Growing Pains

[Saz]

Shy, Jynx & Rebel

Chestnut, Bay and Smokey Black colts crashed together playfully, ears flattened the bay and black turned on the bystanding chestnut, taking him to the ground as they tackled him. They growled, grunted and snorted in a vague harmony as they nipped and bit at each other in an attempt to become the one on top. Eventually, they squirmed free of each other and the trio stood up, shaking off the gathered dirt and blades of grass before standing in a sort of standoff. Their gazes flicked from each other as they waited to see who would make the next move. Jynx, the chestnut, decided that he was going to launch an attack on Shy, just at the moment the bay colt decided to attack Rebel.

Again they ended up on the floor, but this time Rebel was left standing, laughing at their failed attempt as the bay and chestnut squabbled on the forest floor. "Oh shut up, dipstick." Snorted, Jynx, climbing to his hooves and tossing his forelock out of his dark eyes. "Oh, so you meant to do that, moron?" Rebel grinned cheekily at his brother before skipping sideways as the chestnut snapped at him. "Oh stop squabbling, idiots." Shy snorted, rolling his eyes and yawning at their petty fight. He got glares in return and promptly ignored as Jynx pounced on Rebel and flattened him to the soft ground.

The yearling chestnut grabbed Rebel's ear and pulled, making the smoky black squeal in legitimate pain, "OW GET OFF ME!" The colt cried, wriggling fiercely beneath his brother as his grip tightened. Jynx grinned in a slightly sadistic manner before Shy headbutted him sharply, knocking him away from Rebel and then pinning him to the floor with his front hooves on the colt's sides. "Chill out, Jynx. Don't be a bully. It was just play. Don't take it too seriously." Growled the usually calm, collected bay. The chestnut was slightly taken aback before he shook off Shy and got to his hooves, turning his back on the other two and sloping off into the trees. Maybe he could go find Rajah, he was usually more fun that those two were.

Bellatrix & Andromeda

Black and grey, almost ebony and ivory stood side-by-side, grazing in the warm spring sunlight. The blossoms were just beginning to bloom, giving the whole territory a beautiful scent of fresh flowers and also brightening the clearing a whole lot more than it had been throughout the winter. Andromeda glanced up as Jynx stormed off after his 'fun' was spoilt by Shy, and her eyebrows arched upward at the slightly victorious look upon the bay yearling's face. Shy was usually quiet and well, shy. It was unusual for the colt to even attempt to stand up for himself or even play with his brothers. The slender dark filly shook her head and continued to graze, unaware of her sister's subtle, dark gaze.

Bellatrix stood in the shadows, where she was most comfortable during sun-up. She disliked the feel of light upon her grey coat, but she made some sort of effort to be mostly social. So she usually lingered in the shadows beside her little sister, grazing in companionable silence and occasionally examining the rest of the herd with her keen, dark eyes. The mare was taller than most of the herd. Even outgrowing her own mother on her way into adulthood.

The only horse who rivaled her height was the dark warrior that cared for the herd when Bellagio wasn't there. Satanic. Her heart fluttered a little at the thought of the dark stallion, his calm ways but clearly darkness infected his soul and heart at his core. He attracted her like a moth to flame. She was incredibly curious of him. He was around, but never seen unless he wished to be found. He was huge, but he slipped from shadow to shadow with the silence of a ghost. How did he do it? Wrapped up in her own thoughts, the grey mare stood in the shadows. Barely noticed and barely there.

Melody & Styx

"Styx. Named after the river that flows through hell." The young filly spoke quietly, deeply as she gazed up at her beautiful mother. "Indeed, my dear. I named you that because you will be all powerful, immortal to an extent and you will rise above those that seek to smite you down." The mare replied, her green eyes fierce with an unearthly passion as she watched her youngest daughter pace back and forth in the small clearing. "Why only to an extent? You're a lord. So is dad. Why do I only get to live for a mortal time?" She demanded, turning back to her mother, eyes alight with a curiosity that had been burning since she had learned of her heritage.

The chestnut sighed deeply, leaning back against a nearby tree as she replied to her daughter once more. "Because you are the youngest. Lynx will inherit our full abilities, if she out lives both I and your father. If she dies before birthing an heir then it is passed to Jynx. And if the same happens to him, then it is passed to you." She paused, seeing a dark glint in Styx' eye before continuing. "But should you seek to harm your siblings then the powers skip you. Only if you are worthy do they show. Becoming more than an average horse is not something that you need to do, Styx. Because you are more than an average horse. You are the offspring of two of the most powerful horses alive. So you need not worry yourself with such trivial matters. It is quite possible that if Lynx become corrupted before I or Bellagio pass, then it will skip her and go to you or Jynx. They are trivial things, but an incredible responsibility." She spoke gravely to her youngest before sighed and pulling her close. "No matter what or who you are, Styx. I will love you to the bottom of my heart and back. Remember that." She spoke quietly, nuzzling the onyx filly sweetly before releasing her. "Now, lets get back before your brothers do something stupid." She snorted, smiling slightly at the youngster.

Echo, Luna & Valor

The trio of mares, each of a different hue stood comfortably in the spring sunlight. The warmth of the sun soaking into their coats and relaxing each individual as they grazed. Eventually, Valor lowered herself into the grass and began to doze, oblivious to the squabbling colts the other side of the clearing, she snoozed in the sunlight. Luna soon joined her friend, the two lying back to back, both of them had been lethargic and sniffly since mid-winter. Echo just hoped they would both recover quickly, and that it was also not contagious.

The dark bay took a careful step away from her friends and continued to graze, her head shooting up at the alarmed call of one of the colts but sighed, seeing it was only rough play. She nickered quietly to Valor who had awoken and then cremello nodded thankfully before closing her eyes and resuming her afternoon nap. Yawning herself, Echo snorted quietly and left her friends dozing to get herself a drink of water. Standing in the sun for a few hours eventually made you thirsty, and she wanted to keep herself in the best of health, should anything happen to the herd. Not that the slender arabian wished anything upon the quiet herd, or was pessimistic, she just knew how quick things could turn due to personal experience.

[lily]

Clandestine

She was hiding amongst the trees as usual, her steel grey coat a good camouflage. The mare spent most her time here, and if it wasn't for the rare visits her father made to her, so would be convinced nobody knew of her existence at all. She put her mouth to the ground snatching up a mouthful of sweet, dewy spring grass. This was the season which the forest was most beautiful. With it's vivid pink and blue blooming flowers and coarse ringlets of ferns and saplings that grew in chains attached to the trees. 

Somebody interrupted her peaceful observation of her home. A small chestnut colt, with a irate expression upon his face. Clandestine backed up a few paces, she was not good with conversation, what if the colt saw her?  Would he expect her to talk to him? She had only ever really spoken to her father and on those very early occasions Melody. She liked Melody and even though she was not her real mother she couldn't help but love the russet mare as her own. She wished Melody would come and visit her, maybe she could bring her out of this seclusion. With that as a thought, she popped her head around the side of a tree and watched the colt for a little longer. Half hoping that he would see her.

Satanic

"Good afternoon Bellatrix" his dominating voice echoed from behind the grey mare. He did not know the mare other then her name, but once in a while he would catch her looking at him. He was unsure why, however it did not bother him in the slightest. Curiosity was something to encourage. His eyes flicked to her sister Andromeda who appeared to be dozing in the spring time sun. Bellagio had certainly produced plenty of offspring in the past few years, he shook his head slightly and chuckled internally at his old friend. 

He drew to the side of Bellatrix rather then behind her, mare seemed to be most tense when standing behind them. "It is a fine day" he stated, not directing it to Bellatrix in particular. He turned his head and looked at his, his wild eyes penetrating her own. "How are you at the moment? These are difficult times for a mare, is there anything I can do to help you?" he questioned her. 

Bellagio

The Arabian looked down at his reflection in the stream. A horse lord? He closed his eyes, his brow tightening and wrinkling up in frustration. There was so much pressure upon his shoulders. He just wanted it all to stop. He had found himself wishing for the early days, where it was just Melody, Tank, himself and Lilian. When he came to his senses, he was able to smash the thoughts out of his mind like a disease, yet he couldn't help but hope he would be infected again. 

His terra was alive with the sound of his offspring. He was losing count of the amount of sons and daughters that now surrounded him. How many of those would die? His hoof smashed into the water. He had sentenced half of them to death, even before they had begun to live. Summer would soon be upon them and it would be time for the next 'batch' of foals to be created. It took all his strength to stop the tears from finally falling. For even horse lords had their weaknesses. 

[Swede]

Humming contentedly to herself, the speckled grey mare ambled slowly between the trees, having a nibble at a patch of fresh spring grass and then taking a couple of steps to taste another tuft of greenery. Now that her son was a bit older and more self-sufficient, she didn't need to keep quite as watchful an eye on things anymore. Bellagio was home from his travels as well, rendering the territory a busy but apparently quite peaceful and safe place. Falling silent and pricking her ears, Pepper caught the sound of others up ahead. The colts were squabbling again, it seemed; rambunctious lot, they were. She didn't hear Rajah's voice, so he must have been elsewhere, exploring on his own perhaps. She detected the scents of some of the others as well. Perhaps a spot of company would be nice. Resuming her quiet humming, she strode forward to see whom she might encounter.

Though a yearling, the bay colt had a tendency to stay fairly close to his mother. He retained many childish qualities like others his age, but he wasn't overly fond of loud and aggressive squabbles and skirmishes. Rajah wasn't timid; his quiet ways stemmed more from a thoughtful nature, and while he enjoyed the company of his brothers, sometimes he felt like he couldn't hear his own thoughts over their racket and retreated for a while. Pepper made good company then; after all, mother is where most youngsters are most comfortable. But right now, Rajah was instead roaming about on his own- not too far, he could easily trace his steps back to the others if needed- but enough that it was fairly quiet around him, a pleasant though inevitably brief reprieve. Moving along quietly, the young bay noticed a figure up ahead. "Hello father," Rajah greeted the dark stallion curiously as he approached, "Why are you way out here away from everyone else?"

[Saz]

Jynx

'Pfft. He didn't need them anyway, they were all a bunch of morons. How dare they treat him that way? He was prince of these lands!' Grumbling internally, the russet yearling strode forward, scuffing at the forest floor with his long legs as he moved at a slower pace now that he was further away from his brothers. The chestnut snorted deeply, lashing his tail to and fro before a soft noise caught his interest and he lifted his gaze to the surrounding trees, curiosity piqued and the slender yearling came to a halt. He spotted the beautiful grey within moments of scanning his surroundings and let out an inquisitive nicker. His anger now forgotten as he took a few steps toward her.

He watched her, locking eyes with her and then taking a few more bold steps toward her. Then, as she went rigid he nickered softly, holding out his own muzzle toward hers. A rare moment of tenderness displayed to this grey filly. His eyes searched hers and he smiled softly, hesitantly moving past the tree so they were within touching distance. "What's your name?" He asked softly, his dark eyes showing curiosity but also a wary tenderness that was rarely displayed. Somehow he felt a sort of connection to this filly who must have only been a year older than him. She would be the same age as his older sister, perhaps this was the other one his mother and father mentioned on rare occasions.

Shy, Rebel & Andromeda

The young mare started out of her reverie when Satanic's booming voice rang out from her left. She lifted her head and nodded cordially to the large stallion before her gaze moved to her brothers who were now grazing. Deciding to give Bellatrix & Satanic a little space, she moved toward the smoky black and the bay, whinnying quietly to them as she jogged forward. Soon the siblings fell into raucous play once more, nipping and racing around their part of the clearing in a game of tag.

Bellatrix

She smirked callously as the stallion appeared, unflinching and bold she watched him with a lazy gaze. "Satanic." She drawled back, dipping her head slightly as he spoke to her. The grey mare blinked slowly as he spoke, his deep voice sending shivers down her spine and unconsciously she took a step closer. "I am quite well, for the time being at least. And as for times being difficult you and I both know that the difficulty will only increase until the war comes to its peak." She spoke smoothly, her eyes staring into his own.

"As for help, I wouldn't mind some company. I was going to take a walk through the terra, I don't suppose you'd mind joining me?" She whickered quietly, staring deeply into his wild orbs before gently brushing past him and striding off into the trees. It was odd that she found any form of attraction to an individual that was anything aside from lust. Of course, she lusted after the dark stallion, but the way they interacted was different to if she lusted after a stranger. He was a friend, a protector and he caught her eye not only in the sense of attraction but also of her curiosity.

The only other being she felt anything for was her sister. Andromeda. Such a kindly soul, yet she also had a warriors heart, and someday soon that would show. She was indifferent to her mother, the mare had done barely anything but raise her. And she only vaguely remembered her father, who had been a monstrous behemoth. Shaking out her long ivory locks, the grey filly continued to stride onward, further toward the borders of the large terra with only her thoughts and Satanic for company.

"I notice that you hold no interest in having a mare, Satanic. I'm sure Bellagio would allow you to keep one here, or perhaps even allow you one of his own. Or is it merely that you have not found the ideal mare to catch your attentions?" She asked softly, turning her sultry gaze upon the dark stallion as they strode through the dark passion forest. She casually plucked a bright flower from a nearby bush as she listened to his answer, chewing thoughtfully and turning her gaze to the path ahead when their eyes locked once more.

Melody & Styx

The chestnut mare smiled fondly down at the dark filly before setting off at a powerful walk. She needed to find Bellagio, and Pepper. Of course, they could wait a little while, let Lilian get herself into trouble and get herself out of the way. But this matter needed to be dealt with quickly. And she would have to find a caretaker for Styx whilst she was at it. She spotted a flash of spotted grey through the dense trees and sped up a little to see who it was. It was possible it could have been either Bellatrix, Pepper or Clandestine. Luna was far too lightly colored to be that shade of grey, so it narrowed it down to three likely individuals.

"Ah, Pepper, there you are." She caught sight of the flecked grey mare and nickered a warm greeting. She did like Pepper, she was sweet but also with a bit of fire, but she never overstepped the boundaries. It made her a good friend and confidant. And it honestly killed part of the russet mare's heart to have to betray her friend in such a way she knew she would have to. The only way to get her daughter back was to trade another. Echo was far too quiet to withstand Hunter's dreadful torture, Luna and Valor looked as though they were beginning to fade, thus it left Pepper as the only one that would be likely to be accepted upon the dangerous isle.

She smiled at the mare and quickly caught up with smooth strides before settling into a slow wander. She glanced down at Styx who was watching the flea-bit grey mare with something akin to indifference. It reminded Melody a little too much of Lilian for her liking so she nudged the filly sharply and gestured ahead toward where the main clearing lay. "Go find your siblings and play with them. Pepper and I shall catch up soon." She snorted softly, shaking out her long chestnut mane and watched the dark filly dart ahead of them to join the ruckus that was caused by her siblings.

"How are you, Pepper? I know it is rather hard at the moment, what with Bellagio gone most of the time. Admittedly, I am not here as much as I would like either." She sighed deeply, gazing squarely at the other mare with a bittersweet expression. Oh how she disliked deceiving her beloved Bellagio and her closest friend. But this is how it had to be done. This was the only way they would all survive Hunter's rath. The chestnut mare watched her friend closely, noting no marks upon her fair pelt other than those that were a part of her color. Oh she knew how much that would change so soon. But that could wait. At least for a little while.

[lily]

Clandestine

Panic cascaded through her. Her body tensed up, and her ears flew back into her thick mane. This was what she had attempted to avoid conversation was the unknown. Instinctively she took a few rough steps backwards, stumbling blindly as the auburn juvenile came closer to her. A quiet, pleading wicker escaped from her maw. The colt had stopped and had noticed her. He was talking to her, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. He wasn’t a scary looking creature. Not in the slightest, however you could never be too careful. After all this was a stranger to Clandestine. The only two horses she had spoken to in her life were Melody and her father.

It took her a couple of seconds before she mustered the strength to reply to him. As her voice was ejected it came out far stronger then she had anticipated, in fact, she didn’t sound nervous at all. This pleased her to some degree; obviously her body was more confident than her fleeing mind. “My name is Clandestine.” She spoke in a ‘matter of fact’ tone. Her eyes shifted around apprehensively as she watched the young ones reaction. He looked sort of like Bellagio, which was of comfort to her. Yet, still, one could never be too sure.

Satanic

He nodded his head thoughtfully, “Yes, this is true. However, I have always seen that it is the females who appear to suffer more in war. Many stallions believe that they have no part in war and so collect them as ‘trophies’. Those are the foolish ones, in my opinion. A mare has the potential to become as strong as any stallion. My sister, Mutiny for example, even I would have trouble competing against her” He chuckled quietly to himself, before turning back to face Bellatrix.

Satanic did not hesitate in following her lead “Of course, Bellatrix, I have no prior commitments.” his voice was as strong as the muscles that rippled underneath his obsidian coat. He walked silently next to her, leaving her to gather her thoughts. She seemed to be analysing what she was going to say next. He had been around many mares, and knew why she was evaluating what words would leave her mouth subsequently. Shortly after, his hypothesis was proved. She had been assessing his availability. Once more he had no problem with what other may have found an evasive question.

The stallion halted and looked at her intensely “Bellatrix” his voice began softly “If I wanted a mare, I would not even have to ask Bellagio. The problem is that most of Bellagio’s mares have the brain capacity of a common fly. They are tricky, sly, little creatures that are out to get the most that they can out of a stallion.” He paused briefly “Don’t look so alarmed Bellatrix, of course you are not included in that category, and if you were we wouldn’t be having this conversation. The point is both Bellagio and myself, know that half of the mares in this herd will not have the strength to survive the war. I spoke to you because I see factors that the other mares do not possess. You have curiosity about your future, about the world. The other mares they are simply happy with their lives now; having a family, being safe. These are not the things that attract me. I need a mare that will test me and push my limits or else I will end up like the rest of them. Happy with the mundane running of my life.”

Bellagio

The stallion looked sharply up at his newly born son, his body becoming hostile at the sound of an intruder. It only took him seconds to register there wasn’t any treat. “Hello Rajah, son.” The stallion made his way quickly out of the water and came to son’s side. He smiled at Rajah’s inquisitiveness “Oh, I was just thinking. Being the leader of a herd comes with its price you know. There is lots to think about and sometimes being away from everybody help with that. There is no noise out here and that is always a nice change from the racket your brother’s seem to make”. He paused.

“How are you then, my boy?”

[Swede]

Pepper pricked her ears forward upon discovering Melody’s presence. The chestnut arabian made for pleasant company, intelligent and a tad more talkative than the others; and of course, it was always good to be friends with your lead mare. “Ah, hello there Melody,” she said cheerfully as she came to a halt within comfortable speaking range. She shook her head with a forgiving smile, and added, “Oh, I’m quite alright. I know you and Bellagio have your duties to attend to, and that it keeps you both very busy. Things do get a little quiet, but I can’t complain. Rajah’s a good colt, he keeps me company; he’s getting pretty big now, and I suppose he would probably rather play with his brothers or explore the territory, but he always acts happy to be with his dear mother all the same. Can’t ask for more than that, eh.”

Rajah bent his head apologetically, realizing that he had most likely startled the older stallion. “Mm, they can be pretty loud and active,” the bay colt assented with a quirk of his mouth. They were still his brothers despite their racket, and he was fond of them all the same. “I’m okay,” he responded after a moment’s thought. “I used to think it got a little bit lonely sometimes… and now it’s almost a little too loud- not all the time of course, but now and then I like to be by myself and think for a while- just to take a little break.” Rajah paused, and then smiled shyly. “I guess- maybe- I am a little bit like you, that way.” He didn’t really know what was and what wasn’t appropriate to say to his elusive father, but he liked the idea of being as comfortable around him as he was with his mother.

[lily]

Bellagio

Bellagio studied the colt with much consideration; he was not as large as his brothers, most likely due to his limited brawling activity with them. It wasn’t of any particular concern, since Rajah would learn to fight, one way or another, if not at this young age then when he had matured more. It seemed wrong to push violence onto this innocent minor, when he had no knowledge of the hysteria that surrounded him. “Being loud and brutish has its advantages.” He contemplated, lowering his head to Rajah’s height. “But, I find it is those who use their minds rather than strength, that always win the battle.” He whispered, gently nipping the foal’s forelock before re-gaining his full height.

The obsidian stallion gazed of into the distance, as if his attention were snapped up by something else for a moment. This boy was so guiltless of the war that would soon be violated upon him. Here he was, the devil, pressuring and manipulating his own flesh and blood to kill those that had done him wrong. The whole situation was warped. He didn’t like to admit it, but Hunter had a firm grasp over him and his herd. Bellagio was constantly on edge that an ambush would take place any moment, slaying all those he kept dear. It had been his gravest mistake becoming allies with that monster- he should have chosen the other side. If it had not been for Lilian, that damn mare, once more it had been her presence that had defiled everything. He could not afford to think about his son’s as individuals, they were a unit, to be armed and taught everything to survive war.

Slowly, his head turned back to his son “You’re more like me than you know. It will just take time and development for you to fully understand that.” He took a few steps towards Rajah, and touched his cheek with his velveteen muzzle. “Tuta sit, filium meum.” He spoke, closing his eyes, carefully in the language of his elders, blessing his progeny with the fortune of his Gods. “Come Rajah, let us find your mother.”

[Saz]

Jynx

The red yearling tossed his head in surprise as she skittered away from him. He smirked slightly, was he really that scary? Well he guessed so from her reaction, not that he minded of course. Puffing his chest out a little, he took a few steps toward her, shortening the distance so it didn't feel like he was shouting to her. "Well, Clandestine, it's lovely to meet you, I'm Jynx, son of Melody and Bellagio." He snorted deeply, eyes flashing in the dappled light that filtered through the canopy above.

The young colt tossed his short, tangled forelock from his gaze and continued to watch the young mare with an air of curiosity. "I've never seen you around before..." He trailed off, running his gaze over her, his ears pricked in obvious interest. Hmm... He supposed she would be the same age as his sister, Lynx. Perhaps she was a half sibling of some description... "What are you doing here?" He asked, eyes narrowing slightly and he took another step forward.

Bellatrix & Fable

The young mare laughed dryly, eyebrows raising incredulously and her eyes running over Satanic's impressive form. "I somehow doubt that your sister could ever take down such a stallion like you, Satanic. Though perhaps my mind will change when I meet her." She smirked, her eyes lifting to his own, gazing through wild, tangled strands of her silver-grey mane. Her gaze soured slightly as he spoke of mares with such distaste, perhaps she had indeed imsjudged him. Her anger dimmed though at his next words and the young mare smirked slightly, "Indeed. My mother was never one to think for herself... Perhaps that is why my brother disappeared from her grasp when he was a babe. Useless without a stallion to guide her." She sneered slightly at the thought of her mother before she continued to speak. "And again, I daren't believe for a moment that you could ever settle for mundane or boring, Satanic. And neither could I. The only thing keeping me here right now is my sister and yourself. Even if I do not care for my mother, I cannot allow my sister to be drawn into an infernal war, of which she has nothing to do with." She snorted, gritting her teeth as her rage welled up within her once more. "And if there is anything I know I will do no matter when or where, I will protect Andromeda. She deserves better than my mother who cares for us only when we are young." She growled, eyes flashing a fierce golden colour briefly until she reined her temper in once more.

She glanced back toward him, her heart fluttering momentarily as she watched him. Oh how she yearned to claim him as hers, and for herself to belong to the magnificent stallion. She wished for all he represented; Strength. Pride. Power. Adventure. She lusted for all of it. And more. Bellatrix knew inside and out, that he could, and would, bring all of those things with him wherever he went. And she also knew she would follow him to the ends of the earth, no matter what. About to speak once more, she stilled at the sound of hooves imprinting the hard earth. She inhaled sharply, a breeze hiding their scent from the intruder. Glancing sharply to the large stallion, her eyes then turned, scanning the foilage for the horse intruding upon their conversation. Their private conversation. Her tail swished in agitation, ears flicking back in annoyance as she gazed hard at the plants and trees surrounding them. The hooves paused and she triangulated the source, ears flattening completely as she spotted the newcomer. The other filly didn't seem to notice either of them until Bella uttered an agressive snort.

Fable startled sideways, slamming her shoulder into a nearby tree and stumbling to her knees. Wincing, she stumbled to her hooves, tail lashing from side to side as she observed the two horses, one of whom had surprised her. She flattened her ears a little at the other filly who was glaring and took a step back, unwilling to get into a fight with a stallion right there. If they filly had been on her own, then the odd coloured two year old would have confronted her. However, with a stallion beside her, it was more than likely they were either related, or together, meaning that he would protect her. Bellatrix sniggered, golden eyes flashing with sadistic pleasure in the dappled sunlight that streamed through the canopy above. "Clumsy..." She jeered, taking a step forward as the filly stepped backward. "Oh, shy are we? Pity... I was rather hoping, with such actions and bold intrusion upon this terra, that you were smart enough to explain why..." She mocked before rolling her eyes and sighing in a bored fashion. "Oh well, it seems yet another dumb filly, lost in the woods, hoping for help perhaps?" She smirked, glancing toward Satanic before back to the filly, grinning darkly.

Fable bristled and threw caution into the wind. She bared her teeth and advanced upon Bellatrix. "Look here, Princess. There are things lingering in the dark that could kill you in an instant. Mocking and jeering at strangers isn't the best idea. After all, how would you know whether I was a threat or not? Just because you have a body guard doesn't mean anything to a hungry cougar or a starving wolf." She snarled, coming nose to nose with the taller, bulkier filly. Bella fell silent, her rage building up until she struck the other filly hard. Her hooves driving into her shoulders and chest before she slammed roughly into her side and knocked her to the floor, her teeth gouging out flesh from her shoulder before her teeth closed around the other filly's neck. After that warning, she backed off, eyes flashing fiercely as she stood above the stunned filly. "Indeed there are. But you have one thing wrong in your speech. I am no princess. That would be Lynx." Bellatrix spoke calmly, a feeling of ease falling over her once more.

Fable stumbled upright, shaking. But not from fear, no, from rage. Blood flowed in rivulets from the open wound upon her neck and she leapt at the other filly. Not strong enough to knock her over, no, but strong enough to give her a few bruises and a nasty bite. Bellatrix reeled backward as Fable's hooves struck out at her face, catching her cheek and then slamming against her thick neck before her teeth cleaved at her shoulder. Fable began to continue her attack before the grey struck back, head slamming roughly against the neck of her attacker, striking directly on the streaming wound that had been delievered a few moments before. They drew apart once more, at even odds and simply staring at each other before coming to a silent truce and stepping away from a fighting stance to relax once more. "I'm Bellatrix, this is Satanic." She spoke gruffly, still unsure of this new filly, a strange sense of aura surrounded her, as though there was some sort of internal battle going on inside the smoky black. "Fable." Came the short, sharp reply as the other filly shook out her tinted mane to cover the gash upon her neck. Silence fell once more and the two fillies continued to stare at each other, almost daring one to move, to try and attack again.

Melody & Styx

"Indeed he is, He will make for a fine stallion one day. Both I and Bellagio will see to that. He is far calmer than his siblings, Jynx is hotheaded and rough just as my father and brothers were. Rebel and Shy are rowdy too, though Shy more intelligent than both of them. And Rajah, the gentleman. I admit I have not seen him do a single thing that is unpleasant. So I congradulate you on your raising of him. God knows how Jynx will turn out with our absences..." She sighed deeply toward the end, closing her eyes momentarily, the chestnut colt hadn't had nearly as much guidance as Styx would have. But then, neither would have Lynx. Who knew how the young mare would behave when reunited with her true family...

Shaking away her dark thoughts, Melody lifted her head slightly and nickered to Styx who was inspecting a nearby blossom. "Styx, darling, go find your father, would you? He should be near the river." She snorted, guesturing in the direction of the water that flowed through the terra. The filly took one last glance at Pepper before nodding and darting off into the trees and bushes ahead. "We may as well head after her, I doubt you've seen Bellagio recently, no?" She asked, eyes twinkling in the light that streamed through the leaves. Without waiting for an answer, the mare turned and strode forward into the blossoming foilage.

[Swede]

Rajah tilted his head slightly, considering the stallion's words for a silent moment. Bellagio was his sire, yes, but he was still a bit of an enigma to the yearling, so close and yet unreachable, somehow. But perhaps the black was correct; perhaps in time he would come to understand the ways of the world better. Nodding, he followed the stallion wordlessly as they made their way back to find the rest of the herd.

Pepper smiled a little at the praise which Melody heaped upon her colt; she was certainly a proud mother, and who wouldn't be? "I'm sure Jynx will turn out just fine. Most do, even if they're a bit wild as youngsters. That's just the way the colts are, nothing to worry about." She nodded at the suggestion of going to find Bellagio, following after the bright chestnut mare contentedly.

[lily]

Clandestine

Her eyes narrowed a little at his sudden appearance, what was he really doing here? Nobody came to see her here alone. He removed the distance between them. That was her bubble- that was a safe distance. She listened to him, a little hesitant to look him in the eye. What was that? Bellagio? He had said Bellagio. She relaxed immediately. This was not just some stranger in the woods. They were related. That was nice. Maybe he would come and see her more often. It could be interesting, maybe even fun.

He seemed a little bit odd tossing his head about all the time, a smile pressed at her lips. “Oh…well I don’t come out of the woods, really. I find it calm and peaceful here.” She gave a small sigh. “I don’t really appreciate the vulgarity and playfulness of all the others.” She paused for a moment, watching him analyse her with a tapering glare. She gulped a lump down her throat, nervousness rousing every inch of her body, as he stepped even closer to her. “It’s nice to meet you then Jynx” She spoke quickly, looking over her shoulder every now and then to ensure some kind of escape route.

Satanic

He simpered at her flattery, listening to her retelling tales of her past. “You’re an unusual mare, Miss Bellatrix.” A low raspy laugh building from his chest, he’d not missed the fact she stated that she was staying here for him- that was interesting indeed. Her fondness of her sister was delectable; it had been such a long time since he had possessed any such desire for another being. Mutiny was one thing, but she could handle herself, she had been raised to be strong. They had to be strong. He would have to be strong- never letting his guard down. It would be that way until his soul was no more.

It was highly unfamiliar this sensation in his stomach, not love. Lord no. He was far too old and wise to even consider that- something else, perhaps. After watching her for a moment with tense eyes, he smiled. His face ached, it had been a while. The silence was not obdurate; for their eyes wandered occasional seeking out each other’s. This was a meeting of lust; it was a tension that hung gracefully in the air. He could have her do anything he wanted; his powers of persuasion were not wasted with this one. No, he did not desire to control her, yet at the same time envy rose at the thought of another stallion having a hold over her. She was already his.

“What a delightful young thing you are.” He whispered, stepping closer to the mare. Everything stopped, his haunches rose, his head swung around to greet the newcomer. This was as good as his territory. He didn’t have to do much, the ladies were at each other’s throats in no time. It was pleasant to watch. Though what had stuck Bellatrix as this being a good idea perplexed him. This was a time of war; there was no time to be bloodying up potential recruits. He would let the matter lie for now.
He cut of their brief meeting with a dejected grumble; like a disturbed mountain cat. He walked between the pair, his eyes searching over the two mares. He demanded authority and respect, nobody would deny him that. He addressed Fable first “Greetings Fable. Welcome to the woods. Bold words from a stranger, indeed. However, my mate here need not worry about anything lurking in the woods. Wolves or cougar alike, I have killed plenty enough now to do it again.” He told her, a cold undertone to his voice- he meant business.

His tone softened “Since you two ladies are fully acquainted, we can move on to more pressing matters. Now I believe you were asked to state your purpose here. Of course if you require shelter, food, warmth; I shall gladly offer it to you. I am certain that we can cater to your needs. However, I warn you now we are in the midst of a battle- you may have heard of it within your travels. You should tread lightly around here; I wouldn’t want you being hurt in unneeded circumstances.” He looked at her with a depth to his eyes, luring her in and tying the knots.

Bellagio

The stallion stood close to his son as they journeyed back; there was an uneasy strain in the air. He couldn’t quite place it. It gave him even more reason to be protective of his brood. This war was having a devastating effect on Bellagio, not that they could tell. His mind venturing back to the gutters of the darker days, it hurt him, it hurt so much. A tormented agony that rippled right through his brain infecting every ounce of his being. Slowly, he was becoming unhinged.

His head snapped up to the horizon, there was his daughter- Styx. How beautiful she was, just like her mother. And how more beautiful she would be in battle.

[Saz]

The dark filly raced through the bushes, weaving and dodging before she skidded to a stop to locate the dark figure she was aiming for. Her keen eyes spied him directly and she let out a sharp whinny, calling to him before she set off and flew eagerly through the bushes toward him and Rajah. "Daddy!" She squealed, eyes lighting up with happiness as she spotted him. Oh how she adored her father, she ran to his side and snuggled close. Nuzzling his shoulder in an affectionate manner she peered round him and spotted one of her half-brothers. She smiled brightly, it was Rajah. "Hi Rajah." She nickered sweetly to him, curling round Bellagio's chest to stand between her two family members. She glanced up at her father, leaning gently against his strong, dark bodice before she spoke in her velvet tone.

"Mama and Pepper are just coming. Mama wanted me to find you so you knew and would wait for them." She spoke sweetly, gazing up at her father before her midnight eyes darted to the bushes as they rustled and her mother and Pepper appeared. "Ah, Bellagio, there you are." She nickered sweetly to her beloved stallion as she emerged from the blossoming foilage. "Now, Styx, Rajah, your father, Pepper and I have to leave on a short trip. Styx, I wish for you to stay with Rajah whilst we're gone. And Rajah, if anything happens that threatens yourself or Styx you are to find Satanic immediately." She spoke in warm tones to the two youngsters. Intrusting Styx's safety with the gentle bay yearling. The dark filly nodded, understanding her instructions and transferring her weight from Bellagio's side to her own hooves to allow her father to move toward Pepper and Melody.

--

The grey filly allowed Satanic to intervene and almost immediately her demeanour changed and she pressed herself willingly against his body as he spoke to Fable. His words infected her young heart and she smiled in a charming manner, her brief spat with the other filly forgotten or over looked as she slunk forward a few steps. Curling her neck beneath his like a young foal, she watched Fable with unveiled warning within her mysterious gaze. The smoky black met her gaze and nodded imperceptibly, a motion that may have confused the stallion, but that both the fillies understood without any difficulty. Bellatrix was Satanic's just as much as she was his, and no new filly would tear that apart. The grey withdrew her gaze, her gaze turning impassive as Fable and Satanic spoke.

The smoky black filly lifted her gaze to meet Satanic's dead on as she listened to his words. A small smirk broke onto her usually stoic face and she spoke finally. "I was wandering. Looking for allies of my sire, I suppose. No doubt you will have heard of him, dear Satanic. For he is the sole puppeteer of a war such as this, alas, I have not reached his terra yet. And this land calls to me for some reason. Thus I have wandered here." She purred, slinking forward a few steps before catching herself and continuing. "I gladly accept the shelter you offer, Satanic. Thank you." She smiled sweetly before glancing past him to the grey filly who was watching her with unveiled curiosity.

--

The russet colt snorted, rolling his eyes in a theatrical manner before speaking once more. "Vulgarity and playfulness aren't your things hmm? Dare I ask how much of that you've experienced? Not much I assume, a pity really." He huffed quietly, flicking his tail before smirking at Clandestine. "Come on, walk with me. You can show me your favourite places around here." He snorted, taking a few steps forward and brushing past the grey filly. Jynx did this purposefully, wanting to see how she'd react to his touch. He hadn't missed her nervous glances or tense figure. And hell, what fun was meeting new people if you didn't dance on the edge of danger once in a while?

[Swede]

The fleabitten mare followed Melody through the trees, tracing after Styx's tail as the young filly occasionally flashed in the distance before vanishing in the shadows again, quick to hunt down her father. She wondered where Rajah had gone off to, but doubted he was in any trouble; he was often going on little walks in the forest. It seemed like a lonely habit to her, but he claimed to enjoy it, and it was true his upbringing had been conducive to a quiet and peaceful nature since he hadn't been exposed to the ruckus of his siblings until he was older. It wasn't long before they encountered Bellagio, and there was her yearling son right beside him. Pepper smiled at the sight; it was good that he spent some time with his father. Rajah was a good colt but he did tend to stick closer to her than to the others, and she thought it would be better for him to integrate with the rest of the herd as well. "Hello Bellagio," she said cheerfully. "There you are Rajah, I was wondering where you'd gone off to. You two been spending some time together?"

"Hey Styx," Rajah answered as his younger sister appeared. The bay yearling nickered a greeting to his mother as she appeared, and nodded in response to her question. "Mhm, we talked for a little while..." Huffing his forelock out of his eyes, he glanced up at the foliage of the trees above. The sunlight was a little more golden than usual as it filtered down; the leaves were losing their green, it seemed. Autumn; and after that, he knew winter would come. Hmm. He did like summer better, but he'd only lived for one winter, so he supposed he ought to experience a few more before he passed judgement on an entire season. But even if it turned out to be just the same as last year, it wouldn't last forever at least. And there were some good things too, the first snow was pretty exciting...

"A trip?" Pepper said, a little surprised. But then she shrugged. "Sounds like fun. Rajah, you behave yourself until we get back, alright?" She hadn't heard any mention of a trip earlier, but Melody said it would be short, so she doubted they would be going too far.

Rajah tilted his head curiously. He liked Styx well enough, she was his sister after all, but babysitting seemed a lot less interesting than an adventure outside the territory. "Where are you going? Can't I come along? I've never been outside the territory before, it would be fun to see a little bit of what the world is like outside..."

[lily]

Bellagio stretched his neck down, nuzzling her with the appropriate affection. Daughters, he had found were far more interesting to have around. They produced a more in depth emotional insight into their species. Although, now he thought about it, he had never really brought up a son to show his emotions, not positive ones anyhow. He stood boldly against the two smaller figures at his side, their relation to each other overly predominate in their appearance. Of course he loved them dearly, he just could never allow himself full attachment to another. Not even Melody, as much as he adored her. It was a protective device- should anything happen to any of them, then he would regain the confidence to build himself back up and not remain a cowering wreck. Carelessly, he nipped at Styx’s and then Rajah’s mane, registering his lover’s entrance.

“Good afternoon, my love” He said with bright eyes, his ears pricking upwards autonomously. His optimistic approach to Melody’s arrival soon vanished in a sea of forlorn expressions. He had no prior knowledge to this trip they were about to take, he supposed he should simply trust his mate.

He acknowledged Pepper with a contented nicker, before listening to his son’s objections to them leaving. He chuckled softly “You need to stay here dear one, wherever it is we are going will be no place for foals like you- far too boring.” He drew closer to his son, just so he could hear him. “Don’t tell anybody but you can be in charge of the whole herd. But shhhhh, I don’t want anybody else getting jealous!” He teased, nudging him to stand with his sister.

With a final nicker of farewell, he left his progenies and set off with his mare. Unaware of the events that were to unfold.

~*~

His skin shivered at her touch, it had been long since he had allowed such an interaction, making the sensation was alien. Bristling against her, his muzzle brushed her own. His eyes narrowed at the newcomer, and heir of Hunter. She would only be bad news, and probably be dead in the next few months, so a few weeks of solitude and haven would not be too much trouble to offer her. A wiry grin pinched at his maw ‘But, of course, any friend of Hunter is a friend of ours.” With a defiant icy undertone.
This mare was attempting to play him back, alas failing.

Once his mind had been set on a goal they would not leave its dark depths. Bellatrix was the only thing that mattered, for now. Betraying her trust was unbearable. The East sang songs of the soft laughter of the young ones, matched with the husky tone of the leader of these lands. From what he could perceive Bellagio would once more be taken an unexplained, unannounced absence; leaving him once more in charge of these ever darkening lands.

The clouds were sombre today, and the afternoon skies were gradually etching into that of the night’s possession. He expelled a great rush of air, lifted his head and gave a bellowing whinny of parting to Bellagio. Minute droplets of rain rushed from the sky, a few landing on his face. “It is unfortunate that we have had to have met on such a dire evening, Fable. The lands are quite beautiful in the sunshine.” Once he had finished there was rumble of thunder in the distance. “Do you require me to show you to safe shelter or are you able to find it yourself” He questioned, his position, moving to shade Bellatrix from the rising amount of rain that fled from the heavens.

~*~

Clandestine whipped around to face Jynx, how dare he assume such things. “You have no idea what I have had to endure, young pup.” She growled, with a look that closely resembled one her father wore frequently. “Whilst I may remain in the forest, I hear everything. Some things that would shock you, dear brother” she spat, with a harsh snap of her tail against hock. She was surprised at her own sharpness, such emotions had never been ventured into before. It gave her an all new sense of power.

“Alright, alright. I’ll show you my favorite places. But only because I want too.” Her body relaxed a little as he brushed past her. Giving her the confidence to retort back with a nudge to his withers and a playful snort. “Keep up slowpoke!” She called back, trotting into the nadirs of the forest.

[Saz]

The chestnut mare nodded, allowing herself a gentle smile as Bellagio greeted her. She fell silent and observed him as he spoke with his offspring so gently, so kindly. There was no doubt in her mind that he would not treat them like that again. Styx would most likely be ignored, and Rajah... he would be treated as an orphan. It was unlikely he was even listen to either of them ever again. Closing her eyes for a brief moment, she shunned the dark thoughts from her mind and summoned the rage that had been simmering for so long. Snorting sharply her eyes snapped open and she glanced from Bellagio to Pepper before turning and leading the way from the terra. It was time; they were to do a swap. Pepper for Lynx. Then once Hunter lost they would reclaim Pepper once more. It would work out all okay in the end. Though the fleabitten grey would probably never trust her again, and no doubt it would take Bellagio an era to trust her again. But she would have her baby back; her daughter. Her Lynx.

--

The filly narrowed her eyes at the behemoth before bowing her head slightly, "Unfortunate indeed, Satanic. However it was nice to make your acquaintance..." The smoky black paused, turning narrowed eyes toward Bellatrix before giving her a sharp nod. Her gaze flicked back to the dark stallion and she smirked callously, "I'll find my own shelter, but thank you for the offer." She spoke coolly, blinking slowly before sharing one more glare with the grey filly. With their conversation ended, Fable turned and disappeared into the treeline behind them and once more Bella was alone with Satanic.

She pressed her side into his, curling her neck under his and entwining them in an embrace. The cool water that was not caught by the canopy above them and that didn't land upon her dark protector flecked her pale coat darkening it by a few shades until she looked like she was a fleabitten grey. She broke the silence that had fallen by breaking their embrace to look him in the eye. "What are we, Satanic? What will we do after the war? After all this is over..." She asked him, seeking some form of reassurance that this wasn't just a fling. Though personally, she wasn't quite sure what she wanted after the war, did she want to stay here? Did she wish to leave and lead her own herd?

But there was one thing she did know.
Did she wish to stay with Satanic for as long as she could?

Yes.

--

The chestnut colt grinned as the filly erupted viciously in front of him, There we go, she does have some fire. He thought, smirking broadly before flicking his tail at her sudden change of mood. "Heh, sure sure. I'm the slow poke." He responded, snorting and shaking his head before loping to catch up with her. "And anyway, you're only a year older than me. So if I'm a 'young pup' then what does that make you?" He asked, a cheeky grin on his face before he distracted her by giving her a playful nip. "C'mon, slowpoke!" He teased her, launching himself forth at a gallop, trying to entice her into giving chase.

[Swede]

"You be good now, sweetheart," Pepper cooed reassuringly to the yearling colt, "I'm sure we'll be back soon. I saw Satanic a little ways back over there earlier, so if you run into any trouble, just call for him and he'll come help out, alright?" She waited her son's nod to acknowledge that he'd heard her words, before turning on her heel and trotting in contented oblivion in the trail of the herd's leaders.

Rajah had heard Pepper's words, yes; he'd also heard his father's orders, and Melody's instructions as well. However, he was far less quick to accept them. Most colts his age were naturally inquisitive, and though more mature than most, it certainly didn't mean his instinctive curiosity was quelled. He wasn't stupid; he knew full well when he was being placated. In charge of the herd? Yeah right... like his brothers would ever actually listen to him. Echo and Luna would probably just giggle at him, and Satanic, well... they both knew who would really be in charge. The natural decision was to entrust the grown stallion with years of experience behind him with watching over the herd while the leaders were away, even Melody said so. No, they were just keen on keeping Rajah away, which only served to intensify his curiosity, and stir a little bit of childish irritation. He was fond enough of Styx, but he didn't appreciate being delegated the job of babysitting just to keep him occupied. "I wonder where you're off to," he murmured, gazing thoughtfully through the trees between which his parents and Melody had disappeared.

Coming to a decision, he nudged Styx. "Hey, go find Shy, I'm sure he'll be happy to play with you. Or Echo and Luna if he's busy. I won't be gone for too long, promise. Oh, and could you do me a favor, and just not tell anyone I'm gone? I'll be back before anyone even notices, so it won't be any problem." He knew that he needed to get moving quickly, before he lost the trail of the adults; it was crucial to not get too close and risk being discovered, but he also had to keep up if he were to know what they were up to. Besides, exploring the world outside the territory was an exciting prospect, but he didn't want to get lost and not find his way back home. The adults would know the way; all he had to do was follow them.