek The Grey,” he responded coolly, voice calm and level as he met the roan’s steady gaze, and then glanced towards Phaedra. He was oddly sobered and formal, his usual manic personality repressed in an effort to project himself as the experienced fighter he had been, and still was, even if he was slightly out of practice. A cool breeze swept through the forest and rustled the canopy of leaves overhead. Murdock felt it caress his feathers and cast a glance at the calm sky. Would he have to prove himself to them? Or would they trust him to provide accurate credentials? His eyes slid back to the two mares, worried he’d distracted himself too much. He noted the subtle movement of the roan as she positioned herself halfway between him and Phaedra.

His head tilted to the side as he observed the glance Lakota cast to the palomino mare, face darkening with the slightest hint of curiosity. If they saw him as a possible threat he couldn’t blame them, but they would soon learn he rarely had evil intentions. “My name is Murdock.” He bowed his head with a flourish and smiled amiably at the pair. “I am seeking a position among your ranks, if you would deem me worthy of joining you.” With those words, there was no backing out. If The Grey would have him, he would be loyal to them until his last breath. Ever since his arrival in the threshold of Helovia he had heard the whispers of the mercenary group, and it had become quite obvious to him that he would fit in well with such a group. Given his particular background and training, he was likely to be, with any luck, just what they were looking for. He looked forwards to once more becoming part of a band where protection and companionship would be offered to him, and he would no longer be alone.


"Speak"




Phaedra the Opulent Posts: 343
Deceased
Mare :: Pegasus :: 15.3 :: 6 Buff: NOVICE
Stella :: Secretary Bird :: None Aud
#5
 Phaedra</style>
 & from your lips she drew the hallelujah</style>


Unsurprisingly, Phae was not the only member of The Grey to appear out of the stillness of the forest. From the murky depths, came a mare that never in her life would Phae ever forget. Lakota had almost single-handedly saved Phae's life in the Endless Blue - her and her magic. Phae knew Lakota was referred to as their poisoner, but until that afternoon on the beach, she hadn't experienced why. Now that she had, she had a new found respect for the blue roan. Nevertheless, Phae was more than inclined to ignore the reproachful looks that Lokata was giving her, most likely in reference to her mild flirting. Couldn't the mare tell that she was already restraining herself? Probably not.

Phae stepped back a pace, winking at Murdock as Lakota moved in between the two of them, taking charge of the situation. That suited the sooty mare just fine - Phae was no fighter, nor was she particularly skilled at leading or being in charge. As Lakota introduced the two of them, Phae bowed charmingly, sweeping one sooty wing out and up to the side, and folding the other just in front of her chest. She was almost sure she could feel Lakota rolling her eyes at her display, but that was fine - they all had their skills.

Phae had never grown up with sister's, yet Lakota's presence made her feel as though she understood the relationship. Deep within her, she liked that Lakota had saved her, rather than some stallion merely dashing to her rescue. She had men nipping at her hooves constantly, but only a few who genuinely cared about her. It also amused Phae that Lakota acted as though she was obligated to look out for the sooty winged creature, much like an older sister would be the forced-guardian of their younger. Their odd little family didn't get together very often, but Phae found something charmingly appealing about each and every one of them, each time they did.

I am seeking a position among your ranks, if you would deem me worthy of joining you. As the stallion spoke, Phae narrowed her sea-green gaze inspecting him closely. Which steam? She wondered, casting her eyes over his oddly coloured body. Intelligence? Or Warriors? From behind Lakota, she snorted indifferently, believing it best to leave ultimate recruiting up to their leaders. Still, she said nothing, silently respecting Lakota's apparent desire to lead this conversation.



 HP: 45.5

Lakota the Poisoner Posts: 278
Deceased atk: 5.5 | def: 9.0 | dam: 4.5
Mare :: Equine :: 15.1hh :: 7 Years HP: 64 | Buff: NOVICE
Aodaun :: Polar Bear :: Terrorize Brit
#6

Lakota



Look sent towards the small stallion seemed to make him think twice, though he tipped his head and flicked his listeners up in greeting. Lakota was not so welcoming as Phaedra, but only because she would not allow strangers to believe the Grey was weak. He replied steadily, meeting her gaze without wavering. Lakota inclined her head in a cool expression of respect, showing that she approved in a miniscule fashion. If he continued to act in such a way, perhaps the Grey would accept him. There was to be no weakness, even along the medics, and if he could handle her sharp stare, he was already on the way to receiving an audience of their leaders. Lakota would not call her queens until she was sure that this fellow was deserving of the title of a mercenary. Depending on the side he chose to follow, of course. Already Phaedra and Lakota displayed the difference, for Lakota was a mercenary under Ktulu and Phaedra was a spy beneath Ophelia. Phaedra's flourishing bow made her snort softly, but her eyes turned to her with amusement that did not normally appear on her face. Let it be a little treat to her, she thought dryly, for Lakota to find it more funny than annoying on this day. Gaze snapped back to him as he announced himself as Murdock, and his flourishing almost-bow made a tiny wry smile tug at her lips as if she was amused by a small child that was both funny and annoying. It was the best one could get from Lakota, most of the time.

Then he revealed what he wished, to join their ranks. Behind her Phaedra snorted softly and Lakota swept her eyes over Murdock once again. Staying silent for a few long moments as she dissected him with her gaze, picking out the good and the bad. She would not be the one to accept them, but she needed to know who to call, Ophelia or Ktulu. Violet eyes drifted back up to stare at Murdock, telling him that she was listening and ready to barter, in a way. But if he wanted to move any step farther past that statement, she would require total honesty. "If you take a step into this, before I so much as breathe your name into the ears of my leaders, you must both know something and tell me something. First, know that this is no mere group. This is a family, and if you do not give us your full loyalty, we will not hesitate to kick your ass out of here, understand? We have no room for flighty characters that will not have our backs, no patience for weak links. For if we fight, you will have our backs. Got that?" She eyed him intently, though it was not hostile. Merely the truth. For deep in her gaze was revealed to him that she would not turn him away if he could accept this, that she would call Ktulu or Ophelia if he could agree to what she had said. Waiting only for his reply before moving on. "What you must tell me is this. What is it that you fight with, and for? Do you fight with smooth words that trick others into giving us what we desire? Do you attack with hooves and teeth? Or do you fight with the power of healing?" Grumbling the words out, not used to speaking so much. Face remaining stony, not ready to take down her walls quite so soon. You can never be too cautious. "You will not be able to take sides, Murdock. We are the Grey, the in-betweens, the plane walkers. We fight for all and for none, for those who do not deserve injustice. Forget your friends now, your alliances, for when and if battle calls you cannot be indecisive." With that she ended it, crown rising slightly and taking a step back to allow Murdock space. Brushing up against Phaedra briefly, turning dark purple gaze to the younger woman momentarily. If Murdock proved himself worthy, she would call their leaders. If not, she would have Phaedra help her in driving him away. They could not be inconsistent. Murdock would be welcomed into their tightly knit family if he wished, but if he did not approve of their standards...they simply could not exceptions.

slime-stock @ dA  |  xxmynightmarexx @ dA  |  table- tay<3

Murdock Posts: 198
Outcast atk: 9 | def: 10.5 | dam: 2.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 16.2hh :: 8 HP: 61.5 | Buff: ENDURE
Gaz
#7

M U R D O C K
If I go crazy then will you still call me Superman?




Murdock’s eyes widened slightly in response to Phaedra’s wink as she slunk back from Lakota. Normally he would acknowledge such behavior, but for the sake of appearing professional, and to prove he wasn’t here to mess around, his expression remained focused yet neutral. The smallest hint of a smile formed on his lips as the Pegasus mare extended her wings in an extravagant bow, appearing to redirect the focus back towards Lakota. The mare’s coat was dark in the shadows cast by the tall trees, though the pale light of the moon shone through the closely knit branches overhead. She seemed unimpressed by Phaedra’s actions, but Murdock politely appeared not to notice.

He felt vulnerable and exposed with the roan mare's dissecting gaze sweeping over him, but this is was what he had expected. Of course they would have to be sure that he would be an asset to their group as opposed to a hindrance, and so he accepted their piercing stares without protest. He listened intently and with visible interest as Lakota spoke, absorbing her every word. "Of course. The Grey will have every ounce of my heart and soul; I swear to that." He held her violet gaze steadily, dipping his head to show that he understood. He was eager to be part of a family again, for it seemed like it had been hundreds of years since he had known the love of his own. He would devote his entire being to this group, if they would accept him, and he was eager to work as a mercenary once more.

"I was trained in physical combat, both on land and in the air, and it is what I would like to continue with. I will willingly fight for freedom, peace, and the wellbeing of the family," he promised, voice quiet and sincere. He had been brought up as a warrior in his father's fleet, and upon joining the 'army unit' he had risen to the rank of Captain. He doubted his credentials would be of much interest to them though; how would they know he was telling the truth? He was anxious to prove his worth and devotion to The Grey. The loss of his birth family left a tear in his heart; one that could only be healed by being a part of another, even if the scar would still remain.

His chin dipped in a nod after her final, sternly spoken words, a deep look of understanding in his eyes. There was an odd twinge in his chest, as everything she said reminded him of the rules enforced in his old herd. Loyalty was not a new concept to him, nor was the fight for justice. He hadn’t been in Helovia for long, and of friends and alliances he had few. He had been trained to kill to protect his family and to disregard all external relations that he may have; one couldn’t allow loyalties to lie outside the herd. What few, weak bonds of tentative friendship he had formed in his travels could all be done away with if that was what they required.


"Speak"




Phaedra the Opulent Posts: 343
Deceased
Mare :: Pegasus :: 15.3 :: 6 Buff: NOVICE
Stella :: Secretary Bird :: None Aud
#8
 Phaedra</style>
 & from your lips she drew the hallelujah</style>



Phae caught the hint of a smile on Murdock's lips at her frivolous antics. Inwardly, she felt the same lofty glow that that always accompanied a stallion playing along with her flirtatiousness....or a mare. Even Lakota surprised her by not actively condemning her actions; perhaps she was growing on her saviour? Or maybe Lakota truly took to heart that The Grey was a tight knit little family. To be honest, she only felt close with Apollo and Lakota - Ktulu was ever looking down on her and Phi? Absent as always. Rafe was an enigma, Aviya was....Just where was Aviya? Then there were all the new arrivals - the brothers? Perhaps Lakota and Phae should seek out their fearless leaders and have a little chat.

Still, Phae listened with a growing sense of Pride as Lakota outlined the Grey's mandate and their tolerance and policies. They were not an exclusive group, but neither did they simply accept anyone who wished to enrol, as many of the herds did. Phae understood the subtext in Lakota's momentary violet stare, as their eyes met. However different the two mares might be, when it came to defending their family, there was no variance. Phae would not have spoken against the blue mare, even if she believed she was wrong - not in front of an outsider. They would be seen as a coherent and united force at all times.

As Murdock replied to Lakota, Phae felt her interest slip just a little. So, he's a warrior She thought, her sandy tail flicking against her hocks. Sometimes Phae felt like the only one interested in Intelligence. What good were the warriors if The Grey possessed no information? What good was a band of mercenaries if they knew nothing about the lands they inhabited? To Phae, Murdock appeared to be a good candidate, but would make no assumptions aloud. She raised her crown slightly, her sea-green eyes washing over the stallion's athletic build with a purely physical interest; assessing his worth as a warrior.

"He falls under your jurisdiction, sister." She said respectfully to Lakota, emphasizing the family-bond that the mare had recently spoke of. "It is your call to make." Phae waited to see what Lakota would decide - would he be brought to Ktulu? Or would they need to cast him out of the Woods? If it was the former, Phae would let Lakota do so at her leisure. The sooty palomino had no desire to see the dark mare and her bear-cub anymore than was necessary, family or no.



 HP: 45.5

Lakota the Poisoner Posts: 278
Deceased atk: 5.5 | def: 9.0 | dam: 4.5
Mare :: Equine :: 15.1hh :: 7 Years HP: 64 | Buff: NOVICE
Aodaun :: Polar Bear :: Terrorize Brit
#9

Lakota



She figures that in this moment Phaedra’s flirtatious ways are not harmful or counterproductive, and therefore sees no need to reprimand her. If anything it helps the slim stallion relax, seeming both surprised and amused by the display Lakota has grown used to since Phaedra’s acceptance into the Grey. In time, should he be found worthy enough, he too will turn a blind eye to her ways in the realization that she almost always got the job done. Thoughts waver, but gaze does not, holding him pinned where she wants him. If he doesn’t like it then that’s his problem, but dissecting is part of the job. If any possible member just waltzed in, at least ten would have hidden meanings by the end of the season. He holds fairly well, clearly viewing her in the light she casts herself in. Even so he doesn’t shy away or flinch, which makes her incline her crown towards the moon overhead in the smooth motion of minute respect. Studies him as he speaks, listening intently to the dips of his tone as he forms the words. After a long moment of consideration she deems him to be telling the full truth and hums softly in her throat. A sound of contemplation, understanding, but not one that will make him believe he has been accepted. Eyes may speak of curiosity and deep thought over his character, but stance remains the same throughout the encounter. Murdock held her eyes, and she let him know through the flick of one coal listener that he passed the first test. There were still many more things to be considered, one of which he answered to directly after her small display of approval. Though she had taken charge of the situation rather easily, it seemed the decision really would be placed upon her shoulder whether or not to call Ktulu, for he belonged to her side of the Grey. It was strange to call it her side, but she was realizing that with so few members around lately she was having to pick it up. Not that she particularly cared, for she would care for Murdock like a little chick until he earned his wings in the Grey, should he be found acceptable by her darkly coated lady. He would help her in their tasks, and if a complaint fell from his lips she would be quick to remind him that she had been taking on the brunt of the work before. Dreams of the future were meaningless if Ktulu found his character to be wanting, but Lakota had always found herself to be a good judge of character and doubted that scenario.

Phaedra piped up from behind her and Lakota allowed herself to turn so that the white splash over her right eye was facing the beautiful youth. Lips quirked into a smile, though it always held the base of a smirk as was her way. Amusement was clear on her visage, one that could be feminine and beautiful if she took off the ice mask that always kept it frigid. ”It would seem so, little sister.” Lakota turned and observed him once more, the warmth that was more of a flicker than anything leaving as she turned away from Phaedra. Slowly she melted into a smirk, eyes vibrant with moonshine and tease. ”You strike me on a lucky day, Murdock. I will call the leader of my section for you, and she shall accept you into our family. It seems you have earned our titles. I am Lakota, official Poisoner and mercenary of the Grey. This is Phaedra, second command of Intelligence and a highly revered spy. You’re in with us now, but there are no second chances in the Grey. Make my decision count, Murdock.” Gruffly amused voice turned momentarily serious, and Lakota relaxed her posture from threatening to the stiff severity she always held as a soldier. Moving so that Phaedra was no longer protected bodily and turning her gaze to the younger female. ”I understand if you do not linger.” Lakota had no knowledge of Phaedra’s dislike of Ktulu, but she knew that Phaedra likely had other things to do and as a part of Intelligence would not be technically needed. Warmth of eyes corrected the calm cold mask of her face, speaking to Phaedra in a language that belonged solely to Lakota. Learning that language was not easy, but the Pegasus seemed to be picking up on it quickly. Head tilted back to let moonlight wash over the ebony of her face and let out a haunting cry meant only for Ktulu’s ears. It was time for her lady to accept Murdock.

slime-stock @ dA  |  xxmynightmarexx @ dA  |  table- tay<3

Ktulu the Constrictor Posts: 509
Outcast atk: 5.0 | def: 9.5 | dam: 6.5
Mare :: Hybrid :: 16.1 :: 7 HP: 70.5 | Buff: ENDURE
Eytan :: Grizzly Bear :: Terrorize ali
#10


         K T U L U         


i'm a slave and i am a master

no restraints and unchecked collectors




The voice was recognized right away as Lakota's, which had the dark mare's ears tilting forward. She stood where she was as the call echoed between the trees before finally fading into silence. Several moments passed before the forest's chorus began once more. All at once, it seemed, life erupted within those walls of the forest. Her pale tail slapped against her legs as she ambled in the direction the call had come from. As per usual Eytan took the lead, crashing through bushes and kicking up dirt.

Much like an overexcited puppy, Eytan burst into the scene, running first from Lakota then to Phaedra, and back again. He finally settled next to Lakota and gazed in the direction he had come from. Moments later his bonded appeared, her body as dark as the night that had overtaken the world and her pale hair glowing in the dappled moonlight that shone through the trees.

"Lakota." She greeted her poisoner. "Phaedra." She then greeted the spy who, so far, had more than earned her title in their group. Her crimson gaze then drifted to the pegasus that stood with the two mares. "I suppose you're the reason I've been called here." She said evenly. "You desire to fight?"



Credits

Icon by Tay

Murdock Posts: 198
Outcast atk: 9 | def: 10.5 | dam: 2.5
Stallion :: Pegasus :: 16.2hh :: 8 HP: 61.5 | Buff: ENDURE
Gaz
#11

M U R D O C K
If I go crazy then will you still call me Superman?




As the two mares spoke with one another, Murdock turned away, face falling into shadow as he studied the dark forest. His gaze once again fell upon the starlit pool, the wind coaxing its glass like surface into small ripples. The image of the stars cast across its face seemed so tangible, as if the water was instead a doorway into another realm; a symbol of the new life he was about to begin among the members of The Grey. Those stars that shone against the exterior of the pond were simply hinting at the family he was soon to become a part of. As Lakota turned back to address him, Murdock’s eyes met hers, drawn away from the entrancing image of the moonlit water.

He noticed the subtle smile on her face, and felt inclined, though somewhat hesitantly, to return the small gesture as he listened to her final verdict. A new sense of excitement blossomed in his chest, and he bobbed his head in thanks to Lakota, accepting hers and Phaedra’s full titles with the knowledge that they were welcoming him into their family. “Thank you. You won’t regret it,” he promised, smile growing ever wider on his lips. He wasn’t one to treat a chance like this lightly. Murdock’s feeling of gratitude grew further as the roan mare stepped away from Phaedra, bringing the palomino into clear view. It seemed they had given him their trust. Moments later, Lakota’s call rang out across the forest, cutting through the night and echoing through the trees.

Murdock shifted his feet across the uneven ground, tense with an impatient curiosity as they awaited the arrival of one of the Grey’s leaders. He was all too enthusiastic to begin work again, and was eager to find out what his new family would have him do. Only time would tell, and he felt the seconds tick by with each gust of wind against his back. Suddenly a shape emerged from the shadows, and Murdock started, his breath catching in his throat as the form of a small bear materialized into the moonlit clearing. Its paws scuffed through the dirt as it made for the two mares, but the Pegasus’ excitement was pacified as he noticed it seemed to have no intent in harming them.

The winged stallion’s green eyes brightened as he watched the figure of the bear bouncing in between Phaedra and Lakota like an energetic child. It turned about hysterically before pausing, settling beside the roan mare to look back the way he’d come. Murdock’s chin tilted to scan the darkened forest, and soon a shadow emerged from among the blossoming trees. The light cast upon its dark complexion distinguished the shadow as a new mare, and Murdock assumed this was who had answered Lakota’s call. Her frosted mane caught the glow of the moon; the scarlet tip of her horn seeming to stand out all the more with the chalky light shining down upon the clearing. The black unicorn greeted Lakota and Phaedra in turn, and then cast her cardinal gaze upon Murdock. He inclined his head respectfully as she spoke. “Yes, if you’ll have me. My name is Murdock.” He responded with a nod, ivory wings shifting against his sides.


"Speak"




Phaedra the Opulent Posts: 343
Deceased
Mare :: Pegasus :: 15.3 :: 6 Buff: NOVICE
Stella :: Secretary Bird :: None Aud
#12
 Phaedra</style>
 & from your lips she drew the hallelujah</style>



Phae regarded Eytan with a quiet hesitation, no longer fearing the bear cub, but still feeling slightly wary in his presence. Her green gaze flickered to Ktulu as her name was spoken, and the sooty mare's nose dipped down in a respectful greeting. "Ktulu" She murmured softly. Understanding that as a spy amongst warriors, her presence was no longer required in this initiation process, Phae flattened her wings to her sides and sent a mental command to Stella, that they would take their leave. As she turned to leave, her airy gaze passed over Lakota as she turned in so that she would pass close to the blue mare. "A word, later?" She inquired, her voice low and secretive. She had yet to officially thank the poisoner for saving her on the beach, and had another matter weighing on her mind, that she wanted to speak to her herd-sister about.

Quietly, so as not to disturb Ktulu or her interrogation of the tentative new member, Phae slipped out of the ring of members which had formed, and moved to exit through the trees. Phae did her best to move as silently as possible to further demonstrate her skills as a warrior, but also to not draw Ktulu's attention. She still couldn't shake the feeling that the darker mare did not approve of her, or her flirtatious ways. Of course, she had the same intuitions of Lakota, and her disdain for the sooty mare seemed to be fading, perhaps Ktu's was as well? Perhaps another day would reveal Ktulu's true feelings for her, but for now, she was rightfully pre-occupied with Murdock.




 HP: 45.5

Lakota the Poisoner Posts: 278
Deceased atk: 5.5 | def: 9.0 | dam: 4.5
Mare :: Equine :: 15.1hh :: 7 Years HP: 64 | Buff: NOVICE
Aodaun :: Polar Bear :: Terrorize Brit
#13

Lakota



It is time, and Ktulu has arrived. Eytan was first to arrive, bursting with energy in the way he always has. He dashes between Lakota and Phaedra, a ball of energy that never fails to amuse her. He settled beside her and she made a soft sound towards him, greeting him. Following directly behind him is his darkly canvased bonded, and she speaks Lakota’s name in greeting, followed by Phaedra’s. Lakota dipped her head respectfully to her, eyes on her form. Crown then turns in a sway towards Murdock, so that Ktulu may speak with him. He has passed Lakota’s examination, but Ktulu is always the final verdict and Lakota won’t overstep boundaries. She also won’t plead his case, because it’s not hers to plead. He is not a colt to be led by a tail, and he will prove himself through his own actions to Ktulu, not through Lakota’s words. Lucky for him he has manners, and utilizes them when her Queen speaks to him.

It is then that Phaedra moves, briefly speaking to Ktulu. It is hardly considered talking, as she only utters her name. Lakota does not understand the relationship between the two, and isn’t inclined to break their privacy by diving into it. However she does know Phaedra is uncomfortable around the mercenary leader, and is not surprised to see her begin to leave the scene. Her gaze passed over the roan mare, and Lakota returned it. Low, soft voice touched her ears. Lakota flicked an ear and briefly dipped her head. If she wished to speak, Lakota would do so with her. Violet irises kept strict watch on her Grey-sister as she left, waiting until she was safely out of sight before moving back to the pair conversing. She is not needed but she remains, a silent guard. Until she is dismissed, she will remain a statue near her mistress.

[[OOC: So sorry for the wait you guys! I didn’t realize it was my turn and forgot about it ;~;]]

slime-stock @ dA  |  xxmynightmarexx @ dA  |  table- tay<3


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