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 Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2007 7:48 am
Evening touched the land earlier and earlier this time of year, and though it was far from time to retire, the stars twinkled high above. A glorious sight, and one Bella couldn't help but show off for. The mare couldn't help but be in inordinately pleased with herself and the situations at hand. Though Azumoth had long since returned to wherever it was he had to be, the cream touched mare was living on cloud nine. He liked her! Oh, yes, all right, so she understood that it didn't change one thing. . . .
His insults would still hurt, his dry sarcasm would still fluster her, and she was sure after the joy in her heart began to fade she'd once again be in the same spot she'd been in before. She was a strong mare but her spirit could only take so much abuse before it too wavered. . . .
In a way it was like an endless pendulum. Upon first meeting she had been strong and unwavered by his fits and tantrums, but the longer she was around, and the more she continued to fail in his eyes, the harder and harder it was for her light to shine. Bella secretly craved approval from others - she needed a kind word spoken or a touch of affection now and again, if only to keep fueled her loving and compassionate nature. With Azumoth that had been lacking. . .
And though he hadn't said it, per say he had agreed with his brothers that he liked her. That he could tolerate her and her pratfalls enough to appreciate her company a wee bit. . . . Just a little, just a sliver! Certainly it wasn't anything more than what he had said . . . like. But . . .
It was more than she had been sure of before.
Spirit renewed, the young mare galloped over her plains, though she stuck close to the sidelines. A small woodland area, stained with the first touch of snow, beckoned her. It was nothing like Azu's woods, this was small and dead and not at all intimidating but she knew there was a small pond not far within. She'd been running for awhile now, her breath heaving from her sides and leaving a trail of steam behind her. She was tired, but the chill embrace in the air and joy upon her heart kept her up to speed
Turning in to the small, empty woodlands she made her way to where she was sure a frozen pond lay, careful of her hooves so in case the snow hid it, she didn't fall in.
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Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2007 1:30 pm
Amaroq had changed.
He was still a cocky, arrogant stallion, that much was the same. But an angry fire lit his eyes, and a darkness was growing in his heart. The seeds had been planted not long ago, when Naina's perceived betrayal had driven daggers into his heart and mind. Those emotional wounds began to fester, spreading their poison throughout his soul and awakening a hatred that nobody would have guessed could exist in the young male.
He had taken to haunting a small, dead-looking forest near the edge of the plains. It was one of the few things he liked now...its appearance fit how he felt. So it was when he heard unfamiliar footsteps, his ears swept back to pin flat against his head, already resenting the intrusion into his newly claimed territory.
"Who goes there?" He called out, tone as icy cold as the color of his eyes.
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Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2007 9:04 pm
It wasn't easy to ignore the voice, especially one so commanding. Ears pricking forward, Bella slowed to a snails pace as her nostrils flared, attempting to discover the source of the words. Whoever was here didn't sound very happy. . . . And yet, she just plumb couldn't understand why.
It wasn't as if this land was claimed, was it? Given, a variety of scents hit her nose, but she hadn't thought that those that roamed would mind. She'd been here before as far as she could remember and it had been serene and peaceful. All she wanted was a drink and then she'd be right on her way. . .
Hmmm.
"Uh," she started, voice wavering slightly. It was hard to see who was around, especially within the long shadows of the woods. "Just a stranger, passing through. I was hoping for a drink," she admitted, words somewhat breathless thanks to her previous run. A shiver ran up her spine, but she chose to ignore it.
Still, after what had happened with Malice she took an involuntary step back. Maybe a drink could wait. . . . . And yet, something told her not to be so judging. If she had judged Azumoth within those woods, would she ever had gotten a chance to meet such a stallion? Right. . . right.
If the voice asked her to leave she wouldn't hesitate, but her naive curiosity begged her to stay, to give the harsh toned one a chance. Some soquili were less social than others, or more shy. This could be but an emotional defense to save his wounded heart or soul. No, she wouldn't run. . . Though memories of Malice made her a hair more skiddish and wary.
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Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2007 11:10 pm
At the sound of a female voice Amaroq's lip curled. It would suit him just fine if he never saw another mare again, but one just had to waltz into his territory. Her words were barely even heard as he stood in the shadows, mulling over how to show her she was not welcome here...and then an idea struck him. Even in his darkened state he shrunk back from it at first, before a twisted grin spread across his features. Smoothing them into something a little more friendly, he forced his tone to become warmer as he stepped into view. "I'm sorry, miss...I was unaware of a visitor until just now. I'm not one for company, but beauty such as yours..." His smile widened, but for a different reason than she might think. He'd win her over...disappear in the night...leave her a broken-hearted fool, a strike back at the female gender.
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Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2007 11:27 pm
Bella tilted her head to the side as Amaroq approached, studying the black stallion curiously. He was large with an ebony pelt and hair, the only signs of deviation resting in his aqua gaze and the fur around his hooves. If his change in behavior or voice sent up warning flags, Bella's naivety began setting up camp and any fear she felt earlier began to wane.
Malice had been cruel and only cruel . . .
Though a book couldn't be judged by its cover, she still would forever give one a fighting chance. Malice had been cruel by the get go, but she had never thought that perhaps danger lie in the face of the familiar or kind. Oh, her optimism and youth kept her unaware of the blackness within Amaroq's heart. . . .
Dipping her head, she chuckled softly and pawed at the ground, pleased by such words. She wouldn't ever find herself beautiful or stunning or gorgeous, but hadn't Meshach argued with her once over it? And hadn't even Azu claim she needed no change, and even his brothers had tossed her sweet words. Though she herself didn't see it, her smile broadened as he too grinned, and she threw him a radiant smile.
This day just kept getting better and better. . . The week for that matter!
"No need to apologize," she assured, curled tail swishing behind her. "If anything I should be the one apologizing. I hadn't meant to intrude, truly. . . . but the call of the bond or'yonder beckoned and. . . " She shrugged, amber eyes dimming as she looked back up at the male.
She hadn't known this land to be taken and claimed. Maybe next time she'd be more careful where she tread.
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Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2007 11:47 pm
"No, no, it's fine, I've been in need of...company...lately, anyways," Amaroq said smoothly, giving her a slight wink. She was relaxing quite nicely, falling into the trap laid for her without even knowing it. Walking right into it, even. He needed something to keep his mind off of Naina, anyways...why not keep his mind off of her with pretty mares? "Well, don't let me keep you from a drink, I'm sure it must be important to the upkeep of that pretty hair of yours."
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Posted: Fri Dec 07, 2007 6:22 am
Despite all the kind words the stallion spoke, Bella wasn't exactly swooning or so flattered she saw hearts and stars and rainbows. Oh no. It was nice that he thought her hair pretty and that she looked well enough to capture his attention, but. . . she just plum wasn't interested. Just like she had been with Meshach, and her chance meetings with Kajika and other males, there was nothing that truly captured her interest or curiosity.
At least none compared to Azumoth.
Still, who was to say this wasn't a new friend? Bella was rather short on those these days, and as much as she craved Azumoth's company, it wasn't meant to be so all the time. So in the down time, where was Feena or some other dear to her heart? Perhaps it was time she acted more social herself.
Just because she ran in to Malice didn't mean ever soquili in the world was like that.
"You and me both," she agreed with a soft chuckle, pleased at such a fortuitous moment. Moving forward in the direction of the frozen and chilled pond, the young femme swished her curly tail back and forth. "I'm Bella," she began the introductions, glancing over her shoulder at the male with a smile. "And thanks for the drink - last time I was here this place seemed pretty empty, but I'm glad it has a wee bit of company now."
Water compelled her parched throat, and she dipped her head to drink. The pond wasn't completely made of ice. . . yet. There were holes enough she could quench her thirst and oh - wasn't it bliss.
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Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2007 5:23 pm
"And it shall continue to have such company..." Amaroq rumbled. Mistaking Bella's look and smile for an invitation, Amaroq moved closer, doing his best to keep the charming smile on his face from looking too hungry. Baring his teeth just a little too much, he reached out to nibble at her jaw. She would be his soon...and then he'd disappear.
It would be the perfect revenge...almost.
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Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2007 9:38 pm
Bella blinked as the dark furred male reached out to nibble on her jaw. Such an action startled the femme, and after a minute she retreated just a step. Her smile fell slightly, and a flash of confusion entered her gaze for but a moment. It was an odd action, one she'd certainly never experienced from anyone. . .
It seemed intimate, in a way, but considering they were still just strangers it made the cream and blond mare a hair uncomfortable. Warning bells began to scream in the back of her mind, but she ignored them. Perhaps it was because of the recent (well to her it felt recent) attack from Malice - she just wasn't comfortable with being so close to one unknown. Where such nearness was a comfort and then some when Azumoth was there, she found with Amaroq's proximity that she preferred a little bit of space.
Dipping her head, she sidestepped the stallion and trotted over to the edge of the lake. No, this wasn't an open invitation - strange really. The mare didn't know how to respond to him, so instead she stayed quiet. Her body stiffened as she dipped her head to drink, instinct whispering for caution. That had been, in essence, what Azumoth had told her, wasn't it?
To be cautious?
She could defend herself - a little bit if need be - but Bella inwardly sighed. No, there was no danger here. The silver one just was a little affectionate, that was all. Her silent dismissal was enough to let him know without humiliation that no, she wasn't interested. Not in him, and not in anyone save one. . . .
Ears pricked, tail swishing softly, she drank.
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Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2007 9:47 pm
Amaroq might have been arrogant, but he wasn't stupid. At her tension he fought to keep his ears from flicking back and displaying irritation. It wouldn't do to frighten her away before he'd gotten his, would it? "Now there, don't be shy," he crooned softly in what he imagined was a soothing tone. "You're just looking for a bit of company, aren't you? Well, so am I..." Tossing his head, he arched his neck and gave Bella a bit of a wink. "I know a nice little meadow not far from here, you know." Well, it wasn't really a meadow, but barely an excuse for a clearing with a smattering of grass that was dying with the onset of winter. But it would do.
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Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2007 10:00 pm
Bella lifted her head as she finished her drink, glancing over at Amaroq with a mild expression. Though she was naive, she too wasn't necessarily stupid. What on earth did this black and silver stallion want of her? They were strangers! He couldn't possibly be this forward and clingy with all of them. . . could he? Hmm - maybe that's why he lived alone, or so a stray thought whispered.
"Well, actually," she responded with a soft chuckle, hoping to ease the tension in the air. "I was just looking for a drink. If - if you don't mind I think I'm ready to be on my way." The hair on the back of her neck tingled, and she found that she was ready to leave this place.
It wasn't that the woods was neglected and more than a hair intimidating, but. . . . there was something else. It was as if someone had let an arctic breeze in and she couldn't shake the sensation. Though she had thought a spot of company might be nice, that didn't necessarily mean it would be him and something told her she might be wise finding someone else to meet and talk to.
Like Meshach.
"It was nice to meet you though," she gave a dip of her head, allowing her curls to fall over her gaze. Though she wasn't comfortable in his company, she wasn't about to be rude. But the sooner she left, the better it would be for all.
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Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2007 10:08 pm
Amaroq's ears flattened, and his eyes went so cold that the chill in the air might have been emanating from them alone. "I don't think so," he said in a low, ominous tone, swiftly stepping both closer and in front of her. "I'm not done with you yet, and you're not going anywhere until I am." He bared his teeth in a smile that looked more like a snarl, eyes never warming. "It would have been more fun to dupe you all night and leave you guessing in the morning, but I guess it just can't be helped. Just remember...you're the one that could have chosen the easy way." With that, he lunged for the mare, seeking a hold with which to throw her, strike her, beat all resistance out of her. One revenge was as good as another, in the end.
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Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2007 10:21 pm
Oh crap - Not again! As his ears flattened and his gaze went cold, the mare felt a strange sense of deja vu. How on earth did she wind up getting in to these situations!? This wasn't how life was supposed to be - why did the spirits keep sending her to the dark ones!? Why did she keep getting forced in to these sorts of situations?
Were they trying to transform her in to a life of avoidance? Did they want her to be a hermit for the rest of her days?
Or were they trying to teach her something. . .
What, what, what!?
Though this stallion was no kalona, there was power in his gaze. He was a large stallion, and though Bella had weight and strength, she wasn't as large as he. Instantly she took a few steps back and to the side, her hind legs stepping in to the cold waters of the pond. She dodged to the side as she spoke, preparing herself to run but found him lunging at her instead.
Rearing on her back legs, remembering what Azumoth had told her, she kicked out with her forelegs in an attempt to strike him on the chest. If only to wind him for a moment, enough to allow her time to run.
Though she wasn't fast she had stamina. . . . And she was not going down without a fight!
"BACK OFF!" She snarled, ears pinned as she attempted to leap around him and run. All she needed was just a moment, just a start - all she needed was to get out!
Bella's mind raced as she tried to fathom what this black one could want. Easy way? What easy way!? And how was this her choice!? How could she have picked such a fate. Oh no, all she wanted was a drink, perhaps a moments friendly conversation - she didn't want this, whatever 'this' was! No violence, no fighting. . . .
Shells, why did this have to happen? Wasn't being maimed once enough!?
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Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2007 10:31 pm
Amaroq screamed in pain and anger as some of her blows struck home, lunging back at her with even more viciousness than before. She would submit, she would know herself to be the lesser, and he would have his revenge against all that was female! Blunt strong teeth sought to rip and tear, tough hooves sought to bruise and break. Each time she tried to dart aside, he was there, forcing her back. "Might as well give up now," he taunted as he leapt in front of her yet again. "I might even decide to let you go sooner." Not like that would really happen...now he really wanted to release his rage upon her.
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Posted: Sat Dec 15, 2007 11:04 pm
Bella was surprised at the viciousness in the stallion that she faced. It wasn't as if he were just angry - he was violent and destructive! This black and silver stallion was cruel - almost more so than Malice herself! Where she had laughed and taunted, this one wanted something much more. . . . "STOP!" She screamed, as loud as her lungs could carry.
At the very least, if she were lucky, someone might hear. Someone might hear the panic in her words, to hear the struggle within the woods. Someone might come to her aid if she should fail.
But there was a glimmer of hope. He made mention of letting her go, made mention of letting her away. Did he not want to kill her? If not, then why the attack? It didn't make sense! Was this a game to him? Did he derive some sort of pleasure from this act?
She squirmed and continued to kick, putting all her weight in to the blows. She felt teeth rip at her skin, but they were blunt and it took tearing motions to remove hair and flesh from her body. His hooves were sharp and dirty, bruising her muscles and cutting through flesh. She was a sturdy little mare, but her earlier run had significantly weakened her body.
She was worn out from the days excursion, and though adrenaline and fear kept her upright and fighting, one couldn't say that would last for long. Ignoring his words, she bit and lunged for his neck and face, attempting to press herself forward and bowl him over.
What else had Azumoth taught? Kick at the chest, kick at the chest but. . what else? There was something else, wasn't there? Oh spirits - this just couldn't be happening! She bit at his nose and mouth, attempting to clamp down hard on his lip and cause him to jerk back in surprise. Anything to get him off her and give her a moment to bolt!
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