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 Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2011 2:58 pm
 Sir Duke was sitting by the frozen small stream that split his lands in two uneven parts. He had acquired these lands from the Ruler through hard work and adventures as a knight. But he was old now, and supposedly retired. He was supposed to come back to his lands and settle, but it had only a month and he was bored. Sir Duke had no mate. Sir Duke had no children (illegitimate or not). Sir Duke had no purpose. What was he to do now? His long wavy tail unsettled the snow by his feet as he pondered. This would not do. He needed an adventure or a Quest. Maybe it was time to search for a mate, but he did not know where to start.
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Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2011 8:37 pm
Still, the winter lands could be dreadfully romantic all the same. To cuddle with ones beau, to share the warmth and fin excuses to be close to one another. The stars never looked so bright as on a clear (and frigid) night at the peak of winter. Plus, the way the land fell in to shadow so swiftly . . . it could be eerie, and a bit frightening, but there was so much adventure to be had on a winters eve.
Of course, most of those adventures were with a loved one. And Amarii was quite without such a thing. Of course, she was waiting for someone special, her prince charming and she wouldn't settle for anyone less. But the big problem was a lack of actual princes! How many of her friends had she tried to set up, only to look around and realize the single men seemed in short supply?
Oh well. Her matchmaking days were on a bit of a hiatus. Most of her friends were scattered, and Amarii herself wasn't entirely sure where her cloven hooves had lead her. Still, the sprinkle of water of the flowing stream was music to her ears. The land seemed quiet, and Amarii had resigned herself to keeping her own council and company. So when she rounded the bend of the stream, she almost gasped in surprise when she caught sight of someone.
She wasn't alone!
And on closer inspection it was a stallion too! Oh dear. How unprepared was she. Still, there was little ot do about her appearance now, and thankfully, she knew she was pretty even at her worst. How long had it been since she'd met someone new? Far too long. . . hopefully this one wouldn't mind a spot of company.
"Salutations, my fine sir!" She called out on the opposite side of the stream, slowly picking her way to the edge so she might drink. Her hair trailed behind her and down her back, some of the shorter curls safe from the slush and mud winter produced. She had to hold her tail up a bit, as the locks were long and frequently tried to drag. "I hope this day has treated you well," she smiled, dipping her head cordially at the stranger.
He was quite unusual. Red, grey, and white seemed to make up much of his appearance and yet. He was wearing the most unusual clothing. She'd not often seen such decorated soquili, and found him a bit fascinating to look upon. Unusual. But she definitely appreciated the flowers.
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Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2011 10:21 am
Sir Duke was jolted out of his thoughts by a tinkling voice. A part of him was very disappointed, because she was able to sneak up on him without his knowing. He was better than that, and should have known of her presence long before she spoke to him.
Yet, his heart jumped when he gaze upon her. The mare before him was absolutely beautiful! Her fur looked so soft and siky - if only he could rub his cheek against such fur- and her hair was groomed to such pristine perfection that all he wanted to do was run his nose through it. But such actions were not appropriate, and all he could do was hope.
But at the same time, his heart fell. This mare was obviously used to beaus chasing after. She had that vibe about her that spoke 'princess' and not only because of the tiara resting upon her brow. A princess she may or may not be, but an old -for she was very much younger than he- and boring knight like himself had no chance.
That did not mean he could not at least befriend her. A small voice crept in. This was a new place, and if he was to settle here he may as well meet some soquili. At the very least, he can enjoy her company as long as she chose to share it with him.
"Good day, Princess," he grinned, his bright blue eyes sparkling in the sun. Sir Duke did not know where he was, calling her Princess, but to his mind a beauty such as hers deserved it - and what mare didn't like being called one? "The day has been beautiful and relaxing, but I am afraid I am not used to such passive activity. My days were always filled with missions and quests. I am at a loss at what to do."
"And you? I hope your day has treated you as well as a pretty thing such as yourself deserves."
Sir Duke paused, his mouth floundering for a moment as his duty-filled mind yelled at him for not offering his name. "Oh, my. I have forgotten my manners! My name, is Sir Duke Ro'serai." The stallion stood and then lowered his head in a full knee-bent bow.
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Posted: Sat Feb 26, 2011 12:40 pm
Amarii couldn't help but smile as the stallion addressed her as a princess. While Amarii did indeed wear a golden tiara upon her brow, the reality of the situation was that she harbored absolutely no royal blood. She loved her mother dearly, but they had been nothing more than forest dwellers, and her father - the stallion she absolutely abhorred - had been nothing more than a rake. Perhaps it was his abandonment of their small family that caused her to take up a role of royalty. As if she was proving both to the world and him of everything good he had given up, of everything he had missed out upon.
But that was neither here nor there. Sir Duke was indeed correct in his assumption that a mare might flourish under the praises of such pet names. At least, when it came to Amarii, she never felt like anything less! She knew she were beautiful, an knew every mare harbored a princess like stature. Even the most homely and skittish of mares possessed beauty, and it was her desire to have everyone see such a thing.
Despite her beauty though, Amarii had never been able to keep ones company for long. That was her own bane, her own fear, of letting others grow too close especially males. She didn't trust their intentions and never wanted to experience abandonment again. So she kept her hooves active and became a drifter of the world, doing her best to find her place but unable to find any reasons to stay. Best to be truthful to ones self than to fall in to a trap of lies others might weave.
Right now though, she was in seemingly good company, and she would give Sir Duke her undivided attention. Part of her wondered about his history and life, since he did seem a bit older than she, and he had mentioned missions and quests. "Well, with luck the sunshine and peace might grow upon you a bit. It's good to shake life up with a bit of variety, even if leaves a restless stallion in its wake." She smiled, her eyes bright with good humor.
"My day has been quiet as well, though it has never been terribly busy or amazing. I travel quite a bit, but there has never been any missions or duties to attend outside of my own desires. If perhaps you might humor me, what sort of missions were you accustomed to? Were you once a knight or perhaps some sort of guardian?" There was almost a note of wistfulness, curiosity as her imagination began to run.
Was he a proper prince charming? Possibly! Finding real Prince Charmings was never easy, and yet there was something so formal about the male. He was polite, and looked respectful. A truly refreshing change from some of the stallions she had met in the past. Dipping her own head low to the ground, offering him a bow herself, the pink and white furred mare grinned. "It's a pleasure to meet you, my fine Sir. I'm Amarii."
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Posted: Sun Mar 13, 2011 10:10 am
He lifted his head first, "Amarii...." he savored the sound of her name on his tongue. As the rest of his scarred weight came up from his bow, he couldn't help but admire her face. Enough, he could not keep this up. Sir Duke gathered up such thoughts, tied them in a rose, and pinned it among his own decorations.
The corner of Sir Duke's mouth lifted in the beginning of a smile at her easy-going joke.
So many questions, but he never shirked at the prospect of answering them (he got them a few times, okay, often). "There is nothing wrong with travelling through the Lands. I have met many amazing soquili with such actions. Not everyone has a duty or mission. They varied often. Once I was Knighted, there was not much a time at all that I can recall that did not have some end goal. I was not a Guardian, except maybe to the Creatures of the Lands. I would go out and complete the task assigned. Sometimes, I would help a family move their settling grounds from flood or other hazards; help a unsuspecting foal get away from the shady character who lured him or her in; once I took away a Skinwalker's meal - I got this nasty scar," he lifted his mask a bit, "and I would not recommend that. But, the young buck was rather grateful."
"What happened the majority of the time was I was tasked with one mission, but my duties included the help and care I could provide on the way as well. It is the journey that makes you who you are, not necessarily the end." His eyes glazed a bit as he recalled some of those adventures.
"But regardless," Sir Duke had a sad look pass through his eyes, "when my service was up, I came to this land that is now my home - which I never had before. And while the listlessness can be grinding, I am on my own search - for what is truly important."
He shook his head, long strands of red hair flowing back and forth. "But perhaps we go under cover, it is not affected by these snows as the creek is. I am just thankful the freeze did not still its waters." Sir Duke shook his tail out before taking a few steps back towards the treeline.
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Posted: Tue Mar 15, 2011 8:57 pm
A real knight? Part of Amarii couldn't help but swoon over such a thing. Of course, making her swoon wasn't exactly a trying task, due to her terribly romantic nature, but the older soquili definitely was a rarity amongst the lands. He was legitimate. How many stallions had she met who had promised her the moon, who had spoken and woven sweet stories, but ultimately were nothing more than just another average male?
Not that average was something she looked down upon, of course not! She usually laughed and jested with them, encouraging their dreams, and playing with the whole charade. In fact, Amarii frequently dubbed many a stallion some sort of prince charming, and did her best to teach them the art of chivalry. More often than not, they shrugged her off and for the most part went on their way. Still, the female had always had a sense that it was her duty to open the eyes of those that hardly knew how to speak properly to a lady, much less look the part! There were enough rude creatures out there, the world didn't need to continuously spawn more!
But today. . . Today she met a real knight, one who went out and did all the good deeds. It was amazing, but her golden eyes were sparkling with intrigue and interest at his words. "It sounds as if you've had quite a fulfilling life! Or at least one full of purpose." Her tails swished a bit as her imagination took off. "And to actually face off with a Skinwalker and live to tell the tale! Truly, my fine sir, you really are a true knight to devote your years to the betterment of others and sworn duties. A fading breed, to be sure, but it does my heart good to know that not all knights are but legend."
Giving a small smile, she wondered what it must be like. To be needed and called upon for greatness, and now . . . retired. A life to call his own and yet so many opportunities and directions he could walk were almost too much. This was a stallion used to the call of battle, the call of duty and honor, and now he . . .had the whole world. But what would he do with it and where would he go? It had to be terribly unfortunate to feel such a thing, and the sadness that crossed his gaze didn't elude her. "I wish you the greatest luck that you may find a new purpose for your days ahead. Who knows what sort of adventures and opportunity you may find?"
Lifting her tail a bit, and standing with her head high, Amarii was delighted by the offer of finding a less-snowy retreat. She eyed the stream that separated the two before taking a few steps back and seeking out the thinnest route to hop over to the other side. Thankfully, with a little trot she managed to push herself over the bank and make it to the other side of the stream.
Perhaps it wasn't the most ladylike behavior, but she wasn't about to miss out on this opportunity! A new friend and good conversation was something she wouldn't so swiftly ignore. "It's been a very chilly winter, but like you, I'm glad life is stirring again. I've come across many waters that were froze, and in some places, impossible to get to the water. Thankfully though, spring shouldn't be far."
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Posted: Sat May 07, 2011 9:58 am
He knew what he wished out of his retirement. How many families had he passed by or helped out? Many he stayed with, and could not help but long for the simple joys they had: a mate to dote and love on, children to raise and teach such things as 'duty' and 'honor', and even the high volume squabbles that could shake the very leaves off trees without the fear of violence. But those things were not just handed to you, and he did not have the first clue to start. Many other Knights he served with were charming and could get any mare to fall in love with him. But he started his Knighthood too young and could not, in good conscience, put anyone through the pain of continually being gone. It was something he was okay with, if she were gone on her own calls and duties - but not if he was leaving her.
His eyes focused again once he shook through his thoughts as he lead the way. "A life fill with stories and memories, scars and gifts - yes. But when you get to be my age, such things are better left the way they are - a tale to tell or a memory to hold." Sir Duke's eyes twinkled with humor at his growing old - even though he was not old, he just felt so. "These old bones just cannot handle that anymore. I do not know if I could take on a Skinwalker again - not unless he or she would be so kind as to pause and let me heal my wounds to prevent the ultimate end from falling upon me."
"Watch out, there is a rock hiding here." Sir Duke stood next to the offending pile hidden under the snow, and with a slight dip of his head allowed her to pass unharmed before joining her at her side as the continued. "Spring is one of my favorite times, despite the mud and rains. But families are born, and I know of many creatures around here that are expecting little ones shortly. In fact, I was going to check on one of the does here before too long. She is having an early baby and might need some help to ensure its healthy arrival and growth."
"Ah," Sir Duke's polite smile turned to a grin of contented joy. "Here it is, home sweet home."
'Here' was a grove weeping willows with full, sweeping branches One lead prominently toward to the valley, with the smaller ones around. The effect that it gave was not unlike a modern house with many rooms, especially when it opened the branches and stood aside to let Amarii in.
The main willow was clean, with stunted grass still carpeting the ground In the natural crooks and bends of the tree were trinkets and baubles of exotic designs. Many were crude, some were obviously made by two-leggers. Each held a memory and were cared for. On the ground there were places set up obviously for laying down soquili and other creatures. On one side, towards the valley, was a small pool of water. The willow branches were frozen. It was obvious that in the summer, this was probably a small pond that was upkept nicely. Around the willow were darker areas, where more willows were nearby, and offering what could only be more rooms. But this receiving willow was were company was brought in.
"Can I get you anything, Amarii?" Sir Duke asked politely behind her after letting the branches fall shut.
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Posted: Fri Jun 03, 2011 10:23 pm
Amarii was on cloud nine. How often had she pretended that she was some sort of princess, some sort of royal lady of the court with a menagerie of knights and princes to fawn on her? How often had she encouraged chivalry in her male counterparts, had told her female friends of their inner nobility? While the mare would go to the grave stating she truly was royalty, deep down she knew the truth. She was a princess only in thought, not in blood. . . .
Still, for all of her dreaming, never had she met such a gentleman like Sir Duke! He was ever so charming, and not only was he a legitimate knight, but he was acting in such a manner without her encouragement, without her requesting it of him! It was . . . amazing. Though he was still an acquaintance, it was hard to doubt that any of his words were fictitious. Somehow, amazingly enough, she had met the real deal, and deep down Amarii couldn't help but swoon.
Sure, she was young and swooning was all part and parcel of being a princess, but to meet a real knight. . . . It was hard to resist! Besides, here he was telling her to watch her step, and even guarding her from the stone that threatened to cause her stumble. They just didn't make stallions like Sir Duke anymore. He truly was a rare and exotic breed.
"Your age," she gave a a gentle chuckle and a slight shake of her head. "I wouldn't discredit yourself so swiftly! While you may harbor the shadow of experience within your eyes, you're far from having a hoof in the grave. And, my fine sir, I have no doubt should a skinwalker leap from the shadows, you would put it in its place. I just wouldn't encourage it to be a daily habit." Her gold eyes sparkled with good humor and a bit of mischief. While she was younger than Sir Duke, she understood that such a lifestyle would take its toll, physically and mentally, on another. While he joked about being old, Amarii just saw it as experience and maturity, which was never a bad thing.
"Spring has its own quiet sort of beauty. It's warm weather is a refreshing change from the cold and bitter winters, but I do prefer the dryer weather of summer. The new life can be endearing though. It's good to see families together." There was a slight change in her voice, subtle, but the warmth that she possessed seemed to fade, ever so slightly.
Unfortunately, families were a slightly sensitive issue to the mare. She had yet to truly forgive the male that sired her sister and she, who had stayed long enough to confirm they were alive before abandoning his mate. Unfortunately, he stayed just long enough for Amarii to recognize him as her father, and just long enough for her to realize his abandonment. Those days had not been easy, and while she adored her mother, the female had yet to truly resolve such personal battles.
Perhaps it's why she pretended to be a princess at such a young age. As if it would make her father return, as if her great beauty and good nature would cause him regret for dropping them. And perhaps it was why she encouraged males to be chivalrous and dutiful. Because she knew first hand what it was like to be disregarded and pushed aside. . .
But that was neither here nor there, and the mare quickly caught herself. Dipping her head in a moments apology, she quickly added, "Ah, but I do hope the doe and the babe make it through the birth. It's good of you to look out for them, not many would." Especially men, hmph.
Thankfully, the thought of her father and family were fleeting. As they made it to Sir Dukes home, the mare almost gave a small gasp of surprise. Though the willow trees were still barren, hardly budding because of the weather, the sight was still magnificent. She could just imagine how absolutely divine his home would be with the trees in full bloom. Even without, it was strangely appealing.
"What a lovely place to call home," she couldn't help but look around in amazement, her eyes noticing the surrounding willows and 'rooms', before turning to devour the trinkets that rested at the trunk of the great tree. She'd never seen so many unusual things, and the curious female couldn't help but want to ask about them. Still, she tore her gaze away from the contraptions and looked once more at her host.
Chuckling lightly, she gave a formal dip and 'curtsy', though gave a dismissive shake of her head. "Your kindness is a refreshing change from some I've met, but I'm quite well at the moment, but thank you. This grove is beautiful, I'm . . rather at a loss of words, which is unusual for me." She gave a small chuckle and self-deprecating grin, knowing full well just how chattery she could be. Heaven forbid someone upset Amarii, because she was far from demure, and often spoke her mind. She had her spit-fire moments. . .but thankfully, it wasn't often. Only when pushed.
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Posted: Sun Jun 19, 2011 2:38 pm
That stallion could not do much more than smile politely as Amarii insisted his age was no great discredit to his worth. It was true, but some days - especially in the winter, he just felt so old, and while retirement was nice it was still a reminder that he was at that age where he was told he couldn't perform his duties. Not that he truly stopped, his range only shortened in distance a great deal. "If you have faith in me, then I am sure I could take on anything," he ended with a toothy wink.
"I am afraid the extreme heat causes me just as much discomfort as the extreme could, although it is nice to have a dry air around not associated with winter. And this will be my first summer in this area, I am confident that it will be a great sight to look upon." He really was curious and could imagine the valley covered with fresh flowers a welcoming sight. Maybe he could convince some does to bring the fawns in so he could watch them frolic around in the this grass he was sure would grow.
"You should come visit after the snow recedes and the plants renew their yearly cycle. I would be nice to see you again and then I could enjoy your company once more." The words were out of his mouth long before he could stop them. His eyes spoke the genuine nature of his words, but he did not know if she would wish to come this way again. Who knew how far away it was for her to travel.
"In the meantime," he paused, recovering from his blurting action. "I do keep a wide array of treats and snacks, in case someone might visit and I would need to entertain guests." He didn't need to mention that his guests were usually of the squirrel-fox-deer kind. "It is no trouble at all, if that concerned you."
But that was enough on him and his newly acquired home. "Do you travel much, Amarii? Was there anything in particular that drew you to this humble valley?"
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Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2011 12:54 pm
Amarii listened to the stallion, quite content with his company and his home. Though the color had yet to return to the greenery or the willows, she could see a few small buds developing on the limbs and arms of the willlow. It wouldn't be long before the trees bloomed and the dreaded winter months were nothing more than a thing of the past!
"I agree that any extremities can take its toll on the body. But this area seems lush with life and should transform in to a small bit of paradise!" Her golden eyes took on an almost dreamy look as she envisioned what the spring and summer magic would do to to the land. Truly it would be an amazing sight! "I can certainly imagine worse places to call home," she added with a small chuckle and a little shake of her head. Unfortunately for Amarii, home was a foreign word to her. After her father abandoned the family, her mother and she had roamed until Amarii had taken off for her own adventures. That had been years ago though, and she had yet to find a place to settle and prescribe the word.
Still, Amarii's ears did p***k some when the stallion suddenly mentioned his interest in seeing her again. The unicorn was absolutely flattered, and couldn't help but smile warmly at Sir Duke. He was a fascinating stallion, and she truly yearned to learn more of his life. "Well, I shall certainly take you up on the offer my fine sir," she dipped her head cordially, her tail wagging ever so slightly in pleasure. "I don't often have such kind invitations, and would be honored to return." There was sincerity in her words, and she was glad to have been granted such an opportunity. Sir Duke was such a fine gentleman, with a colorful history, Amarii found him a delightful new acquaintance! To make a return trip to view greener pastures was an opportunity she wouldn't pass up.
"Your generosity is kind, but I promise you I'm well at the moment. I may take you up on the offer later though, depending how long I keep you," she added wit ha grin, her eyes bright with good humor. She didn't want to take up too much of his time, but it had been a long time since she had such splendid company, it wasn't something she wished to leave so swiftly.
"I've traveled most of my life," Amarii admitted with a nod. "It's something I've done for as long as I can remember. The one place I could consider home . . .well. . . there was some unfortunate tidings that occurred while I was very young, and it was best that my Mother and I moved. We never really stopped moving since," she added with a shrug. She wouldn't spoil the afternoon by speaking of him, the b*****d male that had broke her mothers heart. But . . . . it was a sensitive issue for Amarii, and wasn't something she would ever easily resolve.
"Nothing in particular brought me this way. I suppose I was seeking out greener pastures, or at least some warmer weather." Falling quiet for a moment, thoughtful, she considered her plight in life. This wasn't exactly where she thought she'd be but . . . was any life ever a dream come true? "I never really meant to roam as far as I have. . . .but once I got going, I suppose I just haven't found a good reason to stop." Wasn't that the truth! Not only was her small family scattered, but the friends she had discovered during her years of travel drifted away or found families their own. Amarii refused to settle anywhere, much less with anyone who wasn't up to her standards. She had her dreams, her desires, her wishes . . . .and she was bound and determined to achieve them.
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Posted: Tue Jul 12, 2011 6:45 pm
'I can imagine worse places as well, unfortunately," Sir Duke's eyes glazed over for just a minute. Who was he kidding, he could more than imagine - he had seen many - and in different forms. He had seen places where the families lived in the comfort of their own bodily releases. There were those where parents were cruel to their students and ultimately taught their children to be mean as well. "And I will not allow this place I now call home to get in such disarray as long as I live." He spoke with such conviction and feeling that anyone listening would have a hard time disbelieving him. "And I shall be waiting for your arrival, my lady," he bowed his head in good humor despite him being serious about the words. He just did not want to spook her away from appearing too forward. The stallion hoped the lovely little mare would stay awhile, but figured he should stop trying to push his generosity on to her. She would say when she was ready for refreshments, even if it felt wrong to not have her nibbling on a treat or sipping a sweet elixir. "I am sorry, Amarrii," he watched her with concern and regret, "that your home could not be filled with the joy and happiness that it should entail. I can only hope that you found such things elsewhere. You deserve no less than everything." She had gotten quiet after, so left it there. It would do more harm to press the matter. "Alas, there is neither greener pastures now warmer weather here, yet. But in a way, is that not what we all seek." The stallion was thinking about many of his own adventures and missions and how the expectations were always higher than what always happened. "Well, I am glad you decided to wander further than intended - and brought you here to brighten my day just a little more." There was an extended silence, which was soon interrupted by impatient chattering. "Oh dear," Sir Duke lazed over to the main trunk around the other side. When he poked his head back around to return, there was a small young squirrel sitting back on his head, her little paw wrapped around his horn. "Amarii, this is Sugar. She showed up one day, far too young to be on her own. I offered her shelter, and here is where she stays now." The stallion shook his head a little and she chittered a bit more as if scolding the bigger animal. He ducked his head, encouraging the little squirrel to the mare. "Say hello, Sugar." Sugar inched forward, her little nose working fiercely. 
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Posted: Fri Jul 15, 2011 11:36 am
Amarii wasn't entirely surprised to hear the conviction in his words. She knew he had likely traveled to many foreign lands, what with being a knight, and the sights he witnessed couldn't have always been pleasant. Still, with his words, she knew that these lands would be safe from destruction or taint. He seemed to be a stallion of his word, and he left no trace of doubt when he spoke.
Smiling warmly, the mare gave a little nod. "I have no doubt that you'll be a great patron of these lands. The local wildlife are lucky to have you in their midst." She wasn't brown-nosing or patronizing the stallion, she meant every word. He was indeed everything a stallion should be, from his great chivalry to his knightly endeavors and care for his world. Really, if Amarii had her way, Sir Duke would be a model example. Why the knightly way wasn't everybody's path or ideal, at the same rate, a few more stallions of his caliber would be a fine addition.
Luckily for Sir Duke, Amarii had no intention of his leaving his company so soon. Not only was his abode a refreshing change from the grey and glum outside, but his company was lovely. It wasn't as if she even had a place in mind for whence she returned to her travels. Really, Amarii walked and let her hooves guide her. There was no schedule, no need to rush or be rushed. Life was meant to be enjoyed, after all, and she was thoroughly enjoying her present company.
"I appreciate your condolences, but the past is the past," she added with a small smile. "But there was still much to treasure, even with . . . past misfortunes," her nose crinkled some, the bitter taste of memory causing an unlady like desire to sneer at the memory of her unsavory father, but . . .she would not. Not here, at any rate, in front of such good present company.
"Your words are too kind, and it is I who should be thanking you! You have been far too kind and generous a host, and have picked up my late-winter doldrums. So thank you, it was truly an auspicious moment when we crossed paths." Wasn't that the truth! Hadn't she vowed to search her life to find princes and knights just like him? And here he had crossed her path at a small river bed. The spirits were certainly meddlesome things, but for once, she was grateful.
Comfortable, even in the easy silence that fell, the pink and white mare did catch the sound of chattering. Sir Duke didn't seem too alarmed, though Amarii did wonder who was paying him a visit. That sort of chattering sounded reminiscent of . . .
A squirrel! Her gold eyes widened some with surprise at the little furry creature settled atop of the stallions head. Still, a warm smile painted her features, and her gold eyes were warm with interest and delight. The little squirrel was absolutely precious, and to see Ros'erai content with the creature resting upon his head was . . . .adorable.
"It's a great pleasure to meet you, Sugar," she greeted cordially, bridging the distance between herself and the stallion, so she could allow the squirrel a better view. This place was full to the brim with surprises. . . . really, Amarii couldn't think of a better way to spend her afternoon!
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Posted: Thu Jul 21, 2011 3:07 pm
A red as deep as his hair crept up his pale collar at Amarii's confidence and kind words. He was so often used to thankless missions, and -yes- at times he felt unappreciated by those he helped. But, overall, it was always the right thing to do, and sometimes it is those kindnesses that go forgotten. But here was a beautiful mare telling him that those around him are the lucky ones - well, he rarely thought of it that way - not that he would ever become the egotistical type. "Why thank you," Sir Duke bowed his head in acceptance - and a little to hide his slightly glowing face, "but I am just doing what is right."
"The Fates do sometimes work in ways we mere mortals do not understand," the stallion lifted his head, "that much, I do know." He gave a soft-humored wink to the mare.
The young squirrel, not much more than a fluff-ball with a fluffier tail, squeaked in surprise. She jumped forward, on to Amarii's head to inspect her shiny two-toned horn, along with the shinier jewelry (tiara). Unfortunately, she was so engrossed, that she knocked a flower to the trodden ground.
Sir Duke, slightly aghast cleared his through disapprovingly.
Sugar knew that tone and looked back sadly.
The stallion reached down and delicately picked the flower up and extended it to the small squirrel, who picked up immediately what she had done.
Chattering softly in apology, she carefully took the flower and tied it back into the mare's hair and, while still talking in nonsense words, hung slightly from Amarii's horn to apologize up close and personal to the mare's eyes.
Meanwhile, Sir Duke watched fondly as Sugar used her manners, but would not interrupt such a heart-filled 'I am sorry'.
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Posted: Sat Jul 30, 2011 10:46 am
Amarii hadn't entirely missed the flush of color that touched his cheeks, though she said nothing and gave no word. It was endearing to see the older stallion affected by her words, which told her he either had not heard such things before from others, or he was a humble soul. Maybe it was a little of both? He was quite the gentleman after all.
"Ah, but you see, the fact that you act upon what is right, that you offer such generosity to strangers is what makes you unique. Many in this world claim to be good souls, and while they know what might be right and what might be wrong, many lack following up their words with actions. You truly are a good knight," she added with a smile, her golden eyes twinkling in delight.
As the sweet little squirrel continued her investigation of Amarii, the mare hardly noticed one of her flowers falling from her mane. Unfortunately for Sugar, Sir Duke witnessed such a thing, and Sugar herself appeared to know instantly that something was amiss.
Before she knew it, the little squirrel was hanging from her horn and chittering an apology about disrupting her mane. Ooooooh! Sugar was far too sweet a thing and already Amarii's heart was melting. The poor little creature really needn't feel so bad about knocking out one of her flowers. . . truthfully, they fell out all the time and were in constant need of being replaced when they were in bloom. Honestly, she often went flowerless in the winter months and only had just recently added flowers to her wardrobe once again.
"There, there, Sugar," Amarii reassured, focusing on the little pale squirrel. "No harm was done, though I thank you for your apology and good manners. You're quite the courteous little lady," she added with a smile, "a pretty princess in training!"
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