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 Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 8:36 am
This is set AFTER the skinwalker attack.
Some of the herd members were injured in the battle... but together they stood their ground and drove back the skinwalkers.
Renesme and Alice have both found out they are pregnant and are about to tell the herd the 'good' news, but fear the delivery of it since they are unsure how the others will take it after recent events.
Players involved:
Maion
Drashi
Misti
Chandra
Alice Cullen (pregnant)
Renesme Carlie Cullen (pregnant)
Sofiel
Haishan Fai
NOTE FOR MOUSE OR STAT RECORDER: After the individual introductionary posts (lots of them since there are lots of players) all the characters are then played together in one post. Hehehe, I just wanted to 'set the scene' in the beginning. smile
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Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 8:51 am
Renesme was feeling heavier than she had in a long while, at the best of times flying was hard on her delicate body but yesterday had been especially so. If the herd hadn't have needed her to go and fetch first Scythe and the Haya she was sure she would have given up trying and simply taken a gentle stroll..... but she knew that her family would help her with her expectant foals and although their was a heavy lingering darkness in the herd after the skinwalker attack she couldn't help but smile. After trying for so long she was finally going to have foals! Her and Rune had been trying for so long, she had become sure she would never have them.... but now.... she could already feel the gentle flutter of life in her belly. She was eating more, craving strange blue flowers and simply acting different to normal.
She sat next to her mother, Alice, with a smile on her face and a song in her heart. Although her mother hadn't told her she knew she was expecting too, perhaps it was the bond they shared, or maybe their ability but she knew it.... what Renesme didn't understand was why she hadn't shared the news with her?
They were all currently sat in a meeting with Maion, their protector and one of the brave stallions that had risked everything to save them from the dreaded threat of the skinwalker. Still, she leaned into her mother and whispers; "Congradulations mother."
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Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 9:01 am
 [[Imagine pregnant. Never recieved a pregnant cert for her]]
Alice had been wandering with her mate Jasper when the attack had taken place, it was shock to believe such a horrible thing could ever have happened here! After everything Maion and his protectors had done for her and her family she had never expected something so horrible to happen.... it felt, wrong! When no one else would help keep her daughter Renesme safe from hunters the Miakoda herd had stood up and took them in, their numbers had been much smaller then but they has accepted the three strangers as their own quickly, never excluding them. They had kept their word, protecting Renesme from those who wished her harm.
Still, she was with child, and although it was selfish she was glad that she and Jasper hadn't been here. If she lost Jasper now it would destroy her, with new mouths soon in need of feeding she needed him more than ever, her strong protector.... plus Jasper had been in many battles, attacked many many times.... it was unfair to ask him to again even though he would do so without question. Yes, it was selfish of her.
Alice accepted the warmth of her daughters embrace as she glanced at her mate who sat on her other side, silent as always.
Then Renesme spoke.... it startled her.... HOW? Her eyes darted to her daughter immediatly, questions filling them. Jasper had told her she wasn't showing yet. Did that mean....? She looked at her daughter, there was a gentle glow to her pelt and her belly was slightly more rounded than usual but could be put down to a slight weight gain. "Thank you Rene..... you too?" She asked in a whisper with a c**k of head as she waited for the meeting to start.
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Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 11:07 am
Misti's mind was filled with lots of thoughts, at the forefront of which was Alpha.... the strange regular stallion who had sheltered her from the storm, she was niave about such things even after having found her way to these lands by accident all those years ago. She still couldn't retrieve any memories before that... a face over and over again, similar to her own but in pink.... lover? Friend? Sibling? She wished she knew more but had never even caught sight of the familar face let alone discovered a way to find the truth.
Believing it was time to move on she had found Alpha.... she didn't know what was happening there but hoped it would be something good, she really liked him.
Still.... she was upset to hear that there was an attack here, thankfully their alpha and protector had saved them, Sengdroma leading the mares and several protectors away to an allied herd while Maion went into battle with the remaining protectors...... she admired them all for their strength and courage, knowing all too well she would not fair well against such a beast or such panic.
Misti looked and listened, around her were friends and family, behind them was the lake..... this was her home.
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Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 11:21 am
Sofiel's side still ached from the impact with the catwalker, and his legs still bled from the hits he had taken. Still, he regretted none of it. He had come here to speak with his old friend Maion only to discover the herd fighting two skinwalkers, and although they seemed to have things handled he hadn't wanted to leave them on their own. That would be cowardly and he was anything but a coward.
That was why he found himself here, Maion and Sengdroma had taken it upon themselves to speak to the herd. Since many of their herdmates were still nervous and afraid they had decided to do it in two large groups rather than the usual one on one seasons, the sight of their alpha and protector appearing so strong and having won was helping but it was obvious their were ripples left behind from the attack. Maion had asked him to wait a little while so he could address some issues before they spoke, which was fine... the news Sofiel wished to share was not urgent, and unlike what Maion was trying to achieve it could wait.
So, Sofiel observed the group that had gathered for Maion's words..... wondering how they had been effected. He recognised few of them. Drashi, Maion's adopted son... Chandra, Maion's daughter, and a stallion who had fought side by side with him against the skinwalkers earlier.... but no one else.
What would happen?
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Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 11:35 am
Haishan Fai lay on his side panting, his injury was still very tender and even though the external wound was gone it still hurt like a b***h. He had taken a few blows to the side and claws had dug in deep.... it was the second time in a year that Maion had been forced to help save his life, the first time was when he first met his lifemate Tullikka.... in fact.... he was almost positive it was the same skinwalker that had attacked him then that had attacked earlier today. A hawkwalker... a rare enough breed that the beast stood out in his memory. White feathers tainted and covered in blood.... disgusting!
He turned to the fluttercorn that had also helped save his life..... was he really so pathetic that he needed overs to come to his rescue so often? Of course he had recieved the injuring saving the young colt that was in love with Chandra but still.
He saw Maion approaching, so in his breathless voice he spoke to the group; "Maion approaches." He knew a lot of the herd liked their protector to see them in the best light, but Haishan knew the old stallion enough to understand that he simply wanted everyone to be themselves and to be happy... something that seemed strained right now, to say everyone was nervouse would be an understatement.
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Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 11:47 am
 Drashi circled the group, nervous about being around others... he was nervous, even though it had been a while since Xanthus and Arianna had left the scar on his heart was wide open, he simply wanted to go back to his duty... wanted to surround himself by nothing but work, bury himself until he forgot the pain of his heart.
He hated the fact that his father would be here soon.... he always saw the pain in his eyes and gave him that 'look', the look of utter pity. Drashi didn't want pity..... he wanted to escape his pain.
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Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 11:53 am
Chandra walked next to her father worried about Sonnet... although they hadn't really spoke about anything since she admitted she liked him she couldn't simply ignore the fact that he had fought for them, side by side with her father and the protectors.... to keep her safe? Her heart fluttered at the thought, but still her father refused to tell her much.... why?
"So he is ok? Where did he go?" She asked for at least the seventh time on their walk over to the group, she had been the last person invited for this little group meeting..... the ones that her father and mother had deemed in need of 'strength', she was to be their 'gentle touch', everyone seemed to know that she hated violence... had even refused to learn to fight more than basic self defence. Chandra simply had no desire to get anyone hurt or fight, which was why she was so destressed that Sonnet had left after fighting..... why?
She looked at her father, pleading eyes.
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Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2010 12:15 pm
 Maion's heart felt heavy. He hated the fact that several of his close friends and herdmates had become injured by Kimi and her 'pet' the catwalker. He wanted to tell them all the truth... that the beasts were there for him, but they had stood by him, refusing to let him or the herdlands fall.... together they had pushed back the creatures causing them more harm than they had taken. Haishan Fai was the worst injured, but with the thanks of several healers -his own minor powers included- they had managed to heal the wound, now all he had left was the tenderness of freshly formed skin and flesh. Painful enough in itself. Maion had taken several hits, at one point being the sole attention of both Kimi and the catwalker..... but he had not moaned about them, they were on his legs and belly, hidden by his long mane..... he would take the pain, let it remind him how close they had come to destruction and deverstation. If he could help it something like that would never happen again. Later he would talk to his mate about Kimi.... she was family as far as he was concerned, but if he needed to end her life to protect his herd and family then so be.... it would become yet another cross he would have to bare. He looked at his daughter, smiling softly and decided he would answer her this time, she deserved that much. "He is fine Chandra, fear not. He came to see you but wished to clean up first..... he will be back soon." He knew his answer would likely worry her more... making her wonder why he needed to go wash, but the fact was he had been sprayed with blood from Haishan Fai standing in the way to protect him. As far as he knew the boy was unharmed. "Enough for now Chandra," he said with a soft smile as he nipped her mane and moved closer to the group once more. Familar friendly faces stood before him.... yet he felt different, in all their time together they had never faced such a danger before, nothing had dared to attack them.... perhaps it was simply luck? Or maybe their numbers had been too small? But now the truth was unavoidable.... they would come across dangers, and only together could they survive.... but he must give them the option to leave if they wish. With a smile and a slight tug back of his shoulders so he stood slightly taller he looked over the group, beautiful soquili. "Dear friends, welcome." He looked to Haishan Fai with concern as he asked; "How do you feel now?" Then his attention turned to a pacing Drashi, his heart ached at the mere memory of the pain his son suffered with everyday, he would do anything to remove it -take it as his own, but it was a cross he could not take from him. He didn't wish to draw attention to the boy so simple nodded his welcome, the meaning clearing 'thank you for coming son'.
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Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2010 11:01 am
Renesme looked at her mother with a soft smile and a nod of her head, she was indeed pregnant and it was the happiest day of her life. She embraced Alice, her head snuggling into the warm spot in her mothers neck. Ever since she was a foal she longed to be snuggled in here, enjoyed the warmth and the tenderness of the embrace. She sent images to her mother.... a talent she had never been able to master, her emotions clear from the happiness she shared. Her and Rune flying, swimming, dancing, playing..... his joy over the news. The warmth of the whole situation enveloped her like a lovers embrace and she did nothing to spoil it, even when Maion came into view and greeted them.
The old stallion had never scared Renesme, not even as a foal. Yes, he was large.... much larger than many of the other stallions, including her own father Jasper, but he was gentle, a heart of spun gold as delicate as his emotions.... which he always seemed to wear in his eyes. Eyes so blue they always reminded her of the Ocean and the Waves. Still, in this moment it was clear the old stallion was hurting.... something Renesme had never wanted to see, he had saved her and her family, granted them sanctuary when no one else would, protected them, help them close..... family he had said.... and he had been a man of his word and better. For that she would never be able to repay him.
Renesme looked around, she saw everyone suddenly alert and looking at him... waiting, she realised, waiting for news. Many had said they would have to disband, that they had come to close to losing and it had pained their leaders so much they could not bare it.... but Renesme thought differently, she believed the insident, although sad, would have the opposite effect.... it would bind them closer.
Alice was about to say something when a flood of happiness and images interupted her thoughts, all she could do was smile. After so long her daughter had found peace.... true peace, and for that she would be forever in Maion and Sengdroma's debt.
As if on que the old stallion approached, she smiled at him.... wondering what this was all about.
Misti's heart was confused, she could feel the pain coming from several of the group.... the injuries on some more evident on others. Haishan Fai, a stallion bound to Sengdroma's sister lay on his side visable wincing despite the fact that no wound could be seen... healed but still damaged? It made her want to reach out with her own weakened healing powers and see what she could do..... but she suspected that Maion would have ensured everything that could be done had been done so she left it.
Her attention turned to Drashi, she never saw the young stallion much these days..... he had been so happy when he had two beautiful sons, and deverstated when they left. Would she end up like him? Would she fall hopelessly in love with Alpha only to have him rip out her heart? She knew he was a wanderer after all.... knew she would be unable to change that.... but could she survive if he left her? What was growing between them was still so fresh and fragile that she feared the wind itself would blow it over. Only time would tell she suspected.
Her thoughts were interupted by the arrival of Chandra and her father Maion, Misti owed Chandra much.... the much younger mare had helped save her from a hawk walker named Kimi, and rumour had it that it was the same skinwalker that had attacked again today. True? A shiver ran down her spine, the creature had truely been a beast.
Simple as always Sofiel bowed his head in welcome and respect to his old student, it had been due to Maion's planning and dividing of his protectors that they had managed to drive back the two skinwalkers. A smart plan... one he would have used himself.
It was clear that Maion had learnt much since their lessons when he was a foal. He was.... proud.
Haishan Fai winced again as he tried once more to get comfortable, the very muscles and blood seemed to ache and hurt. How long would he be left like this? The only positive thing was... he was no longer bleeding, he would never have been able to show himself to his mate bleeding and injured the way he had been, she would have killed him. That brought a smile to his face. She loved him as strongly and as desperatly as he loved her..... his delicate little rose.
As Maion addressed him he found his smile staying on his face, he nodded before speaking; "Better," only a half lie; "I have been through worst I am sure." Maion had been there when the same beast had attacked him years before.... it seemed the old stallion made it a habit of saving his life. Not everyone knew that Maion's healing powers were not that strong, perhaps it was simply because many wanted to believe that he was all powerful... when in fact he wasn't, he had flaws and limits just like everyone else. The difference? He would fight with all his strength to protect and defend those he loved, he would push and push himself.... making him appear larger than life. For that Haishan was grateful.... overwise he would have been dead, twice now!
Drashi saw his father look, and although he was thankful that Haishan Fai had stolen his attention he had to admit that he was thankful he hadn't been ignored.... he wasn't invisable. But that only made the pain all the more real..... would his heart never heal?
"Oh," Chandra had been about to ask more, but knew her father had not wanted to talk about it. If Maion told her that Sonnet was fine then it was the truth...... but still she found herself worried. After the whole situation with Alaistair and Sonnet, her heart had finally recognised that Sonnet was the one she wanted, he was the one that her heart desired above all else..... and for that she couldn't lose him.
As the approached the others she moved to Misti's side, they were fast friends after a skinwalker attack not too long ago.... she had failed to tell her father about it, fearing he would limit her freedom.... but now she felt guilty, what if she could have prevented what happened today? If only she had given her father warning that the beasts were in the area... maybe he could have prepared, maybe he could have gone after them first.....? So many possiblities, so many unknowns.... yet the guilt refused to fade. Especially as she watched an injured Haishan and Sofiel.... was that her doing? Had Sonnet been injured too?
A tear rolled down her cheek.
Maion smiled at his old friend, Sofiel, and bowed in return before turning his attention fully to Hiashan once more. "Brave as always, old friend." He said with a smile. Maion now knew of at least two attacks by Kimi in this area.... each time she had been coming after him, each time she had been getting closer and closer. The pain was evident in his eyes, he had promised Sengdroma that once more and he would kill her.... family or not. He could not risk his herd or family getting injured because she had a vendetta against him.
As it stood they had driven them back, injured them to the point that they would have to recover before trying anything again..... the plan was that Maion would go and find her, talk sence into her..... take her to her mother, Eaving, if needs be. If talking didn't work then he would fight, show her that she could never win.... but still the pull of family called to him, even if they were not 'blood' relatives she was skill kin, her mother had adopted Maion as a lost foal, brought him up, taught him many things... then she had fallen pregnant by a stallion called Doyle -a pawed Mutant, but while she had been pregnant she was cursed.... a skinwalker. History was history..... she had tried to save him, his presence keeping the curse at bay for a while. Of course, he had not discovered the truth until many years later.... he had even believed that Eaving had been killed by the very thing she had become.
He shook his head, there was no point dwelling on the past, even after all those years of looking and hunting he had never found the truth of his origins..... he just knew that the Ocean and the Waves called to him as if in answer whenever he looked for the truth..... but he could not unlock their secrets.
He focused on the group, looking from one to the other. "Today was a sad day, but together we must look to the future." It was then he noticed the tear in his daughters eye... was she thinking of Sonnet again?
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Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2010 4:07 am
Renesme noticed that with each of Maion's words everyone's look turned more and more serious, she even spotted Chandra.... crying? For as long as she had known Maion's three children he knew that Maion was close and particularly protective of his youngest daughter Chandra.... but why was she crying? Had something happened? Or was the sensative mare simply feeling the pain of the herd as her own? It wouldn't suprise Renesme if she was, ever since Zeta had her three children Chandra had been training and prefecting her skills as a midwife -something that she would need herself soon- but as part of her training she was opening herself up to the feelings and emotions of others, Zeta had shared how Chandra used her healing to take the egde off some of the more painful contractions.... allowing her to concentrate despite the pain, it was clear the other mare was very thankful to Chandra for her talents. Io, Chandra's sister, was also a gentle soul -not suprising given the true natures of both their parents- but unlike Chandra Io was focusing on medicines and herbs. It was rumoured that the mare could mix something up to aid with any ill. Fascinating.
As Maion spoke of sad times Alice's attention turned fully to her mate Jasper, their eyes met and she knew what he was thinking...... it could have been worst. Jasper had experienced more violence than Alice even liked to consider, but since they joined the herd they had escaped such things, that didn't mean they would leave..... but..... it made them wonder, if more was to come. They had foals on the way after all.
Misti smiled as Chandra sat next to her, but frowned at the tear. She leaned in and wiped it away with her nose before whispering; It will be ok, we won remember." Still, Misti couldn't help but feel she was missing something..... had something else happened?
Sofiel took the opportunity to move, he walked around the group before stopping near Drashi, he didn't say anything... there was no need to, he hoped his presence alone would sooth the hurting stallion. Together.... they were strong.
Haishan shook his head, he had not been brave..... if he had taken a moment to think it was likely he would not have done it in the first place, but the young colt he had saved had been worth it.
"I think Tuli would disagree." He mused with a soft chuckle. Once upon a time all his life had been about was one fight, one hunt after another.... until her, she had brought light and happiness into his life. Made him smile.... and now he found himself wanting to do the same, to lighten the situation slightly. Sure, he understood the seriousness... he had nearly died after all. But the facts stayed the same.... they had won.
Drashi watched as Sofiel, his fathers old mentor, approached. The older stallion was much smaller than him -the flutter blood- he suspected, but he still had an aura of 'don't piss me off' about him. It made him smile.
He was silent for a long moment, simply watching and listening everything his father was saying..... but something was tugging at him. He turned to Sofiel and asked; "Will you teach me some new moves?" Sure, Drashi had learnt to fight -he was good at it too- but he knew that Sofiel was a ninja, trained to do much more than just fight..... maybe Drashi could use it? Maybe it would be a good distraction to mend his broken heart?
Chandra felt the warmth of Misti before she realised what was happening, once the mare had finished wiping the tear away she turned to face her old friend, mouthing two simple words; "Thank you." Living with the herd, even if it had been since she was a foal.... had been different from her time with her mother and Sofiel. She noticed how herd supported each other, relied on each other.... it had been part of the reason for her descision to become a midwife, pay them back for their kindness.
Maion smiled as he watched his friends and family support each other, silent looks, gestures of friendship, supporting strength. Not everything had to be spoken to be useful, he knew that. For years his presence alone had soothed and calmed many within the herd, the strong presence of their herds guardian had made them feel protected and safe within the Miakoda herd boarders...... he would ensure it was that way again. This was their home, and seeing them all supporting each other only strengthened his resolve.... they would recover, they would grow and become stronger once more. TOGETHER!
"I have spoken with your alpha Sengdroma," he started, he knew that by mentioning his mate it would bring them all together as a whole. He didn't know anyone who didn't appreciated Sengdroma's courage and strength. And despite the fact she appeared dainty and delicate she was more than capable of holding her own -something Maion knew well, he thought with a smile as a phantom pain shot through his chest at the reminder of the hit she landed all those years earlier. "Together we have discussed many options. Firstly, the herd shall remain standing." He hoped the new would sooth some of them, but he wasn't foolish enough to believe that that alone would settle their uncertainities; "But we understand the worry such an attack will have caused..... and so, we are inviting any who wish to leave our ranks to do so. You go with our blessing and hopes for a good and long future," Although he was smiling, he knew he didn't want any of them to go..... he wanted them all to stay, they had proven today that together they were strong. "But before you make that decision I want you to think about a few things. We survived, together we had the strength to fight back against the worst kind of monster. Together we overcame a great evil.... and our strength will only increase over time. Also remember that generally skinwalkers do not hunt together, this was a rare occurrance... once that I will do everything within my power to prevent from happening again," even if it meant the death of Kimi. "Also consider that this is your home, we are all family. If we stand and protect what we have made for ourselves I am sure nothing will ever take it from us."
He fell silent for a long moment, allowing each of them to digest his words. He knew he was asking them alot, but in the end of the day it was their decision to make. Maion only hoped they would stay..... to him, that was the right decision. "As a precaution I will personally be offering self defence classed. Both beginner and expert." Maion had already decided, while stood on the battlefield, watching his friends fight for their herd..... young and old, masters of combat and beginners alike.... that he would prepare them all, next time they would not be taken by suprise.
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Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2010 4:57 am
Renesme found her attention squarly on Maion, it was obvious he and Sengdroma had discussed this in depth, so much so that they had tried to look at all the opinions and find solutions to them. Still, Renesme had always considered this place.... with its beautiful lake and sparkling clearing her home, it was the only place she had ever felt truely safe. Plus coming back here had brought her together once more with Rune.
The mere thought of Rune reminded her of the foals in her belly.... and she knew, she wouldn't want them to be born anywhere other than here. With a smile she interupted Maion, she hadn't meant to but the impulse to support him in his effort to keep the herd together had drove her to it; "I shall be staying." She beamed at him, the love for her expected foals and her herd clear as she continued, "I trust in your ability to continue to lead and protect us." She knew with all her heart and soul that everything would work out just fine.
Alice's heart skipped a beat and she found herself torn.... torn between what to do, Renesme's determination and sudden words made it all the more complicated. She knew she couldn't leave her daughter behind.... they had been together so long, and now they were both with foals.... could she leave her grandchildren behind too?
She looked to Jasper again, with a smile on a face but sadness in her heart. They had much to discuss.
Misti smiled at her friends thank you, and then turned her head as Renesme, a mare she had never really spoken to spoke out. The determination and honesty in her voice made her feel exactly what the other mare felt..... she felt the same.
She looked at Chandra once more and then to Maion; "I will be staying too. I have complete faith in you and Sengdroma, you have done so much for us all.... and now it is time for us to repay the faviour. Thank you Maion, it is because of you and your kindness that so many of us are safe and happy."
Sofiel found himself torn, Drashi had turned to him just as the the mares had started to speak out at Maion's words. Still he took the time to turn to the young stallion and nod; "Agreed," he paused, Sofiel had always been a stallion of few words. "On one condition." Again he paused, after observing the herd he knew they would be ok, but there was lots of healing left. Healing that would take a long time to happen.... Drashi too had healing, and unless he interacted he would never do so. "Help the herd heal." That was all he said as he returned his focus to Maion, the stunned look on his face was hard to hide.
Haishan Fai found his attention darting between all the different mares as they spoke, his heart glowed.... for a moment he had feared that fighting for them had been for nothing. He turned to Maion and spoke with all the passion he could muster in his tender state; "You shall always have mine and Tuli's support old friend."
Drashi was stunned at Sofiel and those speaking out, sure he hadn't wanted the herd to collapse, it had saved him after all..... the memories of that day were still painful, they haunted him at night. He lost everyone he could ever remember before Maion and Sengdroma. Had held his sister until he had been found... cold and near death himself.
Still... could he agree to Sofiel's condition. He hesitated and finally replied; "I will think about it," he wasn't sure he was ready to let the memory of Arianna go... not yet.
Chandra smiled wide at the support of her herd, she knew they were strong.... but the determination in their voice had flawed her. "Me too Daddy." She chirped, she would alwways stand by those she loved.
Maion was blown away by the instant support her recieved, humbled he bowed his head and looked to each of them... not everyone had answered straight away, nor had he expected them to, but still..... they seemed to be as determinded as he and his mate were to stand together.
"Thank you," he said as he stood tall once more. "I know not all of you can answer straight away, nor would I expect you too...... already the responces of those who have spoken out have...." he paused to consider the right word; "....stunned me." He knew it was fine to show them 'weakness', that he felt as strongely as they did. After all.... they all supported each other, and sometimes Maion needed to be picked back up too.
"We will bounce back from this. Something good and happy will happen soon..... you shall see." He said with a smile.
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Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2010 6:09 am
Renesme listened and smiled as others spoke out too, it warmed her heart to see so many had needed very little time to consider what was happening to the herd. She turned to her mother, curious as to why she too had not spoken out -or her father for that matter. She tilted her head, her mother seemed.... sad.... confused.... was she truely considering leaving? After everything they had been throught? For as long as she could remember they had been together... one and the same, they were her family, had protected her like no one else before the Miakoda herd had. Could she truely let them leave her? What about the children they both carried?
Her heart dropped a beat and she lowered her head until she heard the words; 'Something good and happy will happen soon..... you shall see.' Something good had happened. She was pregnant... after so long of trying her and Rune were finally expecting. She beamed and held her head high as she looked at Maion. She knew the old stallion had a soft spot for foals, "Something already did." If it was possible her smile widened, "....for I am expecting." She turned to her mother, wondering if she would make an announcement too.
Alice could see the sadness in her daughters eyes and it saddened her, she looked to Jasper and he simply nodded. She knew what he was saying.... they would stay. Jasper was a fierce protector, he could help keep the herd safe, and that way they could stay with their daughter and grandchildren for many years to come. She nodded back.
She was about to speak out, express her desire to stay too when she heard Renesme talk of her expected foals. Shock covered her face as she turned to see her daughter now looking at her... encouraging her to speak out too. She glupped. Sure, Alice was usually loud, happy and smily... some would go as far as say hyperactive, but with the foals had come a new responsiblity and the attack had scared her. She had run all her life to avoid it.... yet, as she looked in Renesme eyes she knew she was doing the right thing.
Finally she spoke, turned her head to look at everyone before settling on Jasper. "We are expecting also..... and we shall stay." She then turned to Chandra, some of her usual sparkle back in her body and voice as she spoke, "It seems you will busy."
Misti beamed at the unexpected but welcome news. She shout out her congradualtions before she really took the time to think about it, "Congradulations... bot of you." Misti had always wanted children, always wanted to have lots of her own..... she had even considered opening a nursery at one point, maybe she should now given all the sudden new arrivals.
Sofiel's head turned to the mares as they spoke..... two pregnant mares? How had this herd found so much luck when he and his mate had had none in that department. He may not be the most maternal of fathers but he longed for children because his mate desperatly wanted them.... and he would do anything for Sachiko. ANYTHING!
A frown formed on his face..... he would have to try harder to make her dream come true.
Then he remembered he was having a conversation with Drashi, his head turned towards him, welcome for the distraction but wondering how the young stallion would take the news. The last foals to be born into the Miakoda herd were his own after all. "Take some time to think." was all he said, he knew the boy needed comfort.... yet the concept was so alien to Sofiel, a stallion who spend most of his time alone or with Sachiko that he had never really learnt to blend into social situations.... he could become one with the forest, but not talk to another..... strange.
Haishan beamed, he and Tullikka had begun trying for foals, she had decided she had waited long enough to find a mate and that it was finally her time, after all her younger sister Sengdroma hadn't just had children she had also created something good and strong.... the Miakoda herd. He and Tuli had no desire to do the same, but to have their own children... to spoil and teach... well that was certainly a dream they shared.
Drashi had heard and seen enough, he looked to Sofiel nodded and then took one last look at the pregnant mares.... they seemed so happy, he could almost remember the feeling. When Arianna had shared the news he had been overwhelmed and excited, but that feeling was gone.... Xanthus was also gone, only Arashi remained, and with his golden pelt he reminded Drashi far too much of his mother.
He would not dampen their mood.... so he turned and started to leave. It was for the best.
Chandra beamed at the two pregnant mares and nodded enthusiastically, she stood up and was moving towards them before she even realised she had decided to do so. "It would be an honour!" She giggled and kissed each of them in turn. Her attention was only drawn away when she saw movement..... she knew who it was before she even turned to look. Drashi.
Sure enough, he was leaving. Her heart went out to him, her brother had had a difficult time lately, and she wondered if he would ever truely heal. She would let him have his space for now, but had already planned to find food and take it to him later, a person could be alone too much she believed, and it was time that Drashi came back to her.
Maion's grin widened at the good news, a heart laugh left his lips as he looked to Renesme and then Alice and Jasper. "Congradulations! I do believe this deserves a celebration!" Two new sets of foals? And after such deverstation.... could their timing be any better? It was almost as if the fates had allianed to help them after their misfortune, it gave him..... hope.
"This is wonderful news! We must share it with Sengdroma and the others at once," his smile refused to fade now, genuine and honest like his words, "If you will permit such a thing of course."
Then he saw Chandra's head turn, his did the same..... together they watched as Drashi walked away. His son was in so much pain, Maion wanted to gather it all up, take it as his own and save the boy who had somehow managed to survive such deversation from feeling more pain and loss. But what could he do? His eyes narrowed, the sadness returning to them..... he would discuss it with Sengdroma, but maybe it was time Drashi took some time to explore the world, find a new distraction from his pain? Or maybe Maion could help..... talking had done little in the past, but maybe fighting and practising could.... new duties perhaps? Drashi was a good and strong protector for the herd, perhaps training others would help him to reintergrate into the herd once more.
A plan started to take place in his mind as he allowed his son the space he so desperatly sought, for now he would allow it.... but soon.... Drashi would be one of them once more.
His attention turned back to the mares, "We will have to have Chandra care for you, and Io too."
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Posted: Tue Jan 11, 2011 4:47 am
Renesme beamed at her mother confessed as well. Did that mean she would be staying too? It did! She wanted to laugh and embrace her mother but decided she would wait until they were alone for that. Now.... the herd needed her, they wanted to lavish attention on her, use her as leverage to forget the pain.... and Renesme was happy with that. She wanted to be useful, to be able to offer healing and aid in any way she could.
She turned to Chandra, her smile simply refusing to fade now, despite the tears of joy that threatened to pour over her eyes for the whole world to see. She was happy... and now she didn't have to hide it. "I think the honour is all ours Chandra. I know mares have been doing this for hundreds of years but I must confess.... I am scared." Still she smiled, Renesme had heard lots of stories about birth and pregnancy, and not all of them were happy and sparkly. Then of course there was the possibility that one of them would inherit her odity. Fangs and a need for blood.
Still she looked to Maion and nodded enthusiastically.
Alice knew her daughter was hurting, worried as well as exstatically happy. So she moved and nuzzled her, a gentle and subtle movement that was designed to sooth her daughter.
She too turned her head to Chandra and nodded. "Thank you. From both of use." She said as she turned to Jasper for a moment. She really did love her mate, and didn't want anything to spoil this moment. Their moment... their children were on the way.
She beamed and nodded at Maion too. "I would love that."
Misti squeaked with excitment. She would admit she was jealous... but in a way it gave her hope, maybe she and Alpha would have something between them? Maybe one day they would be allowed to have children?
Misti had always dreamed of children. She sat quietly, watching her herd with a smile and hope. You could achieve anything if you had hope.
Sofiel watched the happenings and excitment of the herd over the news, yet his eyes kept glancing towards Drashi and the path he was taking away from them all. It would take time for him to heal. But he would heal... Sofiel was sure of it.
Then his eyes spotted Haishan Fai and he wandered towards him, sitting down in a silence he was feared for among his own kind.
Haishan nodded as Sofiel had come to join him, he turned and spoke, despite the pain from his phantom injuries. "Are you jealous too old friend?" Still, he couldn't get rid of the smile from his face, as far as he knew Sofiel had no one -that saddened him- but Haishan had Tullikka..... and he would be the best he could for her.
Always and forever.
Drashi walked away from his family. His heart hurt, a pain that couldn't be understood unless you had gone through it, something his herd had not. Most had their lifemates.... or were looking for them. None had had a relationship they thought would last only to have it ripped to shreds before it really had a chance of starting.
He wandered to the one place he found peace... the garden he had planted in memory of his sister.
Chandra felt bad that Renesme was crying, and did her best to wipe them away without interfering with Alice's embrace. "There there Renesme. This is a time to be happy!" She chimed.
Then she stepped back and walked towards her father. "Would you like me to spread the news? Or I could request mother bring everyone here with her?" She tilted her head and waited for her fathers orders. She loved her father, and wondered if this excitment she saw in him even hinted at waht he felt when he head realised that her, Io and Mal were his? Would he be just as excited to discover their mother pregnant again? She smiled and wondered what it would be like to have a younger sibling, she had always been the youngest.
Maion smiled and looked to his daughter after he pulled his attention away from Drashi. He would have to watch the situation carefully. "I think you should do just that dear. Tell them... a celebration is in order. Ask your mother to collect some fruits and water." A celebration would do the whole herd some good.
He walked to Renesme and Alice and gave each of them a kiss before saying, "May the Moon bless you and the new life your are preparing to bring into the world." Then he turned and spoke to each of the other members in turn. First Sofiel, Maion knew he was probably one of the few who knew about Sachiko so he didn't want others to learn of it just incase it would upset his old friend. "Thank you for being here old friend, it means more than you can ever know." Next was Haishan Fai, "Sengdroma tells me that her sister is trying for children...." He chuckled heartily. "Good luck old friend, you won't know what has hit you when they arrive." He beamed at his friend, wondering if he would be next to declare news of foals?
Then he walked over to Misti and sat down, giving her a kiss before saying in a whisper so only she could hear. "Your time will come soon. Soon."
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Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2011 9:21 am
Renesme smiled at Chandra and then at Maion before nodding softly. "Thank you." She turned to Alice and nuzzled into her side, love bubbling up within her... she wanted to be with her mate, to be Rune.
Standing to her all fours, her belly slightly swollen from her three foals she bowed her head to those around her, "I will go and bring my mate, I know he is not far." She wanted to be part of their joy, their celebration but she needed to be with Rune just as much. He was part of her, so deep in her soul that she ached without him... and after so long of trying she was overjoyed to have finally found herself with child.
"I shall return soon." She said with a smile, a skip in her step as she went to leave the group.
Alice smiled and nodded to her daughter. "Stay safe, would you like Jasper to come with you? Or another stallion.... it's not safe." She added the last part in a desperate whisper, she knew they had won this time... but were the skinwalkers truely gone? Would they not come back?
Either way she knew that the herd was vunderable, and a pregnant mare twice so. Alice didn't want anything to happen to Renesme, nothing at all.
Misti turned to Maion and nodded. "I hope so." She said, he voice no more than a wistful whisper.
Sofiel smiled softly and nodded to Maion, "No problem old friend, I am yours to use as you see fit while I am here."
He turned his head to Haishan Fai, he went to shake his head... was he jealous? In a way he wasn't, he was pleased for the two couples gifted with new life.... but he couldn't shift the feeling, the need that it was time to have his own to. For him and Sachiko to have children, for him to take time out from this constant game he played and have a normal life for once.... children, family..... togetherness and nothing else. He longed for it. Finally he nodded and spoke, "It would seem so. You?"
Sofiel didn't really do conversation but found himself wanting to be part of this occassion, more than just an observer.
Haishan smiled, his gaze switching between Maion and Sofiel's before he nodded to each. "They may be a hoof-ful," He said with a wistfulness clear in his tone, "But I desire them still. Tullikka has waited too long for me already.... I should not have kept her waiting, had I known my mate was out there somewhere I would have looked harder for her. I shall not take her for granted again."
He chuckled, but soon grunted as the pain in his side ached once more. "What she wants she will get."
Drashi looked to the sky. Everything was going wrong, why couldn't he have had a normal life, not filled with death but only happiness. Why couldn't she find someone special for his own? Someone who would love him for him, stay with him because they wanted him as much as he wanted them?
WHY NOT HIM!! Everyone else seemed so happy. Everyone else seemed to be getting everything good going their way.
He looked at his garden, memories of his sister flooded him. He wanted her back with him, so much it was like an ache that that never left him. Tears filled his eyes and he finally let them fall.
Chandra nodded to her father, taking a moment to look at the forest were Drashi had disappeared before setting off in search of her mother and the rest of the herd.
Although this was a time for celebration her heart ached for her brother, he may not be her family by blood but he was family... which meant she would always look out for him, always help if she could. But this time Chandra feared that the injury was buried so deep in his heart that not even he could reach it any more.
Still, she tried not to let it stop her.... with each clip-clop of her hooves on the ground she raced forward. She would find Drashi later, for now she had a party to put together.
Maion smiled at Misti and nodded, the delicate looking mare with overly large wings deserved happiness and peace, he didn't know all of her story for she was a very private person and Maion didn't wish to pry into her business. But it was clear she had been hurt badly, abandoned more than once, lost her memories at some point but somehow survived..... thrived.
Turning to look at Hiashan and Sofiel he found himself chuckling, "You two shall never change." Although he had not known Haishan Fai that long Maion liked the stallion, he was loyal and trustworthy and the words he spoke said a lot for his character. "I am sure Scythe would be happy to see her with babes too." He said, unlike his own children with Sengdroma at least the much older stallion would be able to enjoy his daughter pregnant, help care for the baskets and even be there when they pop. He would like that... and one day Maion wanted to be there for his own children, he wanted to hold Sengdroma as she slept, to watch her bump kick and wiggle with the magic of the children inside of her belly. He wanted to care for them, all of them. Love them as they deserve, as was fitting the alpha of the herd, for his mate, for the love of his life.
He turned to watch Chandra leave, bowing his head and saying a swift silent prayer for her departure, his attention then turned to Renesme. "I would be happy to accompany you if you wish. I am sure it will settle Alice's heart also." He would not force his company, his herd members were strong and powerful and did not need him to baby them, but his offer would stand for each and everyone of them. If they needed him they had only to ask. If they wanted his advice he would offer it without hesitation, if it was about something he had no experience he would find them someone who did. For his herd, for his family... Maion would do anything.
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