[ｃｒｕｍｐｌｅｄ ｗｉｎｇｓ]

October Event // 2017

xxxxxxxIn a secluded alcove of Lucent, where a few mountain passes intersected a small plain, stood the mining town of Desolo. This town had started out prosperous, due to high quantities of rare and valuable ores in the area. However, as more people settled here, more began to fall mysteriously ill and perish. It was eventually found that the gem-studded passages that allowed the town to thrive were also slowly killing its residents with an invisible toxic gas. Once this was discovered, the remaining residents fled to live elsewhere, taking all that they could; leaving a barren shell of a town behind.

xxxxxxxNowadays, brave collectors visit this town for a day or two and mine all that they can carry, quickly departing before the poisoned air can cause them permanent harm. The ghost town, while unsettling, never seemed out of the ordinary... until recently.

xxxxxxxMiners began to return home with stories of strange chrysaora… Those that appeared to be only skeletons or look as if their coats are cracking away, as well as strange wispy markings and odd mutations. These stories were initially waved away as side effects of the fumes, but then became more and more common, until they were finally accepted as true.

xxxxxxxThese chry all had common characteristics, upon sighting they would seemingly fade away, to reappear again later leaving the viewer the feeling of eyes always on them. The longer a person stayed in the town, the more aggressive they became, and a few related deaths have already been confirmed.

xxxxxxxThe more scientifically-aligned residents of Lucent came to the conclusion that the behavior and appearance of these chrysaora is caused by the same gases that forced humans to leave the area. Others believe that the spirits of the people who perished in that town latched onto the chrysaora, and are to blame for the apparent changes in biology. Whichever story you choose to believe, it still remains true that these phantasmal creatures have rendered the streets of this town unsafe, and that something needs to be done or the resources will be lost to these chry forever. It was decided that brave volunteers with little fear should come forward and attempt to tame these eerie chrysaora.

Will one of them be you?

[ｃｒｕｍｐｌｅｄ ｗｉｎｇｓ]

Just The Basics

Mane & Tail- any colour, just be specific, 10 points & is required

Base Coat & Markings - any base coat & one marking (does not include special or overly complicated genes, i.e. nettle or manchado, ask if you aren't sure!), 10 points & is required

Horn & Hoof Material - can choose anything but different costs, is required
xxxxxcommon - 5 points
xxxxxuncommon - 10 points
xxxxxrare - 15 points
xxxxxlegendary - 25 points

xxxxx
xxxxx

Making Them Tick

Heart - costs 25 points & is required

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Special Genes
25 points // can only buy one

Crypt - causes markings similar to peeling and cracking paint to appear on the chrysaora, has varying levels of density and can affect any part of the body.

Decomposition - causes markings in the form of a skeleton, comes in varying levels. At most an entire skeleton and at least is just a skull. can affect white markings, somatic, chimera, etc.

Hex - causes strange markings to appear on the chry, sometimes in the shape of wings or lace, this gene is characterized by unnatural spooky markings that are usually darker pigment.

Radiation - causes glowing markings (bright colours) to appear on the chry, and also causes the eyes to glow.

Spectre - causes grey-tone swirling markings to appear across the coat and hair, as well as a hollow-eye effect.

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Other Coats - if you prefer a more normal chry you can order any gene that is already in existence instead, but mane & tail must be fall themed (ex: hyperpigmentation or nettle)

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No Special Coat - if you don't wish for your chry to have a special coat or can't afford it, it costs 15 points to void this part of the form.

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Physical Mutations/Items
purchase options:
at least one item from one category
or
at most three items from level 1
or
at most one item from level 1 & 2 each
or
one item from level 3

//level 1 - 10 points //
xxxxxfangs
xxxxxcat eyes
xxxxxblindness
xxxxxsmall jewelry/item
xxxxxnothing

//level 2 - 25 points //
xxxxxaltered horn (broken/lengthened/etc)
xxxxxmissing eye
xxxxxroman nose
xxxxxdished face
xxxxxsnake tongue
xxxxxpinned ears
xxxxxmedium item

//level 3 - 50 points //
xxxxxlarge item
xxxxxmissing limb
xxxxxstarvation (skinny/ribby line edits)
xxxxxcompanion animal (canine/feline/avian/rodent)

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Desolo Chrysaora Order Form
open!

Code: Select all

[b]Username;;[/b]
[b]Proof of Points;;[/b] link to tracker or just write it down & i will confirm
[b]Mane/Tail colour;;[/b]
[b]Base Coat/Markings;;[/b]
[b]Horn/Hoof Material & Rarity;;[/b]
[b]Heart;;[/b] [something to show the personality of the chry to help the artist out]
[b]Special Gene;;[/b]
[b]Physical Mutation/Item;;[/b]
[b]Purchase Cost;;[/b]

example form

Username;; crumpled wings
Proof of Points;; 140
Mane/Tail colour;; grey to purple fade, with silver streaks
Base Coat/Markings;; smokey lilac dun sabino
Horn/Hoof Material & Rarity;; opal // legendary
Heart;; here
Special Gene;; spectre
Physical Mutation/Item;; blindness & small jewelry
Purchase Cost;; 10 + 10 + 25 + 25 + 25 + 20 = 115 points

Extra Item Order Form
open!
this form is for any "unusable" points you might have

Code: Select all

[b]username;;[/b]
[b]Proof of Points;;[/b]
[b]Physical Mutation/Item;;[/b] still follows the rules of buying items as seen above

[ｃｒｕｍｐｌｅｄ ｗｉｎｇｓ]

Well well, another traveler. I see that you're another "brave" soul stepping forward to attempt to conjoin with these wicked creatures. Let me warn you, they are as poisonous as the air and give no warning when they strike. I spit on their vile existence. Good luck to you traveler, try to stay alive.

Welcome to Desolo! The objective of this event is to do a series of tasks in which you earn points to conjoin with a chry from the ghost town. This chry will be a custom and all parts and pieces must be bought in order for you to receive one. There will be plenty of opportunities to get points, however some effort will need to be put in to get higher-tier items. The event will be open until the first week of november, after which the trading center will open. The minimum amount of points needed to receive a chrysaora is 75.

october event points & purchase archive

Tasks
if you complete tasks I - V you have enough points to receive a basic chry

**art of your chry should not include colour or physical mutations, as you don't know what your chry will look like, you can always go back & add them when you know you have the points needed **

Level I - worth 5 points
Describe the initial sighting of the town of Desolo and how you felt upon getting there (at least 80 words)

Level II - worth 10 points
Describe the first sighting of the mutated chrysaora, and outline your plan to conjoin with one. (at least 100 words)

Level III - worth 15 points
Describe either through art or writing the first contact/meeting between yourself and the chrysaora you found. (at least 100 words or a solid sketch)

Level IV - worth 20 points
Detail how the process of conjoining with your chry actually occurred. Did anything go wrong? Were you afraid? (atleast 100 words)

Level V - worth 25 points
Tell me about the aftermath of conjoining with your chrysaora. Did you return home immediately? Go mine the tunnels a bit? How did you friends react when they saw one of the fabled chry from the ghost town? (can be art or a short story of at least 100 words)

Level VI - worth ??? points
This is a list of other tasks to complete that will allow you to gain points for more complicated chrysaora.

xxxxxart extra art can be created to detail your experiences in Desolo and Lucent
xxxxxxxxchrysaora sketch - 10 points
xxxxxxxxlandscape sketch - 10 points (15 if coloured)
xxxxxxxxgift art of someone else's chry - 15 points
xxxxxxxxcoloured chrysaora sketch of existing chry - 15 points
xxxxxxxxsomething else - ??? points *if you have an idea not listed feel free to ask!*

xxxxxwriting
xxxxxxxxstories are awarded per word count - 10 points per 100 words
xxxxxxxxtopics include Desolo specific events as well as events in Lucent, as long as they are festively spooky.

**for tasks I-V, 0.5 points will be awarded for every extra 50 words past the required amount**

Quest Form

Code: Select all

[list][list][size=85][b]username;;[/b]
[b]Level I[/b]
[b]Level II[/b]
[b]Level III[/b]
[b]Level IV[/b]
[b]Level V[/b]
[b]Level VI[/b][/size][/list][/list]

[ｃｒｕｍｐｌｅｄ ｗｉｎｇｓ]

Rules
we need them because if they don't exist we get eaten

- all rules on the main page still apply
- please be kind & have fun!

- the first part of the event will end november 2nd, after which no more tasks will be accepted
- the trading center will open november 3rd to november 10th
- you must buy one piece from each category to receive a custom chrysaora
- all art & writing must be original
- keep all tasks on one post
- chrysaora staff will be judging the tasks on a regular basis, so your points will be up to date for the most part
- artists for your custom will be chosen via random assignment

if you have any questions about anything feel free to ask!
anything asked will be added below for future reference

Q/A

Q: Do we post our forms on this page?
xxxxxA: yep!

Q: Do we keep the tasks and extra writings in the same post?
xxxxxA: Yes! Keep everything on one post to help keep the page organized! When the trading center opens you will make a second post with your order

Q: Do the all the tasks involve the chry we will be receiving as a custom?
xxxxxA: Tasks I-V involve the chry you will be ordering, where the extra task can be of any chry already made

Q: Can we layer items, for example buy two small jewelry?
xxxxxA: yep!

posting is now open & you may begin completing your tasks!

[G.L'S]

username;; G.L'S
Level I

The hike up the mountain was difficult. Even though it was only for a few hours and the rest was by cable car, it was still a gruelling way up. Throughout the foggy layers of the upper steppes, the rocks glowed from the decaying radiation in the area. It was beautiful in the most haunting way. Once we reached the pass, the fog skirted to the edges of the plateau, exposing Desolo.
The town stood atop the flat plain holding an ominous presence of a time of strife. The mines and the houses creaked with the moisture and stood in darkness. Within the windows, furniture and cans of food sat in layers of dust scattered around the house, showing that people left in a hurry. The constant fog brought a chill to my bones but part of me wondered how much of that was the damp cold, and how much was the aura of the town. Our guide informed us that it was safe to wander but I questioned him at first. Seeing the eerie remains of a cursed time gone by didn't make me want to stay, much less explore. But I didn't come for a vacation. I was there for one reason only: to save chrysaoras and my uneasiness would have to take a back seat.
Level II

During our walk through the town, I found myself in the town square. The occasional flap of the flag against the pole and the rhythmic dong from the church bell were all that broke the electrified silence. As my boots tapped on the cobblestones, I thought I heard a reflective sound of horse's hooves clopping along as if trotting into town. When I turned to look, I was startled by what I saw, frozen in the open space.
Emerging from the alleyway by the grocer's, a chrysaora stepped away from a can it hand been trying to open to get a better look at me. In the light, I saw right through the decaying skin on his face, revealing the bone underneath. His sullen patchy body and his dull eyes were nothing like I'd ever seen. Even with the most abused that were rescued from thieves, nothing looked like this: the epitome of the walking dead. The chrysoara blinked and shifted its weight across cracked hooves before becoming disinterested in me and returning to open its can.
"That's one of our native chrys," the guide told me as he approached from the opposite side of the square, "Desolo's curse shaped them too. Someday, we hope to get them out of this toxic wasteland."
When I turned back toward the alley, the walking dead friend I met was gone. In that moment, I knew I had to conjoin with one and bring it out of this sad place. Hoping to aid the efforts, I asked, "how can I gain their trust?"
The guide looked around, "Desolo was fled from. Many chrysaoras here were semi-wild which is how they've survived. Many are hungry though because food is getting scarce. Feeding them is the easiest way to get them used to you."
Knowing I didn't have much time, I reached for my well-trusted apple cookies and raided the grocer's for more. I had to get taming and fast.
Level III

Making my way outside the town, I wanted to find a vantage point where I could see and spot a chrysaora to bond with. I knew these ones would be elusive so I had to be efficient; time was limited but this required patience. I soon found a perch by the rock face and began to open the cans. The putrid smell of canned fruit filled the moist air and attracted everyone's attention. After a few moments, gentle hoof falls could be heard from the grassy plain beyond view.
A mare and foal emerged first. The mare looked like the skeletal Chry I met before but her foal had a flaky appearance to him, as if his skin was falling off. Both were intrigued by the scent but were too scared to approach. They, however, happily greeted a herd mate of theirs as this chry moved forward to check my splendour.
The second I saw them, I knew they were the one. Not only were they stunning, but their coat seemed to glow a vibrant yellow. They shone almost as if poisoned by radium during the Terran wars. They made their way to my stock pile and began to inspect the fruits while the mare and foal watched from afar. I held my breath as they eyed both me and the offering with mistrust; the only thing that moved was a necklace that hung around their neck. They shifted their sooty legs and approached the fruit a couple more times before eventually deciding to eat. Once indulged, they dove ravenously at the little pile and licked the rock face clean. They ate every piece except the oranges.
Heh that's funny, I hate oranges too, I thought to myself. And as if they read my mind, those garish yellow eyes pierced mine before turning and wheeling off. For a few moments, all I could do was stand there in awe and confusion.
Some others saw my approach and decided to try it as well. Our guide came over to me and congratulated me on my initial success. He explained that this one was afflicted by the radiation in the area, saying it expressed itself in the Desolo chrysaora genes without seemingly affecting the chrysaora itself. Feeling relieved that they were okay, I knew I had to learn more about this if I wanted to take them home.
Level IV

Over the course of several hours, several cans and some apple treats, the radioactive chrysaora had decided I was safe enough to eat around and even share a few glances with. They had also grown used to my voice as I talked to them, cooing or just having a conversation. The initial spooky reaction soon turned to mild interest to pricked ears. Even as I moved about, their eyes followed me with interest until they decided to fall into step behind. I was pleased with how quickly this was going but was also nervous about moving too fast or slow. I didn't want to spook them or lose their interest. So far though, things had gone well.
While they settled to graze on the flat, brown grass, I watched the necklaces that dangled from their neck. One was a piece of quartz on a long chain while the other was a simple inverted triangle that had a horizontal line across just under the tip, like those simplified element symbols I'd seen recently. It reminded me of jewelry I'd seen in town over where I lived in the lowlands of Lucent, many miles away. A snort caught my attention and I was met by bright yellow eyes. I felt a tad embarrassed for staring and almost thought to ask. The protective nature around it though made me think otherwise and I settled in my spot until they began to relax again.
On my last food run for the night, I decided to head back to the grocer's for one last attempt at nabbing some canned fruit. This time though as I entered the town, I heard the echoing footfalls behind me move from the tromping on grass turn to the clacks on cobblestones. It sounded like the limbered gait of my radioactive friend but I dared not turn around for fear of scaring them off. They watched me from afar as I went about this routine and fed them one last time before bed.
The next morning, I woke before dawn to snuffling outside. When I slipped on my boots and stepped out into the thick fog, the brilliant yellow hue of the chrysoara shone through the milky air. When I said hello, they moved towards me and locked me into their gaze. I immediately understood the bond and allowed it to happen. I don't know what compelled me though; partway in, I lifted my hand as if to stroke their face. At the motion, they froze and both of us stood at an impasse. They looked unsure of what to do while I remained frozen in panic. After a few moments, they shifted their head and gently touched my palm with their nose and both of us began to relax. Glances now were trusting and both of us seemed rather pleased.
Level V

The remaining hours I had left in Desolo I spent with my new friend getting used to each other. I let them show me around where they liked to go. I even got to see a few friends of theirs before we decided to return to the town. As much as I had grown to like Desolo, I knew we couldn't stay any longer. With one final goodbye to the remainder of the Desolo herd, both of us moved back towards the group and prepared to leave.
The trek down the mountain proved harder than I thought. They weren't used to the amount of people in our group and the thought of leaving home seemed to depress them a little. Partway down, they stopped altogether before turning and looking back up toward Desolo. I felt so disappointed but I knew I couldn't force them. I was about to let them go back until the mare and foal from before emerged from the top, following my neighbour.
"I hope I'm not too late!" She called down the mountain at us but my Chry's whinny in response said it all. Feeling so relieved, I waited for them to catch up before continuing our descent.
"Congrats on the bond," I said once the five of us has fallen into step, " I'm also relieved because it looks like mine missed yours and her little guy."
"Good thing we share a fence then," she laughed before looking mine over, "what a beauty! Have you named them yet?"
I looked over to them and gave a smile as they playfully nudged me, letting me relax once again, "Calvera."
Level VI

Calvera and Betelgeuse's Hallowe'en Surprise


Calvera settled quickly and harmoniously into my small herd. They quickly made friends with Pollux and Pyxis, gained the respect of Castor and Bellatrix, but completely enamoured Betelgeuse. The chimeric was in love and really, it was adorable.
With the autumn weather turning from warm and colourful to wet and dreary, the excitement of Hallowe'en was building. In town, community centres planned dances, farms decorated their fields, and children chattered about trick or treating on the fabled night. The excitement also seemed to grow and spread to our herd as every year they grew excited.
I was in the middle of setting up my haunted stables when I noticed Calvera watching me from the fields. With a chuckle, I let them out and continued with my work, letting them watch.
"Hallowe'en is a tradition we brought with us when people came here from Terra. It was thought that this night was the night spirits and ghosts could come back into the living world before settling back for another year. People love to tell scary stories and children like to dress up as scary things and go around looking for candy." I turned to look a the sooty buckskin who eyed me with an odd expression in return, causing me to laugh, "ya I know, I don't get it either. It's a time to have fun though and it's a great way to meet others and meet up with our neighbours. Perhaps Sheila will come over with Maria and the colt. Plus, Hallowe'en is Betelgeuse's favourite holiday and they love being a part of the haunted stables."
A whinny broke our conversation, coming from the black roan who stood by the fence.
"Speak of the devil," I quipped and let Calvera go back and join their crush.
The weeks went by and the excitement was palpable. On the morning of Hallowe'en everyone was in full swing. Everything had to be set up and just right for the night of. Everything was planned: Pollux would help with the candy, Pyxis would sing his eerie cries, Castor and Betelgeuse would scare everyone. It was perfect, except for Calvera who didn't have a job. They didn't seem interested in anything the others were doing and I was almost ready to give up when Sheila came over early.
"We wanted to see how you were doing!" she called as her, her two young kids and her Desolo mare and foal came up our driveway.
I was about to explain my predicament when a chorus of 'whoa!'s erupted from her son and daughter who immediately gravitated to Calvera. They snuffled them with curiosity and let them pet them, unfazed by their excitable natures. That's when the idea dawned on me and I knew our haunted stables would be a success.
That night, families came from all over town to be spooked and treated. Everyone was having fun and Calvera was a big hit with everyone who came; she was the main attraction as everyone came to see the chry that glowed. Just when I thought they stole the show, Betelgeuse came out and gave them a nuzzle. When they both moved back to the radioactive chry's stall, we all were delighted by the perfect little sphere that sat in the straw, surrounded by two proud parents. People watched in awe and offered their congratulations as they left to go on with their evening, leaving the happy parents alone to enjoy their favourite evening with their own future foal.

[ilhdc7]

username;; ilhdc7

Level I - - 303
The hike was long and weary. The day seemed to grow longer and longer, and the food supply, though plentiful, began to bore me in my food choices. Apples and peanut butter. Cucumbers and salt. Lunch meat, salad, sandwiches; they all started to lose their taste. I could feel the depressing weight of the water I had packed that morning start to call my name. Time to take a break.

The pack slipped off my shoulder easily, and settled next to my feet. I unzipped the bag, moving aside the halter and lead before reaching to grab my twenty-four-ounce plastic water bottle. I could see that I hadn’t twisted the cap on all the way and realized that the water had leaked in my bag. How I hadn’t felt it on my back was a mystery. I cursed myself for the mistake before unscrewing the cap the rest of the way and throwing my head back, gulping the water down. I shoved the bottle back in and twisted it on, correctly this time.

The sky was beating down on me, and as I checked my watch I realized it was only ten minutes until I’d reach the hill top and see the town of Desolo. I threw the pack over my shoulder and marched forward. Nothing would stop me now.

A bead of sweat rolled down my back, and as I reached the small plain the held Desolo, my breath was taken away. The town was gorgeous, albeit spooky. There was no music, no movement, no sounds to let you think that this was even once a town. I knew that the air quality was bad, so I knew that this trip had to be quick in and out. I couldn’t spare a second and stay for too long, else I’d get ill.

Level II - - 315
My eyes wandered over the buildings before me, and as I looked through them, I saw movement to my left. Turning around a corner, his back to me, a beautiful pure black chrysaora, with a golden mane and tail, twisted around a corner. He was gorgeous, and I instantly knew that he was going to be mine. I felt my heart swell with pride at the gorgeous stallion, walking majestically through the town, knowing he owned the place. And I'm sure he did. I ducked my head and slowly lowered myself onto the ground, gently sliding my bag off of my shoulder with the hope to be as silent as possible. The zipper was louder than expected though, and as I peeled open the bag, it made a sharp sound that echoed throughout the desolate town. I heard the echo's of hooves pounding away, and knew that I wasn't as careful as I should have been.

I knew now that I had to be careful, very careful. I realized that to get close to the chrysaora, I would have to let him catch me. set a trap and pretend like I wasn't planning on conjoining at all. I knew that a confident, proud stallion like the one I had seen would only come if he thought I wasn't expecting him. I would have my halter in hand, step in his path, and act startled. Then I would follow the rules of conjoining with a Chrysaora. I had seen some of my friends conjoin with their choice of creature before but had never done it myself. I had watched my friends bow down, and the chrysaora place its horn on their head, and I had watched chrysaora reject people(usually by running away). I had made friends with other Chrysaora too, but hadn't fully committed to being bonded to just one creature yet.

This was my moment.

Level III - - 616
The day had slipped through my fingers, each second was critical to me finding the chrysaora but each time I got within a sight of him, he scattered away. I worried that he had had a bad experience with a human before, thus making him so skittish around me, but my fears were a moot point at that time. At 7 o-clock I decided it would be time to take a break, nothing was going to stop him from running away, and there was never any way to get in front of him. I laid down my pack and pulled off a small blanket to sit on. As I was sitting there for a few seconds, I could feel the coolness of the ores underneath me seep through the flimsy blanket causing me to shiver, goosebumps running up and down my spine.

I felt the tell-tale signs of fatigue racing through my body. I sighed and leaned my head back, resting it against the side of the abandoned building. I felt defeated in every way possible. I had barely been near the chrysaora and yet he was all I could think about. My thoughts were encompassed with his beauty and elegance and strong image. I couldn’t help but be infatuated. My eyes fluttered shut, and I felt that I should take a 5-minute nap, making sure that I was well rested for the next hour or so of chasing the stallion.

When I opened my eyes, I could hear the small clipity-clop of hooves striking against the ground. They were calm, each step was in rhythm with the next and I could almost feel the vibrations coming from the strikes. I opened my eyes slowly, not wanting to breath in case of scaring the stallion. He was right in front of me and I couldn’t help but to be in awe at the fact that he had caught me

He stood before me, his golden mane and tail glaring at me as if it was my fault he was there. I felt my heart beat through the roof, and my palms began to sweat. I slowly leaned forward and pushed myself up from the ground. He stomped his foot, causing me to straighten my spine and look directly into his eyes. His eyes were golden, bright, staring into me like I was at fault for everything that had been going on. This wasn’t true, I just wanted to bond with him. I felt only appreciation for his gorgeous beauty that stood before me.

My eyes stayed connected with his, while his narrowed at me. I felt my heart beat kick up a notch, before whispering, “Hey babe, gosh you are so beautiful I couldn’t help but get near you.” He snorted and I winced, my eyes starting to get itchy from the constantly being opened. I worried that if I didn’t bow and him accept me, this would be my final standing spot. “I apologize for invading your space but if I didn’t you would’ve never noticed me, and that couldn't happen either.”

I saw him take a deep breath, his chest expanding with air, taking in my scent. I had no fear of him, only acceptance of his choice. I kept my eyes on him, before lowering my upper half to bow down to him. I would never know unless I tried. I felt his gaze, like a pinprick on my skin, before the clack of his hoof striking the ground. I felt giddy, I wasn’t sure what was happening, or why he even allowed my frantic antics to catch his eye. My eyes widened and my body froze as his horn touched my shoulder.

Level IV - - 360
I felt connected with him for life, and that I was. It was a strange feeling, being inside another’s head, understanding their thoughts. I was happy that he had chosen me, somehow read my thoughts, as if I was his equal. He was my equal, and I was happy to share our life with each other.

It was so satisfying, finally being connected to one chry, a lifelong connection that I could trust and depend on. I reveled in the glory of the feeling of accomplishment. I had done what I had been seeking to do, and had completed my goal. Now, me and the gorgeous chrysaora before me would be going through life together. To me, nothing seemed impossible at that point in time.

What sickens me though, is in the back of my head, the small voice crept out and worried me. Was I good enough? Was I worthy? Did I deserve this? It was all irrelevant though, and as I looked up from the bow I had been in, I felt my fears quench in the calming rain of the chry before me. He surrounded me in a blanket of confidence and positivity. He gave me the stable hold I needed to get out from under the fears that were pressing at my conscious.

“Thank you so much,” I murmured, putting my gratitude and soul into his hands as I relayed my emotions through that one sentence. I was so thankful, the electric current running through me felt like it would never stop, and I felt like I could run for days. I could feel his pride, pride directed at me, although I couldn’t fathom why he’d be proud of me.

His gentle, and kind eyes that now gazed upon me were so inquisitive. I smiled at his look, and gestured to him, “Well what now?”
He snorted and turned away, looking back and motioning that I should follow him. I laughed at him, and skipped alone beside him, happily resting my hand on his side. His fur was beyond soft, like velvet beneath my fingertips. I sighed in content, glad to be with my conjoined chry.

Level V - - 1050
I felt thrilled to be spending time with my chrysaora. He showed me around his kingdom, the backroads, the greatest spots to sleep, where the best apples were hidden, he even gave me a small look at the herd he was staying with. I could feel that the love of his herd was large, but that his love of me was strong also. I felt stressed because I didn’t want to make him choose between his family and me.

I gently stroked his mane as I looked upon his herd, a small foal jumped about; cracked body holding nothing behind in its joyous game. I glanced up at him, admiration that he protected a small band, “I can’t stay here for long, I’ll get sick, and die.”

He turned his head and looked at me, his face not showing any emotion, “I’ll stay as long as I can, but I’ll have to go back in a couple of hours.”

I sighed, remembering that he couldn’t respond but quickly perked up at the thought of bringing back gems for my family. We weren’t that well off, but a small bag of ruby’s, quartz, even diamonds and gold could help get us back on our feet. I leaned my head on him and smiled, before turning around and heading toward the shafts.

I marched steadily, and soon after, I could hear the beats of the chry’s hooves sounding after my own. He caught up quickly to me, and mouthed a piece of my hair. I laughed but pulled it out, making an ‘ew’ sound. He nickered and made a whistling sound, sounding almost like a bird. I smiled before looking at him and talking out loud, “You need a name….” And he did need one. I couldn’t help but want to be able to call him a name that was strong, so I went with my gut and what came to my head first. I paused before thinking out loud, “Gregg?” He snorted and I took that as a no. “Chase?... Striker?... Eagle?... Ares?...” Each one I spoke was a resounding no. I was about to give up when a final name came to my head, “Atticus?” He didn’t make a peep, and as I looked him over, I felt that it fit him perfectly. “Atticus, it is!”

By the time I had come to a name, we were at the ore shafts. I pulled out a small pickaxe and whistled as I walked into the shaft, leaving Atticus behind me. He happily did so, as there was shade and an easy place to rest outside. The ore shaft built around me was held up by wooden poles, and connected together with wooden beams. I could only see with the light coming through from the entrance, and realized I would have to stay near the top if I wanted to find my way out. I was a little annoyed at myself that I didn’t bring a light, but realized that it was too late to go back and bring one, so I would have to deal with my choice.

The walls around me with a light grey and dripped with a liquid that was unknown to me. I could hear Atticus outside the shaft making a little bit of noise, but I decided to ignore it. I looked around, before seeing a seam in the wall and starting to dig there. I had spent about ten or so minutes before I hit a small shiny object. I sucked in a sharp breath before carefully pulling out a couple ounces of silver. I smiled widely before jumping up and down. I shoved it into a bag and zipped it closed, making sure that all of it was inside safe and sound. This silver would sell for so much back at home and it would give our family the money we needed. I felt the mine around me quake, so I grabbed my things and sprinted outside to see an extremely stressed Atticus.

I placed my hand on his neck and calmed him down, “I’m sorry! I just found some silver and I think it will be worth a lot!” He just stared at me and I pat his neck again, trying to make him understand. He let out a deep breath and nibbled at the ends of my hair. My eyes glistened and I was happy that he was ok.

I realized that my time here was almost up, and as the sun started to creep across the sky, the poisonous gases would be starting to poison me. I shrugged my bag over my shoulder and threw the silver inside before taking a look around me. I glanced at Atticus one more time before saluting him, “I gotta go, I’ll come back and visit as soon as I can!” I tried to make light of the situation, but I gave him a kiss on his muzzle, hoping that it told him how much I would miss him before turning around and heading out of the town.

It took a few minutes, but as I began to miss Atticus, I felt the hot tears start to roll down my cheeks. I knew I would miss him, especially when I would be with the other Chrysaoras I called friends. They would remind me of his playful jokes, and his kind but truthful eyes. As I continued to walk, the sadness starting to fade, I felt a nibble on my hair. My eyes widened and I turned around to see that Atticus had been following me the entire time. I realized that I couldn’t hear him on the dirt path, and he was with me the entire time.

I threw my hands around him and gave him a big hug, “Thank goodness!! I thought you wanted me to leave you!” I was so grateful that Atticus had chosen me over his old herd. I didn’t want to make him choose, in the fear of him choosing the herd over me. But as it seemed, he chose me over his herd. I couldn’t believe my luck. Plus, I couldn’t wait to show him the new herd he would rein over back at home. They needed a leader, and I’m sure that Atticus would willingly take the spot.

Level VI - - totaled at 1546

Meet Kasey's Friends
- - 731
The human I had bonded with, who’s name I learned was Kasey, lead me to a small valley, much like the one I had lived in before. I could smell other chrysaoras in the area, but they weren’t too close to us, so I didn’t worry. I knew she couldn’t protect herself from other chrysaoras and I hoped that none of them had ever hurt her before. I would hurt them if they did.

As we walked farther, I could hear the sounds of human laughter coming from a small cottage. It was covered in vines, and had flowers underneath the window, on the eve. The place was decorated for the season that had been coming around. I recalled a small conversation she had had with me, mentioning that it was Halloween night. I had blown this off before but now I felt like I should have paid more attention. There was a spider on her roof, and cobwebs covering everything around the house. Pumpkins lined the stone path up to her house. I shuffled closer to Kasey, not knowing if she was expecting company and this decoration, but was returned with a small smile. I had no idea what that meant.

Kasey paused next to me, and I turned to look at her. She started to speak, “Now, you are gonna meet a couple of my friends. Be nice, they might act a little funny in the beginning but otherwise it should be fine.” I nickered, and nibbled at the ends of her hair, showing that I heard what she said. Then she added, “And I’m sorry about it being Halloween night, they might be a little funny looking.” I wondered what that meant.

She looked at me one more time, before taking a deep breath and relaxing. “I’m home!” She yelled. A scream and a clatter of things could be heard from inside the house before two dogs, three women and a cat ran out to meet us.

I baulked, that was a lot more family than anticipated. I could feel the animals looking at me and inspecting me, so I glanced down at them. Two sheepdogs stared up at me. They were beautiful, and their long snouts were slightly upturned at my unusual look. I could feel the judgement coming off of them in droves. I stamped my hoof, and nipped at their face, showing them, I meant business. They scuttled away, before lowering their head in respect. I shook my mane and stood up to my full height. I would not stand for any disrespect.

The cat that had come out was scooped up in Kasey’s arms, purring in content. I figured that if she liked Kasey, and I liked Kasey, that we would get along. Her friends gave her hugs before looking at me with a little disdain. I barely glanced at them as the smell of chrysaora got stronger. I flared my nostril as I glanced around, slightly perturbed.

Kasey put a hand on my shoulder before introducing me to her friends, “Esme, Marina, Kat; this is Atticus,” She paused, “My conjoined.” She paused again before looking at me and pointing out her friends, “Esme is the redhead; Marina has the blonde hair and the two dogs, Boomer and Cooper, and Kat is the short one, she has the cat.” She laughed as she was socked in the arm by Kat for calling her short. I noticed that they were all dressed oddly, the redhead holding a sword, the blonde called Marina in a black costume, and as I squinted closer, she had ears. I was taken aback, she wasn't a normal human! I shook my mane before noticing that the short girl was dressed as a pumpkin.

When it was all settled down, they looked at me a couple seconds before taking a deep breath, realizing that their friend had been waiting out to find someone like me. I felt pride that Kasey had chosen such good friends. They congratulated her on her find before asking if I would be ready to meet the other chrysaora. I had no idea there were other chrysaoras here. I looked at Kasey, and she nodded. “Probably, he needs to have friends, and I’m sure that they will all accept him immediately.” As Kasey’s friends turned around, I realized that the girl with ears had a tail too!



Meeting Blair
- - 815
I looked around me as Kasey lead me towards a Chrysaora. She was shorter than me, but I found it hard to find someone who was taller. She had palomino fur and a dark face, similar to the one I had. Her legs were crisscrossed with a marking I had never seen before. She smirked as she looked at me, daring me to challenge her on her own territory. She was about to meet someone she had never met before. She was wearing a small cape over her back, and I cocked an eyebrow at that, she was dressing up for the holiday too?

I raised my head above hers and looked down my nose, “Who are you?”

She giggled and skidded around me, swishing her mane and tail as she did so. I didn’t appreciate her avoiding the question. I asked again, “What are you called, mare?” She needed to learn that she was now ranked below me. I was the new leader in town. I had always taken control of any situation, and had always taken it upon myself to protect everyone around me. I felt like I should take responsibility of everyone around me and felt the need to protect everyone around me. This mare before me was now under my protection, but she needed to understand that I ruled the coop, and that I was in charge.

She circled around me like a predator who found its prey. I turned with her, keeping my eyes on hers. She leaned forward and took a sniff of me, “Where are you from stranger?”

I snapped my tail with annoyance, “I asked you a question. All will be answered when you answer mine.”

She looked at me a second before conceding, “Blair. Where are you from?”

“How many in your herd, Blair?”

“Ten including me. Don’t you understand me?”

“How many stallions?”

“Three. Where are you from!?”

I nodded with the answer, realizing I would need to possibly fight three other stallions. “I am from Desolo. I chose Kasey as my bonded and came home with her.”

She nodded and stopped circling around me, “That’s why you look so different!”

I chuckled, “Yeah, that’s why. Hey, why are you wearing such a small cape?”

She smiled before staking a few steps forward and touching noses with me, “It’s Halloween duh! Everyone is wearing them, not you though, but I guess you’re basically Halloween every day.”
I took this as a sign of acceptance, before letting her know, “I am in charge now and you all are now under my protection.” I winked at her, hoping to make her realize that I wasn’t such a jerk all the time, “I’ll keep you guys safe. I was born for the job.”

She smirked, “Maybe…” She leaned forward closer, and I watched what she was doing. She had seemed like a jokester to me before, and I couldn’t help but be a little bit leery. She took another step and then nipped my side. It didn’t hurt, but it was to test the waters and see how much I would take.

I didn’t like being treated as a play object. I am her protector, and I would keep her safe from harm. I know I hadn’t earned her respect yet but I now I need to demand it. I reared up on my hind legs a little way and slammed my hooves down on the ground, taking a sharp step toward her. She scuttled away from me and backed off.

I looked at her and hope she took the hint from the warning I had given. “I don’t like being nipped.”

“Yeah, I guess that’s how you get chry’s under your command,” She shook her mane and narrowed her eyes at me.

I chuckled at her, “I didn’t touch you at all, and I never harm anyone under my command. I just hate being nipped with a huge passion.”

She looked at me and glowered, “Still not nice…”

I stepped toward her and draped my head over her neck, resting myself on her cape, “It won’t happen again ok?”

She backed away from me and gave me a weird look, “OK… Promise?”

I realized that she was a child at heart and had only meant to spur me into playing. I had overreacted. “I apologize, and yes, I promise.” It took me a second, but then I realized that I had nine other chrysaoras to meet. “Can I meet everyone else?” The air around me was chilly, slightly nipping at my fur, but I knew that to gain the leadership that I desperately needed, I would have to earn the respect of those around me. This was my night though, and as Halloween slowly started to begin, I knew that I could do it. I was born for Halloween, this was going to be a good night.

[naumachy]

username;;
Level I
Level II
Level III
Level IV
Level V
Level VI
aah this sounds hecka cool ;0

[Astraela]

username;; laredo
Level I
Level II
Level III
Level IV
Level V
Level VI

[aray17]

username;; aray17
all tasks are posted here
Level I complete
Level II complete
Level III complete
Level IV complete
Level V complete
Level VI meeting another Chry, meeting a stallion, her best friend

[DarkestWerewolf]

username;; DarkestWerewolf
Level I - 107 words

Getting to Desolo all the way by foot would be a challenge. I took Sierra with me to hike up the mountain along with a guide. When we got to the town, it was as they said. Barren and quiet. Dilapidated houses and buildings stood silently as remains of civilisation fluttered around. Torn clothes, wrappers and empty tin cans blew in the wind.
My heart grew heavy. The sight was saddening and cold wind blew. Not a single animal or bird was in sight. I was out here curious of the mine and the rumoured Chrysaora. I knew I had to see it for myself to believe.
Level II - 191 words

As my guide was about to take Sierra down to the nearest town to rest up, a mysterious body along with thundering hooves flashed by. Sierra instantly reared and struggled. She was afraid. The guide quickly tried to calm her down and get her away as soon as he can.
I looked around for the figure. I cautiously wondered around, following the soft breathing from amongst the trees. As the creature emerged, I was rather shocked. It was definitely a Chrysaora but it was skeletal to the point that a normal Chrysaora wouldn’t even live. Parts of its skin was tearing off, its horn was beautiful and it had glowing eyes. It looked like a horse from storybooks or movies or even a manifestation of one of the Four horses of Apocalypse. It was standing there in all its glory.
Empty glowing eyes stared right back at me before slowly walking off. I wanted to take it. A beauty like that would be hard but definitely well worth. It had to be quick and efficient and the quickest way I know to a horse’s heart had to be food and treats.
Level III - 309 words

I followed the Chrysaora which led me to a small pond not too far from Desolo. The pond reeked of dead fish and whatever was inside. Nonetheless, it still drank the water. I felt pity for it and decided to let it drink some water I brought. There was an empty bucket not too far off and I reached for it before pouring some water into it and placing a carrot next to it. I slowly backed off from the items and sat down before softly whistling to the Chrysaora. It perked it’s ears and noticed the bucket and carrot. It cautiously approached the bucket of water and carrot. It sniffed the bucket a few times before drinking and scarfing down the carrot right after.
After it was done, I prepared a few small honey oat balls and tossed it in its direction. It sniffed the treat before eating it.
I slowly led it closer and closer until it was almost just an arm’s reach away. I took an apple out and presented it to the Chrysaora.
“Shh. That’s a good boy...” I cooed.
I slowly raised my other empty hand. The stallion was cautious and stared at both hands for a long while before deciding to take a bite of the fruit. As it did, I let my other hand graze it’s muzzle. The touch took it by shock at first and he quickly backed off but after sending no threat, it came back to eat again.
This time, I placed my palm on its muzzle and started to stroke it. A low rumble came from the stallion’s chest, it didn’t seem like anger, more of comfort. It soon finished the apple and it slowly backed off and stood in the distance before heading off. I wasn’t the least bit worried. I’ll definitely see him again very soon.
Level IV - 487 words

I stood up and headed back to town to prepare a place to stay. With the toxic fumes, the limit one could stay was no more than 3 days before they land in the hospital. I laid my backpack aside and took my sketchbook, a bottle of water and a rather bulky satchel of horse treats.
By mid afternoon, I saw the stallion once again. This time, he was brave enough to approach me but not too near. I tossed it an oat ball and it happily took it before approaching me for more. I gladly presented it an apple along with my hand next to it. This time, he didn’t back off and instead, ate it right off my hand and let me stroke it.
“Looks like you’re pretty brave huh? How about we try it without a treat this time?” I said to him.
The Chrysaora backed off after the treat and this time I presented both empty hands to him. It caught on pretty quickly as to what I had in mind. The stallion cautiously approached me, step by step. As soon as its nose made contact with my hand, I started to stroke him. The stallion didn’t hesitate after that and allowed me to stroke and pet him. His glowing eyes that seemed empty earlier now had a small spark in them. After a while, I slowly backed off and as a reward for his bravery, gave him a carrot which he gladly took.
The day soon came to an end and it was time to turn in for the night. I could feel the effect of the toxic fumes as I felt dizzy.
By morning, the dizziness wasn’t gone but something took me by surprise. As I stepped out of the abandoned inn, what i saw caught me by surprise. It was the very Chrysaora that I had met yesterday. He stood there waiting for me. I approached it and let it sniff my hand before petting it. I poured some water into a bucket and gave it to him which he gladly drank out of.
I spent the day at the mine, mining out some opals and a few other semi-precious gems, all while the Chrysaora stood outside, occasionally peeping its head in to look. After I was satisfied, I stood up and headed out, however, the toxic gas did take an effect and I felt weak. I stumbled and fell but as I braved for the ground, I felt something warm instead.
The stallion used his neck and body to brace my fall. As I used him as a support to get back up, I just stared at him in awe.
“I guess we’re buds now huh?” I laughed weakly.
The stallion gave a whiny as a reply. I stumbled my way back to the town as he walked by my side, helping me if I was about to fall.
Level V - 669 words

As we approached the town, the stallion started to head another way and was tugging at my clothes, as if urging me to follow.
“What’s wrong?” I asked.
He said nothing but by the looks in his eyes, he wanted to lead me somewhere. I nodded and followed. The stallion led me deeper into the forest behind town and up a steep dirt road. After a while, we got up to a tall hill that loomed over Desolo. The air was noticeably better and I wasn’t feeling as bad as before.
“Thanks so much.” I smiled, stroking his neck.
He nuzzled back in return.
“Hm...I should give you a name.” I thought out loud.
At the sound of that, the stallion got excited and neighed excitedly.
“I’d say that’s a yes. What shall I name you? Zorro?” I started.
The stallion stomped his hoof.
“I guess that’s a no. Caspar?”
Another stomp of his hoof.
After numerous tries, I was running out of names to suggest. I lied down in frustration but while doing so, accidentally kicking over my satchel and dumping out the stones I’ve mined and the remaining treats. However, instead of going for the treats, the stallion looked at the gems that I’ve mined. It then picked up one with its mouth and placed it in my hand.
“It’s a piece of gold. Hm...you like gold?” I asked.
I got a neigh in return.
“Well, there’s this name. Aurum. It means golden in Latin.”
The stallion neighed and reared happily.
“Aurum it is.” I laughed.
I fed him the remaining treats as we spent the remaining of the day on top of the hill. By night fall, we headed back down to the town.
“Hey Aurum. I’ll have to leave by tomorrow afternoon alright? It’s bad for my health to stay so long here. I hope you understand....” I said as I stood outside the inn.
Aurum had an unreadable expression on its face but gave a whiny in return. I smiled and turned in for the night.
By morning, the effects had gotten worse as not only was I dizzy but I was nauseous and dry heaving. Aurum was outside and sounded anxious. By the time I stepped out, Aurum quickly headed up to me.
“It’s okay boy. Just the gas around this town.” I muttered.
Aurum sounded heart-broken. It then did something I’d never imagine would happen. Aurum raised its head over my shoulder and sort of pulled me closer to his body in an attempt to hug. Tears unconsciously rolled down my cheeks as I hugged him in return.
“I’ll miss you Aurum...” I said.
By afternoon, Sierra and the guide had arrived. Aurum was there by my side.
“Goodness, you’re so pale. We’ll have to get you checked as soon as we leave alright?” The guide said.
“Aurum, this is Sierra, my mare.” I said, introducing the two.
Sierra was a little uneasy at first but eventually allowed to sniff the Chrysaora.
“Well...I guess it’s time to go.” I sighed, giving him one last hug.
Just as I was about to leave, I felt a tug on my collar. Aurum was pulling me back.
“Aurum, I have to leave, I won’t be able to live long here.” I explained.
The stallion neighed and whiny, occasionally stomping its hooves.
“I...I can’t understand you.” I said, tearing up.
Just then, Sierra started the neigh and nuzzled the pocket behind the saddle.
“It’s my spare bridle bag...” I muttered.
I took out the bridle and presented it to Aurum.
“Is this what you want?”
And with a look of determination, he gave a nod. I started sobbing tears of joy. After getting the bridle on Aurum, I looked at him and gave him a hug.
“Let’s go home.”
Aurum neighed and reared.
“I don’t have a saddle or a saddle pad so bear with me for a while.” I said mounting him.
With that, we headed down the mountain. It was definitely a rewarding trip.
Level VI - 1473 words in total
Settling in - 534 words

The hike back down to civilisation was long but peaceful. The autumn wind blew as we saw the sun slowly starting to set. The guide had called a trailer to help send my Chrysaoras home.
“Sorry if it was uncomfortable.” I said, rubbing Aurum’s back when I unmounted.
We loaded both of them into the trailer and was on the way back. Aurum peeped through the holes of the trailer to have a look of what’s outside. The evening sun setting in the horizon as the trailer crossed miles and miles of neverending plains was a beautiful sight for Aurum. Not only that but the air was significantly better than the barren land around Desolo. It was night time when we arrived. I led Sierra back to her stall first followed by Aurum. As we passed the other stalls, I noticed Aurum exchanging glances with Blitz, nothing hostile but he was wary.
“Alright buddy, this is your stall. It’s fall and it might get a little chilly so I’ll put a blanket. There’s fresh hay in the feed bag and water in that bucket.” I said.
After placing the blanket over Aurum, I gave him one last hug.
“Welcome to your new home, Aurum. I’ll have a vet check you out in about a week alright?” I said before leaving to care for Sierra and Blitz.
Aurum neighed in reply. After caring for Sierra and Blitz, I turned off the lights and headed back to the house to sleep. I had done my best to avoid Aurum from meeting the two first until he was comfortable with the place. He was placed in a separate pasture not too far from the bigger pasture where the two were. Everyday, I would check on them and groom them before leading them out to the pasture.
“Heya Aurum.” I called from the fence.
The Chrysaora heard and quickly trotted over to where I was, happily nickering me. I headed into the pasture where he was and started to groom him.
“So I hope you’ve been settling in okay.” I started. “Actually, you’re not the only new one here. Blitz over there came here about a few weeks ago.”
Aurum glanced Blitz who was at the other pasture. He gave a soft snort. I smiled as I continued brushing his mane and tail. It was somewhat therapeutic to just groom my Chrysaoras. It takes my mind off things and it helps to get the tangled locks out and make them beautiful as well. A week flew by relatively quickly. Blitz and Sierra were out in the pasture while Aurum had his vet check. Over the week, he was settling in pretty nicely.
“There seems to be nothing wrong with Aurum. He seems to be in tip-top health despite his appearances.” The vet said, summarising the details. “The detailed documents will be sent to you soon.”
After the vet left, I turned to Aurum who had a mild look of displease written on his face.
“I know boy. Vets aren’t the most pleasant thing but it had to be done.” I laughed.
Looks like Aurum has settled in pretty well so it’s about time he met the other two.

Meeting Sierra and Blitz - 436 words

A few days after the vet check, I led Sierra and Blitz towards the edge of their pasture. After a while, I brought Aurum forward. Sierra was more familiar with the new Chrysaora so she wasn’t too cautious or afraid as before.
“You two have met before. Sierra, this is Aurum. Aurum, this is Sierra. However, I don’t think you and Blitz have met, other than a few glances at each other every now and then.” I said.
Blitz and Aurum sniffed each other before their wariness soon faded off.
“He’s the Chrysaora that I conjoined with when I went to Desolo.” I said to the two. “Anyway, I’ll be letting him into this pasture alright?”
The two stood aside as to allow for me to lead Aurum into the pasture. I lead the stallion in. The two didn’t move, just curiously observing the new stallion. I took off the halter and Aurum started to wonder around. The pasture was so big. Soon enough, Aurum started running around, enjoying the new pasture. I smiled as I saw how happy he was. I doubt I’ve ever seen Aurum this happy before. He reared and neighed. Aurum trotted back to where I was before nuzzling me once more.
“Alright. You three play nice okay?” I smiled, shooing the trio off to play.
The 3 of them galloped off into the pasture and played around for the next few hours, all while I kept watch of them. Looks like they’ll get along just fine. By evening, all of them were considerably tired but in a great mood.
“Looks like you had loads of fun today huh, Aurum?” I said as I placed a blanket over him.
The stallion neighed in return.
“I’m glad you did. You seem to like it here a lot. I’m sure you’ll do just fine around here.” I smiled, buckling the blanket. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Over the next couple of days, I kept a close watch on the three in the pasture as they played and interacted. Looks like they’re getting along just fine. Aurum is on really good terms with Sierra and sees her as a little sister of sort. He’d willingly help her when needed and was protective of her, even when a bird decided to perch on her rump. Aurum hastily shooed the bird off. Said stallion also got along pretty well with Blitz though they don’t always see eye to eye, they have a friendly rivalry and would constantly compete with each other to see who comes out on top. However, at the end of the day, they’re still friends.
Properly breaking - 503 words

After about a month of being in the stables, Aurum has fully settled down. Today was a beautiful day and I decided to take Blitz on a trail ride since he hasn’t been on one yet and that stallion loves nothing more than to see the beautiful autumn leaves.
“I’ll be back soon!” I called out to Sierra and Aurum who were in the pasture.
Both looked up and Sierra soon turned her attention back to grazing but Aurum just kept looking. By the time I got back from the ride, Aurum was pretty angsty and was neighing, as if trying to say something. I quickly un-tacked Blitz and let him out into the pasture before attending to Aurum.
“What’s wrong boy?” I said, stroking his nose.
He neighed and reared a little before approaching Blitz’s tack that I placed on the fence and nudging it. It was at that moment that it clicked.
“You want me to break you?” I asked cautiously.
Aurum looked at me with willingness and determination. I smiled and nodded. He was already familiar with bridles and halters so that was already a good stepping stone. I led him into the smaller pasture and brought out a saddle pad.
“This goes on first. Just get used to it.” I said, placing it on him.
Aurum sniffed the tack before neighing in reply. Over the next two days, I constantly placed a saddle pad over him to get him used to the feeling before placing a saddle over.
“Well, despite your skeletal appeal, I think this should do it.” I said, buckling the saddle.
It did look a little odd on a Chrysaora as skeletal as him but not too bad. Aurum shook the saddle around and gave a whiny. It was going to take some time to get used to. I repressed the process like with that saddle pad but a few days longer this time. After I was confident that Aurum was fine with the saddle pad and saddle, I placed a bag of rice over it before leading him a few rounds around the stable.
“I know you’ve let me ridden you once before but it will feel different with the saddle and saddle pad.” I said.
Aurum snorted a reply.
Over the next week, I placed more bags of rice over him until I reached about 5 bags of rice. When he was comfortable with it, it was time I tried to ride him myself.
“Let’s give this a go.” I smirked, looking at him with excitement, his own eyes reflecting my own emotions.
With one foot on the stirrup, I pulled myself up and over.
“Great job, Aurum.” I said, patting his neck.
The stallion neighed in return. We made a few rounds around the stable before I got off. I gave him a few carrots and praised him. Over the next few days, I took Aurum out on the trail rides to let him see the beautiful autumn weather which he thoroughly enjoyed.