Two steps from hell

[lily]

Mutiny

A fierce growl was emitted from Mutiny’s throat as Hunter lashed at her, her left foreleg lifting from the ground as if they were about to engage in battle. She had been acting like some common mutt, not a goddess of war. How stupid, she had been. Her flutes fell abruptly against her obsidian head. She snorted vexingly at the stallion’s ignorance, and turned in a tight circle. By the time she had returned to face Hunter he had turned his back on her. The hellion reared up and screamed in fury “You cannot run forever Hunter!” her lungs bursting with the echoing of her rage. She fell to all fours once more and turned sharply, she would return to the filly, for now she would remain trapped with her silent antagonism.

Futility

Futility heart raced at the mention of war. Her veins pranced with utter exhilaration and anticipation of an upcoming slaughter. She had heard whispers of a war, whispers her deranged mother had attempted to shield her from. Words that came from her mother’s maw were always the truth; some of these murmurs were only rumours. She had been taught that the truth was precious. A gift that one should treat with the upmost care and affection, for with it you could control the minds of others. An expression close to a faint smile fell across her face. He had called her ‘Tilly’, she had acquired a nickname, so it would seem. Something she did not have a direct opinion about, so she would let the matter slide for the moment.

“Protection” She muttered to herself. Now, why would she need that? She harnessed more than enough brainpower to outwit half the horses on these forsaken lands. The fact her father thought it appropriate from her to require protection was almost insulting. She supposed it must be her size that was her downfall. Not to worry, the days were shorting and it would not be long before the filly transformed into a mare. Futility snorted absently at her brother “I don’t know why you would want to bother with these horses. They are all lifeless pathetic creatures. Not worth the time of day. Yet, if you insist, I will take you around the Island and show you the places of interest.” She said brusquely to him, taking a few paces forwards.

The obsidian wonder toured Titan around the mainland, she took him to each sandbar. Then directed him to the preeminent place to collect fresh water, and the best locations to graze. They didn’t bump into any of the other wandering guards of the island, not that they fazed Futility in any shape, way or form. They were just pawns in her father’s game, and therefore in hers too. She turned and faced Titan directly “I have shown you around the island, what is your proposal we do now?” she questioned him.

Cody, Uheri and Maugrim

Cody fell under the wrath of Hunter, his body lay still on the sand for a moment before he rose rather shakily, and rid his pelt of the dust. “My mistake master Hunter. My apologies, my apologies” he muttered, senselessly not daring to look at Orion. Uheri glance at Cody and then back to Hunter, for a moment he looked into the stallion’s eyes, then quickly away. What if he could tell he was Ranger’s son?! “This is a stallion we caught sir, we brought him here as another for you army…sir” he said quickly, his eyes now directed at the floor.

[Swede]

Feldspar nibbled at the grass listlessly; winter had passed and left spring in its place, but this did not cause her much joy. It was still Hunter's wasteland, and she was still living in a nightmare. Nonetheless, the mare had slowly begun gaining back weight- not much, but at least she hadn't been pregnant this year, and Rusty had been weaned quite early, partly due to her mother's aversion to her but also because Feldspar's body simply couldn't produce the milk for the filly. The red roan mare was a scrawny mess, but her yearling filly, though a bit scruffy herself, was robust and energetic. Rusty was like a pesky weed in this landscape, stubbornly insisting on surviving and thriving despite the environment.


The dunalino had visited this island before, but now he came from the opposite bank, wading across the hidden sandbar in the swollen lakewater which reached well over his chest. His previous visit had been in autumn, the water had only splashed halfway to his knees then... nonetheless, he managed to cross without too much difficulty. Soaking wet, Legend stepped out of the lake, striding smoothly up along the shore. Sure, he had promised to fight for Ranger, but it was worth checking out the bad guys first, before going up against them. And who was to say he was a good guy, anyway?

The filly headbutted Saburo's shoulder in retaliation, but then tossed her head and trotted a few feet away, kicking at a rock and watching it roll a few feet down the slope before coming to rest again. Boooring. Twisting around, Rusty pondered for a moment, and then decisively trotted off into the scrubbery. Up ahead, she suddenly noticed a pale individual she hadn't seen before. Smirking, she carefully snuck up behind him. Then, with a wild shout, she darted forward and butted into the stallion's side. "Stay back, stranger! No trespassers allowed here!"

"Oh really?" Legend said, pausing midstride to look at the insolent filly. He was more amused than offended, and figured he could play along for a little while before shouldering her off and finding the actual important residents of this island. "And who are you, exactly?"

"You don't get to ask any questions, trespasser," Rusty answered, huffing at him, "But you have to say who you are."

Legend nodded sagely. Of course. "Well, what if I told you I was your worst nightmare?"

Rusty rolled her eyes. "Then I wouldn't believe you. There are like, a bazillion horses on this island, and most of them are a lot scarier than you are. They could kick your scrawny butt any day of the week."

"Hey kid, who you calling scrawny? You look like something a goat would eat as a last resort," Legend retorted.

"Whatever. Just... go away. Trespassers aren't allowed. You'll just make my dad grumpy. Grumpier. Whatever." Deciding he was no longer interesting, Rusty turned on her heel and trotted off to find something else to do. Legend chuckled under his breath and soldiered on. "Well then, let's go see how grumpy dad is today," he snorted softly to himself, as he walked onwards.

Rusty skipped along between bushes and trees, humming to herself. It was not long before another pair of horses came into view. The roan yearling didn't give it a second thought; immediately, she ambled up to the massive grey pinto and the black filly who were her half-siblings. "What you guys doin'?" she said in loud curiosity, bounding between them.

[Captain Stumpy]

Saburo was grazing rather carmly, unnaturaly carmly for herself. She was rather subdued, she new it she blamed a new parasite in her guts. Oh and what a horrible parisite that monster had planted. She's woken up that borning with mild colic, her belly was still sore now. Her fetlocks were slightly swollen. A 15hand mare was defenatly not meant to have her first foal with a 17hand monster, know wonder Feldspar had lost her mind. Saburo could feel herself loosing hers.


Aspen was rather shaken, even BlackThorn was taken back at the speed of Hunter. As Hunter lunged BlackThorn charged back scraping his back legs on the brambles, and narrowly missing Aspen in the process. "Black move!" Aspen called, seeing there oppertunity. She didn't understand anything of ehat just happened, only that stallions picked another fight none of them wanted to get involved in. Aspen bolted out first, once she was sure Hunter was sutably distracted. "Maple!" Aspen called loudly and angrily at her appaloosa sibling. Black was following Aspen and soon spotted Maple with Orion, He wasn't intirly sure what Orion was planning when he stood between him and Cody but he'd insulted Nanna, and that was just enough too seek out a little revenge.

The Black draft colt bolted full blast at Cody, ears flat. Aspen didn't notice Black entill he'd covered alot of ground. Maple smiled warmly as Orion came beside her. "That was so brave" She said closing her eyes to nuzzle him, but thundering hooves forced her eyes open. "Orion!" She yelled eyes wide as the rather frightening BlackThorn thundered closer, followed by Aspen. Maple darted sideways, just as BlackThorn came to run into Orion, he wasn't aiming for a direct hit, or even a painful blow but at least enough to knock a warning into Orion before he bolted off with Aspen who was trying to round up Maple their way.


Saburo winced, her colic felt like it was getting worse, and Rusty knocking into her hadn't helped. she felt like scolding the filly but the ratty thing had already buggered off. Feldspar didn't seem to care Rusty had wondered off Saburo would have called her back or follow her but she just didn't feel up to it. Another painful wave and Saburo was begining to wonder when she'd have some releaf. She looked over to Feldspar, already knowing she'd get no support or releaf from the mare she wondered away. Well away didn't always mean alone, not on this island. She'd taken a drink at the river, but that didn't stop the pain. On her way back she heard hoofbeats and yelling.

Now Old Saburo would have wanted to know what the hell was going on, but Sick Saburo felt tired, confused, anti-social and now her belly itched like crazy she wanted to scream. She didn't bother going far from the voises, she didn't know them, at least she didn't think so. they meant nothing to her. She laid down realiving the itch in her belly. She stood up but not for long as it felt like she'd eaten a boulder. She looked at her rump and it scaired her to see it so deflated, deflated and itchy, painful itchy. She laid down again, and before she even realised what she was trying to do it felt like she was trying to pass the giant boulder. "Damn I hate you Hunter" she whispered as she winced. Damn parsite.

Time passed, anyones guess how long before Saburo dared to look at what she'd produced. To her surprize it wasn't a half bad specimen, and a roan to boot, she didn't see Hunter in the foal which was a mirical. Instead the wide-blazed black roan colt only reminded Saburo of her father. He had a heavy build face, and a wide blaze. "Mezurashii " She said to him. The Colt on the otherhand paid little attention to its Dam, He was more concirned about these uncontrolable legs that didn't do a thing he told them. His large ears stuck out from his head like a donkeys. Saburo watched him mesmorized a moment. Then with the sudden reaisation that maybe she didn't have colic after all she stood up. Still had a belly ache. but she didn't feel half as sick as before.

The colt looked up at her wide-eyed. "Mezurashii" She said again testing the name for suitability. The Colt flicked his donkey ears towards his Dam. Enough of a sign to convince Saburo that was the right name. "Alright get up and lets get to Feldspar before she realises she's alone and has another melt-down" Saburo said in a rather authoritive tone. Mazu looked up at her dumbfoundly, Saburo looked at him in much the same way. She then got closer to examine him. "You have four legs? whats wrong? get up" she said to the still moist foal, but she was eager to get back to Feldspar. Mezu sort of got the picture and got his legs straightened out enough to attempt a stand, He stood! He stood! and he's down. Saburo moved round the foal curiously. Did Rusty take this long? she couldn't remember. "C'mon and again" Saburo knickered taping the foal on its rump with her foot, she wanted to get things moveing.

[Saz]

Hunter

The obsidian stallion turned his gaze from the bay stallion to the blue roan. He stared darkly at Maugrim for a few moments before nodding absently. "Find Jester and Vladimir. He can be paired with Vladimir for the moment, tell Jester to continue with his duties." He snorted, dismissing the trio of stallions with a nod of his head before he turned and disappeared once more into the shadows of the island. A dark smirk crossed his maw at the thought of more stallions, slowly his plan was coming together.

The mountainous stud came to a halt as he reached the edge of the trees, he could see not far from where he stood, Feldspar was grazed with her back to him. An evil grin flitted across his maw and he slowly moved out of the shadows until he was stood directly behind her. He moved quickly, bringing his muzzle to her side and then nipping harshly at her side, he brought his muzzle up to her withers and clamped down on them fiercely, a warning not to move. He then let her go and circled her tightly, eyes glinting maliciously. It was spring again, and dear little Feldspar hadn't carried his child for a whole year. And when the scrappy little mustang had given birth, it had been a filly.

Lashing his tail, he halted beside her and let his muzzle sweep down her back. "You know, I was thinking of breeding with you again this year, but I thought it might be better to throw you to the guards instead. I'm sure they could use a bit of entertainment." A dark grin grew across his scarred visage, yes, he would threaten her with the others. Then she would surely beg for him to cover her. Or perhaps he would just throw her to the guards, he could have that appaloosa filly, surely she was three now.

Orion

The painted stallion dodged the heavier stallion's attack at the last moment and immediately thundered after him, ears flattened as he realized he was headed for Maple. He managed to overtake Aspen and BlackThorn and skidded to a halt, rearing up and screaming a challenge at the dark stallion. Maple was his, and he'd be damned if he lost her to this dark moron. He landed and lashed his tail fiercely, eyes glinting dangerously. "Maple, are you okay?" He asked softly, backing up a few steps so she was near enough for him to nuzzle without taking his eyes off BlackThorn.

Assured that his beloved was okay, he stepped forward once more and drove a forehoof into the sand in front of him. "Listen, BlackThorn, Aspen. I meant nothing that I said about Nanna, I attempted to stop Hunter from killing her if you remember, but it was not to be. I love Maple, with all of my heart. And if you two don't like it then you can suck it. What we do has nothing to do with either of you so long as she is safe. And if you will give me a moment to explain in private, I will discuss my plans with you, BlackThorn." He spoke in a clipped, frosty turn. He disliked BlackThorn majorly, but he didn't wish to engage the stallion in any unnecessary battles.

Titan

The dappled grey pinto stallion glanced down at Futility once their tour of the island was finished. He was about to respond that she should loosen up a little when a scrawny bay roan filly squeezed between them. He smirked down at Rusty and decided to leave this to Futility, he wanted to see how his little sister would react to this loud, insolent roan yearling. He took a few steps away and turned to face them with a raised eyebrow, "Oh not much, little one. I don't think we have met, I am Titan, son of Hunter. Who are you?" He asked, snorting and lowering his head slightly to the filly's level.

[lily]

Futility

Futility looked up to her half-brother with impassive gaze as the brutish creature that she happened to share blood with, impinged itself between them. Futility was already far larger than the sickly looking creature, for Futility had gracious long limbs, a shining coat and rippling muscles. This…thing was her opposite. Gangly legs with a matt looking pelt and nothing more than skin and bones. The sight sickened her, one of such powerful blood falling to this level. At first she said nothing and stayed silent, stepping back and merely observing the creature’s behaviour’s as if it were an experiment.


Her tail flicked behind her, and the mare tilted her head slightly to the side at her half-sister’s brash actions. Her words ignored Rusty’s question “Titian, this is also our half-kin. You can tell by the colouration of her iris, she, like us has the very faint tint of onyx there. It is the same as our father. As to who she is, well…that is debatable” she sneered slightly. “Either she is with us or against us. So the choice she makes must be…wise.” Futility hissed, looking down on her half-sister with an expression of disgust. “May I suggest she makes the right decision, however measly her being may be” Futility made sure to talk indirectly to the yearling, although she had no reason to loathe the bay roan, she would make no attempt to be pleasant. It was horses like this that she had been warned about, horses of impure blood.

[Swede]

Distracted in her pit of self-pity, Feldspar was taken by utter surprise as a harsh pain hit her side. She shrieked and flinched, but stiffened immediately as the all-too-familiar teeth closed over her withers. She could not, however, still the trembling of her beaten frame. How had it come to this? Feldspar had always been the one to lash out at anything that annoyed her, to stand up for herself and backtalk to anyone who criticized her; but her fear of Hunter was ingrained in every muscle of her body. It was a physical terror that she could not seem to shake off. But neither was the word 'beg' even in Feldspar's vocabulary. She didn't know how to fake her emotions, or sweet-talk others; the first thing that came to mind was what always came out of her mouth. "Go entertain them, then," she muttered before she was even quite aware of what she was saying. Then she shut her mouth tightly, praying he hadn't heard her out-loud thoughts. Surely it would not bode well for her, if he had.

Rusty snorted a laugh, wiping her muzzle quickly against her knee before looking up at the pair again. "My name's Rusty. I guess miss prissypants is right that we're related, if Hunter's your dad too. Sweet, I've got my very own brother and sister!" The roan filly tossed her head carelessly, switching her gaze from Titan to Futility. "I think there's another one somewhere around here, or I saw one anyway, she tried to steal my mom but then dad took her away so I don't know where she is now. What's your name, anyway?" She giggled, and skipped up close beside Titan, her sinewy shoulder brushing against his as she whispered secretively, "I don't think she's too smart, that one... obviously I'm with you if I'm standing right here, aren't I? Unless I magically teleported across the island... Oh that would be freaking awesome, I wanna be able to teleport! Standing here, and then... poof! Gone!" Rusty fell into a fit of laughter again, thoroughly amused by her own self.

[Captain Stumpy]

BlackThorn skidded to a rather ungraceful stop, kicking up the dust as he did. "Don't you dare try to spread your lies to me" Black barked roughly. "Your nothing more than one of Hunters lackys" he roared his ears pinned and his eyes burning at the smaller stud. "Maple come with us now, He's just lieing to you. We're your family don't let that monsters sporn split us up" He continued his voise still spitting venom. Aspen took her time to catch up she stood behind BlackThorn, she didn't want to try and stop the 17hand younster when he was this angered. Maple stood their with her mouth open, She'd taken shelter behind Orion and didn't fancy the wrath of a angry big-brother. "He's not" She wimpered, But Black's face was like thunder and it only got worse when she tried to talk.

"Let me talk to him when he's carmed down" Maple whispered to Orion as she began to walk past him. She couldn't bare to see BlackThorn hurt him or visa-vera. The easiest solution was to play along with BlackThorn at least for now. He could be very unreasonable when he was in a temper. Aspen also had a icey look about her, but as Maple rejoined them her stance soffened. BlackThorn still stood watching Orion with war in his eyes. "Lets go" He hissed to his adopted-sisters. Aspen turned with Maple standing close to her side. BlackThorn turned last. "Keep yourself away from my sister" He hissed quietly at Orion before taking up the rear of his group.

(when these 3 try to escape can blackthorn get captured? and stay behind?
or if Hunter does try anything with Maple [if that was the appaloosa you refured to] blackthorn could get too hurt by him to get away with the others. [blackthorn would still hate orion though])


"Mezurashii" Saburo encouraged again, the large roan foal sitting on its hind-quarters after wobbling over again. Saburo was afue strides infront rather eager to get back to Feldspar she'd taken too long. What if Feld bad began to worry and gone off looking for her? she could have walked into all sorts of trouble. The large colt grunted at its mothers words before forceing itself up again. Saburo waited for the colt to catch up, with his long legs he'd kept up easily but his sence of ballence was still terrible.

Saburo stopped, Mezura mimiced his dam's pose perfectly. She hadn't even spotted Feldspar but the outline of Hunter was clear to see even between the tree's. "Stay" Saburo whispered to her foal. Mezura didn't understand the command but he was tired so just rolled up in the grass when his dam turned and looked away again. Saburo crept out of the bushes like a deer. every fibre in her body telling her somthing was wrong. her hair was sticking up on end. she lowered her head. still without a plan in her mind but the closer she came without being seen the better her chances. She hated Hunter so much she had to stop her teeth grating at the very sight of him, She new Feldspar was here, she'd left her here, she could smell her here. As the bushes passed and the clearing became more visable she spotted her innosent friend being towered over by the black monster. Saburo saw red. Like a greyhound out of the gates she flew over the last of the bushes, screaming like a feminine-stallion she raced to the side of Hunter, passed him and gave one swift cow-kick his way. Weather it hit or not it didn't matter Feldspar was still broken but Saburo could take all the heat Hunter wanted to bring.

Mezura heard his dam's voise and already his heart began to race, his eyes wide and his chest pumping he got back to his hooves. The tone of his mothers voise had put fear into him, He snapped a twig as he tip-toed along and that made him jump. He relaxed at the sight of his mum, half of him wanted her attention how he was scaired she should fix it, yet somthing told him more danger was in that clearing. Stuck in the middle of his mind he desided to just stand beside a well aged tree entill somthing else happened to sway his mind.

[Saz]

Hunter

The dark stallion let loose a deep, bone chilling laugh and was about to respond when he was knocked sideways from a vicious cow-kick given by Saburo. An enraged roar ripped from the stallion's chest and he lunged for the roan mare, teeth ripping at her side as he knocked into her. The black stallion continued to beat the roan mare until the red mist began to fade from his iron gaze. He stepped back from the mare and turned away, disgusted at the sight of her. "Let that be a lesson to you, mare. Do not interfere with my affairs." He snarled, shaking out his mane and shifting awkwardly from when she'd kicked him earlier.

She'd caught him on his shoulder, two dusty hoofprints showed from where her hooves had made contact. He turned back to Feldspar, eyes glittering menacingly, "You're just lucky I didn't kill her." He snarled at her, before lunging at the mare and dealing her a nasty bite to the shoulder. He then circled her quickly and as he neared her hind quarters reared up and grabbed her withers. Forcing himself upon her like he had done once before in the breeding canyon. Soon, he was done and he slid off the small roan and turned away from her smirking darkly at Saburo. Then with a smirk that could send shivers down a polar bear's spine, he disappeared into the darkness of the trees behind him, narrowly missing Mezura as he disappeared.

The behemoth moved out into the open as an intruder's scent caught his notice, he tracked the newcomer in silence, his hooves quiet in the sand as he began to track his prey. He halted as he spotted the dunalino stallion and within the blink of an eye he tore through the sand and skidded to a stop in front of him. Rearing up and screaming his dominance to the skies as he did. "State your business here, stallion. Or shall I just kill you now?" He snarled, slamming one hoof into the sand before them to make his point.

Titan

The large stallion laughed deeply at the two yearling's interactions. The roan seemed to be oblivious to Futility's sneers and insults, instead focusing upon the light within the dark statements that rippled from the filly's maw. "Ha, well. I suppose being able to teleport would be more than slightly useful in battle, so long as you had mastered it's use before hand." He paused, glancing down at the duo before lowering his muzzle and giving Rusty a playful nudge, "Come on daydreamer, do you wanna have a go at sparring with Tilly and I?" He asked, grinning despite himself. He couldn't help but like this thick-skinned roan yearling, though scrawny and not all there, she was amusing to watch, especially when Futility attempted to insult her.

"I'm Titan. Now you two, down to the beach with you, lets get you warmed up for sparring sessions." He snorted, brandishing his muzzle to the waves that lapped at the creamy shore. He would have to start training them now, before the war got any more serious and time consuming. He didn't see why Futility couldn't spar with Rusty, either. If anything it would show her not to underestimate her opponent, he was sure the weed-like yearling had a lot of fight in her.

Orion

The painted stallion snarled back at Blackthorn in a wordless growl and stepped forward to meet him if the bigger black stallion tried anything on, but was saved by a gentle brush from Maple. The stallion sighed inwardly but nodded, nuzzling her lovingly and then staring longingly after her as she disappeared with Aspen and Blackthorn.

[lily]

Futility

Futility looked over to Rusty with an impassive gaze. What was this filly doing? She was so outlandish, lurid and juvenile. It made her head hurt. Strangely enough, her previous barbed remarks seemed to have not affected the mare. So Futility just assumed she was too dim to understand them. Still, this ditsy mare was her sister and so she would have her father’s blood running through her veins. That demanded a level of respect-however small. For the time being she would have to accept the gaunt little thing and get on with her life. Then an idea stuck her mind. Rusty would need help in the war, what if she could help her?

Of course it would be going against all of her instincts. The foal had a weak mother, and that would not allow her to reach such a high superiority. Although, leadership was not going to be key to this war; strength would. Rusty had already shown a degree of emotional strength, living in this vile place was no easy task, with a feebler parent it would be only harder to have adapted. She gazed at her roan half sibling, whilst listening to Titian’s word. Yes. She would help Rusty. After all, this war would be easier if she had somebody whom she could truly rely and trust. Why not make it Rusty? Her father would not like it, but then again, where even was he? Futility was sure that he would not even notice.

She lifted her muzzle and breathed in the cool air, for a moment she felt at peace. There was no strumming ache in her head, or tension between her limbs. She tilted her head, and a very faint smile appeared on her face as she glanced at Rusty. “Come on, you, let’s go down to the beach” she hummed contently. She took a few paces forward and turned back “I beat I can beat you there” she snorted in a competitive manner, her ears flicked toward the roan as she turned and galloped towards the sandy beaches.

[Swede]

Feldspar's eyes flew open wide as Saburo burst out of the bush, screaming bloody murder with vengeance written all over her face. It was something Feldspar might have done, and indeed what she had done the first time Hunter crossed her path; and several times after that, too. But she had learned the hopelessness and idiocy of such maneuvers, and many of the roughest scars on her scruffy coat were from her early attempts at rebellion. It was surreal and sickening, and yet Feldspar seemed frozen in place, unable to lend assistance or to look away as Hunter beat Saburo in the same savage manner that she herself had experienced so many times.

Suddenly, the black behemoth had turned on her again; Feldspar shrieked as his teeth cleaved flesh from bone, and that was not all he had in store for her. Somehow she managed to avoid collapsing, but the heavy weight on her back and the crushing pressure of her own pain and misery brought her to her knees the moment Hunter sauntered off and eliminated any immediate threat of further punishment. The mare huddled in the dust, too exhausted and agonized to move. As if to add insult to injury, a single snowflake drifted from the sky and floated past her face. A bitter, cracked smile flickered on Feldspar's face, and she emitted a sound that was halfway between a sob and a laugh; at least there were no summer insects to torture her wounds now. What was that about silver linings? The only silver she wanted was the glint of a hoof to the head. Abruptly falling silent, she rested her muzzle against the earth, quite content to just sit here until the end of time; the cold air could numb her sores. Wallowing in her selfish misery, Feldspar had nearly forgotten that Saburo was suffering to no lesser degree; she simply didn't have the energy to care about anyone else.

~

Legend had been rather unaccosted after his original encounter with the quirky red filly; how disappointing. He strode along the shoreline with measured boredom, figuring either he would come across someone, or they would come across him. He was not kept waiting for too long. The dunalino halted as a giant black stallion came at him like a bat out of hell- and no doubt that was where he hailed from. Luckily, Legend knew a thing or two about hell, and waited patiently for this stranger to finish his power display. Stranger? Hardly- it was clear to him who this was. Good good, then he wouldn't have to kick up a fuss to catch his attention. A delighted smile spread across the golden stallion's face; ohh, this was going to be fun. "Kill me? Ohh, that would probably be in your best interests, yes. After all, I do happen to be an able-bodied stallion, accustomed to the fine art of splattering blood and guts on the ground while the air is filled with the screams of dying innocents, in the employ of one Ranger who is determined to see you served up to the crows for their midday meal- thus sworn to enable such an event to the best of my abilities, should he not be present to do so himself."

Legend paused, inhaling deeply; his eyes met Hunter's for a brief, cunning moment, before he swung his forequarters away, gazing across the lake as he judged Hunter had been given enough seconds to process his words. "Yes... but then, there are my best interests to be considered. And one can really wonder, if being aligned with one who has everything to lose and little to gain, encumbered by his own sense of the dichotomy of good and evil, distinct lack of ruthlessness and bloodlust, not to mention his somewhat lesser stature, is truly in the best interests of an otherwise unattached and self-serving individual such as myself." Plant the seeds of possibility, now turn it around. Legend maintained his thoughtful gaze towards the horizon as he gave Hunter another couple seconds to think, before continuing, "Ah, but you requested that I state my business here. Seeing as I have not received any express orders to strike yet, I'm afraid I've not come to assassinate you and rid the world of whatever threat you may pose. So let us say I'm... scouting. Sizing up your strengths and your assorted pawns, judging what chance Ranger- or any of his allies- might stand of victory, learning in what ways one might most effectively be put to use in this war of attrition..." Legend sharply flicked his eyes back to Hunter, meeting the monster's steely gaze with familiar ease. "What shall I tell Ranger when I return, I wonder?"

~

Rusty looked up at Titan with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Spar with you guys? I don't know... I'd feel pretty bad for kicking your butts, wouldn't want to hurt your egos or something," she said, casting a sly glance towards Futility. These two were her siblings; therefore, Rusty considered it to be her solemn duty to either win them over entirely, or drive them completely mental. What else were siblings for? It seemed to take the dark filly a few moments to come to any sort of conclusion, and her expression was difficult to read. However, Rusty could sense her victory was at hand, as Futility apparently relaxed a tad and spoke directly to the roan yearling. "Bet you can't!" she taunted back, setting off at a less-than-elegant but quite efficient pace, her hooves thrumming against the dead soil carelessly. A frigid wind swept across the lake as the woolly clouds above mocked the filly with a few lonely snowflakes swirling through the air. "Better hurry up Titan, go any slower and you'll be an icicle!" Rusty shouted across her shoulder, before deftly dodging around a gnarled little bush and continuing her mad dash after Futility.

[Captain Stumpy]

Saburo had the wind kicked out of her quiet literaly. The mare laid with her face between her knee's and her back legs tucked round her belly. The roan mare was black and blue, Uncrumpling her body was the second most painful thing to getting crumpled in the first place. "Feldspar?" Saburo muttered weakly, The blue roan still hadn't opened her eyes since she was pushed into the dirt, and though she refused to believe it she new what Hunter had done to his Feldspar, Her mind played pictures while her ears listened to a monster at work.

Mezura cowered down as the great monster beat his dam, beat another mare then stormed away unsettlingly close to his hiding spot. When the stocky young colt was sure the monster had gone he raced to the side of his still fallen dam, "Mommy?" the colt whinned, "Get back" Saburo snarled her sences returning, The colt did as was ordered and back away as Saburo spun and jumped to her feet, in one foul and sore swoop. She touched the worried colt on the withers, enough to put his mind at rest before makeing her way to Feldspar.

With the chill in the air and Feld not moving, or answering her she was worrying the mare wasn't going to move, but as she got closer the up-down of her belly was enough to prove she was breathing. "Enough of this" Saburo said, nudging her head into Feldspar's backside. "Rusty's strong enough to get off this islalnd, so find her and lets go" Saburo said again ending on a wince as her ribs ached from breathing. Saburo wasn't worried about Mezura crossing the river, she didn't have meturnal instinct, nor had she bonded with her son like he had to her. The stocky roan colt walked beside Saburo, gazing over the red-roan.



BlackThorn was quiet litteraly black and blue, The remaining flap of torn skin on his ear had fallen away. His shoulders were swollen and scabbed up, his crest wasn't a whole lot prettier. Worst of all his leg had skin missing from the knee to mid-cannon bone. Luckily it wasn't deep and had scabbed up nicely but it sure as hell was painful. He hadn't seen Hunter since the 'incident' and he wasn't about to plan another visit any time soon. He'd taken him to the less desirable grassing spots just inland from the beaches. The grass was weak here, and often covered in sand. But he wasn't going to be welcome anywere else on this island. He'd also taken the spot because he had the view off the island, Though the sands were constantly trod by Hunter's Lackys. BlackThorn hoped he'd see Orion again. He took a mouthful of half-withered grass. Hope was about the only thing worth living on for BlackThorn.

The colt cowered when he heard Hunter's roar blow in from the beach, understandibly Black headed inland, heading for the closest tree's he thought it was odd for Hunter to do his own guard-rounds. 'State your business here, stallion o...sh.. ll..' Damn BlackThorn thought as he realised he'd walked out of earshot. What stallion was he talking to? had Orion come back? BlackThorn wouldn't have expected Hunter to be so civil if he had. but Orion was his son. Skirting round in the hopes to find some decent bushes to hide in as well as remaining in earshot. It took him a little while to find sutable shelter, after all hiding 17hh wasn't a easy job, on fact he hadn't done well really, but at least he could bolt if either stallion paid interest in him. BlackThorn tried to concentrate. The freaky coloured stallion had been talking a while, and BlackThorn couldn't understand a word of it. He pricked his ears, but the odd stallion seemed to be talking in a different tounge to what he was used to. Only simple words made sence to him. 'in this war of attrition' BlackThorn didn't have a clue what Attrition meant, but War as easy. He'd assumed Hunter only had the lackys to enforce his power on the mares. Now things where making sence, Hunters wageing a war, BlackThorn took a step back ready to leave, but he wanted to know what Hunter was going to do with this.. Uh? Guy.

[Saz]

Scarlett & Uzuri

The friesian mare blinked against the bright sun that filtered through the branches above. Ever since she had arrived upon this godforsaken island she had sought shelter wherever she could. Breath whistled through her teeth as she huffed out a breath and curled her neck round to gentle nudge her daughter awake. "Uzuri, my love, it is time to be moving." She nickered softly, watching the slender filly with soft eyes. The dark filly blinked sleepily and slowly outstretched her slender forelegs so she could position herself correctly. Then with a heave and a ho, the filly was on her feet, and though still exhausted from the constant moving, she was slowly getting used to it, and knew exactly why she needed to stay with her mother at all times.

Scarlett then got to her own hooves, shaking off the tiredness and the cold that seemed to seep into her bones from just being on the same turf as the hellion that had kidnapped her. She gazed around her and bit her lower lip, she needed to make sure Leto hadn't gotten herself into any trouble, but that child was wild at heart, and it had been difficult keeping her under any form of control from the get go. "Uzuri-" The mare was cut off when Hunter's vicious call rang through the land. Her breath caught in her throat and the friesian mare went still, shaking at just the mere sounds of the hellish beast that had kidnapped and forcebred her. "Uzuri. This way. Now." Scarlett managed to utter, stumbling blindly away from the fading scream of Hunter.

The mother and daughter pair traveled across the island until they got to the far side of the island. Uzuri dropped into the sand under some trees as Scarlett stood by, attentive and wary. She continually scanned the horizon and also their surroundings, but the stress and the terror of this was wearing the mare down. She wasn't in nearly as good condition as she had been, her ribs and hips showed but her sides bulged obscenely as a constant reminder that she was carrying Hunter's spawn. Scarlett shuddered at the reminder and was just about to take a mouthful of the ever elusive grass that grew upon the island when the soft sound of hooves caught her ears and she took a few steps forward so she was standing immediately over Uzuri.

The protective friesian glared round until she caught sight of what she had been wanting to avoid. Guards. She gritted her teeth, shuffling as into the tree as much as the pair strolled along the beach. They seemed to be far to involved in their own lives to notice her. Of which Scarlett was thankful, her gaze didn't leave the pair however and as they traveled closer she simply stared harder at them. Then, suddenly, one of them seemed to look incredibly familiar. Her mind flashed back to her early days in Ranger's herd, with Elata, Plectra and the others. Then the devastation of Elata and Plectra dying, and as the foals were raised, Uheri becoming rebellious and fleeing at the tender age of 6 months.

Scarlett blinked furiously, staring hard at the dark bay stallion, he looked so much like Dragon and Ranger it was eerie. Then as his eyes flicked toward her she uttered a soft gasp, it was him. "Uheri." She uttered his name fearfully, half-hoping he wouldn't hear her, he wouldn't recognise her and that he would continue along with his patrol. And the other half of her yearned for this young stallion to hear her, see her for who she was, and remember her from the early days of his life.

Hunter & Dora

Hunter bared his teeth in an awful grin, a low, humorless chuckle rippling from his broad, scarred chest. The mere thought that this puny golden mustang could even make a dent in his pelt made him laugh. For Hunter was under the illusion that he was almighty, indestructible, powerful and god-like. And anyone who said otherwise had always been struck down, thus proving his strength and legacy more so. "You may tell him what you like, provided you get off of my island. After all, what you see on the surface isn't nearly all what I have planned." A superior grin formed upon his scarred face and he met Legend's gaze firmly with his own crazed one.

Slowly, oh so slowly, Hunter was deteriorating into madness, his insanity and blood lust grew by the hours, and when it became unbearable he would strike, reaping souls like a farmer harvests his crop. Then it would sate his hunger for a while, but slowly, the time that it sated shortened. And soon the hellion would start ripping apart whomever crossed his path. Of course, little acts like beating up a mare, or forcebreeding them when he could, helped sate the hunger too. But killing... now that was different.

"So the 'almighty' Ranger sends you as a scout, huh? Pathetic. I do not waste my time with such trivial means, I know he is no match for me so I do not waste horses. Instead I gather them, creating a proper army, unlike him, frittering away his time like he thinks he can stop this by talk." Hunter paused, gazing across the horizon before staring hard at Legend. "You tell him from me, there is no use in anything, if he so wishes to waste the lives of others in a menial battle, then so be it. But he's always welcome to seek his death here." A harsh, maleficent smirk grew upon his visage and he laughed coldly once more. "I will win. Everyone knows this, he is just stubborn that good will truimph over 'evil' when actually. In the real world. That never really happens."

"Pssht. This guy's really up himself isn't he? Mister I-Fancy-Myself-Oh-I'm-So-Powerful-Look-At-Me." Dora sniggered, curling round the dunalino like a cat before coming to stand next to Hunter and looking him up and down with an unimpressed sneer. "Urgh, I hate stallions like him. They all fancy themselves don't they? And they all think they're incredibly powerful, when really everything's just an inch away from falling to pieces." The bay ghost rolled her eyes and stuck her tongue out at the huge black stallion before coming to stand next to Legend once more. "So you're thinking of becoming a double agent, huh? Or are you just gonna switch sides? A pretty lousy thing to do in my opinion. But then again you never really cared about what anyone thinks..." She trailed off, face thoughtful after she had nattered on at the dunalino for a little while.

She sighed and scratched at the sand with a hoof, not that it moved or made any kind of indent to say she had been there. The bay mare shook out her long mane and glanced around, searching her brain for something to say to Legend that would make him pay attention to her. "Come oooon, you can't seriously believe this guy? I've met less nutty horses than him. I mean, hell, there's this mare who's a seer or whatever, she has this connection to my world. Can see me, or us. Or whatever. And she's less nutty than this guy. I mean you're less nutty than this guy. And that's saying something!"

She snorted, giggling slightly before staring at the dunalino and huffing grumpily. She then decided that maybe talking about this mare who also had a connection to her world might be of interest to him. "So this mare, she's got pretty good defenses, but I can sense her at the moment. She's not too far away, maybe sunshine river at the farthest? Her name is...C-something... Cass... Cassandra! That's it! Cassandra. So like, she's got some random connection to us, probably gets glimpses of the future or something. But she can definitely talk to us ghosts. That's just general knowledge. Huh. Maybe if you stop talking to me altogether I'll go seek her out."

Titan & Leto

The dappled grey stallion laughed, shaking his head and loping after the two boisterous fillies, he kept a few strides behind the duo and a wary eye out for anything unusual. It sounded like their father had caught an intruder, so he needed to make sure there wasn't anything that would present a danger to Futility.

He caught motion out the corner of his eye and skidded to a halt, sending a spray of sand in all directions and he spun toward where he had seen the blur of movement. Nothing. Nothing. And then, something. He narrowed his eyes and caught sight of a slender arabian yearling roaming about the beach not far from Futility and Rusty. The large stallion shook his head as his gaze traveled back to the two fillies and set off at a slow lope toward them. And by the time he had gotten to them, the chestnut filly had ventured closer and was currently introducing herself to Futility.

"Hi, I'm Leto. Who are you guys?" The slender yearling asked, amber eyes bright with curiousity and intelligence. She sidestepped as Titan showed up and placed Futility between herself and the huge stallion. She didn't trust stallions, she never had, it was something about him that reminded her of the black behemoth that had kidnapped her and Scarlett and Uzuri. She tilted her ears back slightly as Titan moved closer and snapped her teeth together, arching her thin neck in an aggressive stance that plainly said to back off. The dapple grey paint chuckled softly and took a half-step backward giving the trio a little bit of space.

Leto relaxed instantaneously and returned her bright amber to stare at the black yearling and her roan companion. She hadn't been on this forsaken island for long, just since late autumn maybe early winter at the latest. And so far she had only seen Hunter in passing and a few of the guards from afar. It had seemed the island was absent of youngsters like herself so during the time her adopted mother and sister were sleeping she had slipped away to go and explore a little. She knew Scarlett would be angry, but Leto wasn't one for rules in any case.

[lily]

Futility

It was no surprise that the unalloyed Friesian reached the beach first. The filly gave out a gasp as the harsh air whipped against her as they neared the coast, her pace slowing until she reached a stop. The waves crashed against the shores, a clear ray of white foam left behind as they ebbed to and fro. A little way off one of the three sandbars could be seen- the only way to leave. She turned to Rusty as their destination was reached, leaning over, she tugged at the roan mare’s ear. “Too bad Rusty” she chortled, trotting around in a neat little circle, as she came back to her starting point she was met with the harsh face of an unknown. Futility’s ear twitched back marginally, instinctively she observed the newcomer; her size and compatible skills were easy to determine. The mare was no threat. Alas, she must be treated with precaution.

“Leto.” She repeated monotonously, her gaze flexed from Rusty to Titan. What did this lanky creature expect her to do? Embrace her with open arms and give her a guided tour of the island? There was more chance of her father turning pleasant, than that. After a moment of awkward silence, she sighed and looked darkly at the mare “This is Titan my brother, and Rusty my sister. Thus, you must treat them with the required amount of respect. I am Futility, heir of this island.” She took a step forward, and eyed the filly vigilantly. “We are about to spar. Do you wish to take part?” she questioned her.

The chance of battling made a fire ignite within her, the rush of attacking another. The sensation roared within her veins and propelled her to kill. Her father and mother had given her this, something nobody else had. The noblest of blood, the most evil; yet the most determined.

Uheri and Maugrim

Maugrim snorted to his new comrade, a shiver snaking over his bodice “The winter is defiantly here.” He murmured, turning his head and looking out over the raging sea. “Mmm” Uheri replied, looking directly ahead. Maugrim was not the nicest of company; he had an uncontrollable temper and disturbing sense of humour. He was just like the rest of the guards out on the forsaken island, a mere pawn of war. “I don’t suspect it will be long until war now.” The steel grey said darkly, his face contorting into an ugly smirk. “I can’t wait to rip a few limbs off those idiots, I hope the mares are good as well, nothing they can do if we threaten to kill ‘em. Open to everyone, if you get what a mean?” he chuckled.

Uheri grimaced at him, but remained impassive. Maugrim stopped abruptly, and breathed in the air deeply. “There are horses near, a mare and another. They are too close to the border. They must be found and returned to the main land”. The younger bay rolled his eyes at the textbook speech. “Yes, yes Maugrim. I’ll find them, alright?!” he said shaking his head as he trotted around the dunes looking for the suspect pair. He found them. The mare and her foal.

He stopped and inspected them. What was it about the mare? He knew her. But from where? He turned his head back sharply to Maugrim who was now making his way over. He was sure that the stallion wouldn’t deal with the pair in a pleasant manner; he couldn’t allow them to be harmed. Not, now he was sure he knew them from another place. “It’s ok Maugrim!” he bellowed over to his partner. “I found them, you continue with the patrol.” His voice held an amount of authority to it.

Luckily, the stallion continued onwards. Uheri turned and looked down at the couple, taking pity on them for being in such a jilted area. They looked terrified. “Who are you?” He asked calmly, narrowing his eyes at them.

[Swede]

Feldspar lifted her head slowly, giving Saburo an expression that would have been incredulous, had it not been so pathetic. Did that mare really think they could just march out of here whenever they pleased? If it was so easy, Feldspar would've been gone ages ago; she had tested the theory, several times, and had some lovely scars to show for her efforts. Tucking her muzzle back in against her chest, the little roan heaved a sigh. Why was everything so awful? You heard about bad things sometimes, but they never actually happened to you... they weren't supposed to, anyway. But surely nothing could be worse than this.

Nothing could be worse than this... hm, that was true actually. Why not just make a run for it? Hunter had run off, and was in a terrible mood judging by the sound of it, so he was probably busy for a while. There were many other threats on this island, but none that could freeze her up in terror quite like he could. Feldspar could literally not think of anything worse than the current situation, so she had nothing to lose by just going along with Saburo's idiotic plan. Huffing softly, she heaved herself to her unsteady feet, wincing slightly as the broad cut on her withers stretched and cracked. "Rusty?" she echoed numbly. Right; that was that little thing, Hunter's parasite. Feldspar wouldn't have minded if the filly drowned in the lake, but Saburo would probably get upset if she said that and she felt too leaden for some moral argument right now. "She likes it here... with the others, can't get to her anyway," the little mare muttered in a muffled tone. Lifting her muzzle just a fraction, she gazed blankly at Saburo. Her plan, her lead; Feldspar didn't know what to do, all her past attempts had failed and she couldn't think of anything new that could actually work.

~

Legend was in the habit of deceiving others at his whim without any second thoughts, but it was true when he said he was scouting. Well, mostly, at least. Ranger hadn't explicitly asked him to come here, but the dunalino wanted to inspect the proposed opposition, and figure out where the best place for him to stand in this mess was. His left ear flicked as if trying to wave off a buzzing fly, but otherwise he did not acknowledge Dora for the moment. She had a terrible habit of never shutting up. She had a point, though; this Hunter fellow, big and menacing as he seemed to be, had a few qualities which in Legend's book qualified as distinct weaknesses. Too blunt to catch on to a veiled offer of allegiance, too self-assured to consider the possibility of defeat. "Your confidence is quite resounding; any ordinary bettor would have difficulties speaking against such a testimony. A word of advice, to those who would be wise enough to take it, though," Legend said suavely, choosing his words carefully so as to avoid prodding the black behemoth's ego all too much. "It would seem you and I both are well-acquainted with master Death, and perhaps his cruel sister Fate as well; though it would also seem that we may have had rather alternate dealings with aforementioned nasty pair. 'Tis my experience that those who fancy themselves immortal, a deserved assumption or not, tend to arouse the ire of mistress Fate and bring her brother's wrath down upon themselves. In this aspect, Ranger's humility, weak though it may be, brings him the fair lady's favor." Legend paused, his thoughts quick as ever and cunning as he spun endless new ways to damn himself thoroughly.

"There are, however, certain... options," he continued, keeping his gaze fixed upon Hunter. Oh, he had words for Dora, and no doubt she would lap them up simply because he paid attention to her for once, but this must be dealt with first. "Control Fate, fool her by dodging her designs before she can enact them, and one could be truly powerful indeed... perhaps even unstoppable. It's a rare gift; but, perhaps you have no need of such things. Many would be content with simply presuming to crush their opponent by basic strength, and then living onwards in their lives until they themselves are claimed by whatever lies beyond. And perhaps you are such a one- perhaps your strength is more than enough to claim for yourself anything you desire. I'm in a giving sort of mood, but perhaps Ranger has greater need of such a gift..." Legend paused, smiling slightly. "Then again, he hasn't asked for it. Perhaps it is better that a gift goes to the one who wishes it the most..." Dora, oh Dora... she was wonderful, really. Her mere existence provided so many ways for him to damn himself utterly. He wondered how devastating it was for the state of the soul to torture even those who already are dead with guilt over the fate of others. He doubted her little ghost-talker would enjoy life much here, and he would make sure Dora saw it. She thought too highly of him, it wasn't right. Though of course, it depended on whether Hunter was too dense or cocky to snatch up an offer when it was made, albeit in rather veiled words. But Legend rarely said anything outright. It made things too easy.

~

Rusty tossed her head and emitted a loud and dismissive snort. "Bah, I'll get you next time," she said airily. It was true that the runty roan wasn't the fastest on the flat; but give her a mountain and she'd dart across the rocks and crags quicker than the flash of an agile rabbit's tail. And if there was no physical way to move forward, she would probably just bore straight through the bedrock with her stubborn skull. Looking away from Futility, Rusty eyed the newcomer up and down with a critical and slightly suspicious stare. Like a shelter-born puppy who has finally found a beloved mistress, she wasn't so sure she wanted a new filly wandering in and interfering with the currently most excellent state of affairs. Perhaps she and the pretty little chestnut could be friends; but not if she started ruining things. Luckily, Futility was her sister and Titan was her brother, and this one was just a silly outsider. Maybe she was worth the trouble- a new friend was always an exciting prospect, after all- but Rusty was one who not only crossed lines, she trampled straight over them and smudged them out in the dust. Leto would not be welcomed as an honored guest, not on this forsaken island, not by the daughters of Hunter. Not until Rusty figured out just what to make of her. "Bet she doesn't," Rusty said, grinning at Leto with a challenge in her eyes, "Bet she's scared. I bet she wants to go back to her mama and hide. But that's okay, sparring isn't for everyone, probably too rough for her."

[Saz]

Leto & Titan

Leto dipped her head in polite greeting to the beautiful onyx filly, "Lovely to make your acquaintance, Rusty, Titan and Futility." She replied, voice high and melodic, but with a sharp quality telling the listener there was more to her than met the eye. A wry smirk then crossed the chestnut's maw and she took a dainty step toward Rusty, "Oh you think so, princess? Feel free to try out your best move." She snorted, grinning with a dangerous quality. Scarlett had taught her some defensive and offensive moves since they had been hunted by the aptly named Hunter. Not to mention she seemed to be growing at a faster rate than most fillies her age, she seemed to be stronger and faster too. From what she had done and discovered in her personal time in any case. But Leto was sure this scruffy runt wouldn't be able to touch her.

As Rusty ran at her in an ill thought out move, Leto darted sideways, turning as she moved to grab hold of the roan's scruffy tail. She tugged it teasingly before releasing it and sidestepping once more to get a better position to attack her opponent. She grinned at Rusty in an inviting manner, although her amber eyes glittered with amusement and the fire of adrenaline. She skipped sideways energetically once more, dancing from hoof to hoof as she awaited the next attack. She glanced at Futility out the corner of her eye and grinned broadly, once she was done with Rusty they would spar. But of course you have to go from the bottom to get to the top.

Titan snickered softly at Rusty's attack, grinning in amusement as the two seemed to stand in a standoff. Let the amateurs do what they wish. He supposed he could spar with Tilly for the moment, after all, there would be no telling who she would come up against in the oncoming war. He turned, moving a few strides along the beach before turning and facing the dark two year old with a stern face. His mane and tail whipped around in the fierce winds, the sky was darkening and he could tell there would soon be a storm to come upon this island. "Futility, come at me." He called to her, voice deep, monotone and calm. He watched her with the eyes of an experienced warrior, awaiting his student to attack him so he could teach her the art of battle.

Hunter

A dark look crossed over Hunter's visage and he was about to step forward to attack the dunalino for daring to insinuate that he was blinded by his own ego. He was partially glad that the stallion continued, his interest peaked and he stared deeply at Legend. A horse that could tell him of the future. His brain processed the information slowly, before a dark, malicious smile formed upon his maw. Oh yes, one of those would do nicely. Why bother with battle strategy when you had someone who could tell you what the enemy were about to do? He watched Legend with unveiled interest and he nodded slowly.

"You are not right in questioning my strength, but a seer would be very welcome to join my ranks. I wish to know where exactly such a horse might reside, of course, you will be duly rewarded. One of the mares that reside on this island perhaps, or a filly of your choosing for when the war is over." He quirked an eyebrow at Legend, of course, Mutiny and Futility were out of the question but any other he was free to have, even one of his daughters would be a good payment for such a gift.

Scarlett, Uzuri & Nazgûl

Scarlett watched fearfully as they came closer, and then breathed a sigh of relief as Uheri managed to divert his companion. His question stung her heart however and a lone tear dripped down her cheek, he didn't remember her... But perhaps it was for the best? No, no. Of course it wasn't, he was working for Hunter, preparing to kill his own family for something as small as a mare. "Uheri..." She murmured his name softly and stepped forward, touching her muzzle to his cheek and then ghosting it down his neck. "Oh Uheri, I missed you so much. I'm Scarlett, I raised you when you were a wee foal. Your father... we we all distraught..." She trailed off, drawing away as discomfort flooded through her, it was almost time. But she couldn't leave him, not after reuniting with him once more. No, she couldn't.

She took a stumbling step forward and embraced him like any mother would embrace her own child. Oh how she had missed her nephew, it had been bad enough for the mares to die like that, but then both he and his sister vanishing too? It had been a devastating time for the herd, nearly as bad as this that hung over their heads like a bad smell. She then turned, looking over her yearling daughter, Uheri's cousin. "Uheri, listen, I'll be back, just... keep an eye on her, okay?" She muttered to him before turning and rapidly disappearing into the trees.

The mare got about fifty feet from the others before dropping awkwardly into the sandy soil and rolling onto her side. The pangs of birth ripping through her body. This was a bigger foal than she had ever had. It was the spawn of a murderous fiend, and in her heart, Scarlett knew this foal would take after Hunter more than her. Then... finally it was over. Scarlett lay panting in the dust, afraid to lift her head and look at the thing that had been produced. Her heart ached at the thought of it possibly being a colt, she wouldn't know what to do, she knew Hunter wouldn't stand for having a son by the sister of Ranger. Or maybe he would, but it would be taken from her and brainwashed, she knew that much.

Finally, she lifted her head and looked down at the bundle that was fidgeting by her back legs. She cleaned the foal efficiently, and was relieved to find that she had given birth to a daughter. "Oh thank god..." She murmured softly before nudging the filly firmly. "Up you get now, come on. Up." She snorted, staring down at the filly with slight impatience. The dark filly got her hooves in a shaky manner and was fed quickly before Scarlett set off back to where she had left Uheri and Uzuri.

When she arrived the yearling was awake, and just staring silently at Uheri as he stood watch. She nickered softly, smiling tiredly at her nephew and daughter before nudging the filly forward. "This is... Nazgûl." She snorted, the word sounded and felt evil in her mouth, but she knew it suited the filly perfectly. She could feel that this filly would take after her father more than herself. Scarlett just hoped her morals and kindness were inherited by their daughter rather than the blood thirsty madness that raged through Hunter's veins.

[silverbolt]

Cam had been watching the island on and off for a little while now, he hated this place with a passion. years back he had been forced to run off and leave a friend behind ... now he was ready to get her out. He entered the lake in a secluded and well sheilded spot and swam across to another such place he had selected, the water would hide his scent and trees and their shadows had long been his confidants, his dark coat blending in almost perfectly without being to black.

the stallion serched around from hiding spot to hiding spot looking for the feisty roan mare he had known... what he found was horrible, was this Feldspar? had she really been taken this low?

Cam then looked over the other Mare she was talking too... it was that blue roan he had run into when he and Magpie had tried to steal Nina! what was she doing here? ... Cam watched the pair for a few minutes. They seemed to be talking about escape, well such a lucky coincidence for him then.

"If you ladies want some help, I'm in" Cam said quietly moving so they noticed him, just out of their range "Hey Felds... I promised I'd come back for you, remember?"

[Swede]

(OOC: I'll wait on Feldspar and Rusty til stump and lily post, but this stuff only has saz involved so going to keep things moving in the meantime)

Legend allowed a pleased smile to slip across his face for a moment. "Save yourself the bother of hunting down locations- I will do the trekking and the fetching, and perhaps afterwards we may see about the mentioned reward." A mare... he enjoyed them as much as any stallion, but he never did anything for his own pleasure. Perhaps later he would deduce what wretched creature he could best damn himself with; or, perhaps, utter refusal would be the greater torture to him in these fair springtime days. Turning, he cocked his head across his shoulder for a brief moment as he glanced back at Hunter, and added, "I think that we make the most excellent enemies, don't you? Almost makes one forget one's sworn allegiance..." Chuckling softly to himself, Legend flicked his creamy white tail and moved onwards at a swift pace. Out of sight, out of earshot to all but himself and his delusions.

"Sunshine," he said as if in a sudden afterthought once a few minutes of silence had passed, "Ye mentioned a mare who could see individuals of your particular persuasion... I must confess, it does pique my curiosity. Any chance we might pay her a visit?" He swung his head around, glancing at the mare who seemed so solid and yet was invisible to everyone else. "Because, let's face it, you must get sick of talking to nobody but me all the time... and I could use a bit of a reprieve too." Now there was a thought; what if this Cassandra knew how to banish Dora back to her own ghostly dimension? It was a far cry, but there was always hope.




An island in a lake; how novel. The grass on this little rock tasted the same as on the "mainland", though; it wasn't novelty that brought her here. No, it was familiarity. A scent she recognized, and though nothing genuinely was important, one could always entertain a whim and a brief fantasy to pass the time. Ah, the question then: was he as she remembered, strong and fierce and strikingly handsome? Or had time withered away his superior features? It would be an interesting experiment to see just how much the perspective of a lovestruck and naive filly could distort the image of reality. But all in due time, she was in no hurry. Yawning widely, the liver chestnut mare lowered her head to the grass once more, obscuring her face in her own shadow. Such a pretty face, as long as you only saw her good side. 'Good', bah. Such things held no significance in the real world; and evil? Evil was just another word for vanity, and those who fancy themselves to be frightening. Aria didn't waste energy on such nonsense.

[Captain Stumpy]

Saburo Jumped back as a stragers voise entered there sacluded spot. "Who are you?" she spat suspiciously. Mazura looked between the roans and the strange stallion. "Wait I know you don't I?" Saburo said, though she couldn't remember anything but his face. Which was probably a good thing. Saburo glanced at Feldspar, with a sigh she accepted the mare was right, Rusty did seem to enjoy the company of the island, afterall the filly new nothing else. "C'mon lets get outta here" Saburo said touching Feldspars side with her muzzle. She walked passed Cam with her eyes still glairing at him, somthing about him made her uneasy but she couldn't remember why.

Mazura hezitated a moment, looking back he wanted to know more about his sire. And he'd yet to meet his sister Rusty. His little world revolved around his mother, and watching her leave he couldn't hold himself back any longer. The large-bones yearling came beside his fine-framed dam. "We're not coming back... are we?" He asked looking innosent. "No" Saburo said simpily. "We're going to see your uncles" She said looking at the brightening sky's. "If i hadn't turned my back on them none of this would have happened" she mused to herself pushing forward towards the shore.


BlackThorn was begining to tire of his snooping, Though Hunter's words were clear and strong the strangers way of talking just wasn't computing with BlackThorn's ears. It was clear to the young stallion that Hunter wasn't going too attack the stranger. With a grumble from his belly the black stallion took some carful steps back before walking away quietly.

[silverbolt]

"I help you find your family Blue" Cam sighed as he nudged Feldspar "But I was hoping Feldspar would come hang with my friends and I again... of course if she doesn't want to as long as she is safe I guess I'll live"

Cam then turned to Feldspar and grinned as he walked to the shore "It's been a while, we have a whole lot to talk about... but that can be after we get you and Blue out of here"

He then eyed the yearling following them "nah we aint coming back kid, don't worry though You'll live and your life will be better for it"

[Saz]

Hunter

He smiled darkly, watching the pale stallion turn and disappear deeper into the terra. Perhaps he would take his prize now... it did not matter to Hunter so long as the job got done and he got this seer. He inhaled the fresh air as it flowed around his island and a shocked expression flitted across his face before a demonic smirk appeared. Well, well, well. It seemed like it wasn't just him that came from the past. There were others as well. But only one scent interfered with the fresh air, that of a very familiar mare. Hunter had been beginning to seduce her as the herd came to its end. He was going to take this beautiful mare and make her his. He had even hunted for her after he had recovered, but alas his trail ran cold and his mind moved to more important things.

He set off at a saunter, his large hooves barely leaving behind prints upon the forever shifting sand, his stormy gaze searching the landscape before... finally, they landed upon her. She had aged well from what he could see, and desire flooded through him once more at the sight of such a beautiful mare. She had been so endearing, so... naive... oh how he had wished to destroy all that, bring her world down to her hooves and crumble all her innocent walls until there was nothing left. There was almost nothing he liked better than doing so, as he had demonstrated with that weedy mustang, and so many others. Corruption was far up his list of favourite things to pass time, just underneath Killing and above torture.

"Aria... Well, well, well... What are you doing here? Such a pretty thing, out on her own? Escaped from lock down, did you? Oh how this brings back memories. You sneaking away from that troublesome brother of yours, just to see me..." He trailed off, his tone seductive and deep as he halted next to the mare, a devilish smile upon his fiercely scarred visage. He inhaled her scent deeply and rested his muzzle against her side. "It has been a long time, and my you have grown. Changed too, but not as much as you could have done. Hmm?" He chuckled deeply, dark grey gaze meeting hers and watching her carefully. From what he could see, she had changed barely, but oh how he was wrong. So very, very wrong.

Dora

She harrumphed quietly, turning away from the duo as they ignored her predictably. The rest of their conversation went through one ear and out the other, the bay mare ignored them and faintly lipped at a strand of grass, sighing when there was no friction or anything at all. The only thing she seemed to be able to touch was Legend, or trees... Or the ground. But that was about it. Sighing deeply she pricked her ears as Legend brushed past her and she moved into the grudging lope. Mainly because once more her curiosity rose up inside of her, over-riding any gut instinct to not follow the dunalino. As per usual.

She listened silently, staring at him blankly as he spoke, his sweet persuasive tones curling inside of her brain and bringing her forward until she stood beside him, her pelt almost touching his own. For a moment, a flash of something overtook her and she smirked derisively, a low cackle erupting from her and she rolled her eyes at him. "Pah, how unfortunate for me. To be the go to gal, to be the one that you rely on for once. Rather than just being a bother as I know I am to you. Forget it, Kinslayer. Also. I am not. And never will be your 'Sunshine'." She snarled, coming nose to nose to the stallion before fading as though she had just been a formation of smoke or mist.

A few minutes later, she reappeared, looking a mite confused as she face Legend. "Jeeze, you have no idea how bloody hard it is to find someone here. I found her though, Cassandra, righto. If you want to talk to her though you'll have to deal with a few other mares. Which is annoying. But y'know. Nothing comes free. I introduced myself to her but she freaked out a little, not too sure why. We both know she can see me. And she's certainly not repressing it, she's accessed it before. A friend told me. Anyway, you wanna get going? Not that you're boring to talk to or anything, but I figure we should go there before she moves somewhere else." She grinned brightly, any trace of some other being in control gone and the original, chatty Dora back and raring to go.

[lily]

Futility 

The young mare barely noticed Rusty and Leto's 'spar' to her it was more of a slow moving embrace. She shook her head slightly, thinkingu about how she would have interpreted each of the moves, what she would do next. A frown wrinkled on her brow, they were sloppy, poorly judged movements. She had always been taught to put amble energy and thought into each movement of attack, that way unnecessary mistakes wouldn't happen.  

Moving her attention away from the filly's battle, her ears pricked up to her brother's deep voice. She wandered over to him leisurely, dragging her hooves a little in the sand. She wanted to give him the impression before they sparred also, that she was feeling lethargic and sluggish. That way she would have an element of surprise when she was able to move at a surprisingly rapid rate. They stood facing each other for a moment, her red sparking with the prospect off blood and pain. She was not able to banish all those feelings that had been past down by her parents. As they stood, a plan of action whirled around in her mind 

Then she moved. 

Rearing on the diagonal, her hooves smashed straight into Titan's shoulders. Weakness point number one. She pulled back, only giving enough time so he could not retaliate. She drove her front hooves once more against his body, this time focusing on his barrel. Ribs seemed easy to break. Weakness point number two. She did not move away this time, instead grabbed his withers between her teeth forcing him to move backwards. As she did, she sent another power kick into his shoulder, bringing her knees up and putting all her weight against him, knowing that, that would be enough to push him to the ground.  

Uheri

He almost jerked away as she touched him, but some sense of familiarity allowed him to let her to continue. She left and returned with another; brilliant. Another spawn from Hunter, that was just what the world needed. He eyed the filly suspiciously, already seeing aspects of Hunter blaring beneath those eyes. The filly should have been killed as soon as it had walked onto this planet. For all it would endure would be pain and anguish. Sometimes death was for the better. 

He took a step forwards and raised a brow, "What are you doing here still? Two young fillies and a mare." he shook his head, before a rueful smile crossed his face. "Not the best place to be bringing up children, Auntie Scar." he laughed quietly. Before shaking his head and becoming more serious, "I suggest we leave before it is too late, what say you?"

[Swede]

Feldspar jerked her head upwards sharply as a figure emerged from the undergrowth in her peripheral vision. For a brief moment, the dangers of being found out flashed through her mind; this island was full of Hunter's lackeys, sycophantic spies who would happily ruin a mare's hopes if it meant they could earn Hunter's favor with their tattle-taling. But the initial shock was quickly replaced by an odd... recognition? It was not unlike the feeling she'd felt when Saburo had suddenly appeared on the island in the middle of the mountain lake; a hint of reality so bizarrely out of place in this nightmarish landscape that it almost seemed fake. "Cam?" she said bluntly, staring at the stallion as if not quite believing he was there. Then the little roan blinked and shook her head, deciding that for now, it was best to just go with the flow, rather than protest or question things like she usually did. "Yeah... we're leaving... better hurry up and go, before he comes back," she said, suppressing a shudder. She followed Saburo as the bold mare led the way, keeping her head low in a futile attempt at stealth; to be discovered would be disastrous. "Shut up, someone might hear us," she whispered anxiously, glancing over her shoulder. "Talk later, move now."



Rusty squealed in indignation as the foreigner grabbed her tail. Bouncing a few steps backwards, she eyed the chestnut filly with an incensed expression. But then, quite suddenly, a wicked grin sprouted on her face. Strategy was something many favored, but she didn't see the point. Rearing up onto her hind hooves, she boxed at the air like a fairy princess, before suddenly crowhopping forward and striking at Leto's flank in a sideways glancing motion, the casual snap of a coldblooded viper. Another dainty hop fluidly lifted her hind hooves from the level of Leto's forelegs upwards to the intruder's jawline, a blind one-two punch to chip the edges off that cheeky smile. Abruptly, the weedy roan's demeanor shifted; she wheeled and swung her head around at her butterfly opponent's ribcage, treating her skull more like a ball on a chain than the precious home of her mind. Losing a few brain cells wasn't something that bothered her; she wasn't really using them anyway. Electric energy flowed through her body and controlled her motions, not some imagined temple of the mind; this was no sagacious owl, but a rabid fox, spitting in the face of more noble foes. Ha! Others could keep their strategies and careful planning for themselves. Waste that much time thinking, and you'd never get any actual damage done. Besides- no enemy could ever predict Rusty's next move, when she herself had no idea what she was going to do next.


Legend watched impassively as bubbleheaded Dora seemed to morph into a coldhearted vicious beast, before vanishing entirely. How curious. "That Hunter fellow's quite a bad influence on ye, sunshine," he muttered out loud to the empty air as he continued his easy movement forward. Perhaps some demon from whatever hell the dead go to had kicked out her weak mind and occupied her. However, the dunalino still staunchly refused to actually believe she was a ghost. In which case, there was only one explanation: his own hallucinations were going insane. Oh Legend, you really should get that checked out by a professional... it's just not healthy, he thought snidely. He chuckled slightly, managing to suppress the sound in time as Dora suddenly reappeared again. It seemed her dark side had run off already. Typical Dora, couldn't stay focused on one thing for ten seconds, even her bipolarity got bored after a little while. "Oh, other mares aren't a problem, I'm sure I can handle it. After all, you know how I am, sunshine; I'm quite the ladykiller," he said, grinning wickedly at his own words. "Well, let's not dillydally, off we go then." The dunalino tossed his head, breaking into a brisk trot. They would cover ground quickly; dead mares and hallucinations don't need breaks, and he didn't plan on affording himself such luxuries.


Aria heard the heavy footsteps from a fair distance, felt them in the faint vibrations of the grass she nibbled upon idly. She could even see the blurry dark figure from the corner of her eye, though she could not be bothered to focus upon him just yet, instead letting her gaze fall naturally upon blank emptiness in the vicinity of her face. It would seem her presence had aroused some interest, though; of course, stallions were always keen to go investigate a stranger in their perceived territory. Or an old acquaintance, for that matter; would Hunter remember her? Perhaps. Many fillies had been fallen for him, their resistance slain by his devilish charm, or by the terror of the fate that awaited those who did not submit. A calculated voice, a soft touch; very well then, contact was initiated and she really ought to respond. The dark chestnut mare lifted her head. Conveniently enough, he was by her right side, so she could take a proper look at him without having to twist all the way around. "Escaped... yes, I suppose I did," she said dreamily, gazing across the lake. Alastair... a guardian. A jailer. A beloved brother. Nothing. Something flickered in her soft dark eye, and she swung her muzzle around to face Hunter directly, the ragged scar that ground along her face distorting her otherwise indifferent expression. "You haven't changed at all... well, a little," she said, looking him up and down. "You're an old fool now, instead of a young one. But that's all. Perhaps not trying to hide that scent of a vulture's lunch quite as much as before either," she added, her nostrils flaring slightly as she caught the faint scent of blood, no doubt from some very recent act of torture or murder. It seemed he had no problem leaving his crimes out in the open among his friends anymore; perhaps that was why they had all abandoned him.

[Captain Stumpy]

"I don't need help, Red" Saburo said her ears pinned slightly. She heard Feldspar say not to speek, She was impressed the mare gave a command. The blue roan eyed the red stallion a little more negativly. So he new Feldspar before this? and he'd come back for her? too late of course though it seemed like he was the insperation Feldspar needed to escape. Did that mean Feldspar had feelings for him? as it seemed pretty ovious to the now green-eyed roan that he felt somthing for her roan mare.

Mazura looked round as they got to the bank. Saburo was first to get her hooves wet. The colt not wanting to leave his dam's side jumped in as well. The yearling looked round, "So we're going to find peace?" He wispered to his dam. "Peace is a myth, we're just looking for a smaller war" Saburo said back. Mazura didn't understand fully, so remained silent. It didn't take long before Saburo's hooves couldn't reach the bottom. It was a releaf when Saburo could feel the sand under her hooves from the other shore-side. Climbing up the other bank dripping wet she couldn't quite belive how easy it was, She looked back at the island. shadows in the distance showed a pair of stallions on guard, to far to make out, they wouldn't be a threat. Mazura took longer to get to shore, snorting and coughing the colt wasn't a natural swimmer and had swollowed water during the swim.


BlackThorn crept firther inland, his hope of Orion and his sisters returning shattered once spring came round. His wounds were mearly scars now. painful only when he thought about them. He risked his hide to get them off the island and they didn't return. He never got to see Aspen after what Hunter did to her. Did she take? did it live? did she keep it? The Tall stallion shadowed his way to an unoccupied clearing. Lowering his head to graze mindlessly. The sent of stallions stinging his nose, more testostorone than this island could handle.

[silverbolt]

Cam shook his head, obviously Blue didn't remember him but he remembered the blue roan mare and her brothers for that matter, but now was not the time to argue. The liver chestnut stallion looked around at the island once more before nudging Feldspar softly and gently wading into the water with few ripples in the wake of his passing

"Come on Feldie" Cam whispered to the strawberry roan mare "If a wimp like me can do it, you can easy"

[Saz]

Dora

She grinned proudly, flicking her dark forelock from sparkling brown eyes. Lady Killer... pfft. I call bull right there. Though he killed you, didn't he sunshine? A voice inside her head purred, cynical and seductive, darkness and venom dripping from each sweet word that was whispered from the devilish voice. Back off... He's mine. Keep your venomous teeth away from him. She snarled back, frowning slightly as the voice chuckled darkly before fading away into the depths of her mind. Shaking the experience off, the ghostly mare jogged after the dunalino, quickly catching up due to her longer strides, and soon they disappeared off the godforsaken isle, aiming to make another's life hell, whether intentional or not.

Hunter

The devilish stallion smirked deeply, grey eyes flashing at the challenge the mare proposed. Well perhaps she had changed, seemingly no longer sweet, innocent, naive little Aria he had once known. She was now a bold, cynical, stubborn banshee of a thing. Not to mention she had lost an eye and quite a bit of flesh upon the left side of her face. Suddenly, at the sight of such a wound his anger flared, his eyes darkened to a stormy grey rather than the silvery-steel they had been once more. Oh yes, he had always considered Aria his property. How infuriated he had been when she had been hidden away from him by that meddling fool, Alastair.

The dark stallion ground his teeth slightly, averting his own gaze to the tide as it lashed at the banks of his island. His own scar shimmered in the rays of the slowly diminishing sunlight, a token from his juvenile years, long before he met the stallions that had ruined his perfect reality. Turning his attention back to Aria after a long moment of silence, he smirked, going over her words once more. "A fool am I, my dear? I don't remember you saying, or even thinking, that when you used to beg for my attention." He paused, silver tongue begging to seduce this beauty, no matter the scars that adorned her. In fact, that just made her all the more beautiful. "As for old, my dear. You are no spring babe, either. If I remember correctly, I am only a year your senior. And nor am I in my teens yet. So do not be so quick to judge on what you see, and also on what you remember of me." He purred, stepping forward and turning slightly to see the full extent of her scars.

"Admittedly, these surprised me... Though how could I not expect such a foolish, naive filly to go and get herself into trouble. Especially if Alastair got preoccupied by a pretty mare. I do think they are an improvement though... When you were younger, though you were beautiful, you were rather... bland. Now, however, this just shows how much of a firecracker you've turned out to be." He grinned, a little psychotically, as he watched the chestnut morgan. "So... enough reminiscing... What brings you to my... island of paradise?" He grinned sadistically, oh so amusing, paradise, well, perhaps to him... The mares... the prisoners? Not so much. His withheld a snort of derisive amusement as he awaited her cutting words, that seductively cynical tone that seemed to be the new Aria.

Lynx

The chestnut filly was not expecting the runty roan's attack sequence, she had expected some form of strategy, some flow. But this was a rabid flurry of movement that she barely had time to react. Though react she did. The roan's teeth caught her hind end and then lifted both hind hooves in a one-two punch at her face. Lynx reared upward, dodging the punch to her face however, Rusty's next move almost knocked her sideways. The strange filly slammed her head into her rib cage, not far from the bite that had been given a few moments before.

The chestnut filly saved herself from falling by hooking her foreleg over Rusty's shoulders and sinking her teeth into the filly's scruffy mane. She regained her balance and after nipping and snapping at Rusty's face to divert any attacks at her forelegs, she hopped away, untangling herself from the filly and putting space between them once more. She lowered her head slightly, her strategy changing as she observed Rusty's blind attack method, well, if you could call it a method. Suddenly her eyes narrowed and she launched herself forward, the pale sand spurring up behind her as she raced the incredibly short distance between herself and her opponent.

She aimed herself directly at the solidly built filly, shifting at the last moment so her side slammed into Rusty's shoulders and her teeth nipped at the filly's hindquarters. Flattening her sensitive ears dead against her neck, she cow-kicked at Rusty, aiming at her forelegs or her head if she had decided to aim a nip at her slim russet hind legs.

Titan

The dappled paint watched his little sister carefully, examining her every move and strike and reacted quickly when she finally struck. She had underestimated his own agility however as she attacked, immediately placing him on the defensive, she littered his barrel and shoulders with hard hitting hooves, but she seemed to have forgotten that his head was more than close to her sides and even her legs should he lower it. Tucking his ears close to his neck, he snaked his head down, grasping her own withers hard, anchoring himself on her so that if he went down then so did she. And just in time too, she pushed against him roughly, and he stumbled ever so slightly, having to sidestep quickly to avoid her full weight leaning on him.

Then, he was on offensive, with her withers still in his teeth, he spun quickly, so he was along side her as she came back to earth, wrenching her neck round as she still held onto him, he reared, beginning to tower above her, threatening to come down upon her back. He was a full hand taller than her, not to mention more heavily built, so he weighed a bit more, considering he was a fully developed stallion and she only a two year old filly so it would harm her if he fell upon her, far more than if she fell upon him. So as his forelegs came to be at her withers, he let go of her and pressed with all his weight against her barrel and shoulder. This was a dangerous move, as it not only could bring him to fall atop of her, but if she moved in the correct way then he could fall to his knees and allow himself to be open to a death blow. However, this was a well known move among seasoned warriors, and also the less intelligent of the fighters, so it would likely be a move practised and used in battle, so he needed to prepare her for such an attack.

Scarlett, Uzuri & Nazgul

She watched him eye her newest daughter and took a gentle step forward, shielding the filly from his fierce gaze, her own eyes allowing a spluttering of flame to come to surface, her warriors spirit coming to be shown. "She will not be touched, Uheri. She is not his daughter, but mine. And I will bring her up to see the light and abolish the darkness in a world such as this." She spoke quietly, almost whispering so the stallion would have to strain to catch such words, but there was a forceful tone behind it, saying that she would fight to keep this filly from harm.

Almost immediately her demeanor changed and she became shy, a beaten ghost of what had formerly been a fierce mare with amazonian qualities. Her eyes sought out his, before she turned her head away, gazing out over the pale beach and out at the horizon where the sun began to slowly lower itself. "You think I have not tried already? The only reason I am still alive and in such a condition was because I was not stupid enough to try it again, and that I knew a punishment would be worse afterward, the reason I was not beaten half to death was merely because I was carrying Nazgul." She paused, closing her eyes and shuddering at the memory of the foul stallions that had halted her in her escape attempt. And then it had been Hunter himself that had dealt with her.

She gritted her teeth, forcing her eyes open and staring at Uheri with a scorching gaze, "That... That... Monster raped me and has beaten me many a time, Uheri. Do you not think that I would do almost anything to get away from his hellish isle?" She breathed deeply, calming her inner beast and turning away from him. She was a changed mare, no longer the one to see good in every being, she had been changed, and not for the better, by the stallion that claimed the island terra as his own. She then turned back to him, staring with a burning intensity, "What hope is there to leave this dreadful isle? What hope?!" She snarled, taking a step forward, an unnatural rage coming over her, how dare he insinuate that she had not tried to escape before. How dare he attempt to give her false hope... How dare he-

The red mist cleared from her gaze and she found herself raising her left fore as though to engage in battle. She reined herself in, looking horrified at her actions. What had she become? What had he done to her? The mare that had never once fought someone if she didn't have to. The mare who had always been diplomatic, calm, collected. Now turned into a being who submitted to an overflowing rage, roaring through her veins and threatening to devour who she was, or had been if it succeeded. Suddenly she knew why Hunter had kidnapped her, raped her, beaten her and seen to her punishments himself. He was turning her into a monster. Just like he was. "I-... Uheri... I'm so sorry. I-... Oh god..." Tears flowed down the mare's cheeks as she turned away from the stallion, shaking with unrelenting fear at what she was becoming.

Silently, Uzuri lifted herself from her place in the shade, and moved in the shadows toward her mother, nudging Nazgul out of the way as she did so. Pressing her muzzle gently against the mare's neck, she drifted it down to rest against her mother's shoulder. Pressing her smaller body against her mother's skinny frame, she stayed there until her shaking halted, before speaking in a quiet tone that broke the tense silence. "Mother, we need to leave. You will not last much longer here, and without you, neither Nazgul or I stand any chance of living." She murmured, blinking slowly as she gazed at the dark mare. Scarlett nodded, turning her head to gaze at Uheri, but no words came, so the grey filly stepped around her dam to speak to the bay stallion. "Please lead us away from this hell." She spoke softly, eyes fathomless depths as she glanced back at her mother and little sister.

Word count: 1893

[lily]

Uheri

Uheri backed up slightly, his eyes still fixed to the small bleating filly, his ears burrowing deep within his mane, his eyes became slits. “Some things, Scarlett- are born with evil burning in their blood, which is not perceivable to be destroyed unless the soul is destroyed also.” He retorted back, lashing his tail defensively behind him.

Stupid mare, does she not realise what she is protecting? Devil’s spawn. No good will come of this young one, she reeks of death already. Nazgul, the name felt wrong on his tongue, as if it were some kind of ancient language that should have never have been created.

His ears twitched forward as a new façade dominated Scarlet’s integrity, she was beginning to slip. “We have all been subjected to Hunter’s beatings. But should that not put fire in our bellies to bring ourselves above him and triumph in this everlasting war?” he said, desperately trying to latch onto some part of her that remained untouched. Part of her which remained-her true spirit. He allowed her to scream at him, vent her anger and retch out the evil that Hunter had allowed to subside within her. He stood strong against the verbal strikes that she instigated towards him. This was what Hunter created; this is what he did to those that had begun innocent. Scarlett was an adult, and already she had begun to fall to the tainted mists of vindictive thought that infiltrated her lungs. If this is what had happened to a once resilient mare, then there was no hope for the juvenile army that Hunter was creating.

“Don’t you dare apologise.” He said, cradling his neck over hers. “Your hope is me, and I promise that even if I do not leave this forsaken place that you shall leave here with both your daughters.” Uheri pulled his head back and focused onto the grey filly whose head barely reached his shoulder. He could not allow them to perish, even if his own life was to be taken.

Futility

Futility growled in defiance as Titan’s hooves pelted down upon her back. For a moment the pair were tangled in confusion, struggling away from each other. As his teeth grasped her withers a snarl of anguish was let free, they were in an intimate lock now, and one error would lead to her defeat.

His weight was balance solely on her shoulders, with a little distributed to her barrel. She ran the calculation quickly through her mind. She made her front legs give way, falling to her knees, releasing Titan’s hold on her. As he fell back to the ground, she rammed her hooves directly into his chest, before his hooves hit the sand. Twisting, she lanced her hooves in the soft spot behind his shoulder, hoping the strike would make the attacked leg give way. Her teeth latched onto his mane, yanking it backwards so his neck was forced to become parallel to his back. She reared, as she rapidly released her hold on his mane, replacing it with her hooves barring against his jugular as she thundered all of her weight onto his neck which would make him fall backwards against the sand.

[Swede]

Aria closed her eye, sensing the world around her merely through whatever scents happened to tickle her nose, and whatever vibrations of sound chanced to pass by her ears. The stark contrast in size and bulk between her and Hunter was obvious, and she was hopelessly defenseless against him or any other who chose to attack; but she exuded no fear or even any caution. This was not a particularly new attitude of hers, either. In the past, she had implicitly trusted the world around her to be kind. Now, though, the dark chestnut mare was simple indifferent. It was ridiculously easy to speak her mind, no matter how scathing the remark; she saw no reason for others to react upon anything she said- words are just words after all, quite meaningless- and even if they did lose patience, it wasn’t a catastrophe that needed to be averted at all costs. Her body’s instincts might cause her to attempt to run if attacked, and if that was the case then she would simply do what it wanted, but neither fear nor love nor hatred really influenced her actions anymore.

“Was it really me who coveted your attention?” she murmured in a misty tone, inhaling the fresh mountain breeze that caressed her face. “I would not be so sure of that… change is the essence of time, and many things change to such a degree that they can no longer be called the same as they once were.” Aria looked up and glanced Hunter over critically, shaking her head almost as if chiding a stubborn colt. “Why tell me things I know already? Or is the mighty Hunter feeling defensive…? I judge as I please, without comparison to myself. You’re an old fool. When I say that, I don’t make any claims to be otherwise. The difference, if there is one, is that I know what I am.” She abruptly fell silent, too bored of the subject to discuss it further.

The mention of Alastair nearly made her roll her eyes, or eye, rather. “My brother doesn’t mind chasing a pretty tail, but he was always more concerned about protecting me. He may be many things, but he was never negligent; the fates simply take pleasure out of reminding him of his own uselessness.” She frowned slightly and glanced up the gentle incline of the island. “Few would call this a paradise, though I suppose it suits you perfectly. Perhaps that is why you think I’ve become a ‘firecracker’; I would guess I’m the only mare who isn’t cowed into timid submission on this island. Or have you become a kinder lover since we last met?” The question was mostly rhetorical; Aria doubted Hunter was any different, and if he was, then it would be the first time in quite a while that she had felt surprise over anything. “As for what brings me here… coincidence, I suppose. One must occupy space somewhere, and it just so happened to be here today. Perhaps tomorrow it will be somewhere else.”

~

The weedy roan shrieked, more out of indignation than pain, as Lynx clamped down on her mane. After a brief scuffle the youngsters separated, staring each other down for a moment. Then the delicate chestnut charged again, and Rusty allowed herself a brief grin; she was thoroughly enjoying this, definitely worth a few bumps and bruises. A moment later, Lynx collided against her shoulder, and though Rusty’s less-than-dainty frame managed to stay upright with her hooves dug deep into the soil, the kick which followed cracked unpleasantly against her upper foreleg. Ha! Two can play at that game, Rusty thought, immediately retaliating against Lynx’s obnoxious nipping at her hindquarters with a sideways kick of her own. “Careful fairyfoot, wouldn’t want to snap one of those twiggy little legs of yours!” she taunted with a derisive laugh, latching onto the chestnut’s tail and giving it a demeaning tug before spinning away, cackling loudly. Nearby in the sand, Titan and Futility were taking their sparring far more seriously; but Rusty figured there was no point in doing something if you couldn’t make it fun.

[Captain Stumpy]

The scar-faced back stallion came down from the tree's to the lakeside. Wintering on his lonesome BlackThorn had become increadibly bitter, He new Orion was evil it was all to clear now. That blasted fake son of Hunter took his sisters and cleared off the island at his expence! He snorted and flicked his ears, a chunk of his right ear missing from his loosing battle againced the invinsable Hunter. He stepped onto the deep sand beach, his ears pricked as he realised he wasn't out of hearing distance of someone, On this island you were always near enough too see someone but you can at least hope your words were private.

The matureing young stallion glanced into the distance, a dark chestnut mare was in the presence of Hunter. BlackThorn didn't look again, he still didn't want to see Hunter, He'd been defeated enough times now to learn his lesson. Taking more steps towards the water he prematurly lowered his head, the waves lapped on his hooves and took a deep gritty gulp of water, He tried to filter out the worsed of the sand with his teeth. It wasn't very effective. He raised his head from the water, though the mists of the lake he could see the the opposing shore over the waves. The mists destorted his vision, he new that now, he was expecting it. Once he'd look through those mists and see his sisters or Orion. Though the shadows are still there but he has no hope left for freedom.

He turned swiftly, blinking what some might have beleived where tears. They wern't mearly the lake breeze stinging his eyes. Walking back up the beach he lowered his muzzle to the first spot of green he found.

[Saz]

Scarlett shivered silently, her eyes closed as she allowed Uheri to comfort her. She pressed her muzzle against his shoulder before raising her head as a vaguely familiar scent permeated the surroundings. She beckoned to her daughters and placed them between herself and Uheri as a stranger entered their clearing. She stiffened as she recognised the young stallion to be Hunter's son. But... hadn't he stolen two mares and left the island just after she had come to be here? Why would he come back? She tilted her ears back nonetheless as the painted stallion froze, looking alarmed as he spotted them.

The small group stood frozen for a short moment before Orion spoke. "I mean you no harm, my name is Orion, I'm looking for BlackThorn." He spoke softly, a gentle but wary look in his eyes as he watched the mare who seemed to be quivering in fear. For Scarlett, all she could see and hear were the visions of herself screaming as Hunter beat her and then forcebred her. She flinched and audibly whimpered as Uzuri nudged her, "Mom?" She whispered softly, unsure of how the mare would deal with their escape. She looked like she was about to keel over any second.

--

Hunter's eyes narrowed imperceptibly, he gritted his teeth and snorted deeply, anger rising up within him as he faced her. He bit his tongue however, letting her continue on and mutter about Alastair. He listened partially, his gaze travelling to the dark figure on the beach not far from them. His ears flattened slightly, narrowing even moreso until they resembled snake-like slits. As Aria finished speaking he returned his attention back to her, lust suddenly rose within him and darting forward he dug his teeth into Aria's withers and rose up behind her. Taking her none too gently, Hunter drew blood with his teeth as he gripped her withers in an unforgiving manner before finishing and sliding off, finally satisfied. He smirked victoriously, his gaze running over the mark he had given her before meeting her gaze. "A gentle lover?" He snorted in ridicule before continuing with a devilish smirk that would send shivers down most horses spines. "Definitely not."

--

Titan lost track of the fight as Futility struck violently and quickly. Suddenly one of his legs gave way but he hardly at the time to fall forward when she was pulling him and then pushing him backward. He reached his head forward grasping her knee with a hard grip, if this had been a battle he would have torn up her leg before she could have struck him once more. Instead he gripped her hard, pulling her forward as he fell back. He fell awkwardly, swinging himself to the side to avoid from having her fall atop him. He let go of her leg as he fell to the side, he rolled onto his knees and got to his hooves quickly, facing her with a firm expression. "Right, we'll take a brief break. I just want to correct something, well, more suggest something. The fight could have been halted when you knocked me off balance and got my head back. It gave you direct access to the jugular, or you could have lifted your aim with your hooves to my head." He paused for a brief moment, gathering his thoughts before continuing.

"Essentially, don't get caught up in the fight, it's kill or be killed, the aim in war is to kill as many of the opponent as possible, to weaken the enemy force so they have to either give up or retreat. It's not just about causing as much pain and harm to your enemy, it's about taking the chance to kill them and granting them that mercy." He spoke deeply, shaking out his long iron mane before sighing deeply as he glanced over to see what Leto and Rusty were doing. He watched them for a brief moment before motioning for Futility to join him. "Point out their mistakes to me." He spoke deeply, glancing at her for a brief moment before falling silent and letting her concentrate on the sparring yearlings.

--

Leto snarled in anger as the roan filly snapped at her legs before pulling on her tail. The chestnut whirled around, launching herself directly after Rusty as she moved further away. She leaped forward, slinging one foreleg over the roan's back and her teeth digging into her withers before she dug her backhooves into the dirt, dragging them to a stop and trying to pull the ruggedly set filly off balance.

[lily]

Mutiny’s eyes decked guardedly on the exchange between Hunter and the enigmatic Aria. It had been a while since she had felt- alive. A slumber, it had seem had taken over her, gracing her with the sweet solitude of recklessness for a brief period. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on one’s perspective this had come to a grinding halt, and she was her old demonic self once more. Although, she had to admit herself, a little rusty around the edges.

She was used to Hunter’s brutal assaults, just had not witnessing them happening to other mares. It struck an unfamiliar chord of envy. Hunter was hers and hers alone. It was almost like a great betrayal had taken place, before her eyes. Bile rose behind her throat, uneasiness mounting within her veins. It sickened her. Not because of the selfish act, but because she had come to care for this disgusting beast. He could do as he wished with the other mares, she just had never thought she would allow herself to feel such intimate feelings towards another.

Trotting forward, she pushed her way roughly from behind the mare, to stand next to Hunter. She didn’t greet him as such, a blunt, almost inaudible snort of recognition. Hunter’s reaction to her unexpected appearance would not bother her in the slightest. She looked at Aria with nothing more than a blank expression. “Who is this?” her eyes did not leave the deep chestnut for a moment, before they indolently swooped to look at Hunter, hurrying up his response.

~*~

He meant no harm? That was rich coming from one of Hunter’s rookies. He had met with Orion briefly, when they had found Maugrim. He had thought he had escaped the island, having not seen the stallion around for a good few months now. It was news to him that he had returned. An odd thing to do, nobody really wanted to return without good reason. Blackthorn, he had said. Another one he had not seen for a long time.

“No Orion, I have not seen Blackthorn for some time. My apologies I cannot be of any more help.” His eyes shifted to Scarlet with a glint of alarm, he moved to her side, supporting her weight a little. They needed to leave, the sooner the better. “We really have to be going”, his hooves felt heavy underneath him as the responsibility of rescuing Scarlet and her daughters now rested solely on him. He nudged the Friesian mare forward a few paces, before looking back to Orion “I really am sorry”.

~*~

Futility halted immediately on Titan’s orders, her breathing to seconds to fall back to a normal heart rate. Her eyes narrowed as he belittled her “I know the aim of war, dear brother. Do you think I have been wandering around this island with my eyes closed? I would have snatched your jugular from your body if I had not of thought you would be useful” she mocked him playful, leaning against her shoulder and she twisted to face her younger siblings.

She observed them in silence for a movement, their actions seeming sluggish compared to the spar she had just endured with Titan. “Their movements, they are more instinctive then prepared. They are lethargic and childlike. There!” her head motioned to Rusty’s pulling on the tail technique. “That is something you would see in foal-play rather than a war. Their movements are far to open, they would be dead in seconds.” And probably will be, she thoughtfully added.