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 Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 6:24 pm
 After a hard session of training Kaleidoscope was ready to cool off and relax for a bit. Bidding farewell to Ironforge the rainbow stallion set out in search of a place to rest and enjoy the rest of his day. He knew of a nice stream nearby where he could slack his thirst and there would be plenty of shady trees for him to rest under. Veering his course slightly he headed for the stream, picking his way to a deeper spot. Wading into the cool water Kale lowered his head and began to slowly drink the water. Ears swiveled as he did so listening to all the sounds around him. A couple of birds flew overhead chirping at each other, a rabbit hopped in the grass not far away and even the gentle babble of the steam relaxed him after such a long day of training.
Walking deeper into the water Kale dipped his head into the water, rubbing his muzzle along the sides of his legs to wash off the dirt that had been accumulated there earlier in the day. Lifting his head, he gave it a good shake flinging water all over and sending his water logged forelock to plaster itself over his eyes. Tossing his head once more he flipped it out of his way and waded out of the stream. With most of his body and a good potion of his mane and tail soaked he gave his body a shake and then found a nice place in the sun in order to dry out. Closing his eyes Kale took in a deep breath. It was good to relax, even though his training was always at the back of his mind, the rest and occasional time off did him good.
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Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 8:27 pm
Despite enjoying her walk, the mare found her mouth parched. She was vaguely familiar with the area, it was on the very edge of where her mother and father had lingered the past few months. The dark eyed female had considered striking it out on her own, but she just couldn't bring herself to abandon her brother and family quite so soon. She knew her mother had fear of abandonment, out of guilt for leaving her own mother. But at the same time, she had to wonder what might be out there. . . What experiences was she missing?
Giving a small sigh, the mare shook her head. No. Her home was here with her family. Let others explore and become adventurous. She was small, petite, fairly weak. . . . And there were many dangers, even for a full grown soquili! Skinwalkers. Kalona. Dark hearted souls behind a pleasant mask. . . No. Her grandmother had wanderlust, but Ecclesia would not follow in her hooves. The sound of water, as well as its sweet scent, tickled the mares nose. Pricking her hears, she weaved her way over to the source of the stream.
So lost in thought, she almost overlooked the rainbow kissed stallion. But something so bright was hard to overlook! He was dripping wet, obviously having spent some time in the water. But he was big, and tough, and looked a lot stronger than Ecclesia. Hopefully this wasn't an irritable stallion, or one whom abhored company. For now though, she'd leave him be. . . . Who was he to disrupt him and his sunning?
Giving him a nod and a small smile, so as not to be rude, the violet coated mare made her way to the edge of the stream and took a drink.
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Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2011 8:04 pm
Ears swiveled at the sound of another approaching. Kaleidoscope listened carefully to the sound those hooves made, they were not the deliberate and confident steps of a would be attacker looking to score an easy kill, they were slow a bit hesitant and light. Opening his eyes Kale turned his head slightly to let his gaze fall upon a light purple mare. Returning her smile Kale dipped his head in a greeting. "Afternoon miss." He said as she made her way over to the stream. He took a moment to look her over. Her mane was an interesting mix or various shades of grey and the white markings on her back and legs seemed to compliment her purple hide.
Giving his body a shake to rid himself of some of the water that still clung to his fur Kaleidoscope took a few steps forward. The spot he had been standing in was damp and held a few small puddles from where his mane and tail had been. He didn't want to scare the mare, Kale knew his size could be some what intimidating and some did not take too well to strangers.
"It is quite lovely today isn't it?" He asked in a friendly manner, bringing his hooves to a stop a bit of a distance away. Ensuring she had enough space so that she didn't feel closed in by him. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Kaleidoscope, however most call me Kale." He gave her a polite bow of the head. "Would you be so kind as to tell me your name?"
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Posted: Wed Apr 13, 2011 8:33 pm
The mare was almost surprised at the approach of the stranger, and paused in her drink as he neared. He didn't look particularly aggressive or unfriendly, though the closer he got the larger he appeared. He was big and she had thought most in her family were solid figures. Oh no. This Kaleidoscope individual certainly would give any one of her family a good run for their money. . .well. . .except maybe some of her cousins, but they were winds and kalona mixes. Adding to his great size was his coat, a most unusual splash of a variety of colors. It meant he stuck out like a sore thumb amidst all the more natural colors around him. . .but it also helped to make him look even more massive. The eye was naturally drawn to him, for better or for worse.
Still, Ecclesia had manners and she gave a more formal dip of her head in greeting. "Why hello there," she murmured, black eyes bright with surprise. It wasn't often she made new acquaintances, especially ones outside of her family! This was a surprise for the violet mare, who was known to keep to herself. Smiling softly, she gave a nod in agreement to his words, "It is indeed a lovely day. I truly do hope this marks the last of winters embrace. Winter doesn't ever seem to leave quietly." Which was true. How often had the skies turned blue and the soft spring breezes tickled the senses, only to have another blizzard or snow-storm break the spell and coat the land in ice?
Maybe this time though. . . . only time would tell.
"It's nice to meet you, Kaleidoscope," she used his full name, too shy and uncomfortable for something more familiar. Besides which, Kale just seemed not as quitting. He really was a kaleidoscope of colors, each splashing and fighting its way for attention in a rainbow hue against his coat. Kale was much too ordinary a name for a fellow, even if his full name was a bit of a mouthful. "I'm Ecclesia. And . . . most just call me that," she chuckled, giving a small shrug as her name wasn't much suited to nicknames. The petite female wasn't entirely sure what else to say. She was so rusty when it came to meeting others, but she knew that she couldn't stay holed up with her family forever.
No. . a little conversation would be good. "I must admit that I didn't expect to meet anyone hear. We're not far from my families border, and don't often see many strangers. Are you just passing through or have we just never had the opportunity to meet?"
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Posted: Sun Apr 24, 2011 9:37 am
Kale nodded his head in agreement. "Indeed winter has a way of trying to keep it's grip upon the land for as long as possible even fighting with the warming weather at the beginning of spring." It would be nice is spring was truly on it's way in as training during the winter months was often hampered by severe snow storms and cold too great to stay out long in even while staying active. Of course spring also meant plenty of rain was to come and that rain made for mud that one could slip in when not paying attention. Speaking of not paying attention all this thinking of spring rains and winters icy grip was distracting him from the mare he was speaking to. Giving his head a slight shake Kale concentrated on her once more.
"Well, it is a pleasure to meet you Ecclesia." He said with a chuckle and a dip of his head. A beautiful name that's for sure. The silence that fell between them only lasted for a few moments before she started to talk again and Kale smiled gently at her question. So he had traveled close to her families land. "You don't get many travelers around these parts? That's some what of a shame, sometimes travelers and strangers can provide for good conversation." And he was no exception, he always enjoyed talking to locals while venturing through new areas. "No I'm not from around here, I live a ways off."
Kale glanced about for a moment to get his barrings and then pointed with his muzzle. "I come from that way. However I have the next couple of days to myself so I decided to give my legs a stretch and see what lay outside of my home." His eyes returned to Ecclesia, taking in her black eyes. They intrigued him a bit as he had never seen anyone with such dark eyes before, but he made sure to not stare as that was far from polite. "Have you lived here your whole life?"
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Posted: Sun Apr 24, 2011 12:40 pm
Ecclesia listened to the stallion, a new sort of curiosity bubbling up inside her. So, it he really was a stranger, and he was passing through! She briefly glanced over the direction he pointed, wondering exactly how far he had a come. She honestly didn't know where a few days travel would bring her, much less a few hours! It wasn't that she didn't enjoy travel, she just didn't enjoy it . . . .by herself. And felt most comfortable with her family.
Let Luca do all the travel. She was content to stay close to her mother and father, content to take in the familiar. There was something cozy about knowing where one was needed, wanted. While she had always thought she might like to travel, it was only after Leiran had left her that she realized maybe . . maybe it was just safer to stay in the comfort of those that did care. The lands were so full of dangerous shadows, and her mother had made sure to tell her about all the darkness out there. All the heartache, the heartbreak, the tears ...
No.
Ecclesia was too gentle a spirit to want to deal with such things. So she stayed where her life was peaceful, quiet. Unfortunately though, deep down she really wasn't content. She knew she was missing out, and yet was too uncertain to really take a chance and just go. Thankfully though, at the moment, she didn't have to go anywhere to meet others - he had stumbled upon her!
Giving a small shake of her head, the violet female shrugged. "Well . . . Not really. Now and again we'll get a stranger or two who passes through, but not many come and stay for long. I guess it's probably better that way though. Some sorts only cause trouble or are unpleasant. My mother she . . . she's a fragile sort, and very shy. For her benefit it's good that it's so quiet." Ah, but Cassiel had lived an interesting and sad life, hadn't she? Unknowingly, she had chained her daughter close to her side, and painted such a vision of the world that Ecclesia refused to leave.
"I've . . . I've only been away from these lands once." She stated, almost wistfully. "But I have lived here my whole life. I . .I've never been anywhere else, really, but I suppose that's okay. Not everyone can be a great adventurer, after all. Sometimes it's good to know where ones hooves belong." And that was the truth! Still, she was curious about this Kaleidoscope character. It sounded as if he were well traveled. ". . . the next couple days to yourself. I take it you travel with a group then? Or do you have a family yourself?" Ah, but what was this? Why interrogate the poor lad! Where were manners, her mother would have been horrified. "Forgive my prying, I suppose it's not really any of my business. I guess I just haven't met an outsider in a long time, and I'm forgetting myself." She dipped her head apologetically, offering a small smile in hopes he could forgive her err.
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Posted: Sun Apr 24, 2011 8:54 pm
Kaleidoscope gave a polite nod as she spoke of the possible dangers that strangers could hold. Yes it was true, there were some types out there, mainly Kalona and Skinwalkers, that seemed to visit areas with the intent of causing havoc and nothing else. Unfortunately that happened all too often in too many places in these lands. That in fact was another reason that he was so focused on his training, so that he could become the one who helped prevent or stop such attacks on the lands. However being a knight wasn't just about protecting others and stopping evil, it was so much more, and Kaleidoscope was certainly up for the challenge.
"Well the good news is," he leaned a bit closer to her and lowered his voice. "I'm not one of those causing trouble types." Pulling his head back he smiled softly at Ecclesia. "Sometimes it is a good thing to live where it is quiet. Those who live in the more active places are often jealous of those who live quiet lives." For himself he most enjoyed a mix of quiet and action. There were times were it was nice to be able to relax without constantly looking over ones shoulder, and yet having a bit of excitement here and there not only kept you on your toes but provided that spark to life.
He gave his head another nod as she explained her how she had lived in this area her entire life. "No I suppose not everyone can be an adventurer. If they were there would be no variety in the lands and surely venturing about would become quite dull in time." Tail flicked as she continued to speak, it was nearly dry by now thanks to the suns rays. "As a matter of fact I am traveling alone, well for the time being. You see I'm currently training to become a knight. My mentor, he lives in a herd a few days travel from here, and we mainly do training not far from his herds territory. However due to the high rank that he holds within the herd he is sometimes called away to attend to business, such is the case now, and that leaves me with time to explore or train on my own." He paused for a moment before continuing. "I chose to explore this time as taking breaks from training can be quite beneficial."
Kale gave a slight chuckle. "No, I have no family. And you are not prying at all. I don't mind answering your questions, it is good to be curious and question things at times." The way she dipped her head in apology made Kale smile wide. "There is no reason to be sorry. In fact, it's nice to speak to someone other than my mentor...he can be a bit of a bore after some time." Letting out another chuckle Kale could just picture the look on Ironforge's face if the shaggy stallion heard what his student had just said.
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Posted: Mon May 02, 2011 6:59 pm
Ecclesia couldn't believe her luck and good fortune. The spirits had certainly sent the most interesting individual her way, though she never would have guessed she was in the presence of a knight in training! Most of the soquili who lived near her families herd was plain and simple folk. The most they dreamed of was pleasant sunshine and a stable family. There was no such thing as adventures, no such thing as knights and ladies and chivalry. The fact Kaleidoscope was a knight was something other girls romanticized about, and seemed like he might have walked out of a tale her father had told her!
Oh, it didn't matter he was still in training. A knight was a knight. Ecclesia had never met one before, and certainly hadn't expected to meet one now! Still, he could easily pass the part. He was a large stallion, both in height and girth, and muscle proved he was active. "A knight, huh?" She repeated softly, her black eyes sparkling in amusement. "We don't see your sorts this way often. I thought your title might be something only heard of in stories and legends!" Despite her surprise, her smile was full of good humor and amusement at the days events.
Wouldn't Luca love to hear about such a meeting! But then again, her grandmother had been all around the woods and plains, in more way than one! Knights were probably old news to her violet coated grandmother. "So what is it a knight-in-training does? Are you the sort who will someday rescue damsels, or perhaps you'll seek out those in danger from evil kalona?" Chuckling a bit, she gave a small shrug, proving her ignorance when it came to the definition of knighthood. "I'm afraid I only know the cliche and stereotypes of your breed. Perhaps you can enlighten me?"
What adventures he must get in to! To be a knight. Surely his life was much more interesting than her own. What did she do but hang around her family, bring comfort to her mother, and occassionaly wonder what might be waiting on the horizon. She kept her head in her daydreams, but was practical and realistic enough to realize that often daydreams were just that - dreams - and nothing more. Her life was quiet, peaceful, but . . . . sometimes it felt like there were things missing and out of place.
Oh well.
Now was not a time to contemplate the dullness of her world. She was content, wasn't she? Or was it just something she told herself to appease her mother? "You know though, if you are a knight in training, I must say that I don't believe you're not a troublemaker. Perhaps you don't start trouble, but I'm sure it may someday find you." She tossed him a good humored wink, her words teasing and light, despite the accusation. "I don't know if the quiet soquili of this area could handle the knowledge of a knight in town!"
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Posted: Fri May 06, 2011 8:23 pm
That sparkle within her dark eyes made Kale smile. It wasn't often he got to meet someone who was interested in his lifes work, what with the heavy training schedule he was under and limited time to do whatever he chose. Well he certainly wouldn't miss the opportunity to spread the knowledge of the life of a knight to others as well as a chance to have a pleasant conversation. And perhaps it could also help dispel any incorrect myths about knights as well. He leaned forward a bit, but not so much that he was invading her private space. "I fear that the legends may prove to be more interesting than the facts." He said with an amused chuckle. Certainly, however, he would tell the truth about his lifestyle even if it was less appealing than the stories.
"Why don't we walk a bit? I can tell you all about it as we go." He motioned with his head for her to follow, he wouldn't take her far from her home range but sometimes it was more relaxing to walk while talking, especially since it may take a bit of time for him to tell her all there is. He started to walk, making sure she was following before starting to explain things. "Well you know the cliche isn't far off from reality for the most part. However it's more than that as well. If there is a damsel who needs rescuing then a knight will come to her aid. Should a Kalona be on the attack, then again a knight would come to the rescue. However, it's not that simple. While knights do help those in need and battle against evil we are also purveyors of peace, seekers of knowledge and justice." Kale paused in his description, he wasn't used to explaining such things to others and while he knew these facts inside and out he worried that he may not tell them correctly and forever shame the name of knights. Giving his head a shake to clear such a thought Kale glanced over at Ecclesia. "You must forgive my nervousness, I don't get the opportunity to speak so freely about such things all that often. I suppose us knights don't get out as much as we should." He let out a hearty chuckle.
All his training, all that time spent with Ironforge and not once did the shaggy stallion never mentioned how to be social. It was actually a bit more awkward than he ever imagined. Toss any training exercise at his hooves and Kale could tackle it with relative ease, but throw in a social meeting where he would explain his life's work and was failing at the first step. Ah well, this would come to him with practice much like how his training had come along from the beginning.
Her next words made him toss his head back in a laugh. "Yes, I suppose that's one way to look at it. I may not be a troublemaker but I am certain I will meet my share of them." Catching her wink, he smiled and returned her wink with one of his own. "Well then perhaps we should keep my arrival a secret for now. Wouldn't want them to get too excited over my presence."
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Posted: Sat May 14, 2011 12:41 pm
Ecclesia trotted next to the stallion, intrigued by his present occupation. She had never met a knight before, and was honestly surprised such creatures existed! This was the first time she'd ever met such a character before, and knew that the likelihood of finding another in the area was slim to none! It wasn't as if they received many strangers in these parts, after all. Still, it was nice to talk with an amicable stranger, and she was glad to have the opportunity to meet Kaleidescope!
As they picked their way through the surrounding foliage, the mare listened intently. Thus far he spoke of everything she had heard knights do in stories - rescue damsels, defend those in need, slay evil, and protect good! Of course, speaking of justice and being a purveyor of peace was interesting too. "Well, it sounds like the entire lifestyle is rather glamorous. Seeking out truth, justice, and defending others in the name of good . . . all knightly qualities, certainly!" She chuckled, offering her companion another small smile.
Still, the fact that he admitted nervousness did surprise her. Black eyes widened a bit and she actually paused in her step. "You? Nervous? I would have never guessed, and must admit, your description of the knightly lifestyle sounded just as one might have imagined! I'd imagine your training and knightly activities keep you from persuing such mundane and casual conversation or company," she added with a self deprecating grin. Honestly, compared to him she felt like nothing more than some lowly peasant. What did she do but care for her mother? "Still, feel free to practice speaking freely of any subject around me, I promise you the conversation would be most welcome."
Resuming her walk, she caught back up with the stallion. An easy silence fell over her as she considered Kale's duties. What adventure he must have seen! Finally, after a minute she added, "So have you rescued many damsels then? Or done battle with anything evil??" Glancing up at him, she hastily added with an apologetic dip of her head, "If it's not poking or prying too much, that is."
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Posted: Fri May 27, 2011 6:16 pm
Kaleidoscope let his head bob a bit as she spoke. Perhaps glamorous wasn't the word he would have chose to describe it, but yet in a way it seemed almost appropriate. But that so called glamorous lifestyle held many dangers to it and if one wasn't careful their life would get cut short. However, if it happened protecting someone in danger then it was really just part of the job when it came down to it. Yet, this is what he had wanted for as long as he had remembered, so be it glamorous, dangerous or something else it was in fact the life that Kaleidoscope had chosen for himself and with the help of Ironforge he was reaching that goal.
Letting out a chuckle Kaleidoscope shook his head a bit. "I should hope they are all knightly qualities, or else my mentor might have some harsh words for me. Something about missing the point of the training more than likely." One could never be certain what comments would slip out from that shaggy stallions mouth during their training, some were more entertaining than others.
As his chuckle subsided he glanced back at her. "Even knights can get nervous I suppose. Some would call it a flaw, others would call it a strength. Perhaps it's a bit of both really." He hadn't really thought about it before hand but when he did so now wouldn't flaws help to strengthen you in other ways? And perhaps through training flaws could be turned into strengths. Ears pricked forward at her next words. Did she think herself mundane compared to him? Well he certainly hoped not. "I like to think that there is no such thing as the mundane. Even those tasks that may be labeled as such have some significance to ones life or perhaps the lives around them. It may not seem as a glamorous life as say that of a knight, but I can assure you it is no less important." Everyone mattered, everyone had a purpose, even those who did wrongs gave others purposes and likely had those who cared for them.
"As a matter of fact I haven't." He told her and then added on. "..yet." Surely once his training progressed a bit more and they moved into more active duty as knights then he would get the opportunity to do those things he had described to her earlier. "Don't worry, you are no prying at all. It is nice to talk to someone who is curious about such things." He paused glancing our around them for a moment. But now he was curious, they had been talking about him and his training so far, now he wished to know more about her. "And what about you? What makes Ecclesia the mare that walks beside me today?" Surely there was something she could tell him, as he wished to know, if she was willing to talk about herself of course. It wasn't often he was with such pleasant company.
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Posted: Fri Jun 03, 2011 9:44 pm
The mare walked with the rainbow stallion, listening to his words. It still amazed her that here she was, walking with such a stallion. He even had a mentor. . . How neat was that? Someone to pass on their knowledge and training, someone to look up to, someone to guide his hooves to his destined path. It sounded pretty neat, despite the work load he continued to stress - there was physical training and mental preparation, she was sure! Honestly, it sounded like Kaleidescope's life was far from dull or monotonous. Sure, it probably wasn't as dreamy as she was imagining, but . . . it was active, colorful.
"Well, so far you've been a perfect gentleman. I'm sure your mentor would be proud," she gave a nod and small smile, her words sincere. She wasn't one who brown-nosed, nor was she stretching the truth. The colorful stallion really was being kind and polite, all good qualities she'd imagine a knight to desire.
"I suppose you're right. Nervousness and anxiety can be a good thing, so long as it doesn't overwhelm someone. It can lead to growth, if conquered, or could even save someones life if they were put on edge enough, and needed a dose of adrenaline to get them through. Still," she added with a little chuckle. "I guess I've just bought in to the stereotype that a knight is fearless, for which I do apologize." She dipped her head formally, knowing that it was never good to assume anything about anyone, regardless. Why shouldn't a knight know fear? But over meeting another? That was a bit peculiar.
Oh well. Kale hadn't a thing to worry about, he really was doing just fine! If anything, Ecclesia could only yearn that she was more interesting. If only she were some princess or something out of a fairy tale. As it was, she felt akin to a peasant or a pauper, someone with little experience and a whole lot of naivety. Thankfully though, she could eat her fill of experience by speaking to the young knight before her. . .even if his own experiences weren't entirely first hand.
"Oh. Well. . . I'm certain someday in your travels you'll manage to be a great defender of good! And you'll also get your fair share of damsels and those in need." She grinned, giving another little chuckle. "Just make sure it's not around here. I think that would fall under 'disturbing the peace'. Not that you'd find much this way. I think the biggest complaint I hear in a year is how early winter sets in, or if the stream rises or falls a few inches." The black eyed mare rolled her eyes at the absurdity of her home territory and the simple folk who lived nearby.
It was . . . .almost too quiet a lifestyle.
Her ears did p***k slightly in surprise, or was it nervousness, when the stallion turned his attention upon her. What made Ecclesia . . . Ecclesia? Oh dear. Her ears flattened some and she gave a small smile and shake of her head. "Oh. . . well, not much I'm afraid. Really, I . . . I'm afraid I don't have any tales of interest. I'm just a mare, who cares for her mother and doesn't get out nearly enough. Unfortunately it leads to a rather bland existence, and I certainly don't want to bore you! You are a guest, after all." She gave a self-deprecating smile and hurried a few steps ahead, trying to come up with some way to turn the conversation away from herself.
She honestly just . . . .wasn't . . .important. Her life was quiet, and she had nothing nearly as interesting to speak of as this Kale fellow. He had a seemingly pictureseque life, full of dreams and desires. What did Ecclesia have? Not . . . much. Her mother, but her mother was over-protective, and terrified of losing her. So while her brother roamed the world and sought out his own dreams, Ecclesia indulged her mother. She felt it was only fair. Atreus was supposed to return so she might leave, but thus far, he was no where to be found.
Gone.
As the years had passed she'd quietly resigned to the only lifestyle she ever knew. She wasn't knowledgeable about the world, in fact she hardly had any dreams herself. What did she wish to accomplish? What did she want to do? . . . Honestly, the mare hadn't a clue. She was dreamless and lackluster. Ultimately, unimportant. But that was all right. Afterall, not everyone could be a shining star. . . Some folks were meant to be legend. The rest were nothing more than filler.
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Posted: Sun Jun 19, 2011 8:13 pm
Kaleidoscope considered her words. Yes, he had been a perfect gentleman, as was his way of life, but sadly he knew that was not the always the case. There were too many ill-mannered males, and females as well, in the lands. "He will be proud indeed, though I fear not all knights are gentlemanly. However those who are not, I do not think can be called true knights." Sadly there were knights out there who did not follow the same code as he, they were not knights of good but knights of evil. One day he would surely face off against one of these fake knights.
"Even when overwhelmed with nerves one can conquer their fears, it just takes some time." Like she said when pushed enough and given that boost of adrenaline it was amazing what one could do. He had heard stories of mares whose foals were under attack by a Skinwalker managed to muster up the strength and courage to fight of the attacker to save her children, something that would not happen under other circumstances. Overcoming such odds, and the fear, even the weak could be strong in a time like that. "There is no need to apologize Ecclesia. Stereotypes are just that, things that many fall into. Sometimes they are truth, others bend it. I am glad that the stereotypes of knights have no sullied our reputations." If that was the case, then he would need to work hard to prove himself outside that stereotype or he might have picked a different path in life. But no, he had wished for this path since as long as he could remember.
"Perhaps, though I imagine that will not happen for some time. At least not until after I finish my training." It wasn't that he would ignore someone in need should he come across them before his training was complete, but since he spent so much time close to Ironforge's herd for training he wasn't sure if the chance of coming across one would present itself. Kaleidoscope let out a chuckle. "Well then I will be certain to do no such thing in the are. I would hate to be the knight who disturbed the peace." Wouldn't that do a fine job of making a bad name for himself. "I shall continue to allow their worse fears be the coming of an early winter."
Finally she would speak of herself, Kale was interesting in finding out about her, even if she only revealed just a small tidbit of information. It wasn't that he didn't want to be the focus of their talking, no he didn't mind, not that he was so vain that he only wished the attention to be on him, but he was curious to know about the ones he met, those whom he encountered during his travels in between his training sessions. So she cared for her mother and rarely left the area. "That is not a bland existence, you do your mother a great service to take care of her. I am a guest, a guest that wishes to know about the land he is in and those who dwell within it, but only if you wish to speak about it." He would not force her to speak about herself, that would not be a kind thing to do, but if and when she was ready to do so then he would hear what she had to say.
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Posted: Fri Jul 15, 2011 8:47 am
Ecclesia was glad to have crossed paths with the stallion. This Kaleidoscope character was a little different, what with being a knight and pumped full of chivalry and purity, but it was a refreshing change from the monotony of the day. Besides which, it was nice to know someone who had great dreams and a colorful slew of goals! While it was a life Ecclesia knew she would never have, it was nice to know someone who was full of excitement. His life was almost as colorful as his coat, very fitting actually.
Besides, after all her years in the quiet woods with her family, how many were out there that she could call a knight? Cassiel spoke fondly of Tobias, and Ecclesia knew her mother and father had a bit of a damsel-in-distress sort of history. She didn't know all the details, since Cassiel often kept many matters of her past private, but she had heard story enough of how Tobias had swept her up and away from her troubles.
Other than that . . . life in the herd was quiet. Ridiculously quiet.
Walking next to the stallion, Ecclesia gave a small chuckle and a little, dismissive shake of her head. "I do my best to keep my mother happy and content. Her life was paved with a great hurt and sorrow, so I feel it is right to ease her worries." So did it make her a bad daughter to feel the slightest bit of jealousy when she watched others chase dreams and live a life all their own? Did it make her a horrible soquili because sometimes she resented the restrictions placed upon her? She loved her mother dearly but . . . . Ecclesia lived a life not her own.
Oh well. That was hardly appropriate conversation with a guest of the lands. "I can tell you about the land, and can even tell you all you wish to know about those that reside here," she added with a small smile. "Unfortunately though, it's a rather brief sort of story. And those within it are few of number. Still, if . . . if you really wish to know more of my life, I . . I'll tell you what I do know.
"I don't have many big dreams, not . . .not really. I suppose you could call me practical, or rather, accepting of my role in this world. Some sorts, like you, are destined for great things. . . But not everyone can be the main protagonist of a story or tale. I know for a fact I am not one of them." She spoke matter-of-factly, not at all upset by this nor did she speak in a deprecating tone. This was purely the fact of the matter, the way of the world.
"I suppose I'd like to someday see the ocean . . . but it's a fairly long journey, and I don't suppose I'll have the time to make such an adventure anytime soon. Still, I suppose it isn't impossible. . . perhaps someday." Honestly, she really wanted ot see the world to know more than just the land they currently navigated. There was a wistful tone in her voice, a yearning that she couldn't yet admit.
"So for now, I suppose I enjoy my life as best I am able under the circumstances. There are occasional upsets to the routine, such as the rare guest or visitor, but . . . I should be thankful life has been quiet and calm. I hear and know that the world can be a brutal thing. . . and it would be cruel of me to take for granted all the blessings I've been given." Unfortunately for the mare, she was heavily influenced by her mothers broken nature. Many of the words she spoke were of her mothers quiet whispers of fear and need. Unfortunately for Ecclesia, she had a tender heart and was easily made to feel guilty by her mother.
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Posted: Sun Aug 07, 2011 5:58 pm
He listened closely as she spoke of her mother and the trials of the mares past. The details weren't all there but he could understand why she had devoted her life to taking care of her mother knowing that in the past she had been hurt. Kaleidoscope supposed that if the same thing had happened to his mother or father he might have chosen a different path in life. Perhaps he would have stayed behind like Ecclesia did and took care of his parent, or there was the possibility that he still would have followed the path of knighthood but pursued it at a younger age so that he could better protect them. He would never know the true answer, for these were all just possibilities about a fate that had not been laid before him, but it certainly made him consider things for a moment as she continued to speak. Life was full of choices, obstacles, disappointment, happiness, and a whole slew of other emotions and factors. There was no way one could ever know every possible outcome of every possible path one could take. And so that was the part of life that drove everyone forward, towards the unknown. Even those who had a set pattern in life were often thrown into various situations they had not expected because life was ever changing.
"I would still like to know about the land. Even small bits of information can be helpful." Not only did he wish to know about these lands but he was still hoping she would open up a bit more. Kale could only wait and see if talking about her home range would do just that. And then she began to talk about one of her dreams. That was certainly a start and he listened intently as she spoke of her desire to see the ocean one day.
A smile crossed him lips, though she called her life dull and tried to avoid talking about herself he could see in her eyes and hear in her voice a burning desire to one day see the ocean. "The ocean is said to be a place of great beauty. Though the journey to see it is far I am certain that one day you will. I myself have not seen the ocean as of yet." He considered offered to take her there, but would that be too forward? Kale didn't entirely think so, but he also didn't want to frighten her off by the invitation. Well it was worth a shot, even if it wasn't something to happen this very moment he could at least mention going with her at some point. "Perhaps one day I could take you there, and on the way show you many other wonderful sites."
He fell silent for a few moments before looking over at her. "A quiet life is certainly a blessing in many ways. While the rest of the world isn't horribly violent, there are areas that seem to attract it and certain Soquili that wish to spread it. Those who are constantly tormented by evil or those who are in constant motion often crave even a day of peace and quiet. Sometimes they are fortunate to find them, others do not." Kale was lucky that outside of training his life was relatively quiet. Through his travels he had met very few ill-tempered individuals and most he looked forward to meeting again some day - Ecclesia included.
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