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 Posted: Mon Dec 17, 2012 7:36 am
Note for Niss: Daiki Cullen, Rainbow Cullen and Riverio all need stats.This is a private Solo RP.
Please do not post unless invited to do so.
Thanks.
-----------------------------------------  --- Chandra --- Hakidonmuya -- Sophia Phillipa Hale -- Alice Cullen --- Crown Cullen --- Daiki Cullen --- Rainbow Cullen -- Riverio
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Posted: Mon Dec 17, 2012 7:39 am
It was a hot yet surprisinglu calming day, the sun was simply too hot to sleep under, one of the negatives about being a nocturnal creature. Still, Chandra found she liked this little glimpse of the day, the world her mate had once belonged too... they had discussed the possibility of returning to the day, of the night finally breaking for the Dawn.... was that time now? She had to admit she enjoyed the warmth and the light, the colours bright and vibrant around her.... and the flowers! So pretty and delicate, so different to the night flowers she was used to see. Her mate was off doing his patrol, her daughters were trying to sleep in the cooler land they had settled in for the day. They were pausing for a few days, the break much deserved for her tired herd. She had decided to take the break after seeing the exhaustion start to shine behind everyone's eyes. Pausing would do good, even her father seemed in higher spirits than before they had left.... the power of moving. Healing. Of course three loud and wild lads and a set of twins was also enough to distract even the most stubborn creature, they were bright and cheerful in their own way and Chandra couldn't help but smile at each of them. Rainbow. Wish. Keid. Daiki. Rigel. Five new little stars.
She took a deep breath and looked around, sure that she wouldn't be the only one awake despite the time.
Hakidonmuya couldn't have decribed what it was that motivated him as he found his way to Heze's mother. His throat felt tight and hoarse and he wasn't sure he trusted the words in her language, not that that would stop him... after all, he told himself that by not doing this he would never be worthy of claiming her daughter as his mate. No, now was not the time to be a coward.
His eyes darted still as he came closer, despite the smile that he knew was usually upon the aging mares face. "Good day." He said softly. Trying to smile the best he could around his beak.
Chandra was surprised but happy to see Haki, he was a strange stallion to be sure but he was their stallion, was of the herd.... after all he worked just as hard if not harder than everyone else, and she was beginning to fully understand why her daughter was so smitten with him. He was rather charming in his own way..... and she had to admit that part of her would love to speak that almost secret language of his... the conversations that he and Heze held would be most interesting if she could only understand them. "Indeed. Good morning.... sun... day whatever you wish to call it." She chirped brightly, able to tell from the way Haki had aimed straight for her that he was after something. "What's wrong Haki?" She couldn't hide her curiousity, so didn't bother to try.
Haki shifted on his hooves and claws, knowing that the older mare could see right through him.... no point stalling. He took a deep breath and said softly. "I.... wish to ask permission to take Heze away for a day. I saw.... eh.... large water... near that I would like to show her." He blushed a little, but knew that this was the only way to get the permission he needed... and there was no way he was asking Sonnet. While he appreciated the older stallion's help with his training in their ways... but well, he knew that the other stallion was having a hard time with the idea of anyone with his daughters, not that he could blame him, the idea of Haki having daughters and some suitor coming to call on them was.... not appealing. Still, he believed that Chandra would be more understanding, had appeared to be on his side from the start after all.
Chandra beamed brightly at the request, she might be tired but she knew how much it had taken the strange stallion to ask. She pretended to think about it, teasing slightly as she tilted her head softly to the side before chuckling softly and nodding. "Of course. I will make sure Sonnet knows so that he can take you both of rotation, all I ask...." She turned serious for a moment, knowing that it was needed at times and that this was such a time. "Make sure she is save for me Haki. Bring her back safe and whole." That was all she could ask. She didn't want to stop her children having experiences, knew full well that wandering off and getting lost had gained her a great friend and a mate in two different stallions... she could only ask the same for her daughters, but still, these were dangerous times and while she downplayed the danger at times to keep her herd happy caution would always be there now. Life was still for enjoying... and enjoy they would.
Haki smiled brightly at that, not caring how his beak might look in that moment. He had permission? Really? That was.... wow! He bowed his head, moved his claw forward a little almost as if to touch -though he never did, touch was against his customs, but this was the closest he would get, a slight attempt to blend into the herd. "Thank you. I promise.... you and your mate have my loyalty." He blushed a little even as he added in a mere whisper. "Your daughter.... has my heart." With his heart came everything he was and had. Everything.
It warmed Chandra to hear those words. Yes, this was a very fine stallion. "Good. I would have it no other way." She was a little embarassed at having his loyalty but understood it, what pleased her most was that her daughter held his heart. Deciding to 'help' them along a little she said softly, "Make sure you tell her Haki. Don't miss out on the opportunity to become more." An idea came to mind then, she knew that Haki's traditions were different from their own, knew that Sonnet had asked for her hoof in matehood only after getting permission from her father first... something she was sure Sonnet would appreciate. Of course, the fact that Haki and Heze didn't touch did seem to sooth her mate somewhat.... it would be... .amusing.... to see how he handled them showing open affection for one another. "When you're ready, I am sure everyone will support you in asking Sonnet for permission to become her mate." She winked playfully, trying to make light of the situation in the way of pressure, after all, Chandra didn't want that to effect things. "No rush." Of course, Chandra would love to see her own grandchildren one day... but not yet, her children were still young and vibrant and lovely. They had so much left to explore and learn and there was no rush to do any of that.
Haki couldn't help it, his pelt darkened as a blush consumed him, made him so hot he was sure he was going to spontaniously combust without a moments notice. Had she really just said that? He knew this herd were open and accepting but.... was she really suggesting this? It was.... a dream come true, coupled with a nightmare in the form of talking to her father but he could do it! He knew he could do it! "I.... I.... eh... you.... Heze.... I...." He gulped, no idea what he was trying to say.
Instead he just lowered his head in a bow and said quickly, "Thank you."
"You're welcome." She chirped brightly, more than aware she had embarassed him a little but didn't linger on it, didn't make him feel uncomfortable for it. "Go on.... I'm sure she is looking for you." Probably true, the pair seemed inseperable most days. It was a surprise to see him without her, but that was a good sign she hoped, that he was comfortable enough to wander around the herd on his own now.... or maybe it was simply because it was day and Heze was sleeping? Whatever the cause she was glad for it.
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Posted: Tue Dec 18, 2012 11:38 pm
Sophia looked at her mother and sighed, "Come on. She's over there..... look!" Out of the two alpha's Sophia knew Chandra was her faviourite, while she had liked Sengdroma, Maion's mate, she had to say she prefered the gentle and quiet ways of Chandra more. Not that she would ever disgrace anyone by speaking that outloud, but it was her opinion.
Alice chuckled at her daughters enthusiam even as she found herself a little sick at the premonition she had seen. Yes, she knew she must tell Chandra, planned to do just that, after all this was for the good of everyone.... but still. As her hooves walked towards the other mare she found herself hesitating. Not because she didn't trust Chandra but but because Alice couldn't tell if it would be for the best or not, she was too close to the situation.
"Morning Chandra." Sophia chirped brightly, more than aware that it was thanks to Chandra that she was even still alive, she owed much to the star covered mare, so much like her father.
Chandra's eyes snapped from watching Haki move to the voice of Sophia, she could tell the sing-song-mare's voice anywhere. It was distinctive and wholely her's. "Morning. Can't sleep either?" The moment she said that was the moment her eyes drifted to Alice and she froze. The haunted look on the mares face said much to her and she frowned a little thinking about it.... something was wrong. She didn't want to push too hard though, knowing that if it was important she would tell her.... still.... "It seem's it's a little too hot today. Shall we go and seek some shade together?" An excuse, to linger and delve without asking directly. Tricky perhaps but she would only worry otherwise, after all Chandra worried about everyone. Wanted them all happy.
Sophia smiled and nodded in agreement, even as she looked over at her mother and spoke, "Some shade would be nice. Right Ma?"
Alice blinked and then nodded, trying to shift her melancholy in her heart. "Yes. That sounds nice." Yet, even she had to admit that seeing Chandra did seem to calm her. Despite Chandra being much younger than her she was a lovely mare, and it did brighten her mood somewhat just being around her. She let out a breath and knew that the others were just waiting for her, knew full well that she had 'seen' something. "It's Rigel."
Chandra blinked and stared in disbelief at Alice's words. "Rigel?" She couldn't say much else, hoped that the question on the youngest colts name was enough.
Alice understood and nodded slowly, like she said to her daughter... she was emotionally involved. Rigel and his brothers were Alice's great-grandsons as far as she was concerned. Born from Eden her only female granddaughter. It was why she couldn't decide if it was good or not.... sometimes allowing certain things to happen worked out for the best, but she was too close to see in this. "Yes. I saw a vision of him... running away. I saw the forest. I saw a river. I just saw him.... gone." She sighed and walked beside the other mares.
Sophia was strangely floored by this news, she was protective about her nephews, even if it wasn't in the conventional 'I shall protect you' sort of way. Rigel wanted to run away? Why?
Chandra's own thoughts echoed Sophia's, why would Rigel want to run away? "Do you get a feeling as to why he would want to run away?" She knew that Alice's visions didn't work that way, knew they were just clips of what could happen if a person continued on the path they were currently thinking, if something changed their mind or something else happened first then the path could choice. It was part of the reason the mare often thought twice about simply revealing her visions... after all, somethings weren't meant to be interupted. In a way this sort of reminded her of her thoughts while talking to Haki. She had believed with him that sometimes it was ok to go off, get lost and have a mini adventure that could help to shape you, help you to grow. Of course, the idea of one of their children unhappy and wanting to leave didn't sit well either.
Alice thought about it and shook her head. "No. I didn't see.... but...." she thought about it, she spent a fair amount of time with her great grandchildren. "..I do often see him looking at his wings and those of his siblings." It could be nothing. Could be everything.
Chandra considered that for a moment. Her own brother had had a slight complex because he had been born without wings completely, while perhaps it was crueller to tempt you with the knowlegde that you have them but could never fly with them. Chandra knew that Orion blamed himself, an issue that seemed to upset Eden.... but Chandra had left the situation alone, knew that they could only resolve it alone. Perhaps it was time to have a word with the family and gauge their feelings fully? Offering quiet advice without them even knowing it? An idea of offering the foals little roles to keep them active and happy was appealing too. "Hmmm.... does the vision show him getting hurt?"
Alice was still pained even as she shook her head. Just because she didn't see it yet didn't mean it wouldn't happen. All it would take would be Rigel deciding to explore somewhere and slipping....
Chandra nodded. "Ok." She thought about it a moment, thought about the pros and cons of allowing a child to knowingly disappear into the forest alone, an unknown forest at that. "For now, let's not do anything. I think we should give Rigel the benefit of the doubt, he is a growing lad.... if we try to force him to stay will only drive him away more. Perhaps in going for a short time now will bring him back to us forever?" She mused, speaking her thoughts outloud in an effort to sooth the two worried mares beside her. It didn't mean that she was completely comfortable with it, knew that she would be worried sick the whole time Rigel was gone. As if suddenly remembering something she added, "Alice, while he is away you can keep an eye on him. If something looks wrong or off we can go get him. He will never truely be alone."
Sometimes, things just happened that you had no control over. She knew that..... and while she suddenly found herself with informatioin that could change everything she was reluctant to use it, and not just because she feared relying on Alice too much.
Sophia whimpered a little but nodded at Chandra, she could see the other mares point.... but still, "Do you think it will be ok if I spend more time with them? I know they see me as an annoying babysitter but...." She blushed, her white pelt hiding nothing.
Chandra smiled softly and nodded, knowing that Sophia just needed to feel like she was doing something, anything. "Sure. I would avoid talking about running away or anything like that, since that could simply give them all ideas." She teased, though it was only lightly since her mind was still processing what she had decided. Was she really going to let Rigel go away from the herd?
Alice sighed softly but oddly agreed, "I couldn't decide if it was something he needed to do or not, too close, but you're right..... and I really don't want to drive those three precious boys away."
Sophia sighed too and looked away from the two older mares, of the trio she was the only one who had never had children. Her mind drifted to Tristan. "I know this is changing the subject...." He blush brightened, she had been thinking about this alot lately but hadn't yet managed to bring it up with anyone. Embarassed and a not wanting to take away from the protection the herd needed. "...but.... eh... well I was wondering if...." She froze a little, suddenly nervous and unsure.
Alice looked at her daughter and then pried into her future, it was something she tried to avoid at times but curiousity got the better of her. She saw a stallion of black and blue, a forest dweller.... she smiled as she watched the pair kiss.
Chandra glanced at Alice only to notice the familiar vacant stare and smile, whatever she saw was good.... turning away she looked at Sophia instead. "What is it dear? You know you're safe here."
Sophia nodded but gulped all the same. It was true, she knew she was safe here, knew that Chandra wouldn't judge her over anything petty or silly, would simply accept her decisions and own mind without mockery. Didn't make it easier to ask. "Well.... I would like to see Tristan. Would it..... I mean... do you think.... that someone could take me?" Sophia knew that Sonnet didn't want them to be alone, and while she DID want alone time with Tristan she would accept company on the journey there, would help too since company was always welcome.
Chandra beamed, remembering a very little Tristan coming to the herd to see Sophia and her father. She couldn't help but tease the young mare a little. Bumping into her and winking softly before speaking. "Oh.... Tristan?"
Alice chuckled as she came back to reality from the dream and wandered to the opposite side of Sophia befroe nudging her playfully. "Oh.... so you want to kiss him!"
Sophia burned even brighter with her blush. "I.... you... I....eh...." What did she say to that? She looked down as she blushed. "Maybe." She admitted, knowing they were just happy for her and teasing her was their way of showing it.
Chandra leaned in and kissed Sophia's head softly. "I will talk to Sonnet, ok? I am sure we can work something out so you can steal one of our protectors for a little while to go see him and his family. Even if we have someone escort you and leave you for a few days. That sound ok?" Chandra knew that only Sonnet could decide this, it involved his protectors for longer than an afternoon after all, and while Chandra felt it was ok to let two of their hardworking protectors have the afternoon off she knew that if she called Haki or Heze they would both come back.... anyone that went with Sophia wouldn't be back for much longer.
Sophia beamed up at the black and white mare. "Really? Thank you! That would be lovely! I mean.... I...." She blushed again "Thanks." she said again instead.
"Sophia and Tristan, kissing near a tree.... K-I-S-S-I-N-G." She continued to tease, leaning over and kissing her daughter too. "You look sweet together." She whispered into her daughters ear, strangely thankful and much calmer after the converstion with Chandra and the distraction of Sophia and her lover boy. Things would be ok, they just had to be.
Chandra chuckled at Alice, glad to see the happy and bright mare back. "Come.... lets sit and gossip for a while, I think I spied some pears earlier." She smiled.
Together the three mares laughed and talked under the hot sun of the day, and with each word that passed between them a bond and light that could never be broken was renforced.
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Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2012 1:50 am
Crown made his way to the herd lands that evening, he had to talk to Chandra and Sonnet about something, Kyran and the twins were happily playing and looking for food so he didn't have much time to spare before they would expect him to be back. He smiled a little thinking about his family unit. They were beautiful, perfect.... and very much his.
With a clash of hooves on the dirt he landed and followed the path he knew the herd were using at the moment until he eventually found them. He spotted who he wanted immediatly, it was hard to miss her with her coat so very much like her fathers. "Chandra." He called, even as his eyes looked for Eden and her three little ones, he loved his sister dearly after all.
Chandra looked up from her food, a little sleepy from lack of sleep but the moment she saw Crown she beamed from cheek to cheek. No matter where life took him and his lovemate Kyran, Chandra would always count him as family. He would always be welcome in the herd, all of them. Everyone felt the same, those who had moved with her father had formed a tightknit community that was open and accepting, even to the fact that Crown was partnered with another male. "Crown." For a moment her eyes looked for the giggling infernos that were his twins. "Alone today?" Something that was becoming rarer and rarer as the twins grew older.
Crown nodded softly at the question, "Yeah, Kyran wanted to spend some time alone with them so I decided to come and say hello to everyone, while I was at it I wanted to ask if it was ok for us to bring the twins round so they can spend some time with their cousins?" Deep down Crown knew the answer, knew he could have just showed up, but it was always nice to ask. "Eden and I have been thinking...." He said softly, a mischievious glint in his eyes. "...and we would like you to Christian our babies, just like your mother did with us." Though this time it would mean more, he knew exactly what Chandra felt for them all, and the fact that she had helped to birth both of the parents as well as the foals made it all the more speical. She was the only one he ask this of.
"Of course!" She said automatically and without hesitation at his question, falling silent when he gave his request. She shifted to her hooves and blinked in mild disblief for a while... Crown... he... really? Her mind didn't seem to form a coherant form, the level of acceptance his words brought forth, coupled with the memories of helping Io and Renesme prepare and gather the treats for the Christianing. Usually the Christianings were only held among the females, a way of accepting and welcoming the foals into the more nurturing side of the herd.... but with Rainbow and Wish having two fathers it was clear things would have to be changed.... well, tweeked, adapted and overcome. It wasn't a big deal, and the fact that they would be introducing and welcoming the foals officially into the herd was important to her suddenly. "I would be honoured." She said, when her voice returned. Her excited started to bubble again, she loved foals, everyone knew it, and the idea of getting to play host and plan a special day for them was exciting to her. "I will set the mares into action, we'll need some food and some water....." She looked to the sky, contemplating something. "Usually you're meant to bring the foods that you craved during the pregnancy, a way of connecting everyone and thanking nature for what it provided to make the babies healthy.... but since Wish and Rainbow are special I think we will change it a little," her gaze fell back to Crown, no judgement in her deep blue eyes. "I think we shall celebrate using their faviourite foods. Then we can connect and thank nature for what it continues to provide for them, to keep them strong and healthy." Yes, that sounded right, sounded good... her own take on a tradition that had filled her fathers herd... now her herd. Sonnet was right, they needed to make the roles their own, they couldn't live in the shadows of anyone else, they could never lead a herd like that... no, they needed to be make it their own. Do what their strengths and weakness dictated. After all... Chandra was not her mother.
Crown hadn't even thought about the food for the ceremony but he had to admit he liked how Chandra thought of an alternative, something that wouldn't make Rainbow or Wish feel left out, especially since all of the foals would be treated the same and they wouldn't know of the old ways. Yes, he admired Chandra for that. "Sounds good. When would you like to do it?"
With a nod Chandra found herself chuckling slightly, as if she was more than aware of Crown's unspoken thoughts. "I think we should do it the night of the full moon, but hold it at Dawn..." She smiled, another idea already forming, and with each passing moment Chandra found herself feeling more and more confident in herself. She could do this!
"Dawn?" He asked, actually surprised by the suggestion.
"Yes." She said softly, knowing that for the Miakoda herd they had always found solace and support in the Moon, a connection that Chandra would never lose.... but for some reason this also seemed right. "I think that Dawn is fitting, a show of how the foals are growing and changing, our acceptance of them into our herd and our lives, something bright and wonderful and beautiful that will stay with us all forever. After all, who doesn't enjoy watching the sun rise? A sign of hour our foals are going to rise too, going to become their own little soquili, with their own personalities and skills. Each unique, each different.... yet forever together, bound by their lineage and herd, things that will be with them wherever life leads them." Yes, it really did seem right to her.
Blinked in milkd surprise at her words and then tilted his head with a smile, "You've been thinking about this haven't you?" He teased playfully, moving closer and kissing her cheek. "Well... Chandra.... I would be honoured for you to hold your ceremony at Dawn, to let my children become as much a part of this herd as I am. Always will be."
"Together we are strong." She said softly, something that she had found herself saying more and more, and with each time it past her lips she realised something. No longer was the herd moto 'come in peace or leave in pieces' but instead it was simply 'together we are strong', more proof that things were evolving, shifting. They may not have the strength to ensure every creature who threatened their lands would be destroyed but they had something much stronger, much more important, something that would forever travel with them as they wandered through the lands in search of something new. They had each other, and it was an honour to be recognised as their alpha. "Thank you Crown. This means so much to me." She chuckled softly, it was the truth and she knew Crown would know that.
He kissed her cheek again. "I know. I shall bring them in a week, we will stay for a while too, let Rainbow and Wish play and learn more about their cousins." Kyran and he hadn't finished travelling yet, weren't ready to return perminatly, but they wanted to make sure that no matter what their twins knew everything, everyone, didn't miss out simply because they were trying to be selfish and follow the dream they had started before the rainbow had left the baskets at their hooves.
Chandra nodded and smiled, "Sounds like a plan Crown hunni, oh..." Her smile widened and she kissed Crown's cheek in return. "...you and Kyran are doing a wonderful job, your twins are lovely. So energetic and lively." She smiled softly and winked as she spoke once more, "Just don't smother poor Wish too much, she might be a girl but she is stronger than you might think.... just look at me." She giggled softly, adding the last part to take out any sting her words might summon. Renesme had spoken to Chandra about the situation, had asked for a little advice on what to do since it seemed obvious that both of Wish's fathers were trying to protect her, but without a mare constantly on the scene poor little Wish was often overwhelmed by the males that surrounded her... even now she had three male cousins to play with too. One Lily among a flock of Bettles. Still, Chandra knew that Wish would thrive, knew that the mares of the herd would take every stolen opportunity to give her some 'motherly' attention without stepping on the hooves of her Fathers. It was all they could do.
Crown frowned at that and shook his head before smiling slightly. "Thanks... and I know she is... it's just... I dunno, this need to protect her from everything. The world is cruel and harsh sometimes."
"I know. But you're not alone, remember that... and sometimes, the more you try to protect something the more danger it is in." She shrugged and pushed the topic aside before Crown started to feel like she was prying to much. "Go on then, off with you. Go back to that fluffy mate of yours and those two foals before they miss you too much."
Crown frowned a little and tilted his head looking at her, just thinking about her words, was she right? Was it possible they were going to drive Wish into more trouble? No, never..... but what if? He sighed, he would mention it to Kryan, maybe even his mother Renesme and see what could be done. "Coming here will help... I'm relying on you and the others to help me, ok?" It was a slight shot at his pride to say that, to admit that he was missing something, lacking in some way.... but what if it was just because Wish was a girl? He and Kyran didn't exactly know the first thing about mares after all! "Ah yes, I should go. They will tell me off if I am too late." His smile returned, the idea of being with his family again enough to brighten his mood. He would do anything for them, including swallowing his pride a little. "See you soon Chandra, look after everyone while I'm gone." One more kiss to her cheek and he was gone.
Chandra's eyes watched as Crown left, her mind thinking through everything. They would be ok. Wish would grow up beautiful and lovely, Rainbow, Daiki, Keid and Rigel would become strong and bright young men. There was so much life and fun ahead of them.... and Chandra didn't want to miss a moment of it.
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Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2012 3:02 am
Crown did as he promised and brought his family just under a week later, deciding it would be good for them all to spend some time together before the ceremony. "Rainbow, this is Daiki. Daiki. Rainbow." He knew they should remember each other from last time but he wanted to make sure without embarassing either foal. "Be good and play for a while, I have a few things to collect for your Aunty Chandra." With that he left the foals to it. Wish was with his mother, so that meant he and Kyran could spend a little time alone while they gathered the food they needed.
Daiki looked at Rainbow and grinned, "You're wings are like Keid's! Why... why do you look the same as Wish?" He tilted his head in curiousity. Not at all sure why the two looked the same, how boring! He liked being different, in his mind he was the best looking of his siblings, his wings the prettiest since they were a combination of both his parents... and of course they were much bigger than Rigels so that was always a bonus!
Rainbow tilted his head and smiled back, his flirtatious nature bubbling forth. He looked at his wings, "I guess, but mine are better." The mention of Wish made him protective, but still he said. "Because I'm so sexy they couldn't help but make two of me... but...." His tone went serious and he found himself almost glaring at his cousin. "Hurt Wish and you will regret it." Papa and Daddy had told him to protect Wish, to keep her safe, and Rainbow planned to do just that.
Daiki ruffled his nose. "As if! Girls are boring! She might look like you but I don't like her." He pouted a little, it wasn't true, he actually did like Rainbow and Wish a lot, but he didn't want to admit it. "Who would like girls anyway! Boys are better!" He beat his wings, shifting and folding them until they settled on his back. "Is it true that she is like the other half of you? That like.... she and you are one.... does that mean your no good on your own?" Foal curiousity.
Rainbow wrinkled his nose at that. "Girls are not boring!" Again he was defending his sister, "Don't insult her Daiki!" He batted the other foal softly in warning with his wing tip.... only to frown more and more. "No good on my own! You're wrong! I am plenty good... I can do anything you can do, and I can do it better!" He stuck out his tongue, in a 'so there' way.
"Oh really now.... prove it." He squared his shoulders slightly.
Rainbow stuck out his tongue, "Don't need to! Daddy said I never have to prove anything."
"Chicken! Chicken!" Daiki was baiting Rainbow, he knew it but didn't stop.
"I'm not chicken! I'm not!" He frowned with determination and looked around. "Fine... first to that tree over there, the silver one, is the winner." Rainbow didn't hang around long enough to hear if Daiki accepted he simply took off.
For a moment all Daiki could do was stare after the dust and Rainbow... cheater! He pouted and took off all the same, determined to win despite his disadvantage. "You play dirty Rainbow!" He called after the other.
Rainbow looked over his shoulder and stuck out his tongue at Daiki. "You're just jealous because I'm better!"
Daiki glared at Rainbow and shook his head in refusal. "Am not!"
CRASH!
Chandra couldn't stop the 'oomph' that escaped her as a little pile of feathers and blue crashed into her and caught her off balance. She stumbled to the ground, tucking her wings in tight so that she didn't hurt her wings during her rather ungraceful fall. The sting on her side couldn't be ignored but she was more concerned about what had just crashed into her. It only took a moment to realise it was Rainbow, he was slightly larger than Wish otherwise she feared she would still be getting the identical pair confused. "Are you ok?"
Daiki came up and stopped suddenly as he watched Rainbow crash into Chandra. 'Oa-oh' He thought, they were in trouble now! His ears flopped to the top of his head and he looked at the ground.
Rainbow winced a little, his side hurt, but he was more embarassed than anything. Especially when Chandra asked her question, his Daddy had told him to behave and respect the mare but here he was running into her! He blushed brightly and nodded almost violently since his words refused to come.
Chandra chuckled at the pair, kissed Rainbow's head and adjusted herself into a more comfortable position, though she didn't try to get up yet. "Good good." She smiled, her eyes quickly assessing if they were hurt or not, it seemed Daiki was completely unharmed and that she had taken more of the impact for Rainbow. Good. "Where you two playing? Who was winning?" Her mind could only assume they were playing chase or something else similar that would have them running full pelt.
Daiki looked to Rainbow and then shrugged, there was no way he was going to say that the other foal was winning!
"I was!" Rainbow beamed, looking up at Chandra and glad that the older mare wasn't mad at them. He got up a little gingerly and shook himself off before realising he hadn't asked her how she was! Oh no! Where were his manners! He blushed again, "Are you ok?"
Chandra chuckled and nodded softly. "I'm fine, thank you. So... Rainbow was winning?" Her eyes darted to Daiki softly, he didn't seem to enjoy the idea of losing, it was tough... sometimes you just had to learn to lose, learn to accept it and then figure out how to grow and develop from there. And since it wouldn't kill Daiki to lose a race she had no issues in letting the game unfold as it would.
"Only because he cheated!" Daiki burst out saying, glaring at Rainbow again for a moment.
Rainbow turned, a look of pure offence on his face. "Did not!"
"Did too!" He straightened up, determined this was the truth. "You said let's race and then ran off before I even agreed. I only came after you to make sure you didn't get lost!" A lie but it felt better than admitting he was just too slow to catch Rainbow up.
Daiki's words irritated Rainbow and he huffed slightly, sticking out his chest that was much hairier than the other colts. "Liar! You're just too slow! I wouldn't get lost!"
Daiki was stubborn, "Would too!"
Chandra blinked in surprise and then chuckled slightly, the colts were talking at a million miles an hour but it was clear that they both disliked losing, both of them too stubborn to just admit that they were both good at different things. "That's enough boys, no need to fight over this." She went to speak again but found herself interupted.
"Who is better Chandra?" His jaw was set stubbornly, and it was clear he was serious about his question.
Chandra turned to look at Daiki, tilting her head softly as she took the young colt in, slowly she smiled. "Both of you.... hush hush, hear me out first." She said, noticing how both foals went to object to her answer. "You see.... everyone is good at something, we just need to find out what that something is. Take your mother Daiki, she is the best when it comes to her inventions and gadgets.... and your Papa Rainbow, is one of the best protectors in the herd because he is always so determined and goes after what he wants relentlessly. They are siblings, but they are so different." She smiled and moved to stand and then looked at the pair softly. "Rainbow, what is you like to do?"
Rainbow tilted his head and listened to Chandra, trying to see his father as a herd protector, it was strange considering they didn't live with the herd. But he agreed that his father was determined, it was something he admired, even if his personality took after his Papa more. "I.... I like to run." He admitted, "I like meeting new people...." Both true.
Daiki didn't like being ignored, and that was how it felt, so he chirped in. "I like both of them too." He stuck his tongue out at Rainbow for a moment, "But that doesn't tell us who is better. If it was a fair race I would totally beat Rainbow."
Chandra took a deep breath, her blue eyes softly crossing between the pair. "It doesn't matter who is better, who wins or who loses, all that matters is that you enjoy it and try your best. Don't you see? It's fun to lose sometimes too, since by losing someone else is winning." She sighed, knowing the young pair were unlikely to accept this, so she changed tatics. "Of course... it is good to play and race, practice your skills. So..." She smirked playfully. "Shall we have a race?" She turned to face the direction the pair had obviously been running in earlier, moving her body into a position that clearly said she was getting ready to run. "Or... are you both chicken and afraid to lose to a girl?" She teased.
Daiki looked at Chandra, giggled and looked at Rainbow. "We can't let her win! Come on!" He too got into position.
Rainbow grinned over at Daiki and nodded, agreeing that they couldn't let Chandra win, and suddenly everything that had come before seemed to disappear into nothing. "She's old! We'll win easy." He said, confident.
Chandra was pleased to see the pair had come to their senses and decided to work together for a common goal... beating her. It was a start, and slowly she knew they would grow to understand more and more, start to accept each other... if playing and offering a hoof and a word every now and then to help them to that goal... well, it really wasn't even a hard decision to make. Chandra would do anything for the growth of her herd, for the development of her foals. "We'll see!" She leaped forward, her hooves slamming into the ground... she felt so free, even as she peeked briefly over her shoulder with glee to see the two foals bounding after her with all their strength.
It was going to be a bright future.
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Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2012 7:28 am
Riverio lay injured on the ground, he had deserved this, deserved the pain and the blood. Even as he closed his eyes and just allowed the pain to wash over him. He could handle this, and if not then he deserved to die. Life this side of the dessert was different, but falling down that... cliff?... hadn't helped matters, his navigating of a forest was sourly lacking.
Chandra smiled at Haki, "So, how do you find being part of the herd?" She was curious, wanted to make sure that Haki felt comfortable despite the differences in their traditions and touching.
Hakidonmuya nodded softly and looked at Heze's mother kindly, she had always been so nice to him, despite his claws.... though perhaps it was more that she had simply come to accept his presence? Either way, he felt welcomed. "Nice." He said softly, though his thoughts were more on Heze than anyone else, he would go whereever she was.... he had realised that a while ago, knew that she was the one his body and mind had picked to be his lifemate. "It is very... eh... different... from being alone." True.
Chandra nodded and smiled at that, "I bet." She said softly, unlike some in her herd she hadn't ever been alone, hadn't ever not known her herd and family. She didn't see that as a weakness, knew it had helped to shape her, to give her an anchor and the strength and courage to live her life without fear and the way she wanted. She was thankful to her motehr and father for that gift. "You are a good addition," she mused lightly, "and I am thankful to you for making my little girl so happy." Chandra knew that Heze wanted more, could see that her daughter was itching to touch Haki, fighting herself for the desire to do just that and the need to respect his customs. It was something Chandra was glad had never stood between her and Sonnet, she had always enjoyed his hugs and play when they had been foals and nothing more than friends.
"Thank you." He clucked, clicking his beak a couple of times as he looked around the forest. "Is what you need close?" They were going to replace some of the herbs and plants that Carlisle and Chandra had used up, but as Sonnet had commanded they would go in pairs rather than alone to get what needed replacing.
Chandra nodded softly, "I think so. The leaf looks like..." She put her nose into her makeshift sling bag and pulled out the last one she had. It had fiver poiints at the top and slimmed to a thin green at the bottom. Tucking it back into place when she was Haki had seen it she smiled. "At this time of year it will probably have it's white flowers out."
Haki nodded and looked around for the leaf, he wasn't very good at this, and most of the plants were still new and strange to him. His homeland so very different in appearance. "Ok." He said softly.... until his eyes fell upon something.... odd. A splash of blue and gold on the forest floor, too big to be a sleeping forest animal... maybe they had simply wandered into the path of another soquili? Entered someone else's territory. Instinct kicked in, as well as a memory of Sonnet asking him to take especially good care of his mate, divulging that she had a habit of acting before thinking if she believed there was a problem that she coudl help with..... was this such an time? Haki didn't want to risk it so looked into the opposite direction. "Let's try that way."
Chandra quirked a brow at Haki, noticing the slight and subtle shift in him... what was wrong? She wondered, already looking past him to where he had been looking even as he tried to distract her by talking again. His accent was thick and sometimes it took Chandra a moment or two to register what he was saying, this was such a time, though maybe that was more because she was distracted by the blob of blue and the woosh of gold she could see on the ground. "Someone's there...." She said, the need to protect and heal rushing to the front as she found herself taking a step in the figures direction.
"Wait!" Haki had no idea what to say, had no idea how he was meant to change Chandra's mind... she was alpha after all, but still, Haki wanted to do what Sonnet had asked correctly, wanted to prove to the other stallion that he could be trusted to protect his women.
Chandra paused and blinked at Haki for a moment, a little confused by his reaction. "Why? Wait? Someone could be in trouble..." She looked at Haki for a moment and realised something, her expression softening as she recognised the familiar glint in the others eyes. Sonnet. She knew what his orders had been, and still, seeing it in Haki's expression actually made her happy and feel safe, strange but true. She sighed, feeling the urge to kiss his cheek but resisting since she knew he wouldn't like it. "I promise, if they are just sleeping or something we will leave immediatly.... ok? But I can not leave someone injured and alone... so... come on." It wasn't really a request since she had already started to walk towards the figures, Chandra knew that sometimes you couldn't let fear of the possibility that something might happen from letting you live, after all, doing that simply meant that nothing every happened to you... good or bad, and that was just a shame!
Haki couldn't help it, he frowned and groaned a little even as he nodded. If Chandra wanted to do this it seemed there was nothing he could do to stop her.... all he could do was try and protect her while she did it. He hoped that was enough. "As you wish." He said softly, turning to join her, his eyes watching, cautious... even as they zoned in on... claws... four claws! He hesitated, why were there claws here?
Chandra saw them too, four claws, no wings, very long hair.... and horns. Whatever and whoever it was they were very different from Haki. There was blood... and with that Chandra knew they needed help. Now was not the time to hold any prejustice or fear, now was the time to act. "Are you ok?" She asked softly, a silly question but one designed to offer comfort. "We're here to help."
Riverio had closed his eyes, just to rest he had told himself, but the truth was he felt tired and cold. The strange voice drew his attention back to reality, and as he forced an eye open to peek up at the stranger he frowned... what the? The creatures here were as odd and strange as their plants and gree stuff. He missed the soft gold of the dessert, the sun so bright it was almost blinding, the heat, the cacti.... why had he left the dessert to come here?
Chandra smiled when she saw the moment of the eye, at least they were conscious... a good sign. "My name's Chandra. I'm going to help you ok?" Suddenly she wondered if he had a similar tradition to Haki where touch was not allowed? Then she remembered that Haki had, although reluctant, accepted touch when he needed to be healed after Kimi had attacked him.... hopefully that would the same here. "Is it ok to touch you?"
More and more words that he didn't understand were thrown his way, and he snarled, revealing two slightly extended fangs in his mouth. His voice was harsh and hoarse, dry and bloody after his fall. Still he managed to get out, "Kwenda mbali na kuondoka peke yangu." (Go away and leave me alone.) He closed his eyes than, dismissive in appearance.
Haki was beyond shocked to hear his mother tongue being spoken so fluently from another.... so this other was from his land after all? Still, he turned to Chandra, who looked a little shocked and said softly. "He says.... go away. Leave me alone."
Chandra had been surprise to hear the now almost familiar sounding words that Haki and Heze often shared.... so, she had been right? This stranger was similar and like Haki. When Haki spoke and translated she nodded and then frowned. "But he's injured! He needs help... will you try and convince him." She couldn't just leave, she couldn't!
Haki looked at Chandra with her reply, he didn't think it was a good idea but he nodded in agreement all the same. If she wanted him to try, he could at least try.... turning his attention to the injured stranger he said, "Hatuwezi kuondoka tu wewe. Hebu kukusaidia, basi tutakwenda." (We can not just leave you. Let us help you, then we will go.)
Shock creased his brow as Riverio opened his eyes once more and turned to look at the stranger who he had dismissed.... behind her was another, a male, and the one who had clearly just spoken his language. "Unajua maneno yangu?" (You know my words?) He struggled to talk, his throat in desperate need of some water.
"Mimi kufanya." (I do.) He said softly, knowing that this must be as confusing to the stranger as it was to him. "Sisi tu kuuliza kwamba wewe hebu kukusaidia." (We only ask that you let us help you.)
Chandra listened and watched the exchange, although she couldn't understand the words she trusted that Haki would do as she asked and try to help the stranger, and she didn't want to interfer or get in the way by reminding everyone that she was an 'outsider' here. So, she remained silent and observant.
"Tafadhali kuruhusu hii." (Please allow this) He encouraged.
Confusion marred Riverio's brow, even as he took in the dark pelted stallion with claws... another Hippo. That still didn't explain much... and it seemed vital that River learn more before trusting himself to these strangers."Kwa nini?" (Why?) He breathed. His chest hot and heavy, his words painful.
Haki could tell the other was having trouble speaking, obviously in pain, yet stubborn all the same. He needed to get this over with, to get the guy to agree to be helped and then get Chandra away from here.... satisfying everyone. "Chandra, mwanamke na mimi, hawezi tu kuruhusu kufa ... una ujumbe wangu kwamba yeye tu misaada yenu, kuokoa maisha yako. Tafadhali kuruhusu hii. Nina hofu hatuwezi kuondoka hadi hii hutokea .... yeye ni ... mkaidi katika hili." (Chandra, the lady with me, cannot simply allow you die... you have my word that she will only aid you, save your life. Please allow this. I am afraid we can not leave until this happens.... she is... stubborn in this.) He didn't mean any disrespect. Simply wanted to try and speed up this conversation.
Chandra heard the weakness in the guys throat and knew she had to do something about it, and so she turned to find sme water, her ears picked up the sound of water, and although she didn't want to disturb them too much she said a quick, "I'll be right back. Getting water."
River frowned at the words, thinking about them only to turn and glare at the mare, this Chandra, as she said something else he didn't understand. What was a Hippo doing with a stranger? "Ni yeye nusu nyingine?" (Is she your other half?) He wasn't sure what posessed him to croak out that question but he couldn't help it.
Haki shook his head, looking away from Chandra and thankful she couldn't understand them! "Hapana, nampenda binti yake." (No, I love her daughter) He cleared his throat, suddenly uncomfortable. "Tafadhali hebu Chandra kukusaidia." (Please let Chandra help you.) He had to keep on topic, had to keep on track and not allow the subject to turn to him for too long.
He groaned, the pain too much for him to fight too hard against. He just took a moment to breath through the pain and to figure out what to do. He didn't want to be around the foreign stranger, didn't want to be here. "Wewe .... tu wewe msaada." (You... only you help.) He was being stubborn, but at least this stranger spoke his language, knew a little about him perhaps.
Haki's eyes widen and he shook his head. "Siwezi. Kugusa.... thamani." (Can't. Touch.... precious.) He didn't want to go into it, didn't want to divulge more. Either the stranger would understand or he wouldn't.
River opened his eyes again and looked over at the stranger once more. What? "Wewe ni mmoja wao...." (You're one of them?) He was shocked at the revolation, and his eyes looked at the stranger in a new way. The bangles, the feathers, the colour of his pelt.... he was one of them? How had he not noticed before? How could he let the guy near him now?
Chandra returned with a shaped leaf filled with water. "Here, have some water." She said kindly, pushing it closer to the guy. She had been tempted to add herbs to it but since he didn't understand her and seemed spooked she didn't want to give him anything that would make him not trust her more, that would make him feel like he was being tricked and lied too.
"Uniache!" (Leave me!) He hissed, flashing his small fangs again even as his eyes darted between the two, he looked to the water... that really did look good... but he ignored it and tried to force himself to his hooves. His eyes darted to the Hippo. "Mimi si wa ukoo wako. Uniache." (I am not of your clan. Leave me.)
Chandra might not understand the words but she understood the tone, he wasn't happy, he wanted them to leave still. She frowned and moved so that he was looking directly at her. "Haki. Will you translate for me please."
Haki gulped and looked down, the stranger wasn't like him which meant he was likely an enemy of his people, or worst....! When Chandra seemed to move with more determination than he could recall seeing on her he frowned and said softly, "But Chandra.... he wishes us to leave him."
Chandra's eyes darted to him, all stubborn determination that showed she refused to back down, either Haki helped her or she would think of something else. Still her voice was soft and gentle, controlled. "Please. Translate for me Haki."
"Ok." He sighed in defeat, knew that he wouldn't get away with it, and nor could he just leave. Turning towards the stranger he said softly, "Yeye angependa mimi kutafsiri kwa ajili yake. Tafadhali kusikiliza." (She would like me to translate for her. Please listen.)
His eyes darted between the pair, more words he didn't know, more wanting to leave... and curse it but his body was too weak to get up and leave. He sighed in defeat... he couldn't do much else but listen. His eyes found the water again, it was tempting.... his throat was parched and desperate for the soothing liquid, pride told him not to touch it. "Kuwa mwepesi." (Be quick).
Haki nodded and said softly to Chandra, "He'll listen." He hoped.
Chandra smiled softly and turned to face the stranger, look him straight in the eyes. "I know you don't have to trust me, but right now you don't have much of a choice, you are injuried and hurt and all I want to do is help you. Please allow that much. Once I have used some herbs to help you heal quickly and take away your pain, packed up your wounds and ensured you have drunk and ate a little.... I will leave. I just need to know you have a chance to survive. You seem new and lost here, but I don't wish for you to fear me or this place. It is beautiful and stunning, you just have to take a chance and dare to try... please try." She put all her feelings into her voice, hoped that it would convey her desperate need to be honest with him, that she really did want to help.
Haki recited what Chandra said in his own tongue.
Riverio sat completely silent, listened and narrowed his eyes. Why would she want to help him? Why would she insist on staying? He had turned her down more than once yet she stubbornly remained..... he wanted to growl in frustration, even as he knew that given how weak he was he needed to accept the help. Still, he was silent for a long time, his eyes just watching her, searching for something, looking, wanting to know the truth.... eventually he turned to the one who spoke his language and simply said. "Faini.... haraka kuhusu hilo." (Fine.... be quick about it.) He just hoped he wouldn't regret this. Once more his eyes looked to the water, and with great reluctance he lowered his head and took an apprehensive sip from the leaf. Yes, the water was delicious.
Not taking his eyes off the other, not entirely trusting him. "He says ok."
Chandra smiled brightly at the stranger at that. "My name is Chandra. Who are you?" She asked, even as she started to look through he sling for what she needed....
....a while later she had the stranger patched up as best as she could with her current supplies, her unicorn blood was useless when it came to healing but she hoped that her powers had soothed the guys pain a little. She had discovered his name was Riverio, and that he was of the same land as Haki but they didn't seem to get on... at least that was the impression she got. Either way, it didn't matter, she was satisfied that she had helped. Something soothing clicking into place in her heart. "Ok. Rest. Drink. Eat. And I hope that you are better soon." She rose, listening as Haki masterfully translated her words, he was a valuable assest she realised, and she was glad he had taught her daughter his words too.
Together the pair finished collecting the herbs before returning to the herd, neither of them discussed what had happened. There was no need.
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