[PRP] On Ancestral Grounds (Taarab, Aviania, Aylin)

[mindsend]

Hesitating slightly at the foot of the ancient temple, finding the vine covered and broken steps leading up to be somewhat intimidating, Taarab looked in wonder at the ancestral sacred ground of his ancestors with awe and respect. The Flock born stallion felt honored and humbled to have been chosen to travel this long and this far outside of his home territory to aide the Queen and the Oracle in retrieving the treasures that had been gained over the years since the flock first left this land after the cataclysmic quakes that shook their land.

As an able bodied and loyal male, it was one of the highest honors he could think of, and nary a thought had crossed his mind that he, or any stallion in his lifetime, would be picked for such a journey, as it required trust, and males were often fickle creatures, unpredictable in their actions and lacking proper control of their emotions and instincts compared to the mares. It was often puberty where it started being its worst, the hormones often driving thoughts of superiority and aggression into their mind, setting a wanderlust even though their bodies were unable to produce, and minds unable to feel physical desires until they were well into their fourth year, having reached adulthood earlier as the feelings start taking form gradually into the pleasing forms of ladies.

Taarab had, indeed, gone through them, and had finished his introduction into the safezone well over a year ago. He was just as interested in mares, and felt the stirrings, but had been given warning of them from his father, and learned to control the desire to wander and burn the energy by focusing it into his craft, and in starting the artisans guild.

Which, indeed, lead him to the broken steps of an ancient civilization in which he climbed today at the queen's side, carrying a self made pack full of gifts for the Oracle; blankets, fine cloths and incense, Jewelry, gems and fastenings, tools to aid his creation of art for the oracle and for the oracle's own trade.

He also bore, Pottery and carefully dyed feathers, small pots of fur paints, jams, and honey, Wrapped packages of wax, smoked meats and sweet flat corn cakes. Jugs of Wild grape and berry wines and Mead sloshed as he walked. Not to mention the decent sized young pig he had on a lead tied to his wrist, occasionally carried across his shoulders when speed was needed or the land was treacherous.

It had been five weeks since the pale stallion had been told to prepare for the journey. His carrying pack had been made long before, for carrying supplies for his craft back and forth, but now it carried some of the finest examples of what had been made to bring comfort and luxury to the oracle, often isolated from the others. He had spent well over a week fussing to insure she got the finest they had to offer.


Nearing the top of the steps, he swallowed nervously. He himself was dressed up in some of his own personal work, as he often did to show his latest skills or work and draw attention to his appearance, and now Taarab found himself concerned -- perhaps he shouldn't have spent the morning dressing up in the access jingling bells and swirling feathers to look his best when presenting his wares to the oracle, it seemed almost sacrilegious to have done so and still enter such hallowed halls.

Glancing over at the chocolate mare that had protected him on the almost three week journey for permission, he waited cautiously outside the opening of the temple, unable to see into its depths save for the occasional spot of light from the crumbling of ancient walls.

 

[Dragain]

At the peak of their reign, males were not given as much freedom as they were given now. However, as strict and rigid as she had been with the rules of the Flock, Aviania was not a stubborn fool. While it wasn't easy for her to change, she saw that for their community to once again thrive, it had to be done. As they traveled across the forests and fields from where the new Flock was located, she found obvious advantages to having a stallion around; the most obvious being the fact that males are generally built to be physically stronger... Ideal for transporting goods.

As they neared the temple, her expression softened; she had practically grown up here... Her best friend and confide was the only one who had stayed behind during the great move. It wasn't an easy decision to make, but as with the Flock's "revamp", it had to be done, as heart wrenching as it was to leave the Flock's Oracle behind to guard the temple of the Spirits that had watched over them.

"Aylin darling," She stepped ahead of Taarab, taking slow steps into the temple itself while the stallion remained outside. She stopped a moment later, golden eyes trying to get used to the darkness as she waited for a response, "I've returned... Ah, please do not be alarmed at the presence of a male." No doubt the spirits would have warned her before their arrival, but it would be unwise to simply assume.  

[Dixie]

Aylin's ears flicked, she heard bells long before she heard the voice of her beloved friend. She had taken to the shadows in the back of the temple, waiting to see what brought the sound on the winds. She would often watch those that came looking for her, waiting to see if the spirits would allow her to assist them or let them go on their way thinking that they had not found the proper location.

Aviania's voice rang out through the old temple, Aylin's face broke into a smile. It had been some time since Aylin's last visit to the new nesting grounds. She had visited to read some of the new arrivals, but had not returned since.

From what the spirits had told her, things seemed calm.... for the moment.

Golden eyes blinked from the back of the temple, reflecting the dim light as the pale mare made her way towards the entrance. Had it been anyone but Aviania, she would have stopped, especially at the sight of the male. She was surprised though, that Aviania had brought anyone with her, especially that of the male gender.

"Dear Aviania," she coo'd as she made her way to nuzzle the queen's neck. "I hope the journey met you and your...help...well?" she was unsure what exactly to address the male as.  

[mindsend]

Taarab bowed his head in polite submission, keeping his posture relaxed and footing firm despite the pig currently tugging on the lead as it rooted around at acorns.

The young pig, born from captured feral pigs, was tamer than most of the wild boars, but it was one of the least tame of the males in its group. Thus had been selected as a fresh meal for the Oracle, as they were still working on getting them tame enough to work with regularly. This one was just young enough to not be a danger while transporting, as well as tender, while big enough that both mares could eat while he sated himself with some of the squirrel killed that morning and tied to his pack. And the young boar wouldn't live long enough to ever be a threat.


The white stallion waited for permission to follow before walking a few steps closer to the entrance, and pausing again as he peered around at the ancient structure, unsure if he was allowed to enter.



 

[Dragain]

She nuzzled the Oracle's neck in return as greeting, the edges of her lips curling up into a smile as she took in the familiar sight and scent of the mare. She could tell that her friend was surprised, and who could blame her? She would be surprised to, at the changes that had taken place in her beloved Flock, if she had not been there to watch it happen... The new generation of Harpies have their own ideals, but at least they did not forget what's important.

"The journey was long, but definitely worth it," She smiled, canting her head a little to the side to gesture to the stallion standing a short distance away, "He is... Helpful, yes. His name is Taarab, son of Zahraa', current Commander and potential heiress to the throne. He was raised well and had pleased the Spirits... For that reason, he was chosen to accompany me on this journey."

She paused momentarily, her gaze shifting from stallion to mare as her smile widened, "We brought gifts for the Spirits and for you as well, from our sisters..." She then gestured for Taarab to enter the temple with a nod of her head, to allow Aylin to examine the wares that they had brought.  

[mindsend]

At the Queens cue, the sky-blue haired stallion walked up to her side, and unlatched the Saddle pack. With tender care, he slid the pack off and took one of the warmer, thicker blankets and spread it out so he could start setting the pieces out as he had been practicing, displaying the gifts of the flock best he could. Rolls of fine cloths and soft tanned leathers and plush furs carefully skinned and cleaned. Bundles of feathers, carved bones, herbs and incense were set out in one area, and treats set out one by one.

Once finished, Taarab bowed his head, smiling somewhat nervously, and glanced up at them both, wondering silently if he had permission to speak and explain what he had provided, and what he had to offer.




(And now its Dixies turn 8V)  

[Dixie]

"One of Zahraa's, eh?" she didn't recall this stallion as a foal, but she had looked at so many over the years it was hard to recall them all. "You must be impressive," she smiled over to the stallion. She knew it was unlike the Queen to have a stallion accompany her anywhere.

"Gifts?" she laughed and blushed a little, "Aviania, you know better. I am the one to be gifting you and the sisters!" she nodded back, deeper inside the temple. "I have gathered many treasures for you to take home."

Her attention turned to the stallion that was laying out items and gifts. He had journeyed with much in his bags, some items she knew of and some looked crafted. "Tell me of your wares, Taraab." she lowered her head to take in the scent of some of the incense, it was charming indeed.  

[mindsend]

The pale, sky blue haired stallion nearly glowed at the oracle's comment and smile, giving a warm smile in return as he met Aylin's eyes cheerfully, before lowering his gaze and dark lashes down, trying not to get his Ego too stoked up.

However his chest did seem to swell and warm slightly, and he held himself with a more calm and relaxed poise as he recited his speech, "Back in the home flock, with The Queen's permission and supervision of my superiors I've helped in the organization of an artisans guild over the past two years. Many stallions, even those who are born with the purity and honor of being born to the glory of the Flock feel restless without a focus for their energy on, and some mistresses find themselves wishing to take up a hobby for days where all is full and the weather doesn't lend itself to hunting."

With a gentle gesture towards the spread, Taarab continued with soft warm tone, "These are some of the finest examples of what the guild has produced since its creation, as an offering to you to improve your comfort to that now available to the flock and keep you strong and healthy, and to to aid you in the care and worship of the spirits that protect us all." He dipped his head in a polite bow, eyes lifting to peer through his lashes at her.

He shifted, picking up the young piglet after pulling it's lead close, the creatures low squealing in surprise as it struggled to get back to its feet, "As well as food, to share in the bounty that has been provided. Fresh meat, and treats such as honey, larva, and sweet cakes. I also bring the tools to set the foundation for more sustainable food her, so you would not have to suffer lean times to defend our ancestral home."

Setting the young pig down again, he then began to describe a bit of everything, opening lids to jars so she could sniff and sample the treats inside, offering the sweet corn cakes and smoked meats. He showed off the tanned leathers soft texture, setting out a bed for each of the mares with the materials, so they could lounge on the soft cushions and relax in comfort.

He was careful not to yammer on too much about each piece, and took pause to answer questions and allow them to guide where his attentions turned to next. Describing the paints for their furs and feathers, the materials he brought to craft jewelry to the mares liking, even setting out dishes and carefully pouring shallow sips of the different beverages for them to taste along with their snacks of smoked meats and sweet flatbreads, warning of their dizzying effects and what drinking too much could bring, but also commenting on how it relaxed the muscles after a long day of hunting if drunk in moderation.


The jug he poured from had enough room for him to slip a claw into a handle, and could coil another taloned foot around the base to pour, but the leather bound to it allowed one to grip it firmly in their teeth and pour for themselves even if they lacked claws beyond the faux ones he had been crafting for fillies born without the gift.

Finally he settled back, bowing deeply, "And finally, I present myself for your entertainment. I can sing songs of the flocks glory, and dance in the honor of the spirits if you desire it of me.."
 

[Dragain]

"Indeed, darling," The faintest hint of a smirk could be seen on the Queen's lips as she took a side glance at the quiet stallion; son of Zahraa... He had been well-behaved thus far, and she found his company to be... Tolerable in a pleasant way, which is a compliment to him.

"Oh, don't be silly," She chuckled lightly, giving the oracle a gentle nudge using her nose, "There is no 'us' and 'you'... We are one Flock, are we not? Take it as an... Exchange of sorts." She moved over to stand beside her friend as the stallion begun to talk about what the Flock had done over the years; it really does take her back to when they first settled in... So much had changed since then that it was almost difficult to believe that only a few short years had passed.

Then again, they are a strong, proud herd...

The thought brought a smile to her lips as she flexed her talons, turning her head to look at Aylin just as Taarab finished speaking. Chuckling softly, her tone was one filled with amusement as she tilted her head, "Of course, there is more to entertainment than just song and dance, darling~"  

[Dixie]

She watched as the stallion lay out a bed of fur then began sorting the times here and there. She gracefully lowered herself to one of the beds and waited for Aviania to join her on the other. She closed her eyes and smiled as Taraab offered her samples of the scents and treats that they had brought to the oracle.

"They are all just delicious smelling," she laughed and looked over to the Queen.

"An exchange, then." she bobbed her head and laughed. "Come, lets eat and enjoy a rest. The two of you must be tired from your journey." she nuzzled Aviania, gently.

She turned to the stallion. In any.. formal .. setting she would not dare offer to let the stallion share a meal, but here, this was far from formal.

"Taraab, do join us for dinner. You will need energy from a fed stomach for our entertainment." she smiled and motioned for him to join the ladies.  

[mindsend]

The stallion nodded slightly at the queen's statement, thinking of art, food, games... However the offer of sharing food halted his thoughts, and Taarab hesitated slightly, unsure if they meant for him to truly partake in their meal or if it was a test, before moving closer and, with an edge of trepidation in his minds eye, settled himself down, "There are plenty of things I could do to provide entertainments... Ah, do you care for the honors?"

Pulling the young boar closer and between them, he set a massive clawed foot down on it, forcing it to lay down on its side, and he pulled one of the dishes closer to it so it wouldn't stain the floors of the temple, or before holding its muzzle shut and exposing its throat, bowing his head and offering first blood to be spilled by one of the mares, the feathers on his tail fluffing slightly as he flicked the hair out to drape behind him gracefully. He dipped his head in a bow, holding the squirming animal in his talons, and waited for his next set of instructions.
 

[Dragain]

She smiled, her expression softer than usual as she settled down on the other bed; only around her old friend would she ever show this side of herself... Taarab was just lucky to see the Queen this way. Most stallions pass on without ever knowing that the Queen had a 'softer' side to her, even if she had never been especially... Unkind.

"I dare say that Aylin is right," She couldn't resist smirking as she chuckled softly, "You do need... Energy for entertaining, especially if you wish to do it well. You can take what you need after Aylin and myself have taken the first bite." Oh silly Taarab, wouldn't your mother be proud of you right now?

"Ah, go ahead," She eyed their meal before nodding; might as well allow him to do them another service.  

[mindsend]

(D Suggested I post now again lol Taarab's posting a lot!)


Taarab couldn't help but smile slightly at the softening of Aviania's eyes, the way her body language relaxed, how she relaxed around her friend. She was so strong, and so devoted to the flock's well being, to its survival with an ugly, corrupt world around it, and to tradition. It was a heavy yolk to bear, and yet she handled it with grace, dignity and power, and only showed affection and good cheer when not having to be such a pillar of strength. The crown she wore may be heavy, but it only made her stronger and more determined to succeed, like a true Harpy Mistress should be.

Needless to say, while he wasn't smitten with their leader or starry eyed, there was a bit of awe nestled deep in his respect for her. However, as the chocolate and honeyed mare's sunny eyes twinkled like the Opals that graced her form in playful innuendo, her tone faintly impish to his ears, he felt a slight moment of confusion.

Then, realization broke across his face, lighting his eyes so candidly as the thin fur of his muzzle seemed to pink with the flush of his equally as pale skin below. However he quickly dipped his head moments later, not wanting to appear slow of mind to their host. Then he lifted his eyes mischievously with a smirk in return as he adjusted himself to properly position to slay the boar from his own angle, his tone affectionate but polite, playing along with the Queen as respectfully as possible, "All just part of the care package, Mistresses."

With that said, he quickly dispatched of their future meal's life blood, chuckling in amusement that she managed to get him all the way here without him being aware of that particular detail. He wondered if she had hinted before on their journey and it was only now he had caught on, unable to grasp it in his talons since he had been blinded by his plans, preparations, and the sheer fact that he wouldn't have expected something so grand on top of the honor.

As the creature finally stilled, the dish full of the rich red liquid that could either be savored separately or prepared as a different dish completely, He pulled over one of the dishes and carefully cut it into bits after cleansing his talons of dirt with a wipe on a scrap leathers, and segmented the animal so it'd be easier for the mares to pick out prime bites and their favorite pieces all to themselves, setting it out and bowing his head again, waiting for them pick first.

 

[Dixie]

Aylin gasped as she caught the Queens remark, "Aviania!" she laughed and nudged her friend's shoulder with her nose. "Part of my care package? I do think I like this deal, my friend!" she nickered and nipped at Aviania's shoulder playfully. It had been some time since the oracle had been in the company of another for such... entertainment.

Turning back to the male, she watched as he slaughtered the meal and lay it out for the two females, she glanced over to Aviania with a nod. Even though they were friends, Aylin always insisted that Aviania got what she wanted first.

She turned her attention back to Taarab as she waited for the Queen to take her pickings, "So tell me, Taarab, did you make these wares?" she was quite intrigued with the craftsmanship of the items. They looked well made and sturdy.  

[mindsend]

Taarab flushed slightly at the Oracle's approval of the setting, somewhat surprised as she was known to be pickier than most of the Warriors of the Flock, but straightened slightly as she addressed him, at attention.

Shifting a bit, he looked over the supplies, "Not everything, though at the moment, while I'm the most experienced, I'm not necessarily the most talented -- there will be fields where a mistress, with practice, will overtake my own capabilities, or a male focuses more on a single field than I do." He lifted his head again, meeting her eyes, "My Specialty is crafting artificial claws, strapped to the legs and against front hooves, so mistresses born without the gift can hunt with their sisters. However I also make purely decorative jewelry, Pottery, blankets, beverages, fabrics, and baskets -ah... Decorative ones and sturdy ones for carrying items and attaching to saddles for transport, with lids, not the ones used for protecting and nurturing offspring."

He made a motion with his claws, non aggressive but showing their dexterity, "I also make tools, so things that usually can only be done with claws can be done with ones mouth, though it is rougher.. So other stallions that choose to occupy themselves with it can spend the energy that would instead be used for deception, desires to wander or escape, on producing a craft, creating something, and aiding the flock... It occupies the mind, the body, and improves mood.. Thus reducing the 'need' some may feel for the corrupt world outside of what is pure and clean..."

"But..." He added, gesturing with a single claw, and he took up one of the jugs and wiggled the top loose between two claws, settled on his haunches awkwardly. It came off with a pop, and he poured a dish of the rich mead he had brought with him -- it was a favorite of his mothers, "I did produce most of what is here, or selected it from our more talented crafters. The cakes were made by my father, using a tool I had provided him... He also keeps the bees. I'm not as involved with the miners that willingly take to searching for gems and gold with female supervision, though I do help with clay. Nor do I do the farming -- Planting and harvesting of renewable, sustainable vegetation, rather than having to dig for roots."

He offered the dish for the oracle to drink from, bowing his head, "Blackberry Melomel -- Its honey with blackberries, fermented. It's a favorite of my mothers, especially when her muscles are stiff and she needs to limber up again to prime her body for proper recovery... As I explained before, you shouldn't drink too much, since it can dull ones reflexes, however a little bit... It can open up the flow of ones mind, and relax muscles. And has energy in it, allowing one to recover after a good hunt, or a hard day of working, or fighting... And sometimes as just a treat with a meal." The pale stallion turned his attention to Aviania, eyebrows raising as he gestured slightly with the bottle, unsure if she'd tried it before herself.

He knew some of the sisters would trade good materials for the beverage, as it was enjoyable in moderation, and with their sizes, most could handle a single bottle with only a faint buzz, passing quickly.