{ Søɳɢ øf Ƭɦɛ Ɖɛsɛʀʈ } Official DAM RP

[Temperance.]

{ Hmmm....looking at the front page...
I don't see any reason why we can't start now ^^ There seem to be a good amount of DAM's already.
So long as we don't go too crazy with posts I say we're good to start. I'll post a first post to set the scene. Just give me a couple minutes C; }

[Temperance.]

Mood: Pensive
Location: Near the oasis
Rank: Lead Stallion
Herd: Hamseen Herd
Love Interest: None
Tags: N/A

{ A R S E N I C }

Arsenic lifted his muzzle into the desert breeze that washed warmly over him. He had a thoughtful and brooding air about him, a sure sign that an intrusion into his thoughts was not welcome, and he appeared to be looking out over the endless desert that stretched for miles. The stallion let out a moody snort, things had been calm lately, too calm, it was worrying to Arsenic. He couldn't help but wonder what was going on in the Rimal Herd, he knew that there was a new lead in that herd, but what the new stallion was like...that was another matter entirely. Tossing his mane Arsenic turned and studied the oasis that stretched out behind him, roughly six miles out in every direction one would find plentiful grass and blessed shade from the hot sun. It was a little paradise in the midst of an unforgiving desert, but more than that, it was home to the Hamseen Herd, the herd that he -Arsenic- commanded. For that reason, and that reason alone, he knew that this unbearable silence could not be tolerated. He needed to know what was happening out there in the desert, and though he was loathe to let any of his herd members leave when their numbers were a little on the thin side...there didn't seem to be an alternative. So, resolved with his decision, Arsenic decided that he would send out Sand Phantom or perhaps Sinopia to scout out the territory, and perhaps do a little espionage work in the Rimal Herd.

For his part Arsenic had no desire to leave the beauty of the oasis, he had spent far too many years of his life traversing that rough terrain, and he would much rather oversee things from here for the moment. Besides, there didn't appear to be anything really amiss, so why overexert himself on a trek through the desert that would be completely meaningless? Tossing his mane the stallion let out a derisive snort and broke out into a gallop, true he wasn't about to go running over the hot sand, but at the moment a race across the soft green grass sounded appealing to him. So, pushing his muscles to their limit in a glorious show of vitality, he raced the desert wind back to the particularly luscious valley meadow that sat near the oasis. Perhaps he would run into Phantom or Sinopia on the way, it would make things easier for him, rather than having to go searching for them himself. Or, he thought to himself in dry amusement, perhaps he would run into some lone mares that could be convinced to join the herd...or if he was particularly unlucky, he'd run into his ornery mother Nightlock, the mare who had certainly earned her place as a defender of the herd. Shaking his head ruefully the silver bay stallion felt his body fall into the familiar rhythm of running as he continued towards the meadow.

[Bast-et]

Valiant
Crush- none
Affiliation- none (loner)
Mood- worried and interested

The desert went on and on under her hooves. No change in sight except the rolling orange dunes. She moved across them at an easy lope until the sun sank and she settled herself down to sleep the chilly night past.

Many days pasted like this.

She was tired, and her breath had become just slightly wheezy as she ran. She needed water, now. A mirage at the corner of her eye of an oasis tugged at her, but she knew it was just an image from the heated sands. But still her intense need pulled her up short and she watched the mirage hungrily. Might as well die following a dream than the empty sands.

and then she smoothly cantered down to the image.

But it didn't fade, or move away as she moved towards it: An actual oasis! Her white tail waved in a flag behind her, and she picked her flashing hooves higher. Her ears pricked forward with interest, and her nostrils widened as she smelled fresh water. At the very edge of the green grass, she was pulled up short by a small puddle of water. It was no bubbling spring of sweet water, but the warm, brackish liquid quenched the burning in her throat and left her feeling healthy again. But surely a haven like this is inhabited already...? The idea that she was intruding dampened her newly lightened spirits. She glided deeper into the territory with her head high and alert for other horses. Nevertheless, the lay of the land was such that a horse approaching from the center of the territory would still likely see her first. This knowledge frustrated her, and she shook out her long mane to rid herself of it- was that hoofbeats she heard?

[Temperance.]

Mood: Pensive
Location: Near the oasis
Rank: Lead Stallion
Herd: Hamseen Herd
Love Interest: None
Tags: N/A

{ A R S E N I C }

Arsenic was still running when the wind shifted, and with flaring nostrils he stopped and whirled suddenly. There was a new scent in the air, a mustang he had never scented before, mare if his nose wasn't betraying him. Letting out a snort that was half hopeful and half cynically amused, the stallion began to slowly walk towards the scent, wondering what kind of condition this intruder would have, and whether she would be the sort who could benefit the herd.

It didn't take him long to spot her.

She was walking hesitantly towards the heart of the oasis, no doubt unnerved by the fact that it was nearly impossible to walk in and still be aware of whether anyone was watching. It was yet another thing that he loved about the oasis. Holding himself still Arsenic continued his assessment of her, he'd admit it, she was a highly attractive mare, even though her coat was faintly dusted with the desert sand. Arsenic knew instinctively that she must be severely dehydrated and hungry to be wandering onto prime herd territory, unless she was completely daft the mare would know that such a beautiful oasis would be claimed.

Still, he didn't see that he had anything to lose by revealing himself to the mare and seeing how she'd feel about joining the herd. So with his course of action determined, Arsenic stepped out into her field of vision, lowerig his head enough that he seemed non-threatening, but drawing himself up in a way that showed he was in charge.

"Greetings stranger. You should know that you are standing on the territory of the Hamseen Herd." he said cooly, his ruby eyes assessing her thoughtfully, "You seem to have been traveling for a long while, I suppose I can lead you to the oasis, if you so wish. My name is Arsenic by the way, and I'm the lead stallion of this herd." he said it with a note of warning lacing his tone, a clear indication that if she tried anything funny, there would be no mercy reserved for her. The herds safety came first.

[Bast-et]

Valiant
Crush- none
Affiliation- none (loner)
Mood- excited and interested

The stallion that appeared and greeted her was exceptionally handsome, although Valiant had some previous experience with handsome stallions with traits made them less than desirable companions before. She eyed him warily, but he, the gorgeous and healthy lead in a bountiful land had the clear advantage over her, a weakened and wayfaring stranger. She introduced herself with reluctance. She hated having the disadvantage.
"I am Valiant, traveler of no particular destination since the erosion of my herds lands dried up our waters. Our herd fragmented and scattered across the sands. I apologize for my intrusion on your lands... But I would certainly appreciate any hospitality you offer" she finished with a small grin, looking up at the tall stallion through her lashes. Maybe it wasn't playing fair, but she was physically weak right now, and could use any help available to her. And, gosh, did she want the sand out of her coat. Oh, to be glossy and smooth again! She eyed Arsenic. He looked healthy and clean, a good sign; perhaps if everything was as perfect as they seemed, she could stay. She squashed that thought. Nothing is ever perfect

[wildly-unaware]

Mood - Irritated and dehydrated
Crush - None
Rank - Loner
Location - The small
Oasis at the top right of
the Rimal herd.

.:C o n A r t i s t:.

Conner galloped over the sandy grounds jumping the rocks in his way. He scanned the area around him half hoping for an oasis half hoping ti be alone. He slowed to a swift trot trying to make it easier for himself to find some source of water and grass and a place to take a rest. He had been travelling for hours and was very dehydrated. He didn't care that he was alone, in fact he was happy to be alone, that is just him. He looked deep in to one of the waves of heat that had made it even harder for him to spot an oasis. But then, his eyes lit up as he seen grass and trees and ... water! He galloped as fast as he could. The grass crunched under his hooves as he now cantered to the water. He drank until he couldn't no more and then went and lay down under a palm tree.

[Chasing Dreams]

Mood: Relaxed and hungry
Herd: Hamseen Herd
Rank: Stallion
Crush: none

B a n d e r

Bander's hooves stormed against the sandy desert, yet not leaving a single mark due to his five toed hooves. It was rather quiet outside, something Bander enjoyed very much so. His heart raced, creating a rythem with the booming of his hooves. He was so happy and relaxed. Yet rather hungry. His stomach growled, causing him to loose focus and trip. He feel to the ground, sliding on the hot sand. Bander let out a loud whinny. He quickly got to his feet and finished the rest of his travels by walking. His muscles ached now, and he sniffed around for the oasis.
Finally after roaming the ongoing desert plains. He spotted Arsenic, the leader of Hamseen heard. That must have meant Bander was at the Oasis. Arsenic never veered to far away from the oasis. "Arsenic!" Bander whinning, running into his good friend. Bander always felt like a child around him. He did respect the leader though, he was very good at respect, as Bander's parents, Shasta and Raven, always taught him.

[Temperance.]

Mood: Pensive
Location: Near the oasis
Rank: Lead Stallion
Herd: Hamseen Herd
Love Interest: None
Tags: N/A

{ A R S E N I C }

Arsenic's nostrils flared as he took in the scent of this most unlikely desert rose, even with her coat dusted with sand she was a lovely creature to behold, and Arsenic couldn't help but think that having such a mare in his herd would be no hardship. Her introduction interested him in various ways, of course it was good to know a little about her, but it also disturbed him that her herds oasis had dried up. The mare, Valiant, distracted him again with her soft blue eyes, which she batted at him from behind thick lashes. Letting out an amused snort that she was resorting to such measures, and also to bring himself back into focus since it was wretchedly effective, Arsenic tossed his thick mane and nodded.

"Then, as I said earlier, I shall escort you to the oasis." Flicking his tail he turned and began to walk into the shade of the trees in the direction of the oasis, tossing only one brief glance back at her over his shoulder. "Follow me." Before lifting his head high and continuing forward with an age-old confidence exuding from every pore.

He had only been walking for a few silent moments though when a sudden thought hit him, and the stallion turned to look at Valiant again. "And...earlier you mentioned your herds oasis drying up Valiant?" Her name rolled smoothly of his tongue, and Arsenic had to admit, he rather liked the sound of it. "Does that mean the previous herd members of yours might be ending up on my territory?" It was a thought that he wasn't at all fond of, contrary to that, it made him feel antsy and a little angry. The very thought of some upstart loner stallions potentially parading about on his territory...it just set Arsenic's teeth on edge.

It was one thing to have a few beautiful mares in need of rest and drink show up, they could benefit the herd and didn't present too big a danger, but if some fool colt started trying to mess with his herd...Arsenic would have no qualms about silencing that fool....permanently.

Lost in his thoughts the silver bay stallion didn't see Bander until the young stallion was nearly on top of him, his young voice calling out Arsenic's name in an almost wheedling tone. Letting out an amused and surprised snort, Arsenic tossed his head in greeting. He had an interesting relationship with the young stallion, though Arsenic generally only tolerated his herd members -considering them a responsibility and caring for them, yet not feeling any sort of kinship with them- Bander had managed to worm his way into Arsenic's heart, though that wasn't saying much, and Arsenic did tend to enjoy the youngling's company.

"Greetings Bander." He eyed the stallion who was glistening in sweat and sporting several new scrapes. "A run in the desert this morning I presume?" His voice was laced with faint amusement as he spoke. Remembering Valiant he turned to indicate her with his muzzle, "I'm afraid I can't stay and chat, as I have more pressing engagements to tend to at the moment. Namely that this mare is in need of drink and good rest. So if you'll excuse me Bander..." He gently nudged the male out of the way and continued walking towards the oasis. "Perhaps we can talk later." He said, finishing the conversation somewhat effectively and continuing on his way.

Mood: Bored and Irritated
Location: In the Desert
Rank: Defender
Herd: Hamseen Herd
Love Interest: None
Tags: N/A

{ N I G H T L O C K }

Nightlock felt the smooth movement of her muscles moving in perfection synchrony and felt satisfaction shoot through her. True, she had seen younger days, but at this point Nightlock felt the prowess of her body and was incredibly pleased. Tossing her mane vainly she relished the heat of the sand underneath her hooves, the way it caused heat to radiate down her belly, even the way her reddish coat glistened with sweat. All of it was glorious and wonderful to her.

Her mind shifted as she ran, turning to the fact that her son was the leader of the Hamseen Herd. Nightlock wouldn't lie. It appealed to her on some base vain level, though to be perfectly honest, she wasn't at all surprised that Arsenic had done so well, he WAS her son after all.

Smirking a little the mare wondered what he colt was up to at this moment, no doubt he was wandering the oasis brooding over some thing or another, such a paranoid stallion he was. Snorting in amusement Nightlock's mind drifted to think of the other two foals she had mothered since Arsenic. He, of course, wasn't aware of them, since Nightlock's focus had always been on her firstborn and the others had been raised quietly in secret. An unusual situation to be sure, but none of their history was normal, so perhaps it wasn't actually that surprising.

Idly Nightlock found herself wondering about the other herd members. They all seemed a little dull to her, but then, she hadn't exactly made any effort to get to know them. Not surprising really, with a history like hers one didn't exactly tend to make friends very easily. As it was she had only joined the herd because Arsenic had asked her to, and because a break from the tedium of her old life had seemed welcome. Now though...she found herself unsure about the whole endeavor, particularly given that her own mother -Calista- was a part of the herd.

Shaking her head in irritation Nightlock stopped on top of an orange dune and surveyed the scene before her, the oasis stretched out, almost further than the eyes could see, in every direction. Home. She thought to herself contentedly, somewhat surprised by the thought yet unwilling to analyze it further.

Feeling relaxed and not particularly motivated, the roan mare began to slowly pick a path down the dune, still enjoying the midday heat as she went.

[Chasing Dreams]

Mood: Relaxed and hungry
Herd: Hamseen Herd
Rank: Stallion
Crush: none

B a n d e r

Bander accepted Arsenic's greeting. "Yes, I was running and then tripped... as I always do." Bander grumbled to himself. "But anyways... woah!" Bander caught a glimpse of Valiant and stuttered. He decided it would be best to leave Arsenic and her alone. "All right, I'll go look out for strangers." Bander huffed and then was on his way again, running through the sand, with his mane flowing in the wind.
As Bander continued running his heart beating along with the speed of his gallop. Bander caught the sent of another horse. "Hum... I don't recognize this smell." Bander talked to himself. He was known for his "spy" like personality. Always being, sneaky, and talking to himself. Bander couldn't help it. He was a young stallion, and was always on the look out for adventure.

Bander hid behind a large cactus. Trying to stay close to it, but not enough for the cactus to poke him. He peered around the large spiky plant. But no one was there. Bander sighed and decided to search for some water. There was always water at the Oasis. But Bander had just left from there. Looking left and right, Bander searched for adventure. Nothing, nothing. There was nothing, this time of day was always the most boring.
Walking now with small strides, Bander continued on his way back to the Oasis. Feeling a little tired and not in the mood for running.

On his travels back, he spotted Nightlock. The leader's mother. "Hey! Nightlock!" Bander surprised himself that he knew her name, he didn't see Nightlock around a lot. Bander, running in his own clumsy way, stopped right in front of Nightlock. "How- are, you today- madame?" Bander said, in his french accent, inherited from his mother.

[Bast-et]

Valiant
Crush- none
Affiliation- none (loner)
Mood- tired and content
With- Arsenic

Valiant smilied as Bander and Arsenic talked... Bander was cute, in a puppy dog enthusiastic way, and she was instantly fond of him. But she approved of how Arsenic handled him also. Flawlessly polite, glad to see him, but not chatty. Somewhere in the back of her mind, Valiant knew that these were important traits in a leader in wartime, but she shoved the thought away. It was peaceful here, and what did she know of war? She skipped to Arsenic's question instead as Bander left them alone once more.
"I doubt it. Most of the herd tried to stay together and traveled further south; but several of us were scattered in a sandstorm and I chose to try to find our lost members. I never did find anyone." she said wistfully. "I was then unfamiliar with the land and was lost, surviving off of small patches of grass and the spineless cactus. Although I have to say I wasn't surviving too well when I found you." she finished. "And what about you?"
She found herself curious about the handsome lead stallion. Young, strong, and intelligent, he seemed to be the answer to a homeless mare's dream. But surely he had some flaw... Everyone did right? Hers was her stubbornness and occasional reckless action. Her mother's was vanity, and her father's was trust. Valiant couldn't guess what Arsenic's was. Being too attractive? she thought with a smile. But she quickly smoothed her face. No sense in giving any of her thoughts away. Yet.