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 Posted: Sun Nov 27, 2011 7:49 pm
A battle had ensued, the third in a week. Unfortunately though, this time the kalona had been particularly nasty. They had all but ambushed the duo, and the battle that resulted had been ugly. Her own wings were tattered and torn, her mane and tail disheveled, and new wounds dripped blood from her body. Teeth marks, bruises, and sore muscles were about all that she left with . . . Glancing over, her gold and silver gaze took note of her companion.
"How are you faring?" The mare questioned, offering a small smile to the ebony stallion. Part of the angeni wondered how her companion was faring, not just physically, but emotionally. The stallion had wanted to train to become a knight, and had (surprisingly) picked her to help guide him. While she was no knight, she had to wonder if the life she walked was fitting to his dreams and desires. She was more of a spiritual warrior, turning evil in to good, offering new paths to choose, and love for even the darkest of hearts. Certainly, they rescued those in need and offered aid to those who sought it, but . . . ultimately her war was a spiritual battle.
And persistence was key.
"There's a pond not far off. We can . . . tend to our wounds there." She encouraged softly, glancing back to the path ahead. Every step was painful, but someone had to reason with the dark hearts of the world. Everyone deserved a choice and a chance (or more), after all.
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Posted: Sun Nov 27, 2011 9:10 pm
 Tannin winced as he followed protectively behind Kaiya, watching for any kalona that may try to come finish them both off. He had again followed her straight into the jaws and claws of danger, hoping that there were those out there like himself. Who, despite their frightening visage held a kind soul. He was more worried about her injuries, but they had both sustained quite a few and he really hoped nothing else was around to bother them. He tended to scare off the small fries who would torment weary travelers, at least his spooky appearance was sometimes good for something.
" I'm fine Kaiya, a few nicks here n there, i'm just glad i have armor...are YOU ok?" He wrinkled his brow under his bone helm, his eyes bright with emotion " When we find a place to rest i will try to dress some of those wounds for you. I still have some of the ointment i made after our last bout with these...fellows." It was hard at times keeping up with Kaiya, she walked right into trouble of her own accord trying to save the souls of what most considered the damned. But her determination and spiritual lifestyle filled him with purpose and he knew, even if she seemed a bit bonkers, that this was a good place for him.
He nodded " A pond would be amazing...i wouldn't mind some water besides." He kept behind her, watching and doing his best to intimidate anything hiding in the woods, following the trail of blood they were leaving, to stay away.
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Posted: Sun Nov 27, 2011 9:31 pm
She had once considered attempting to find herself armor, as it made sense it might protect her far better than her coat and wings. Considering how often she was attacked, how often she battled others, it was surprising that Kaiya had not yet picked up some gear. But, then again, the mare was faithful and spiritual. She had told Galahad long ago that she needed no armor . . .the spirits had granted her the strength, willpower, and courage to carry on. If they had wanted her to cover herself in plates and chainmail, they might have granted her such things when she first set out to do their will.
As it was, they gave her bandages, feathers, and stubborness. . . The wounds she carried she wore with pride. They were countless reminders of her lifes work, of the reason she woke up in the morning, and of her dreams for the future. She knew she couldn't save the world, but she would be damned if she didn't let those whose path she crossed know of her lifes work and the choices they could make.
Chuckling through her pain, the angeni gave a small nod as she pushed on ahead. "Oh I'm quite well, thank you. A bit bruised and a few bites lighter, but I'm quite sure the pieces won't be missed." She jested gently, not at all perturbed by her condition. Unfortunately, today's battle was uglier than the previous times, and she would need a bit longer to rest and heal. While she was persistent in her task, she wasn't stupid. She knew her limits, knew when to push and when to retreat.
"One more day should do it. . . A few days rest and we'll make another stand." Kaiya couldn't hide her optimism and hope, even as the pair made their bruised up retreat. Given, this would be their fourth attempt at redeeming a few souls, but . . . if third wasn't a charm, the fourth surely could yield results. Maybe. A shame many might look upon the mare as crazy, but Kaiya knew her position and knew it well. There was a reason behind every step she took, every word she spoke. Some might not see it, but Kaiya was true to her chosen path, despite its adversity.
"They certainly aren't the most well mannered of kalona, are they?" She added, glancing back behind at her ward. There were moments she felt a touch of guilt for allowing him to follow her so blindly. To push him in to battle, battles that weren't even of his own accord. . . surely that wasn't right. But he insisted, and Kaiya knew he understood that he could take his leave of her anytime. She certainly wouldn't blame him . . . it wasn't as if her work was easy.
Falling quiet for a bit, the angeni continue on, one wing hanging loosely at her side. While Kaiya occassionally took to flight to scout out a new position, such a thing would be rendered useless until her wing healed. She was no uni-angeni, but could patch up minor wounds. The missing feathers and torn muscle would take longer to recuperate. Thankfully she was quite accustomed to walking.
"Here we are then," she finally announced as a pond opened up before them. Its waters were a bit murkey, but the entire area was less than inviting. It wasn't exactly a forest that scream hospitality, but Kaiya minded little. "It seems the spirits will reward for work well done," she quipped, limping her way to edge of the pond. A drink would do them well . . . . they could patch up their wounds, nibble on the nearby grasses, and rest up. It was a long day, but though the battle had been lost this day, the war was far from over.
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Posted: Tue Nov 29, 2011 8:09 pm
" You dont SEEM well, but i suppose you know best Kaiya" he murmured, a bit disappointed that her lifes work would never let her rest longer than she needed to. " If you say so" He scuffed his skeletal hooves in the dirt as he went, trying to focus on the non existant feelings from his knees down, no hurt, no pain, just bone and purpose. And his purpose at the moment, though he wouldn't admit it was to keep her out of as much harm as he could, he couldnt travel and learn patience if she was all torn up.
" No Kalona i've ever met as been well behaved" He set his jaw, determined to stick it out and learn what it was that possibly kept her going. That would be key in becoming a knight, so he spent his time alongside his teacher, learning and secretly protecting her as much as he could. He winced as he saw her wing dragging down, upon first sight one did not see past the glamor of meeting an angeni, but looking closer, she was riddled with scars.
He had never met a mare like her, and likely would never meet another, but he hated to see her like this.
They arrived at the water and he swiftly made sure the area was clear of anything dangerous before he rooted about for leaves large enough to pack over a poultice. He came back and setting the leaves aside and drank deep of the murky looking water before removing the ointment and poultice material from his saddle, attempting to work on the worst of her wounds before treating his own. " If that's so...The spirits have a strange sense of humor..."
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Posted: Sat Dec 10, 2011 12:41 pm
The angeni mare likely would have offered an objection had she knew Tannin desired to keep her safe. It wasn't that she didn't appreciate his aid, or his guarded presence, but it wasn't his duty to do such a thing. She was his mentor, and it was her job to make sure he learned and understood all he could about her duties. He had been the one to request following her, and she knew deep in his heart was a passion to do good, and be a grand knight. If she thought for a moment her presence was more of a distraction or hinderance to his goals and dreams, she might very well have to cut their time together short. She didn't want the ebony stallion to become disgruntled over the path he was walking, or resent her for always getting in harms way. It was one thing to teach the stallion patience, it was another to do so against his wishes. . . .
While Kaiya was no spring chicken, and she understood that there were some parts of their training and time together he likely wasn't accustomed to or didn't truly understand, she still held out hope that despite everything, he was learning. Growing stronger, being granted patience, and most especially, looking at the hearts of those they met. Just because someone made poor choices, didn't necessarily mean they did so because of ill intention. Some sorts never knew there were other options to be had! Furthermore, some attacked out of fear, ignorance, or even out of desperation. Some, yes, were evil . . . . there was no changing skinwalkers ever. But every one else at least deserved love and kindness. . . .
Even if they were stubborn about it and objected with fang and claw.
As her companion spoke, she glanced over and quirked a brow before smiling warmly at him. "I've met many a kalona whom aren't what they seem. While it always wise to approach one with caution and reserve, there are many whom have fallen from the fold. Perhaps I will introduce you to one of them, should our hooves take us close to their home. Better yet, I hope our work will pay off while we are still near, so you might see a change in heart, a conflicted soul. I know very well there is at least one in that herd that is struggling with their nature. . . Perhaps we might be the ones to plant the seed of choice in their heart, and someday it might take root and bloom." The love and affection that colored her voice was obvious, as was her hope.
The Angeni of Redemption truly loved all that crossed her path, even the most wicked and cruel sorts. She worked without question, and though she understood she would never be able to save the entire world from their wicked and evil ways, it wouldn't stop her from trying.
Kaiya carefully made her way to the edge of the pond, also keeping her eyes and ears open for any possible danger. Thankfully, her senses were always alert even if she herself gave the appearance of repose. Lowering her head, closing her dual toned eyes, she offered a small prayer to the spirits for granting them the boon of good drink, before she began to slowly quench her thirst. Everything, for just a moment, was still and at peace. For the briefest of moments, Kaiya found peace in her company with the young stallion, even as her wounds dripped crimson and smarted. Yes. . . life really was good.
It was only when Tannin finished his drink, and moved to her side to work on her wounds that she opened her eyes and glanced over at him. "Who are we to question the spirits? They provide us with sunlight, companionship, and all in this world. While we might not understand why they do what they do, or why things fall a certain way, I truly do believe it's all for a greater good. Even amidst the tears and pain that can be found. They guided me to you, did they not? And as such, have now lead us here. We're meant to return to those kalona and pass on the light, even if it brings pain." The mare blinked and gave an apologetic shake of her head.
"And here I am, preaching, while you fuss. Really, I think I should be attending to your wounds first. There will be time enough to work on me, but only after you are well." Her glowing eyes looked the stallion over, brows knit with concern. While he might have had armor to protect him, surely he hadn't gone completely unscathed. Furthermore, Kaiya was quite accustomed to her wounds and scars. . . it was only right she heal her great defender. What good were he teachings if he fell ill from infection of a neglected wound?
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Posted: Sat Jan 07, 2012 12:46 pm
Of course Tannin couldn't change her mind about trying to save the damned, that's just what she did, she attempted to "redeem" the lost. He of course understood that she wouldn't like it if it seemed like he was trying to protect her while she was doing her lifes work, he was learning from her after all. But it was simply something he couldn't help but feel was necessary. So he would never admit it to her, that was that.
" You have?" he questioned, the idea of a "nice" Kalona was just weird, but who was he to talk of weird...with his fangs and glowing eyes, he looked as if he could be related to one! Not to mention his hooves..." Perhaps i should meet one, just to make sure what you speak of is real!" he smiled, though they were both injured, humor could make light of the gloom.
He watched her fairly glow while she talked of her work and he knew no one could possibly talk her out of doing what she had been born to. It brought her happiness, even though she was constantly torn up because of it...he supposed it was much like being a knight, only with less armor...she had hers around her soul.
He had finished patching up some of the nastier wounds she had when she spoke again " I suppose when you put it that way..." he commented " Hopefully good will come our way soon Kaiya" he shivered, his armor creaking as he shook the damp off of him. " We definitely need it i think, my father once spoke of something called Karma, we do good, hopefully it will come back in turn...that sort of thing."
He looked up as she said that the spirits had guided her to him and his green eyes seem to glow brighter, as they did when he was overcome with one emotion or another. "...Indeed, for that i will thank them. At least for that part anyway" he gave a wry smirk and wrinkled his nose at patchwork of paste and leaves over her pelt, grunting as he put too much weight on one of his injured legs. " I think that's the best i can do now, time does the rest you know."
He smiled at her as she turned her attention to his wounds, though his weren't nearly as bad as hers, they did sting if he thought about them for too long. " Oh, well much obliged Kaiya" he said thankfully "but you simply needed more mending than I."
He was happy she was worried over him, but sometimes i wondered if she ever worried about herself. It wasn't selfish, it was smart. But still he stood and let her fuss over his wounds, while this wasn't his most IDEAL spot in the world for camping out,at least here...they could rest.
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Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2012 9:06 am
Kaiya couldn't help but chuckle as the stallion question the reality of a nice kalona. Sometimes she forgot that he was still new to the world, and despite the time they traveled together, there was much he had yet to see or experience. How long had it taken Galahad to come to his own by her side, to finally learn all she had to teach? Granted, there was much the stallion had yet to learn without her guidance, and spirits willing, he had. . . .
But her focus now was on aiding the stallion before her. He was walking a similar path that Galahad had walked, except this time he was no unicorn. He was of mutant blood, with his glowing green eyes and his skeletal hooves. It was a great blessing that he had been raised so well, considering all the prejudices found in the world.
"I have indeed. If we have the time and we cross their territory, I will introduce you. Surely the idea isn't that surprising, is it? While bodies come in all shapes and forms, our hearts are all the same. Granted, some find themselves taking a darker path, but that doesn't mean they will remain so." The only true evil out there that was unable to be redeemed were that of skinwalkers. . . . the demons that haunted those cursed individuals were too powerful to be saved. In their case, the only reform was a swift death.
Her ears pricked as the stallion referred to karma, and she gave a small nod in agreement. "I believe in something similar as well. All the love that you give will return to you, or so I hope. Happiness, joy, a peaceful mind and heart . . . that is what so many out there truly want. Even those who might not yet know it, even those who live a life of chaos. Not all will come to such a realization, but at least you and I can offer them a path. It is their choice to walk in darkness, but at least we have offered them another way." And that was what she would continue to do until her dying day. If a tormented soul was never offered the light, how could they begin to change? Not all out there were truly condemned or wicked. . . to some, it was the only way they understood.
Sufficiently patched, the mare glanced at her new coat. It was sweet of the stallion to attempt to heal her wounds, and she appreciated the gesture. If only she had been blessed as a uni-angeni, these wounds and scars wouldn't be quite so severe. But . . .to each their own. The spirits had granted her a path and prepared her as they best they were able. What were scars and wounds but a reminder of the good work she did? "Then time we will give them, for a little while at any rate." She dipped her head in a respectful bow towards the younger male, grateful for his aid. But now was her time to assist him.
Stepping towards the stallion, she investigated the wounds she could witness. Pressing her nuzzle lightly against his neck, she closed her eyes and focused on the small amount of healing magic she had been granted. Feeling the energy within her, she reached out to him with it, encouraging his wounds to heal and promote a swifter recovery. She was no unicorn, but the spirits had granted her such a power due to the nature of her domain. There would be no redemption without tears or battle, after all. And short of finding a unicorn to walk with her for always, this was as good a substitute as any.
After a few moments, energy drained and body weak, the mare eased off on the healing she poured in to him. She took a step back to better examine her work, head canted in consideration. "Any better?" She questioned with a small, tired smile.
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Posted: Tue Mar 13, 2012 9:03 pm
It felt good to hear her laugh, even a little. He smiled at her, though his smile was sweet it still seemed garish over his large fangs, but nonetheless, it was a smile. His smile. " Oh, good, You have me curious now m'lady" He nodded slowly he understood, it was just so different from what he had taught, perhaps they weren't so different from himself...But he wasn't any part kalona! At least he didn't think so. He growled at the mere thought of walkers, once on his journey he had encountered the broken remains of a herd, destroyed by one lone walker, stallions, mares, foals...all dead. He shuddered a bit under the weight of the memory, his armor rattling. " Indeed..."
He perked his ears up as well, listening intently to her " You do?" He replied, interested, it really would be nice if all that happened the way it was supposed to, but it seems to be uneven in how it's dolled out, dont you think?" He sighed heavily " Life just can't be an even path for the good of heart anymore, but we can try, yes...try and make them a decent path, away from the madness." His brow furrowed under the helm, he understood what she meant to do, and it was a good quest in life, but she would never make it past all those who WANTED to stay in the darkness. And secretly, while he was learning, he was training to be a shield, for good, but selfishly, he hoped to shield her from the worst of it.
He tried his best not to breathe a sigh of relief as she agreed that they should give these kalona "time" they didn't need time in his opinion, they needed a good kick in the teeth. But it was time to heal their wounds, or at least form a better plan than the last one they had come up with. " Good, i was hoping you would say that, it gives them, and us, some time to think about what's to come" He watched her through his bone helm, his eyes bright in the dim, flaring even brighter as she nuzzled his neck, although his wounds stung, that small gesture was like a fire through his veins, and it did not burn.
He gasped a little as the tingle of magic danced over his skin, the stinging subsided and he ceased to feel the warm wetness of blood on his flank. He stared at her in awe but quickly got over his surprise, giving it over to worry when he saw the toll healing him had taken on her. " I am fine, thanks to you, i feel much better, but it is you that needs rest lady." His mouth was a tight line, a for sure sign that he was troubled " Please, we will both need our strength for the coming days." He looked over her shoulder, scanning the area. " Perhaps i can find something to eat, some softer place to settle down it will be necessary." His voice trailed off, troubled by the sight of her bloodstained feathers. " It will be necessary..." he repeated, his voice grim. Tannin knew his father would be proud of him for this, but the life of a knight, was not all what his father had told him it would be. And he was learning quickly.Very quickly.
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Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2012 10:06 am
They certainly made an unlikely duo. The battered, scarred and bandaged angeni walking a path with a glowing eyed, skeletal-hooved, ferocious looking knight. Thankfully, the mare had long since learned to look past the appearances of others. . . . If she judged every creature by looks alone, she would have saved none. Still, just because she over looked appearances, didn't mean she couldn't see how unusual the two of them had to appear to strangers, each one tending to the others wounds.
Well, the war they fought was endless. Kaiya knew she would never, in all her years, save every heart from its broken nature. There would be many who suffered without redemption, just as there would be those whom she would never get to meet or preach her word to. But, just because their task was daunting, didn't mean she wouldn't at least try. Spirits willing, she would change the world with Tannin at her side.
Kaiya's ears pricked as she heard the stallion's wistfulness in his words. "Life has never been easy, for predator or prey," she admitted with a nod. "The good have struggles and fears, and it does feel as if more and more are taking up the cry of wickedness. . .but . . . " She added with a small nod, "the wicked suffer too. Life without light or goodness, while it may seem free, takes a heavy toll. Love can seem to be in short supply for good and evil, but that's why we do what we do. There's much love, forgiveness, and kindness even a single soul can give, and that is a power in its own right. Love is eternal, powerful, and something to be shared." And that was that. Redemption came from a change of heart, of goodness, of consideration, and ultimately, of love. Her love for the damned was what drove her to continue to put her life (and Tannins) in danger on a daily basis.
But it was her love and concern of the lost that kept her on her path. She had a duty to them, and she would not let them down, even as they spurned her.
Smiling gently at the young stallion, his concern wasn't overlooked, though she made no sign of mentioning. Tannin was a good heart. The spirits had done well letting the two of them meet. He was growing daily in his ideals and convictions, and she hoped that she was giving him the sort of training he desired.
"Oh, I am well enough, I assure you. Though if you wish to seek a gentler abode, or something partially edible, I encourage such a thing. I think I will settle here for a spell, give prayer and thanks to the spirits, and consider what we do next." It wasn't that Kaiya was old, per say. She was no spring chicken, certainly not like the stallion that walked with her, but she was of a different breed. Age was a limitation, an excuse as far as Kaiya was concerned. . . She wasn't weak or frail, but after years of battle both physically and emotionally, it could take its toll. So it was best she recuperated without pushing herself like she may have in her more rash years.
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Posted: Thu Mar 29, 2012 9:44 pm
" Hmm" he grunted an answer, that was life, the predator hunts the prey and the soft hearted folks wished the prey could just get away. But what would happen if the rolls were somehow switched? what if suddenly, the predator became the prey? Wouldn't that be something.
" But that's nature isn't it? Predator and Prey, if only it were that simple. Brutal stuff..." He murmured. "We just try and hope everyone is more prey than predator, at least those we meet." He wrinkled his nose. But of course beings like them, they were ones that were supposed to help and not take for granted anything, especially appearances. He did not need to dwell on how ironic that would be for him, knowing full well how he looked. But even so, he had not been born an Angeni, he had no domain, no immediate path to a pure heart or lifestyle. He did not know much about them at all, but to the two leggers, they were known as "Angels" and they were holy to them as well. He wondered if the world looked any different through Kaiya's eyes. and had a lot of things to learn when it came to how he viewed things, he needed to stop seeing in black and white, and start looking for the shades of gray.
Tannin thought himself a fool then, why had he not thought of finding a better place sooner? Of course neither of them wanted to stay in this cesspool of a place. His eyes burned bright in the gloom as he searched for a clear path to take. " I agree, we should find a better place to settle down, something decent to eat, that would help immensely." He half smiled " Perhaps your spirits can lend us a hand with the latter, i don't recognize any edible root plants or berries and i doubt you want me to...well." He paused rather ominously, though he quickly recovered and shook his mane, the feathers tied in his locks bouncing " We'll find something." He assured her, though his thoughts wandered. He had almost told her that his father Nightmare had grown up eating flesh, and as a young foal, so had he. But when his fathers spirits began to wane, he stopped eating even small game and so did Tannin.
He scouted ahead, making sure there were no dangers first, sore and weary as they were, they could hold their own against one, maybe two, but if they ran into a whole gang of trouble, they were sunk. He tried not to think about it too hard. He soon spotted the mouth of a cave, nearly overgrown with creeping vegetation, His face lit up under his mask and he nodded forward, " There, that seems like a good place to rest, i saw some dry grasses i could drag in too, a rocky ground is better than a soggy one but put some grass down and it'll be decent." He knew she was more of a veteran of battle than he would ever be, perhaps in a different manner, but she certainly wasn't a shrinking violet. He wasn't going to be overprotective, but his heart ached to be, this too, he would have to get used to.
He made sure no one was "home" in the cave and told her it was safe to enter, this at least was chivalrous. Even at a time like this. " I can go out, see what i can find for food." He shivered a little, the damp having settled on his flank, even under his armor. " I shouldn't be long, take the time and rest, Ok?" He questioned, his eyes searching.
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Posted: Sat Apr 21, 2012 5:05 pm
The mare limped her way besides her bony-hoofed companion, doing her best to keep her movements steady and composed. She hurt, and was cold, but she didn't want to cause Tannin any more concern than he had already expressed; she was his mentor, after all, and she didn't want to pose as a distraction to their task. While she knew she would need time to heal some of the deeper wounds, she also understood time wasn't something they really had . . . . She was anxious to return to the kalona herd, to try to catch the poor conflicted soul again and speak a few words. To try to comfort them, to let them know there was another road they could walk.
Ah, but that would be tricky. The kalona herd knew their scent, and was likely searching for them, likely desiring to finish them off or drive them off for good. . . . . They'd have to be careful, especially if they made a return in the following days.
The angeni followed Tannin through the murky swampland, and was secretly relieved a spot of dry, sheltered land was found. It would be good to rest without having to worry about attack from one side, though she was certain the spirits would at least allow them one night's rest. If a counter-attack was to happen, it likely would have done so by now. . . "This looks perfect." She smiled at him, turning her dual-colored gaze from him to the small cave. It looked abandoned, though she was sure something had once called it home. "We'll have to thank the spirits, of course, for granting us such a boon. I think it looks cozy enough for the two of us, don't you?" She genuinely meant it, easing her way in to the entrance and giving it a little look over. It was cool inside, but it would block the night wind well enough, and was most importantly, dry.
It amused her how Tannin constantly seemed concerned about her well being. A few scars, tattered feathers, bruises seemed to put him on edge. She appreciated his worry and his concern, but there had been times she had suffered worse than what he had witnessed. And it was very likely, she knew, that she would suffer again. Even with Tannin aiding her, protecting her. . .Besides which, she could rely on him for always, could she?
He had his own life to live, his own choices, his own future. Like she ahd with Galahad, while she was happy to teach and to train, she no more could keep them at her side than she could give up redeeming the damned. It wouldn't be fair to expect them to stay. . . her path was one she would never demand a soul to follow. But for now, she would give the stallion all that she thought he might like to know, all that she could teach and hope, pray even, that he might someday find her guidance useful.
"If you find us something edible, I'll rest, and give thanks to the spirits. Just be careful. Other than a herd of displeased kalona, I'm not entirely sure what else might be lurking. This swamp isn't exactly full of cheer, is it?" She smiled, even as she slowly lowered herself to the ground, careful with how she moved her fairly useless wing. Closing her eyes, the smallest of smiles still planted upon her features, Kaiya looked to rest. . . .but in reality . . . was already beginning a type of meditation and prayer.
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Posted: Sat Apr 21, 2012 6:29 pm
" Right, the spirits" he smiled as she settled into the cave, he collected some of the only dry material around and piled what he could inside so at least she would have some comfort while she rested and he went out to look for something to eat. " And yeah, as soon as i get somethin to eat this place will do just fine" He knew she would think it was silly of him to worry so much about her, from the looks of her pelt, though they were faint, he could easily find the pearly scars from where she had been wounded much much worse in the past. He just would rather her not get hurt at all, but with her job, getting mere scratches was a blessing.
It seemed like she had a lot on her mind, and of course, she should, he just hoped she wouldn't worry so much about the kalona, stress was likely to kill someone as much as one of those beasts could. Just slower...
The muck they had been traveling around in should have masked their scent, they wouldn't easily be tracked, even by one trained in the arts, perhaps their being in a swamp was not such bad luck after all. He chuckled softy at the convenience of it all. Thank the spirits indeed. They needed some time to recoup anyway, she had healed him well enough but sleep would be just the thing he needed, she would need more care, even the smallest wound could be compromising in a battle. So he would worry whether she liked it or not, he decided firmly.
" Not cheer, no, but hopefully something more edible" he joked " well rest a little while i'm out and more after you've had something decent to chew on ok?" He was happy to travel with her and battle, more or less, beside her, a fast friend and though he didn't quite understand it yet, or understand if she'd accept it, perhaps even more than that.
He gave the cave a last sweep with his eyes before turning and heading back out the curtain of vegetation. " Now then swamp...or spirits, what have you...be nice to me huh? I'm tired." He started down the path he had trampled down on their way there and closing his eyes for a minute, found his center, just as his father had taught him to do long ago, feel the fire...while his hooves did not burn with it like his fathers did, that fire still existed within him somewhere.
And on occasions like this, when he didn't want to be bothered by any corporeal being that lurked around, he pulled on that fire and with a snort opened his eyes and exhaled an eerie green smoke, appearing a disembodied and rather frightening face in the growing darkness. He did not like to use his fear tactics but when things were desperate, it was what you had to do. Even the kalona they encountered on a regular basis had second thoughts about fighting him when when he was like this. He picked off into the night, his ears laid back and his fangs barred, a creature on the hunt.
Of course, Tannin, despite all appearances was a gentle soul, and wasn't on the hunt for some poor animals life, despite all the frightened squeaks, squawks and scampering from the nearby foliage, he was looking for roots, berries and edible leaves. He found a bush or two with late fruit still hanging laden on the vine, he picked vegetables and uprooted plants he recognized from the forest back home. Some roots were pitifully thin and the berries overripe, the leaves bug nibbled. But it was food, and he was thankful to even get that, even if he had to scare others away from it. He made his way back, relaxing as he entered the cave, his saddle piled with the food he had gotten. " Here, Kaiya" He smiled tiredly, easing all of it down on the dry grass covered floor " That should keep us for a bit longer." He settled down across from her, chewing on a dusty tuber, chuckling softly " ahh, i thought i got all the dirt off of them...seems this one has a little more crunch"
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Posted: Sat Apr 21, 2012 9:24 pm
Kaiya drew in a few deep breaths even as her companion left, settling in to the dry cave. She focused her thoughts, drawing her thoughts away from the distractions of the swamp -- the cold, the hurt, the hunger. None of these things mattered. . . . Slow breath in. Slow breath out. The soft noises of swamp insects, the hefty scent of mud and sludge, it didn't matter. Right now, she needed to focus, to calm her nerves, and relax.
While she very rarely appeared unnerved or anxious, there was much that stirred beneath her typically calm and composed visage. She was an angeni, and she had accepted her path to redeem the world, but . . . she was nothing special, she was no immortal, she was no god. She had learned at a young age to keep her true feelings reserved; to master the art of being cool and in control. While meditation helped, she still could feel.
And Kaiya felt a lot.
Her life was far more complicated than it had been when she first appeared in the Kawni. Back then she had no children, she had no family. Her duty, first and foremost, was to those who deserved to know the message, deserved to be loved. Those who were cold, cruel, heartless, without a path outside of anger, rage, and hate. . . It had been easy then, but the weeks, months, years, were taking their toll.
She would never stop the road she walked, but there were new complications. How long had it been since she had taken time to visit Sirian? His own mother, slaughtered . . . Granted, he was independent, and had even found a beloved, but . . . was she letting him down by not being present in his life? What of her own son, Kahiau? It had been almost a year since she'd last seen him, last visited. He was so laid back he'd never complain about her duties. And Galahad, hadn't she promised to find him?
Had she abandoned those she loved in favor of those whom despised her?
No, not abandoned. Never abandoned.
But she had picked her path long ago. She had never thought to settle, and never could settle. Her duties were far too demanding, and it was probably unfair, selfish of her to adopt Sirian. . . and then keep Kahiau. She was more selfish than she cared to admit, and it broke her heart to think that she could never be there for . . . anyone.
Her work was her companion. But what of Tannin? He seemed content enough to walk with her, but was she keeping him away from his full potential? From his hopes, his dream,s his future? She enjoyed mentoring, but there was only so much she could teach. He wished to be a knight, what sort of knightly, chivalrous deeds had she granted him? She was more of a spiritual warrior than a traditional knight. . . Did he regret walking with her? Facing danger? He was gaining practice in defense, and could hopefully learn to look above rumor and prejudice. . . but. . . .
When would she be forced to push him away too? Just as she had Galahad . . . . Just as she would Tannin. He couldn't stay with her, because she . . . couldn't ever demand, ask, or request someone to walk with her. It wouldn't be fair. No one deserved to live a life as she did, because . . . deep down. . . Kaiya understood she wasn't living. Not like traditional soquili could. There was no freedom in her world, because she couldn't bring herself to choose it.
Her destiny of redeeming others would only end in her death.
So focused on her thoughts, on her inner revelations and anxieties, she almost didn't hear the stallions approach. Her head wings flared slightly when she did catch his hoof falls, though she didn't open her eyes. No. Re-composure. Her meditation hadn't exactly turned out as she had wished -- instead of blessed silence, the scream of her thoughts had overwhelmed her. Thankfully, the glow of her eyes hid the shadows that had so suddenly troubled her thoughts.
Smiling gently up at her companion, she dipped her head to the ground, as gracious a bow as she could muster in her current position. "So the good knight has returned victorious," she spoke gently, gaze turning from the bounty of food back to the ebony stallion. "A little crunch does the system good," she added cheerfully, leaning down to crunch upon a particularly bug-nibbled piece of over ripe fruit. "It's a veritable feast." She complimented, enjoying the simple meal and very grateful for his aid. Honestly, she was more and more grateful for his company everyday.
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Posted: Sun May 13, 2012 10:15 pm
Within the span of a few quiet moments after he had dropped the food he watched an entire novel pass her face, he saw it in the glowing white of her eyes, of course she would not tell him what was going on in that mind of hers. Who knew really, what went on in the mind of an Angeni? It might span a few minutes, but it was likely a universe full of stuff.
He stared at her from the shadows of her helm for a while, this exhausted yet unfailingly good natured mare had surprised him immensely through such a short period of time. She was bloody and scarred, but wore a true smile for her mission.
While it was not physical training or knightly manners, it was training in spirit, and in a way, that was more important than any hard knocks he'd ever get practicing in his armor.
He simply hoped that one day, she would tell him more about what it was she thought about, so quietly to herself. He hoped she would trust him enough to know, and in the trade of conversation, he could tell her things about himself.
" Victorious is such a strong word for that little m'lady" He chuckled softly, baring his fangs in an attempt at a goofy grin. He chewed up a few berries that were more squish than fruit, grunting at a fly who had decided to light upon his pile. " Begone pest!" he called at it, smiling at Kaiya all the while.
The bone legs he sported from the knees down scraped on the floor through the bedding he had set down. He felt no pain, but the noise was unsettling in the night. " So, after we have rested a time Kaiya, have we a plan for these kalona you seek to salvage?" His eyes glowed from under the helm like twin green fireflies " And by plan I do mean tactical plans, we cannot stroll in the front entrance like goslings"
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Posted: Sun May 20, 2012 9:50 pm
The mare disregarded Tannin's dismissal of her words. While the food he had brought wasn't perhaps the freshest in the land, considering where they were and the swamp they had all but climbed out of, it truly was a blessing. She wasn't going to spurn the spirits, and any food at all was better than nothing. Quietly, the mare picked at the roots and fruit, savoring each and quietly saying a thankful prayer between the bites.
It amused her as the stallion spoke, curious as to what their next maneuver would be. Her ears pricked and a warm smile crossed her features, her silver and gold eyes glowing with quiet mirth. He was young, anxious, and while she appreciated his enthusiasm (forced or not), he was also thinking like a tactician. While he would often be right -- one usually did not just stalk up through the gates of a kalona nest -- that was for knights and those seeking battle.
The war they wished to fight did not require stealth.
"Actually," she finally spoke, "we will indeed be strolling up to their territory like goslings." She spoke, using his own words to stress the point. Her head wings fluttered a bit as the fly that had lighted upon their meal earlier returned. Reaching down, she picked up a particulaly bruised and oozing berry before setting it to the side. Maybe the pests were just as hungry as the two of them. She might as well share what she had, after all. Even if it was only to the whine of insects.
"I do not plan on sneaking in to the heart of their lands, nor should we try. They might look upon us with suspicion if they found us, and only further mistrust my message. They will know of our approach, they will know why were have come, and they will likely attempt to drive us out yet again." She heaved a heavy sigh, pausing a moment to consider their plans. "But even if this is our last attempt to speak to them civilly, our presence will be recognized. Our persistence and proclamations of peace may do more than relaying the message on deaf years."
Kaiya had no idea whether those hearts within the nest would actually change, and she highly doubted that their next run would grant them an audience with those she desired to meet. . . but . . . perhaps in time. If not now, than later. She would give the kalona the peace they demanded and desired soon enough. "But I do suspect we will be moving on soon. At least the seed of change will be firmly planted." And, she could always return at a later date.
"We're bearers of peace, remember. The battle of the heart and soul is a more . . .delicate task than the battle for land or power." She gently reminded. Unfortunately though, as delicate a task it was, it . . . was tiring on both the body and spirit. How many years had she roamed? How many years had she fought the same battle, but with different faces? How much rejection had she shouldered, how much had she really won? It was something she tried not to think about . . but the shadows were present whether Kaiya ackonwledged them or not.
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