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 Posted: Tue Jan 13, 2009 8:25 pm
A few days had passed, and although Luca was no more visibly pregnant than before, Tobias was almost frantic over how great Cassiel's belly had become. Having never watched over a pregnant mare before, he tended to fuss and fret somewhat. His expression was one of perpetual worry. Her belly looked likely to pop under the pressure of the growing life within her!
Even so, despite his concern, there were glorious times spent with just the two of them, laying close. Tobias loved to lay in the sunshine with his dark-eyed mate and lean his head against her bulging womb. He savored the scent of her while pressing one cheek and one ear against her taut pelt, relishing the stir of life within. He treasured that time with Cassie, alone for some of the last time in a long while. He didn't begrudge the coming of their foals whatsoever, but Luca had amusedly warned him of the lack of personal time that having foals would mean.
Luca meanwhile was treasuring her own new life. Softly, so softly they stirred! The faintest flutter deep within, like a breath, or an eyelid twitching in sleep. It positively made her glow from her inner joy at having this to celebrate, as well as the happiness of her son and his mate. Little Cassiel was still such a timid little thing, but anyone with a heart could read the blooming of a tender and gentle spirit when she gazed adoringly at Tobias. It brought a different sort of contentment to the purple mare.
She had found abiding pleasure in raising little ones... carrying them, birthing them, nursing them, teaching them. They needed so much nurturing, and it flowed from here naturally, like water from a spring. But this... seeing two of her children find happiness and peace in the embrace of another, lasting hapiness as she had found only with one stallion in the past... seeing that, knowing that, gave her a sense of satisfaction and assurance that was unvoicable. She could never have explained it if she tried. Only one other soquili was likely to understand if she shared with him.
Guilian.
She inhaled a deep breath of sweet air and sighed, almost wistfully. She wished he'd come. She wanted to share her renewed joy of motherhood with him, to see his eyes alight with feelings that matched her own when he discovered her condition. She'd seek him out, but she sensed that Cassiel and Tobi needed her now, so near her foaling time. So she remained. If she did not find him, he was sure to find her. All would come to fruition, given time. Patiently, she waited, both for her grandfoals as well as for her constant beloved.
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Posted: Wed Jan 14, 2009 7:55 am
Cassiel had found her own contentment reunited with Luca. Though she had feared that the mare would judge her, would begrudge Tobias' choice in her as a mate, none of that had come to pass. In fact, the violet mare had been so tender to her that Cassiel found her own fear diminishing. Oh, she still feared playing the role of mother and was thoroughly concerned that she might commit some great error and cause her foals to begrudge her; but then, her upbringing with Eponine had been unique. These foals were born out of love, true love, and Tobias would always be there.
Spending time with Luca made Cassiel wonder about her own mother. Looking back upon the entire scenario, the young mare knew that the ice blue femme had tried her hardest; perhaps she had been wrong to cut her out of her life so completely. Perhaps she had been rash in her decision to be entirely alone. . . . Ah, but the ebony eyed mare tried not to think much about her past regrets. She didn't want to think anything that might upset the growing life within her, and oh, what a wonderful and terrifying thing it was!
Everyday, the mare studied her belly. She really was huge and couldn't help but wonder if she'd ever get her figure back. Pregnancy had its own problems; some days she felt sick and ill, other days she positively glowed with delight. She found it difficult to move sometimes and she seemed to waddle when she walked. Ah, but regardless its limitations, more and more Cassiel found herself anxious to see what her children looked like. It was a big stepping stone for the mare. . . but luckily she had both Tobias and Luca's support.
She wasn't alone anymore, for all her attempts as a young mare to separate herself. And only lately, with Tobias reintroduced in to her life, did Cassiel finally get to feeling happy.
She was lucky to have a dear companion such as him. Cuddled close, a little lazy smile pasted upon her features, she watched the rise and fall of his head against her belly with every breath. He had coddled her relentlessly from day one and never did she want to take his affections for granted.
((So she doesn't have much to say. ;3 *chuckles* She probably will have even LESS to say when Guilian arrives!))
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Posted: Wed Jan 14, 2009 6:59 pm
It had been a long time, but nothing had changed.
Nothing in the natural world, anyway.
A bright smile on his face, Guilian made his way down the forest path, basking in the the happy emotions that only familiarity and comfort could bring about. Strange, really, when one considered how very much he'd once been against sameness and familiarity. Then again, he had once been a young stallion; these days, no one could accuse him of that, not when he was the proud grandfather to twelve wonderful young Soquilis...and more on the way!
Usually he didn't spend too much time away from Luca. A week or two at most would pass before he would meander his way back to the woods and their bower; this time, though, more than a month had passed since he'd last been this way. Granted, so many things had happened, things that he was practically bouncing with anticipation for. Most importantly and excitingly of all, his son Antony had informed him that he and his mate Loveless were expecting more children. This news had naturally needed discussing with Loveless' father, so Guilian had taken the time to track down his friend Ariston and glee with him. Then, of course, there was his time set aside for Amaratine's boys; Amary was a good thing, but motherhood had been a bit overwhelming for her and Guilian liked to help her out, just as he knew his son Leon did.
On that note, he had also made an attempt to track down his elusive middle son, but with no luck; undoubtedly the boy was off enjoying his time with his pretty sweetheart, or some other such pastime of youth. Ah, to be young again...
Not that anyone who looked at Guilian once, twice, even three times would suspect him to be as old as he was. Tim had been kind to him, and beyond a few gray hairs in his lustrous mane and a few lines at the corner of his eyes, he looked the same as he always had. Age was a mental thing, though, and there were times where he just felt...mature.
Still, he was the first to admit that he was being silly and chuckled at himself as he ducked through the low-hanging vines that marked the outer edge of the hedgerows of their clearing. He couldn't say for sure whether Luca would be there, but one thing was certain: She would be, in time.
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Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2009 7:43 pm
Luca had been giving the young couple some time together, wandering around and realizing that perhaps she was feeling a bit more heavy than she'd expected at this point. She paused to peer back at her belly suspiciously. She hadn't showed this early before. Could something be different this time? Was her belly swelling already, even with only the faintest stirrings of life? Frowning faintly, she continued to examine her midsection intently, missing the entrance of her dearest companion.
Tobias savored the nearness of his mate, the movements of his young. His nostrils flared, instinct telling him that time was near. Not yet though, surely? He still had time to keep her for himself, didn't he? Turning from her belly, Tobi nuzzled Cassiel along her neck and under her jaw, whickering softly. "How do you feel, my love? Are you comfortable? Do you need anything?" His anxiety was obvious, but not frantic. Merely fervent in its desire to see to her well-being.
((Sorry it's short, found myself sorta between scenes there.))
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Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2009 9:52 pm
Something big was on the horizon but the mare knew not what. Part of her chalked it up to her pregnancy, instinct informing her that the time would indeed be close at hand. Not only could she hardly walk but the little ones growing within her were awfully restless as of late. But no matter the occasional pain and discomfort, the mare couldn't help but feel pride in what she and Tobias had accomplished. They were young and still newly in love but with Luca close at hand, and Tobias always at her side, Cassiel couldn't help but feel confident and well.
Turning her ebony eyes over to her most beloved, the shy and still timid mare couldn't hide her smile. She had gone through a transformation; from the most sad little filly to a miserable adult and yet here she was, glowing with the radiance of motherhood and family. It had been a hard road to follow but Cassiel had finally found her niche. . . .
Never would she give up her place beside Tobias and to be included in Luca's small family. (Little did she know. . .) Never would she ever want to lose their warmth and affection and good grace again.
"I am quite well, thank you. How are you is the real question? I . . . .I think you might worry too much. Pressing her nose gently against Tobias' own, she stared at him with a most shy and tender of smiles. Truly she was concerned for his well being. . . He fussed over her without smothering and his concern always caused her to feel loved; Cassiel could only hope all his hope to make her content wasn't causing him any ill feelings or anxiety.
((. . . . so I wasn't sure where everyone is in relation to everyone else; I know Cass and Tobias are kind of doing their own thing, and Luca's off that way, and Guilians just arriving SO . . . . I'm just pretending Cass isn't paying much more attention than Luca. ; D Good thing Guilian isn't some starving bear else they might be in trouble. ))
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Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2009 8:20 pm
"Well, this is most unusual. You should have told me there would be company this time, Luca-Chica; I would have brought some food!" With that rather stentorian greeting, Guilian announced his presence to the oblivious trio with all the glee of a child able to sneak up and surprise their parents in some quiet moment. And that was really what the scene most reminded Guilian of in the first few seconds he had glanced around, before his sense of the theatrical had taken hold.
Simply put, Guilian wasn't used to being ignored. More specifically, he wasn't used to being ignored by Luca, which was what had drawn his attention almost immediately to the purple mare and the source of HER attention, a sight that caused one dark brow to arch thoughtfully before he saw, with a widening smile, the sight of Tobias and the reddish mare, one that even at this distance Guilian could see was VERY 'great' with foal. How very interesting, a family foaling on the way, or he would eat his roses. This was too delightful!
But he did love to hear the details, especially if they came from the lips of the involved. After giving the three a scant moment to notice him, he let loose with the aforementioned greeting, then swept grandly into the clearing, giving Luca a nuzzle of affection, Tobias a wink and wide smile of greeting, and Cassiel a more restrained and polished bob of greeting. "Sadly, I was left in the dark for far too long, so you must accept me as I am, alone and empty-hooved."
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Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2009 8:50 pm
Tobias really was rather jittery and weary, so when a voice suddenly boomed loudly nearby, he nearly came unglued. Literally all four hooves came off the ground as he spun with bared teeth towards the intruder. For a just a moment he stood, ears pinned, neck outstretched aggressively, teeth bares and hindquarters bunched. But the sight of that red stallion made that aggression melt away just as quickly as it had come.
"Guilian!" His delighted whinny completely belied his posture a heartbeat before. He looked as if he would leap towards him at any moment, but restrained himself, first with a glance back at his heavily pregnant mate, then a brief one at his mother. Probably wise to give Luca a moment with him anyway. Cassiel was going to need some reassuring.
The change in the purple stallion was notable, though. He didn't look so haggard and worn. His tail was arched and his eyes bright. He nuzzled his red and white love and spoke swiftly and softly to her.
"Cassie, look, it's Guilian! Now don't fret, he's a very gentle stallion, and dotes upon all those he takes under his wings." He beamed at her proudly. "He is sure to love you almost as much as I do. Though of course, to love you more than I do is impossible." He gave her a light n** of affection that was more nuzzle than bite, his smile soft and teasing. Even softer, he whispered right into her ear. "And I am so very proud to introduce you to him as my mate. There is not a soul past, present, or future I'd rather have beside me."
So much of his worry and his distress had fallen away. Having Luca here had helped his natural fretting, but having both Luca and Guilian was beyond his wildest dreams of having safety and support. He was sure everything would be alright now.
Luca wasn't nearly so startled as her son was. Guilian had a way of suddenly appearing that had long ago stopped surprising her. She turned with a warm and welcoming smile, a soft whicker escaping her evidence of her genuine pleasure at seeing him. He also had a way of appearing magically when she was thinking of him. As Tobi began murmuring to Cassiel, Luca sauntered over to the handsome red male.
"Imagine that. All I have to do anymore is think wistfully of you, and you appear at my silent beckoning!" Her expression was playful, but her nuzzle was both familiar and intimate. A simple touch that said volumes more than was obvious. She breathed deep his scent in a heavy sigh of contentment. "I have news for you, as I suspect you have for me as well." She grinned sideways at him, having already noted his eagerness. She knew well almost all his expressions, and this one spoke of a desire for information about current events, as well as the press to share his own. "Come, you need to meet someone first."
With that, she turned, her shoulder touching his, and moved towards the younger couple, her own heart beating high with pride and love. Her family was turning out so wonderfully. What more could a mare ask?
Why, grandfoals of course!
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Posted: Sun Feb 01, 2009 7:54 am
The mare had instinctively cringed when Guilian made his announcement. Not only because there was someone new out and about (and Cassiel was still a bit on the flighty side) but because of Tobias rather sudden and partially violent reaction. He had always protected her, but such a swift change made the mare instinctively wary.
Her beating heart had hardly time to recover before the entire scene changed nonetheless. Black eyes stared over at Tobias as he greeted the stallion. From a defender to chalk full of affection, it was only with learning his name that the mare finally understood. She had heard many a story of the rogue and rose stallion. Though she had never had the chance to meet Tobias' 'father' there was a small part of her that was pleased to get to do so now. . .
The rest of her, of course, instantly worried. Though he sounded like a kind soul, there was still a chance he could not approve. Cassiel was the one infiltrating the family, and though it was through Tobias own love and choice, that didn't necessarily mean this Guilian stallion had to approve. She tried not to stare, honest, she had more manners than that but she did half feel like burrying underneath her mate until he passed.
Obviously though, that wasn't going to happen.
Ears still half pinned, anxiety bubbled up ever so slightly, even with Tobias loving and adoring words. Her troubled expression did relax and reveal the most shy of smiles, and she forced herself to take in all of Tobie's affection. ". . . I'm sure all will be well then," she softly expressed, her voice still and forever a whisper. She couldn't guarantee it, mind, but if Tobias and Luca favored the incredibly red stallion maybe . . . maybe everything really would turn out well.
Averting her gaze, she found herself holding her breath as Luca and the stranger approached. Part of her wanted to struggle to her hooves, but lately it just seemed more and more troublesome than it was worth. Hopefully he'd forgive her rudeness . . . .
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Posted: Tue Feb 03, 2009 9:42 pm
Tobias' reaction was not lost on the stallion that had seen and doted on him since he was a foal, nor was it something that Guilian would have expected from this more impish and wandering-eyed of sons. Still, he had to laugh at the swiftness with which delight replaced defensiveness, and it was with a merry grin that he acknowledged Tobias' greeting. For the moment, though, that was ALL he was going to get; much as he loved his children, all things fell to their proper order with Guilian, and first...
"I am, as always, at your service for thoughts wistful or otherwise, Luca-Chica." His tone was playful as he addressed the purple mare, but the snap in his black eyes was one of fondness and the gentle caress he gave to her cheek with the tip of his wings bespoke the tenderer side of his sentiments. It was a short moment, but a tender one that would be all the more remarkable for those that knew Guilian and Luca, ESPECIALLY those that knew them 'intimately'. Yet for all their time apart, all their relationships elsewhere, time with Luca was something special for Guilian, something he always cherished and looked forward to.
Today looked to be a bit of case study in that regard, though; he had come intending to share his own news, but had stumbled into a veritable treasure-trove of sharing! He could be patient. Somewhat patient.
Glancing from Luca to Cassiel, Guilian gave an affirmative nod to Luca's suggestion, his quick gaze taking in the whispering closeness of Tobias to Cassiel as well as her pregnant state. Obviously there was some strong affection there, though he would be the first to embrace the ideal of closeness between lovers; he wasn't about to assume anything else until told otherwise. Still, it was too exciting; another son, about to be a father!
But he kept his excitement under wraps for the moment, allowing Luca to take the lead in position and introductions. For he himself, there remained simply to listen and to charm, things he had always felt his did most admirably. "So it would seem; I would think, though, that given his attitude Tobias might be interested in taking the honors of this introduction. Tobias?" With one somewhat amused but otherwise totally pleasant smile, Guilian looked his 'son' full in the face, giving the red mare a wink as he did so. Didn't want the poor girl to be TOO intimidated, after all!
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Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2009 3:45 pm
As his mate stirred uneasily, Tobias realized that it must be rather awkward, her lying down and everyone else standing up. Making a swift decision, he lowered himself to curl supportively along her side, providing a warm cushion for her to lean on. Undismayed, he gazed serenely up at his adoptive father.
"This is Cassiel, my mate," he announced, oozing pride with every word. "And she is expecting our foals any time now. You are going to be a grandfather." Oh, Tobi knew he'd already been a grandfather, possibly several times over, but they weren't his foals, after all. The difference clearly was significant to the purple stallion, but who could blame him? Right now, his whole world was wrapped up in the being of Cassiel and the new life she contained.
"Cassie, this is Guilian, my... other father." He nuzzled her and then flashed Guilian with an amused glance. However, saying such a thing did make him realize that he really would need to find his actual father, after the littles were born. He'd technically have as much if not more right to be proud of them as Guilian did.
Luca nodded agreement with the red stallion and stood back a pace to allow the introductions and news to be shared, merely smiling a quiet smile. After that, however, she stepped up, her own side brushing close against his folded wing. Softly, practically as a whisper, she added her own news. "I am also pregnant again, lover," she murmured, that particular glow as yet a gentle blush. "So you will be an adopted father once more as well." She looked supremely contented about this. Pregnancy had always agreed with her, and she savored the familiar sensations, even if they were few as yet.
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Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2009 1:24 pm
Cassiel watched Guilian timidly, her ebony eyes warm but a slightest knit in her brow painting her anxiety. She was naturally shy and terrified of the worlds judgment; though Luca and Tobias had embraced her fully . . . . Guilian was still new. It would take more than a seconds introduction for the mare to truly feel comfortable. But she'd try . . . was trying . . . very hard. Considering her once frequent dreary disposition, the fact she was actually smiling was amazing. No, she was still fragile, but the love Tobias and Luca seemed to feel for the red one helped. . . .
So long as he didn't find fault with her.
Averting her gaze down to his hooves, the mare's eternally whispered voice once again spoke. "It's an honor to finally meet you, sir," So she wasn't particularly extroverted and chatty, honestly Cassiel had no idea what else to say. Yes, she knew of him through Tobias and Luca but he was still a stranger. . . and Cassiel just plum didn't do well around such individuals.
Furthermore, she felt increasingly more anxious and ill. The foals she carried were increasingly restless and she found discomfort with the way she lay. Still, any pains pregnancy haunted her with often came and went. This discomfort too would pass, or so Cassiel assumed, and it was with no complaint she shifted a bit and continued to watch the reunited family.
A shame for Cassiel that she didn't realize even these pleasant moments might very soon go interrupted.
((I'll probably get things rolling with her pregnancy next post. ;3 Unless either of you objects. . . ))
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Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2009 12:53 pm
((No objection here, though I might bow out with Guilian for the duration. He's the gentlemanly sort like that XD))
Guilian had always loved to be in crowds, particularly crowds of friends or family. There, he was in one of his favorite elements, and that showed today. Cocking his head to one side, his dark eyes flitted intently from Tobias to Cassiel and back again, making a quick detour to Luca before looking back at Cassiel, then giving both a fond, pleased smile. "Well, it is likewise a pleasure to meet you, Cassiel, and a surprise as well." To put it mildly. Hearing Tobi use the word 'mate' was a bit surprising to the red stallion; Tobi had been one that seemed fully intent on embracing the footloose lifestyle of his mother, and hearing that he had settled down was somewhat unusual. Still, Guilian was not one to overly scrutinize anything; the important thing was that they were fond of each other and committed to making their monogamous relationship work out.
Consequently, it was easy for him to beam at both of them, and his voice was sincere as he continued, "I wish you both the best with your upcoming foals. My own children have provided me with nothing but joy and happiness, and I don't doubt that yours will do the same for you. That being said..."
Glancing from the young couple to Luca, Guilian smiled and slipped a wing up and around her body, the gesture a hug as well as a caress that ended with his strong flight feathers resting gently against her abdomen. Leaving them there, he turned to press his forehead lightly against hers, murmuring back in a teasing tone and not at all caring that they weren't alone. "My dear Luca, you think that you need to tell me when you are expecting, that I cannot identify the signs by now? It would wound me, if I were not so very delighted. The children of my Heart are as much mine as if they WERE mine."
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Posted: Sat Feb 21, 2009 4:57 pm
Tobias, oblivious to Guilian's previous expectations of him, merely basked in the glow of happiness and gazed adoringly at his beautiful mate.
Luca practically blushed like a young filly at Guilian's words, bending her head so that her neck arched prettily. She whickered deep in her chest, a close and intimate sound. "I know you will, love. You always have been there for me and my little ones." She nuzzled him as tenderly as the first time they'd touched. Somehow, their love tended to trascend the usual bounds of such relationships, and despite their odd habits in love, it seemed to have served only to draw them closer, binding them in ways untold by tongues and unknown to most hearts. The thought flitted through Luca's mind that perhaps... perhaps soon it would be time to set aside her frivolous ways and appreciate what she had been given in Guilian.
((Sorry so short, had little to say, wanted to get it moving.))
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Posted: Thu Feb 26, 2009 7:04 am
Everything was going well, as far as Cassiel understood. Her most beloved mate was by her side and looked as proud as a peacock! Luce was absolutely glowing with a radiance undefined and Guillian, though new and still a bit intimidated to the mare, had been nothing short of cordial! The affection he showered Luca with reminded Cassiel of her own heart of hearts actions. . . .
And for some reason, the black eyed mare couldn't help but be happy. Yes, her anxiety had spiked a bit which had caused her stomach to churn, but there was something about the charming Guillian that made . . . well, it was difficult to feel afraid. Especially with how gentle and kind he'd been to not just Luca, but herself and Tobias. This was her mate's father. . . or at least one of them, at any rate.
Content, Cassiel couldn't imagine a more perfect day, and was just beginning to relax against Tobias side when something happened. It was such a thing that caused her to instantly start, and with a small jerk of her body her black eyes went wide. Something hurt . . . . very, very much. The pain was temporary, albeit strong, and not wanting to alarm any of those around her she forced a shy smile and allowed her long, ebony hair to hide her face.
"Sorry . . . Guess I'm a bit restless." she apologized softly, struggling to push herself to her hooves. Maybe if she stretched a bit, the pains of pregnancy would lesson. Her body did such strange things with the growth of foal in her belly, today was surely one of them. Up until, of course, the first pains of labor began to strike once again.
Oh great spirits, what was this all about!? Instinct would soon kick in, but for a moment the pain of her body drowned out all logic and inexperience wasn't prepared to tell her that now was the time. Feeling quite ridiculous for causing a scene, she half stepped away from the happy family, jaw taught as she waited for the pain to pass. "Tobie," she finally half hissed, though the aggression wasn't meant for him at all. "I think something is wrong!"
((Okies . . . I've set up Cass - I figure maybe Luca might have a better idea of what's going on or possibly figure it out first. ; D My next post will definitely be a very vague and swift run through so foalies can finally happen. Minimum details included. *chuckles*))
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Posted: Mon Mar 02, 2009 8:02 pm
((short post for me, cause Guilian is a delicate soul))
Googly eyes and tender moments aside, Guilian was not one to ignore his surroundings. Cassiel's first twitch had attracted his attention; for one as well-versed in female body language as him, even minute changes were enough to rouse curiosity. By the time she stepped away, Guilian was frowning, not in confusion, but in concern. Something was causing her pain, and at her obviously advanced stage of pregnancy...
Glancing from the younger mare to Luca, Guilian murmured softly (so as to not alarm the younger ones), "Just how close to her delivery do you think she is, Chica? Is this something normal, or..."
Or is this something bad?
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