𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐃𝐒 － open！！

[eventer]

❝ ＡＴＨＥＮＡ ❞

mare ■ fourteen years ■ 16"3 arabian warmblood ■ stallion; bjorn■ tags; herd

❝ ＩＭＰＥＲＩＡＬ ＤＡＲＫＮＥＳＳ ❞

imp ■ colt ■ few hours ■ mature 17"0 andalusion x arabian warmblood ■ mares; none ■ tags; athena, sire's herd

■ athena hadn't been with bjorn for as long as the other mares, only two or three years now, she had been with phantom for some time before being separated after a storm and had come across bjorn, it wasn't that athena was disloyal, but she was no fool, bjorn was strong and healthy, she saw no reason she couldn't become his mare, so she did. and had a foal to him each year. athena had been in labour for the last 17 hours, and she'd only left the herd about three hours ago and about thirty minutes ago, athena had given birth to a gorgeous ebony black colt. he bore the whitest star she'd ever seen, he was stunning, he'd stood in the first ten minutes and nursed five minutes after, in the first twenty minutes, he was already trying to move around,

a few hours after she'd licked him clean, rested for a short while, athena found herself leading the young powerful young colt back to his sire. he was only a few hours old, and he was already showing how strong he would be by the time he was a mature stallion. she was quite intrigued by him, he was already so powerful, he had a lot of spirit, he was already trying to run ahead of her, his instincts preventing him, but she could already tell, imperial was going to be quite the rebellious young foal, and would be handful for herself and bjorn.

with a soft huff she watched the ebony black colt dance just ahead of her, his long legs making him look a bit funny, but then again, any foal who was born with long legs, looked a bit funny. but she knew he'd grow into a strong well formed stallion.

as she grew closer to the herd, she looked to bjorn curiously and noted the two new comers, ears flicking back and she looked to the two young foals beside one of the two mares. with a flick of her tail, she snorted at imp for him to stop and lowered her nose to graze. after a few minutes she looked to bjorn and flicked her tail, almost inviting him over to greet his new colt, of course, athena wouldn't let him for too long, a few seconds at most to catch the colts scent, to learn imp's smell for future. ears twitching she watched her ebony colt stumble over his own feet when he tried to bound around her before coming back to nurse. she flicked an ear and nuzzled his hip before lowering his nose to graze once more, waiting for bjorn's response.

(imp is born black, he'll grow to be the black roan his photo is)


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❝ ＰＡＮＤＯＲＡ ❞

mare ■ sixteen years ■ 16"3 australian thoroughbred x mustang ■ stallion; phantom■ tags; herd

■ grazing off to the side of the herd, sorry no muse for her


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❝ ＭＯＯＮ ＢＥＦＯＲＥ ❞

artemis ■ mare ■ two years ■ mature 17"1 belgian warmblood x french anglo arabian ■ stallion; none ■ tags; open

■ artemis grazing next to a lake


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❝ ＳＹＢＩＬ ❞

mare ■ fifteen years ■ 15"3 australian brumby x english thoroughbred ■ stallion; titan■ tags; herd

■ the chestnut pinto mare stood just off from her herd, she's been keeping up enough as it was but being so heavily pregnant and due to drop in a week, slow was her only speed at the moment. her eyes flicked forwards towards her dark coloured stallion, and nickered softly before making her way towards him. her bond with him was a bit estranged, her affection was low, especially when his attention was distracted by his other mares, she had been with titan now for about 9 years, she had lost last years foal due to a fatal kick from a young stallion trying to claim her. she huffed softly and as she grew closer she stopped when something shifted in an unusual way behind her. flicking her ears towards thera, she watched how the leads stance changed, most horses in the herd would have probably thought sybil would lead the herd with her more experience and age, except she didn't like the authority that much. she was probably the most dominant in the herd, but authority over the group was not her thing... she'd only take over as lead if disrespect was thrown at her.

the pregnant pinto mare watched thera's gaze and looked to mazi, she furrowed her brow slightly, if she wasn't so heavily pregnant she'd back thera up, but she wasn't about to risk her unborn foal. she simply decided that if mazi was going to be difficult, sybil would put the young mare in her box, because no way was sybil going to let a smart a** young mare be a little brat, if she was smart, she wouldn't cross sybil, because it wouldn't take much for the older mare to put her in her box, otherwise, she'd have no worries with the youngster, but sybil would only return the respect to the young mare if respect was first given, it did not work the other way with older mares, young mares must first respect before it was returned, no matter the rank.

a sharp tinge in her stomach made her kick up lightly at her stomach, ears flicking back she took a step forwards with both front feet, so stretch her back a little. ears pinned back she snorted softly at the cramps in her stomach, she was going into labour, and from her experience with these types of pulls, it was going to be a long labour, she felt no need to leave just yet to foal, not until later tonight. that came with experience, knowing when to leave to give birth.

with a soft sigh the mare looked towards titan, twitching an ear with a soft nicker, letting him know what was going on and that she'd be leaving in a few hours to give birth to his tenth foal with her. she'd had a set of twins to him twice now, so made up for the lost foal last spring. with a flick of her tail over her haunches.

ears flicking the mare huffed softly, and lowered her nose to pick at the grass around her before glancing to thera and mazi, ears flicking curiously.

[lynettetan1]

(I just copied Thera's post wholesale, there is no change there. Didn't post for Dia, he's just kind of bumming around, he will come back later or something I guess.)

Midnight's Mirage
Tagged: Vira, Forseti, Astrid, Pandora
Mentioned: His herd, the other herds, Dia

Keeping his eye on the bachelor as he fleed, Phantom couldn't help but note how Vira flinched as his muzzle brushed a particular spot, couldn't help the aggression rising in his body. In response to her words, she stood, crashing into his body. Phantom simply kept himself upright and sturdy, letting her draw support from him, something he was experienced in doing with all his foals and was doing now, even if one of them was a little older than would have been necessary.

Nickering to Signe and the rest of the herd to form up around Vira, he flicked his tail decisively, imbuing the order with urgency. The bachelor and other bachelors were still about, and from the sounds of it, Bjorn's herd had arrived as well. The safest move would be to keep Vira and the foals together where they would be in the center, to make a center point he could protect everyone around. As Vira's sobs punctuated the air, Phantom nuzzled his daughter gently, comforting her without words. He was here, and he would always be here for her to come back to.

Then, Forseti lunged forward after the bachelor, and Phantom frowned, but did not take off after, given how Vira was leaning on him. He whinnied to the rest of the herd to ensure no one else would run after and split up the herd even further. Usually in Jotunheim, everyone was independent of spirit and strong of mind, so they often would go off after their own whims, which something Phantom encouraged. Here, where he couldn't guarantee their safety, however, it was bravery that teetered on the edge of foolishness. Luckily, Forseti was quite a formidable mare, and the bachelor retreated, causing him to come back, to speak gently with Vira and give her counsel. At that, Phantom relaxed, nudging Vira toward Forseti so the younger maiden could lean against her sister, leaving him free to patrol the herd. "You're safe with us, we've got you. Lets slowly move to the water to wash off, alright?" He whispered gently to her, lightly nuzzling Vira.

Nuzzling Vira gently in comfort, Phantom caught Forseti's apology, and nudged her gently, accepting the apology. She already knew why he would reproach her in such a situation, so he would not add to that even more. After all, sometimes, emotion could be good. Phantom was not so proud that he thought that his way was the only way. No, he knew that he was flawed and his children were very different beings, which was why he usually just wanted them to be true to themselves.

Speaking of his children, Phantom caught the familiar startling pelt of Astrid as she returned to the herd, and part of him felt like crowing at the return of one more of his missing herd. Resisting the urge to go and greet her, he nickered the same command go move closer to each other to Astrid as well, though he gave her a nod and a small smile of welcome.

With the herd forming up, he trotted a firm circle round them, before nudging them toward the water, though further downstream, both further away from the other herds and the bachelor. This was so there was less chance for a fight and so that the water they used wouldn't flow toward the other herds (seeing as they wouldnt be just drinking, it seemed like the right thing to do) Vira needed to clean out her wound just in case, and getting some water would be good. After all, looking at how everyone was starting to gather, they might grab some water whilst they still could, before more fights started coming up. Though everyone was tense right now, Phantom was by nature opportunistic, and he did hope that the water and fresh grass would make everyone feel a little better.

As he did so, Phantom nudged Pandora quietly as well, urging her on. Heavily pregnant as she was, he knew it would be better for her to set the pace so the herd did not leave her behind. It was odd, how this spring's foals were by the older members of the herd, but Phantom didn't dwell on that, instead nudging the herd forward and keeping his eye on the bachelor's silhouette and stamping his foot emphatically so the bachelor knew how he stood on this whole debacle.

Northern Quiver
Tagged: Cita, Mazi
Mentions: Alfheim herd

At Titan's whinny, Cita seemed to move, before slowly coming into view. Excited, Thera took a step forward, before she read the lines of Cita's body, the nervousness oozing off the first time mother. As if she wanted to make it even more obvious, the petite mare shifted, blocking what Thera assumed to be her little one from view. Slightly stung but knowing it was a reasonable response, Thera took a step back agreeably with a nudge and friendly nicker toward Titan-urging him toward the young one, before turning and moving a fair distance off. Though most of the mares were younger than she was and she had a tendency to treat them as such, perhaps it was high time to start seeing them as adults that could take care of themselves.

Thera remembered the first time she'd been thrust into the limelight, before Titan, even. A series of accidents had resulted in the deaths of the older mares, leaving Thera the oldest. Elly was there, as a young maiden, and Inkeri was to join them in another year or so, but most of the herd now had not seen Thera as anything but lead mare, even Titan. Which was a strange thought, to say the least. Thera was not the most submissive of mares, but most who saw her knew she preferred compromise to dominance, and any dominance the plain paint displayed was the teasing sort, for the most part.

Still, she had managed to hold her position, mostly by default. The walk here had shown that Elly would break under any such pressure, and Inkeri and Cita, whilst both nice enough, were also not the leading type. Perhaps Cita might have been, when she had been younger, but with the losses, her personality had sobered painfully.

But hearing Mazi's snort, Thera knew that Mazi was the chance for change. Quite a lot of the horses might feel a little unsettled, maybe even angry, but none of them would be able to stop the strongly built mare. Whilst Thera didn't hate leading, she did dislike the constraints placed on her because she had to lead, and if this mare wanted to fight for the rank, Thera wouldn't stop her.

All the same, she had her responsibilities. Mazi had been nothing if not reluctant toward joining the herd, and even now was only choosing to challenge her because her own instincts wouldn't let her stay still. Thera knew Mazi's type well. Whilst they were straightforward and loyal to those they believed in, getting to the top right away would only make it easier for Mazi to leave later, knowing that Thera was there to pick up the pieces.

Judging from Titan's behaviour, he definitely didn't want just one foal out of the angry mare. One surefire way to make a mare like Mazi stay, was for her to create a herd that she revamped and was now attached to. Though the mare might hate or love it, the fact was that types like her clung harder to a prize when it was hard won. Additionally remembering Heidi's defiance toward Mazi, Thera chuckled slightly to herself. It wouldn't look very good if she didn't even put up a fight.

As such, she really did need to make sure that the herd was in safe hands if she was going to let someone else take charge. Thera had seen Mazi's curiosity toward Cita's new foal, and Thera smiled, feeling more sure of herself at her choice. Try to hide it as Mazi might, she had heart. At the other mare's challenge, Thera simply looked over, seeming to evaluate it quietly as she locked eyes with the other mare. Thera could feel the tension heavy in the air, but she didn't let it faze her. She'd had to stare down stallions twice her size, and she'd led the herd through many an adversity. It would take more than intimidation to scare someone like her, even if she didn't fancy a fight.

Squaring up and spreading her weight evenly between all four hooves, Thera held her stance of neutrality strong, whilst simultaneously letting her years and wisdom show. Though she wasn't nearly as tall as Mazi, she was a sturdy mare, quick footed and with lots of endurance, and her eyes winked with the knowledge of plans made many steps in advance. Mazi was a strong, decisive mare, but Thera had to push her opinion forward to even Titan many a time before he allowed and appreciated her by his side. In some ways, Mazi wasn't quite so different as Titan, no matter how much she denied it. Thera could see the two being a powerful pair.

But still, she kept herself neutral. Not accepting nor denying Mazi's challenge, Thera slowly let her head lower, but not in submission nor to snake. Instead, she gracefully let her head drop to graze almost unfazed, though her eyes were still trained on Mazi, as were her ears. Her own message was clear. She had seen Mazi's challenge, and knew well enough to acknowledge what it meant. However, she wouldn't rebuke Mazi for daring to challenge her, nor would she shy away and roll over. You want me? Her dark eyes seemed to ask, twinkling quietly in their sockets.

Thera flicked her tail, spreading the mix of both her and Titan's scent thickly across the land to establish herself. She was a matriarch, strong, wise and coveted in her position. Then, the little mare smiled. Come and get me.

A City's Dream
Tagged: Citadel, Titan
Mentions: The herd

It happened really quickly. One moment she was surrounded by smiles and happy neighs, and the next she was under her mother. Not that it was a bad place to be, but Dream let out a soft whine of protest and confusion. Feeling her mother's tensed muscles and seeing the big stallion aggressively confronting another just as big shape beyond the barrier of his body, it was easy for Dream to come to a decision. This new horse wasn't welcome here, and was causing the ones she loved stress. Pinning her ears, Dream bared her teeth at the new horse, suspicious with how different this horse smelled. The stallion, whilst not smelling familiar, had that strand of a scent that was also in Cita's scent, the smell of the herd.

Her mother nuzzled her hip, and Dream let out an aggressive whinny toward the strange mare, her ears perking with pride when the mare seemed to lose her confidence at her actions. Dream nodded emphatically. Yeah, that's right, she thought, stamping a hoof. She nudged her mother, nuzzling her gently as she looked up and tried to copy her mother's posture to scare away the bigger mare.

At her father's words (Dream had kind of implicitly realised that he was something like that to her), Dream let out another whinny, taking a halfstep forward as if to support her father's words, ears pressed firmly against the tufts of growing hair that was her mane. This mare couldn't just come up here and be bad without her permission too.

[Queen Lapis]

Mjölnir
5||Earl||Foaless||Mateless||Mentions: None|| Tags: Phantom's herd

Mjolnir’s prize wouldn’t be getting away so easily.

In the midst of the fight, the maiden leapt away back to the safety of her herd. Mjolnir witnessed this, and gave chase. His ears slipped into his thick mane, and he attempted to snake back this foolish maiden. But Astrid, being of Jotunheim blood, was quick to thwart his attempts with her surprisingly superior speed.
At last, Mjolnir fell back and watched her race away to a large gathering of horses, no doubt the Jotunheim herd. Curious of this new discovery, Mjolnir continued to approach. This was the perfect opportunity! Mjolnir could finally score himself a few mares. Or he could even become a king!
A king. Ruling over his herd. Racing through land that was his. Siring foals of his own. It would be a perfect life...
A sudden stamp caught Mjolnir’s attention, and his head snapped to the west. Not far from the gathering of mares was a black stallion, presumably the King of this herd. The King stood tall, as though attempting to ward off the intruder. Mjolnir snorted and turned his head. It seemed other bachelors had similar ideas in mind.
But as of now, the king was distracted with another of Mjolnir’s opponents. That left the herd’s flank wide open for attack…
So Mjolnir did what any other young, hot-headed Earl in his place would do.

He charged straight into the mass of unexpected mares, ready to claim his reward.

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[/quote]

Vira
2||Maiden||Gestating || Foalless || Mateless ||Mentions: None || Tags: Phantom's herd

Vira slowly moved along with the herd, unwilling to risk her safety again. A new sort of previously unknown fear had been instilled in her, one that overrided all forms of bravery and daring she previously held. Valhalla was not a safe land. Valhalla was not the nurturing, cherishing haven Vira thought it was. Valhalla was a cruel, crude world. No horse was an exception to its rules.

New life had begun to form inside Vira. This foal of a monster would be Vira’s child. She’d have to raise it and protect it, as a punishment for her foolishness. This foal was the burden of foolish kindness she had for her sister. This foal was a reminder of exactly how weak This foal was a manifestation of her mistakes, flaws, and weakness. She’d despise the existence of this wretch. She’d hate her foal with all her heart.

A wet sensation brought Vira back from her trail of thought. She gazed down at the water lapping at her hooves. Nickering a thanks to Forestir, the maiden slowly slid into the river and planted her hooves into the sand. Her wound stung as water washed over her withers, but the pain soon subsided to a throb. Blood-filled waters washed downstream, to where the monstrous Earl still stood. Vira froze upon sighting him, and quickly splashed out of the water.

Regaining enough strength, Vira now stood on her own four hooves. Yet she remained near Forestir, for fear of falling again. Not too far away, Vira caught sight of a familiar pelt, quite similar to her own. Astrid stood nearby, silently talking to Signe. Unspoken relief overtook Vira, but it was quickly replaced with silent rage. Her twin was back. And everything for her had been just perfect.

Vira pinned back her ears and stomped her hoof like a stubborn, overgrown foal. She marched over to her sister, tears obvious in her eyes, and gave her a good bump on the shoulder.

“Where were you!?”


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Stjerne
2||Maiden||Heat Stage 2 || Foalless || Mateless ||Mentions: Eliza || Tags: Open
Stjerne glanced over her shoulder, sighing at Eliza. Her chest ached for the Valkaryie’s safe and warm touch; one that Stjerne had rejected so many times before. She longed for the safety and kindness Eliza once again extended towards her.

But Stjerne simply turned back around, snorting a half-hearted farewell to Eliza.

And with that, she was off again. She fought the hesitation that made her pause her steps. She fought the urge to look back. Her head was thrown back in pride.

But she couldn’t have gotten as far as the horizon, when he entire stature slumped. Tears stung her eyes, and her movements became slow and sluggish. As she glanced back she saw Eliza, Sammael, and Ylva’s figures engulfed by a rainy mist.

It was only now that Stjerne, out of sight and presumably out of earshot from any other horse, fell to her knees. A series of heart wrenching sobs filled her chest. Each one sent a violent jolt through her body.

After many moments, Stjerne finally rose. She continued to make her way away…

Alone as ever.

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Bullet
8||Lone Valkyrie|| Heat Stage 1||Foalless||Mateless||Mentions: None|| Tags: Open
The face of a scarred, chestnut mare pushed through a row of bushes that lined the border between the outside world and Valhalla. With her sole good eye, she scanned the horizon. A crack of thunder roared to the Valkyrie, and a flash of lightning illuminated her scar-laced pelt. Clouds gathered above her, casting shadows onto her. A soft patter echoed through Vallhalla; another wave of rain. Droplets smacked on the mare’s pelt, slowly washing away the blood of the human that had been her master. Now he was but ghost; dead and distant.
The wind seemed to call to her a name of distant past:
Skyette…
The mare simply ignored the call.

Skyette was the name of an innocent filly and adventurous maiden, who had been foolish enough to venture past the borders of Valhalla.

This mare was one who had killed in the name of men, and whos ultimate purpose was to survive. She was named for the weapon that had given her so many scars, and killed so many of her comrades.

Bullet…

With a sigh and snort, Bullet pushed out of the bushes and into the lands of Idavoll. Lush grass tickled her hooves as she trotted through it, unfazed by the storm. In the distance, herds of horses could be seen making their way back to their lands. No doubt it was to seek shelter from the Gods’ Wraith.

The Gods’ Wraith...

Bullet scoffed at the thought.

The Gods could be much crueler than simply storm.

And Bullet spoke from experience.

So Bullet trotted forth towards the Falls with an odd gait. A leather saddle encircled her torso, squeezing her with every breath she took. Her bridle forced her head back into painful posture. Bullet’s body merely gave into these pains.

To her the bridle, the saddle, the gait, and these grotesque scars were all a part of her.

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[/quote]
(2/4 of these are just reposts)

[xCatastrophex]

Ａ ＬＡＲＫ'Ｓ ＳＯＮＧ.

─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

lone valkyrie ❈ six years ❈ deaf ❈ tags; hnitbjorg herd, Alfheim herd(mentioned) ❈ location; Franang's Falls.

Lark snorted softly as the falls came into view; wary of what might ensue with such a large gathering of herds and bachelors alike. Though, all seemed serene at the moment, but she knew with so many bodies in one space, things were sure to heat up eventually. Especially since the herd would be a bit distracted. She flicked her mud matted tail and scanned her surroundings, She could sense the eyes on her from earlier and she couldn’t help but feel uncomfortable. She didn’t understand why people had to be so judgemental. Then again, she was unaware of the pact that was broken because of her. She simply rolled he her eyes and continued on following the herd to the far side of the falls, away from all the others.

She held off on going directly into the water, instead she stayed up on the bank, keeping watch as the others took care of themselves first. Especially Vanir, Rhae and Athena; since they had offspring with them. It wasn’t that Lark thought they were incapable of keeping a good enough eye on them, she simply figured four sets of eyes were better than three. The palomino mare shook he mane and lowered her head momentarily to nip at the lush green grass that grew along the bank, soon lifting her head again to survey the area. She was just about to lower her head once more to graze, but movement from the other side of the falls caught her attention. She narrowed her eyes and snorted softly as she watched a young bachelor harge right into the middle of Titan’s herd, trying his luck at snagging a few of his mares. Lark chuckled inwardly as she knew Titan would not let him go unscathed fr even thinking he could.

Lark flicked her tail again, finally deciding to leave her spot on the bank and go clean up a bit. She was beyond ready to rid herself of the mud that caked her golden coat. She waded in, areul not to splash the little ones playing just a few feet from her and the others. She took a long gulp of the crystal clear water, before finally having a good roll. The water felt wonderful, and was much needed since she hated the feeling of dry mud. Contented with her cleanliness, Lark moved back up onto the bank, shaking the excess water from her body and began to graze lazily next to the others as she basked in the warm sun to dry off.

[evixtus]

♕ O Y D I S ♕
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sydney ● 16 ● hnitbjorg valkyrie ● stage 3 > gestating ● location: hnitbjorg > idavoll
tags: bjorn ● mentions: n/a

Relishing in her champagne stallions attention, her cerulean gaze flickered with slight lust as he swung a leg over her back, letting her know that he was willing to help her out with her current. . .predicament. Easily catching on to what he was implying when he spoke of privacy, Oydis was no foolish valkyrie. She teased him with lashing her tail against his jawline, proceeding to reveal more of what she wanted, his whole undivided attention.

As her pet name slipped from his velveteen kissers, a shiver of ecstasy rippled up her spine. Though she was one of the oldest in the Hnitbjorg herd, she couldn't help but feel like a frisky maiden when he said certain things that made her heart coil with affection or peculiar actions that caused clenching in her lungs. He was certainly the best pick of the kings in her mind, and she would brag about him to the others if given the chance. She knew the other valkyries within his reign would agree. Though those outside the herd would lack such enthusiasm about him, the only reason she had not spoken highly of him was because of the reputation she had to upkeep.

Once the other valkyries had wandered off towards Idavoll through the thick shrubbery Hnitbjorg was famous for, Oydis took advantage of the privacy and pressed her rump flush against his chest with a flick of her tail to the side. [fade]

♕ I N K E R I ♕
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ink ● 8 ● alfheim valkyrie ● stage 3 ● location: hnitbjorg > idavoll
tags: ingrid, herd ● mentions: thera, mazikeen

Though her adopted fillies company was sudden in both arriving and leaving, Inkeri couldn't help but shake her head slightly and chuckle to herself. Ingrid was a character, and the pinto mare knew that this was normal. Letting her thick plume wash against her hindquarters as she followed her herd out of the Hnitbjorg territory and into Idavoll, she let her thoughts wander towards the future that was soon to arrive. What would her next foal look like once it arrived? Though she hadn't been covered, the young mare couldn't help but imagine what she wanted the most: a young black colt who would be the ideal heir to the Alfheim herd. Though his life may not be guaranteed or surely arrive at all, Inkeri wouldn't stop imaging such a wonderful future. With a pep in her step, she happily stopped once the rest of her group did and dropped her head to nibble on the wet grass beneath her feet.

The feathering atop her hooves were picking up the moisture quickly and causing the long fur to stick to her legs, a slightly uncomfortable feeling, but she had learned to tolerate it, inheriting such a trait from her own mother. Within the next few moments, Ink couldn't help but watch drama unfold around her. Citadel had returned to the herd, with a cute little filly prancing by her. Finally, the white mare had been gifted by the gods with her first living foal. A smile graced her lips as she nickered a congratulations to the older valkyrie, and then she dropped her head once again. Though her moment of peace was short-lived, as the next thing she knew was that Mazikeen and Thera were beginning a neutral chaos for lead mare. She paid no mind to it, they could do what they wanted. To top off the partially happy and dominating moment, another surprise bounded into the Alfheim herd. Inkeri's eyes automatically rolled as a young bay mare accused Titan of random ordeals before realizing he in fact was not Sammael.

Catching word that Titan had a younger brother quirked her interest, but she heeded no other thought as she bumbled over to Ingrid and began to groom the maiden's mane calmly. "We never get a break, do we?" She humbly chuckled.

♕ S I G N E ♕
▙ ▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▟
sign ● 11 ● jotunheim valkyrie ● gestating ● location: hnitbjorg > idavoll
tags: otabeka, astrid, vira, mjolnir ● mentions: dia, forseti, stjerne, eliza, haukr, bjorn

Though the mare would've preferred to bond with her colts and take the walk home to regain most of the energy she had worn off through the birthing process, it seemed that was never a possibility when it came to the Jotunheim herd, or Valhalla's inhabitants in general. While the herd was full of rambunctious young maiden's who had their own ideals, Signe couldn't help but verbally sigh at the drama occurring within her family. Though part of her was comforted by it. If some sort of drama was not fizzling in the air, there was something wrong, and it was always a bad omen.

While Phantom fretted over three of his mares mysteriously disappearing, the pinto mare dropped her head to nudge Vidar and clean his blood bay coat. He payed no mind to her and went off on his own schedule, prancing with high knees and flagging his tail off behind him, attempting to get the attention from the others in the herd he so wished to gain. Rolling her blue and brown eyes, she decided the other colt would accept her endearing affections and she continued her ministrations on Otabeka instead. Her mind wandered to how he found her, and what had happened to his birth mother, but she took it as a blessing. Though raising a rambunctious colt was difficult, at least she would have Beka there to ease her worries and remind her that life is always going to be a challenge in Valhalla.

After cleaning Otabeka's coat to her liking, she gave a soft huff of approval before focusing back in on the herd drama excelling around her. Vira had returned, thanks to Phantom chasing off an annoying earl. It was obvious that this earl had inflicted the wounds onto the young maiden and covered her, making Signe's blood boil just at the thought. While Forseti took care of Vira, Signe felt a slight weight pressed against her spine, and turned to see the older twin, Astrid, seeking comfort. Craning her neck to nuzzle the maiden, she as well took in the scent of two other earls. One she knew, Haukr. The other she was unfamiliar with, though his smell was similar to that of the Ironborn's, so she assumed he was progeny to the King.

"I'm pleased to see that you're alright." She nickered soothingly to the young maiden, grooming her gently. "From what I can tell, Vira has been abused and covered by an earl who was the opposite of kind to her. Eliza is still missing, and you've returned, so all is well for now. Stjerne has yet to return, to top it off." As soon as she heard a discomforted snort from Vidar, she whinnied to him, demanding he return to her side at once. Thankfully, the brash colt listened. Though once he had arrived, it seemed all hell was breaking loose around her. Vira came storming up to speak to her twin, and then a young earl came blasting through the group, charging straight towards Signe and her colts.

The adrenaline surged through her body like Thor's wrath as her mind flipped a switch. The only thought she could hold onto was to keep her colts, Vira, and Astrid safe from this stallion. He was young and inexperienced, and obviously didn't know when a mare felt her foal(s) were threatened, she'd become a nightmare herself. Darting forward between the Appaloosa patterned maidens and accidentally knocking Vidar out of the way, she let out a loud, threatening cry from the bottom of her throat as her cinnamon colored ears pressed flush against her mane. She attempted to barrel slam Mjolnir, and then proceeded to pivot on her fores and kick with such ferocity that even she didn't recognize the power she was using. With another screech, she pushed her body to the limits to yield this stallion away from her babies, and her family.

[lynettetan1]

Midnight's Mirage
Tagged: Mjolner, His herd, Dia
Mentioned:

Phantom knew that Signe would have greatly preferred heading back to Jotunheim, muddy coat or no. Still, with the high plateaus in his homeland, there wasn't any ready water source. Whilst they were out, it was good for the herd to try to stock up by getting some food and water before they went back to Jotunheim once more. She seemed more than a little exhausted, and he was willing to bet that he looked the same way, but the danger wasn't over.

Still, when Vira chose to go start a quarrel with her sister instead of getting some water and washing her wound, Phantom held in a long suffering sigh. Whilst he loved his children, they all seemed to have a knack for getting in the worst of situations. Turning toward Vira and Astrid, he let out a low whicker of annoyance, telling the Vira to let it go. "Settle your differences if and when we get back to Jotunheim. We're not safe out here."

Just as he had said so, the bachelor from before slunk closer, making him take a few charging steps, which had the bachelor backing off in a hurry. His ears pumping with adrenaline, he didn't quite hear the hoofbeats till it was too late.

Signe's scream tore through the valley, making Phantom do a slight rear in surprise, before he pivoted quickly. His eyes quickly found his mare, kicking at Mjolner with a force he would have praised her for if they were in a less dangerous situation. Swiftly moving around her but not cutting in front of her-he didn't want to get accidentally kicked, what with the intensity of her wrath-, he quickly lowered his head and bit at the other stallion's knees whilst he was distracted with Signe, causing him to buckle. Whilst Phantom wasn't a violent stallion, and he often preferred to settle things with words, the time for words was clearly over.

Having made the bachelor fall, he reared, slamming his hooves down toward the other horse, his ears all but gone into his mane. He did want to help the others, but also knew that if he took up the attack, Signe and the rest of the herd would be able to get everyone together and safe. Letting out a ringing neigh, he pivoted quickly to throw yet another buck at Mjolner, before pinning his ears at his herd, snaking them away diagonally so both Mjolner and Dia were both away from the herd in a way where he stood between both those bachelors, not willing to take any chances.

Not stopping his barrage of attacks, Phantom lunged forward, his teeth bared, ready to bite and chase. Being in neutral land and with two stallions here, Phantom was not going to take any chances whatsoever. His rage at Dia's actions as well as the hurt cries of his family rung in his ears, beat in his blood.

Phantom was not in the most forgiving of moods.

Northern Quiver
Tagged: Cita, Mazi
Mentions: Alfheim herd

At Titan's whinny, Cita seemed to move, before slowly coming into view. Excited, Thera took a step forward, before she read the lines of Cita's body, the nervousness oozing off the first time mother. As if she wanted to make it even more obvious, the petite mare shifted, blocking what Thera assumed to be her little one from view. Slightly stung but knowing it was a reasonable response, Thera took a step back agreeably with a nudge and friendly nicker toward Titan-urging him toward the young one, before turning and moving a fair distance off. Though most of the mares were younger than she was and she had a tendency to treat them as such, perhaps it was high time to start seeing them as adults that could take care of themselves.

Thera remembered the first time she'd been thrust into the limelight, before Titan, even. A series of accidents had resulted in the deaths of the older mares, leaving Thera the oldest. Elly was there, as a young maiden, and Inkeri was to join them in another year or so, but most of the herd now had not seen Thera as anything but lead mare, even Titan. Which was a strange thought, to say the least. Thera was not the most submissive of mares, but most who saw her knew she preferred compromise to dominance, and any dominance the plain paint displayed was the teasing sort, for the most part.

Still, she had managed to hold her position, mostly by default. The walk here had shown that Elly would break under any such pressure, and Inkeri and Cita, whilst both nice enough, were also not the leading type. Perhaps Cita might have been, when she had been younger, but with the losses, her personality had sobered painfully.

But hearing Mazi's snort, Thera knew that Mazi was the chance for change. Quite a lot of the horses might feel a little unsettled, maybe even angry, but none of them would be able to stop the strongly built mare. Whilst Thera didn't hate leading, she did dislike the constraints placed on her because she had to lead, and if this mare wanted to fight for the rank, Thera wouldn't stop her.

All the same, she had her responsibilities. Mazi had been nothing if not reluctant toward joining the herd, and even now was only choosing to challenge her because her own instincts wouldn't let her stay still. Thera knew Mazi's type well. Whilst they were straightforward and loyal to those they believed in, getting to the top right away would only make it easier for Mazi to leave later, knowing that Thera was there to pick up the pieces.

Judging from Titan's behaviour, he definitely didn't want just one foal out of the angry mare. One surefire way to make a mare like Mazi stay, was for her to create a herd that she revamped and was now attached to. Though the mare might hate or love it, the fact was that types like her clung harder to a prize when it was hard won. Additionally remembering Heidi's defiance toward Mazi, Thera chuckled slightly to herself. It wouldn't look very good if she didn't even put up a fight.

As such, she really did need to make sure that the herd was in safe hands if she was going to let someone else take charge. Thera had seen Mazi's curiosity toward Cita's new foal, and Thera smiled, feeling more sure of herself at her choice. Try to hide it as Mazi might, she had heart. At the other mare's challenge, Thera simply looked over, seeming to evaluate it quietly as she locked eyes with the other mare. Thera could feel the tension heavy in the air, but she didn't let it faze her. She'd had to stare down stallions twice her size, and she'd led the herd through many an adversity. It would take more than intimidation to scare someone like her, even if she didn't fancy a fight.

Squaring up and spreading her weight evenly between all four hooves, Thera held her stance of neutrality strong, whilst simultaneously letting her years and wisdom show. Though she wasn't nearly as tall as Mazi, she was a sturdy mare, quick footed and with lots of endurance, and her eyes winked with the knowledge of plans made many steps in advance. Mazi was a strong, decisive mare, but Thera had to push her opinion forward to even Titan many a time before he allowed and appreciated her by his side. In some ways, Mazi wasn't quite so different as Titan, no matter how much she denied it. Thera could see the two being a powerful pair.

But still, she kept herself neutral. Not accepting nor denying Mazi's challenge, Thera slowly let her head lower, but not in submission nor to snake. Instead, she gracefully let her head drop to graze almost unfazed, though her eyes were still trained on Mazi, as were her ears. Her own message was clear. She had seen Mazi's challenge, and knew well enough to acknowledge what it meant. However, she wouldn't rebuke Mazi for daring to challenge her, nor would she shy away and roll over. You want me? Her dark eyes seemed to ask, twinkling quietly in their sockets.

Thera flicked her tail, spreading the mix of both her and Titan's scent thickly across the land to establish herself. She was a matriarch, strong, wise and coveted in her position. Then, the little mare smiled. Come and get me.

A City's Dream
Tagged: Citadel, Titan
Mentions: The herd

It happened really quickly. One moment she was surrounded by smiles and happy neighs, and the next she was under her mother. Not that it was a bad place to be, but Dream let out a soft whine of protest and confusion. Feeling her mother's tensed muscles and seeing the big stallion aggressively confronting another just as big shape beyond the barrier of his body, it was easy for Dream to come to a decision. This new horse wasn't welcome here, and was causing the ones she loved stress. Pinning her ears, Dream bared her teeth at the new horse, suspicious with how different this horse smelled. The stallion, whilst not smelling familiar, had that strand of a scent that was also in Cita's scent, the smell of the herd.

Her mother nuzzled her hip, and Dream let out an aggressive whinny toward the strange mare, her ears perking with pride when the mare seemed to lose her confidence at her actions. Dream nodded emphatically. Yeah, that's right, she thought, stamping a hoof. She nudged her mother, nuzzling her gently as she looked up and tried to copy her mother's posture to scare away the bigger mare.

At her father's words (Dream had kind of implicitly realised that he was something like that to her), Dream let out another whinny, taking a halfstep forward as if to support her father's words, ears pressed firmly against the tufts of growing hair that was her mane. This mare couldn't just come up here and be bad without her permission too.

Diamond in the Rough

When Phantom had turned away to address his mare, Dia had snaked forward, trying to get in a better position to regain his mare. The seal bay had turned around remarkably quickly, however, and his behaviour quickly had Dia stepping hurriedly away, waiting for a better chance.

Amazingly, it seemed to come. Another bachelor dashed into the herd, scattering the other horses-Mjolner, he had lingered around the land a few times, and Dia knew of him, even if he had never met him personally. In the chaos, he lunged forward, trotting around and trying to get at Vira, avoiding the big mare that had chased after him before.

Unfortunately, the stallion seemed to have been prepared for this, as with an aggressive movement, he corralled the herd so both him and Mjolner could no longer trap the herd between the both of them, before raining hits on Mjolner. Not quite sure how to react, Dia took a step back, unsure, waiting to see if he got injured enough that Dia could lunge forward once more.

[azhefa.]

xxxx
⚜ ° ＡＺＡＲＩＡＳ ° ⚜
{ ɪ ᴡɪʟʟ ᴅᴏ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪ ᴍᴜꜱᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴀʟᴀɴᴄᴇ }
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no nickname ● age unknown ● oracle ● no prophecies ● location; idavoll [falls]

tags; saorise
the drama that unfolds in the jotunheim herd was quite amusing to watch, especially when a young bachelor decides to charge in to attempt a theft of a mare over twice his age. azarias snorts a laugh to himself at the earl's foolishness and is pleased to see how quickly phantom reacted to the attack. many may not know of the divine intervention that occurred to secure their roles as leaders, but the golden oracle sure does. luck played no part in the battles for leadership, the gods simply wanted a regime change and chose the three stallions to carry it though. the gods seemed just as pleased as he was with the choices since the wind whispers around him pleasantly. it wasn't much of a surprise when a white splashed mare appears off to the side of him, but nothing really surprises him much anymore. azarias twists an ear in saorise's direction as she moves closer, her curiosity abundantly clear. when she speaks a question, the golden stallion doesn't turn to look at her like another would, his pale blue eyes still glued on the horses out before them. "their antics are quite amusing, that's for certain," the oracle muses lightly, his amusement clear in his silky voice. the way he speaks wasn't like other horses, his voice holds a mysterious edge like the air around him. "you don't fancy any of those kings, do you saorise?" the winds supplied him with her name and he could just tell from her tone of voice that she wasn't very interested in joining the drama before them.

[cheshire.]

ＨＥＩＤＩ ── ❝ it might make them mad but it will make you free !! ❞
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( alfheim descendant ) ( 3 ) ( mare ) ( tags: irmela, thera, ingrid, citadel) ( location: franang's falls)

Waiting on Ingrid and Irmela, neither whom have posted. Will move her on if no response is made.

ＥＬＩＺＡ ── ❝ the safety of my family is the highest law !! ❞
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( jotunheim valkyrie ) ( 4 ) ( mare ) ( tags: signe, ylva, sammael, phantom, herd, mjolnir, dia, azarias) ( location: franang falls ) ( in gestation )

Eliza had been eager to return to her herd the moment she had left. Being in the company of Sammael and Ylva had not been all bad though the young mare had made a foolish mistake and her eagerness to be home was replaced with shame. She had thought herself grown but now knew how easily her mind could be swayed into decisions her sane self would not make. Walking beside the duo, Eliza's cheeks grew hot as they neared the falls. How could she explain to Phantom the silly decision she had made? Despite her humility, what worried her more was how he would react. She knew for sure he would not be mad and would likely accept her despite her foolishness. This reaction would be the worst Eliza could get. Somehow she would feel better if the stallion were to punish her. Eliza had been working rigorously to gain his favour and lead the herd. Signe and Pandora were older but both were kind and Eliza wanted to rise above that in order to make a name for herself.

Now coming into the vicinity of the three kings, she feared she had lost her chance. Even though she was disgusted with her actions, Eliza couldn't stop the leap in her heart when she saw Phantom. The mare cried out to him, her tail raising and ears lifting joyously. She recalled Sammael and Ylva behind her and turned to them, "I will vouch for your character should anyone think to remove you." She stepped forward and nuzzled Ylva, feeling an attachment to the mare that had defended her. Eliza knew she should not touch Sammael any more than she had. His scent lingered on her backside as she approached the kings, nodding her head respectfully to Titan as she passed him and giving a nicker of affection towards her father.

When she neared Phantom she said nothing but the apology was evident in her eyes. "I could not bring back Stjerne," she whispered hoarsely, feeling awful for adding such bad news on top of what she already had. "Sammael and Ylva escorted me here safely, though," she gestured to the two, regarding Phantom quietly. From in front of him, she could see Signe had birthed. Twins? They looked so vastly different. "The gods give fortune to our herd," she said to Signe, her smile warm and happy, "Two fine young gentlemen indeed."

No sooner had she spoken of fortune when Mjolnir appeared from the brush and charged straight for them. Eliza had been facing away from him so only just managed to leap to the side as Signe seemed to puff up, growing in height as she went on the defense. It took Eliza a mere moment to recognise her half-brother and jumped back with a snort, quickly regaining her footing. Phantom quickly appeared on the scene and effectively pushed the earls away. Looking at them they seemed not even half Phantom's age and the dun looked unsure of himself. Eliza didn't know the full situation as to why they were both targeting Phantom but she would not stand by. Younger than them all, her mind raced to strategise in a manner that would benefit the herd without carelessly throwing herself into the fray.

Darting forward she appeared by Phantom's side and raised her head in the direction of Mjolnir, "What are you doing?" she tried to open conversation to divert their violence, "You might endanger these newborns with your foolish rampaging, would you really want that, Flash?" Eliza said Mjolnir's birth name in order to grab his attention. She took a step forward, "Do you not remember me?" the mare hoped he would recall her as his sister but she was not too sure. However with her so near she lifted her head and gave a shrill neigh. Being a holder of the champagne coat counted for something and she knew another, her father, would want to protect that (little does she know Azarias is near too). Sure enough she heard a deafening vociferation and looked to both Dia and Mjolnir, "Should you leave peacefully I think you may keep your lives."

ＢＪＯＲＮ ── ❝ fear the reckoning of those you have wronged !! ❞
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( hnitbjorg king ) ( 14 ) ( stallion ) ( tags: vanir, oydis, gersemi, frigg, atreus, azarias, athena, imp, lark) ( location: the falls )

To see Vanir speak with such ferocity in regards to the protection of her young, Bjorn felt his wariness of her lift. With every word she became less a stranger and more a piece of artwork that was slowly coming to light. She warned that if they were to approach while she slept then he was to protect them and Bjorn gave a dutiful nod of his head. He needed not vocalise his resolve to watch over them, hoping only to prove himself should the need arise. It seemed the opportunity was to come quickly as Frigg stumbled towards him. Her hooves didn't grasp the earth like the sure-footed adults and Bjorn gripped her pole firmly, tufts of her growing mane in his jaw to hold her upright. This gesture was unnecessary since Frigg found her way and was soon investigating his chest. The stallion held still, nose giving a whuff as her touch tickled his skin. Only when she satisfied a scratch on him did he let his immediate reaction be submerged. Instead of giving her a nip he let the filly do as she pleased so that she could better orientate herself to his presence. When Frigg finally returned to Vanir, he shot the mother a quiet glance before going about his business.

(timeskip through the covering of oydis and return to his herd)

Pacing back towards his herd with Oydis at his side, Bjorn glanced at her thoughtfully, "I should like you to lead this herd, as you have always done. The mares regard you as their matriarch and it would be foolish of me to deny you the official role of it." While he had mares just as capable, it was Oydis who presented herself so perfectly for the job. Not once did she ever falter in serving the herd and its greater good. He was sure that if he were to ever hinder the herd, she would even sacrifice him to protect the rest - a difficult gesture only those who truly loved him would understand. Not only that but he could not ignore his infatuation for her. He wasn't one to pick favourites as he obsessed over them all equally but Sydney had it easy when it came to enrapturing him. Reaching over to touch her wither he hoped she would accept.

Upon coming into view of Franang's Falls, Bjorn felt a presence over them and stopped in his tracks to look east. His senses had been right and the king laid his eyes upon Azarias. The seer was some distance away but Bjorn knew Azarias would sense him. He gave a low whinny of respect, letting the wind carry the quiet noise to the ears of the other male. He knew Azarias was a relative of his but he must have been more than just a grandfather, perhaps a great grandfather, as any immediate family Bjorn would know the lineage of. "He can't refuse a good show, can he?" Bjorn muttered to Oydis, referring to the drama of the three kings. Pressing forward he quickly came into view of all the others. He felt no need to make a noise and clarify his entrance, instead breaking into a trot to find his mares resting under the trees or wading in the shallows of the water. They all looked exhausted but comfortable and happy. The foals were all getting along swimmingly and as he approached, Bjorn extended a affectionate greeting to Lark who glistened as she dried off. It also allowed him to see if he could detect a heat but he could not smell one. Moving past her he went to smother Rhae and Vanir only to see them snoozing. Bjorn chuckled, pleased to see them so close and trusting of one another. While they slept he would watch over the foals.

The drama unraveling on the other side of the Falls didn't bother the king. His neutral attitude was akin to Azarias's and something of a trademark in the bloodline. Glancing at Atreus he had the thought that his son might be different with his helpful nature. Speaking of sons, Bjorn turned to catch Athena's arrival. She had left some time ago to birth and upon her return she shot a questioning look to Vanir. This look was completely disregarded by the champagne stallion who immediately locked his attention onto the small foal teetering at her side. Well, not that small. He was actually rather large. Athena beckoned him over and the stallion perked his ears, feeling his excitement rise up in his throat. Not wanting to attract attention he swallowed a bellow and danced over, energy causing his legs to lift higher and with more enthusiasm. "It seems Tyr has blessed our son with the strength of a bear, I see it in his figure and his eyes. Praise the vanir and their thorough work," he complimented the mare, flitting around her side to run his teeth affectionately along her spine. Having acknowledged her and her hard work, Bjorn dared to stretch his nose and investigate the foal.

Tall and dark, Bjorn felt he would be a commanding stallion as he grew older and also a great competitor for rivals. The strong nature of the colt made Bjorn look to Atreus who was more tender. Light and dark, contrasting personalities. Bjorn couldn't be more proud in the health and deliverance of his foals. He managed to graze his lips over the colts fuzzy neck before his nerves got the best of him and he moved out of the way before Athena could forcefully remove him. "Have you settled on a name?" as he didn't hold a champagne coat, the full and nickname of the colt would lay with Athena. He glanced to the two fillies and his son, Atreus, whickering for their attention. Not only that but he looked in the direction of Azarias - proud to display an heir to their coat and now a powerful son who already dripped with authority.

Having been so caught up in the presence of his herd, he didn't notice Eliza's return until her familiar call rang out. Turning to look he saw the two earls circling Phantom and his band with Eliza right in the way. Known for his neutrality, Bjorn didn't want to rush in but he paced the edge of his herd and roared in their direction, his muscles bulked in a threatening manner. Leave or be killed.

ＭＡＺＩＫＥＥＮ ── ❝ the moments we've spent have passed !! ❞
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( valkyrie ) ( 9 ) ( mare ) ( tags: thera) ( location: franang's falls)

With her filly tucked safely behind her, Mazikeen was free to let her pent up energy release. Her legs were like pistons, able to jump up and down with growing power. While her endurance was short, she could usually get the job done quickly. Flattening her ears into her mane she noticed the way Thera degraded Mazikeen by disregarding her in such a juvenile matter. The mare kicked her legs into action, moving in a brisk trot towards the smaller mare. She could size Thera up and see that she was strong and capable but Mazikeen had the advantage. Her breed was quick on their hooves and allowed sharp turns which made it easier to chase the other. Instead of trying to snake the mare out, Mazikeen wanted to lay down some damage and as the distance closed between them the seal bay displayed her ability of sudden speed.

What seemed a good few yards away became nothing as she took off like a rocket. Mazikeen was sure to keep her feet under her and ready to move in pursuit of Thera. With only a couple lengths between them, her neck stretched and she went for Thera's legs, teeth baring wildly and tail lashing in aggression. Her bossy nature and irritable attitude presented her as an aggressive horse but if Mazikeen were to find her place among the herd she could prove them a nurturing and intelligent mare. Until then, the wild eyed bear of a horse would have to show them her less attractive side. She knew there was drama all around them but as long as Gaagi was safe, Mazikeen's business was only her own and not that of others.

Whilst aiming to harm the smaller mare's front, she shot out a hoof to kick at her, making sure to stay in close proximity to limit Thera's chances of effectively swinging her hind legs at her.

Ｄ＇ＡＲＴＡＧＮＡＮ ── ❝ but the heart of a man is a simple one, small and soft, flesh and blood !! ❞
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( lone earl ) ( 8 ) ( stallion ) ( tags: azarias, saorise) ( location: franang's falls)

d'Artagnan had spent several years now alone. He had unsuccessfully attempted to start a band but it was a rather hard thing to achieve with such prominent kings in the area. He figured it would be some years before he was able to hold a family of his own yet he had become lonely. The male considered finding other earls to band with but he was often smothered by their testosterone-fueled antics which left him at the bottom of the ranks. This was not due to any physical defect, it was simply that d'Artagnan could not bring himself to exert energy over spars and childish attempts to see who was the strongest. As long as he was healthy and fit, Dart rested easy knowing he could defend himself if ever the time came.

Swaying through the grasses of Idavoll he found it eerily empty. The land was fresh from the rain and he swiped at a few yellow strands of grass that grew above his knees. The long blades reminded him of Alfheim and he longed to return but Titan was a territorial king. Perhaps he would allow d'Artagnan passage knowing that he was no threat - after all the young earl had lived peacefully amongst the kings for years. Not a snaker he liked to use his charms but was not often given the chance since the kings preferred to exchange their daughters among themselves to best ensure their survival. Logical but rather selfish in Dart's opinion. Pacing forward in the direction of the Falls, he could sense commotion.

Lucky for him he came across a rather peaceful figure before he did the drama. Approaching from behind, d'Artagnan spotted the gleaming champagne coat, a signature Hnitbjorg look. The ghostly hue of the mane compared to the glowing copper of the current forest king told him that it was Azarias. Beside him was the spotted pelt of a figure he did not recognise. Within the presence of the seer d'Artagnan felt his primal urges seep away and he was at peace. He felt no bias towards the mare though if it was a different situation he would be rather enamored with her, especially because she seemed to share his breed. "Viskr-valdr," he greeted Azarias - using an ancient tongue that his bloodline had maintained through all the years. The name meant wise leader. He often came into the company of Azarias due to having ancient ties to the lands and the gods that allowed him to converse with the shaman comfortably.

Looking down upon the three herds he flicked an ear in the direction of Saorise, "You are not from them?" It was obvious she was not due to her coat but he didn't recognise her from his family tree either. This made him curious but he doubted Azarias cared for the mundane conversation of lineage. He dipped a head respectfully to the seer and to Saorise in greeting before looking back to the herds. It was far to risky to go down there and test his luck.

[na'vi.]

ＣＩＴＡＤＥＬ ──x❝when the world says, "give up." hope whispers, "try it one more time."❞
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◀ ❰ Alfheim Valkyrie ❱ ❰ mustang x morigan ❱ ❰ mare ❱ ❰ 7½ ❱ ❰ foals: Dream. 3 stillborn. ❱ ❰ status: nursing ❱ ❰ location: Franang's Falls ❱ ❰ tags: Dream, Titan, & Amaera ❱ ❰ mentions: the herd ❱▶
Her soft whuff of reassurance befell Citadel's pink tinted muzzle at Dream's whine of protest and confusion. It seemed peace was simply too much to ask of the Gods and if one event wasn't happening, another was. Quite the annoyance. She couldn't surpress though the ever so prideful glance at her daughter as she took up her own aggressive display. It was quite cute if you asked Citadel but the mare's attention snapped back up to the opposing mare and Titan with a narrowed gaze, had she been on the opposing end of the lunging stallion she'd be terrified but instead she stood behind him, confidence as well as nearly tangible aggression oozing from her frame. Citadel didn't dare near, Titan had it handled and the safety of Dream held more importance, and she'd be able to defend her filly with more ease than if she were separated from her.

Dream's own aggressive whinny captivated Citadel's attention once more and she gave a soft snort, tossing her head as Dream gave what could be interpreted as a satisfied nod and stamp of her hoof. Her little one was already picking up on the mare's sudden lack of confidence than that made her even more prideful- if that was even possible. She returned her filly's nuzzle with one of her own and she let her gaze travel upwards to land on the mare who now seemed more confused than anything else. It struck Citadel in one of her many soft spots and she let her forwardly aggressive posture slowly slough off to one of a mare who was curious but also willing to jump and defend her filly at the split of a second.

At the small step Dream took forward Cita remained put, confidence and bravery in the right situations was something important to learn and given Dream's current small size it was even more crucial that her filly grow up with a strong backbone and sense of courage. Strong mares made capable mares and one thing Citadel refused to do was raise a daughter who would step down at any sign of aggression. Instead she stepped forward slightly, cocking a hoof and lowered her head to lick at Dream's withers and short fuzzy mane. Now letting her gaze flick past Amaera it settled on Thera and Mazi and she let out an angered snort- her posture shifting now to one of pure unholy anger. Who did this mare think she is? She hadn't been in this herd nearly long enough to gain the respect of pretty much anyone and for her to dare challenge Thera? Citadel wouldn't so much as even glance the mare's way once she returned to her herd. If anything she'd go out of her way to ignore the power-hungry mare.

ＶＡＮＩＲ + ＧＥＲＳＥＭＩ ──x❝patience is the companion of wisdom.❞
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◀ ❰ hnitbjorg valkyrie ❱ ❰ mustang ❱ ❰ mare ❱ ❰ 6 ❱ ❰ foals: Gersemi & Frigg ❱ ❰ status: nursing ❱ ❰ location: Franang's Falls ❱ ❰ tags: gersemi, open ❱ ❰ mentions: Athena. ❱▶
Vanir let out a sort of finality as her daughters' suckling eased and she turned now, watching as a mare she had yet to know edged back in with a colt black as night at her side. She watched the mare glance her way and immediately her ear's pinned and she swiveled, herding her twins away from view with a slash of her tail and a bob of her head. It wasn't a few moments before she was standing that the Mare laid down finally, Gersemi following suit on a full belly and laying against her mother's stomach with her head draped across her mother's side. Vanir licked at her filly's pelt for a while before laying her own head down in the grass and promptly falling asleep. She had trust in Bjorn to look after Frigg should her blinded filly decide to wander away from she and Gersemi.

ＦＲＩＧＧ ──x❝kindness is a gift everyone can afford to give.❞
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◀ ❰ hnitbjorg ❱ ❰ mustang x APH ❱ ❰ foal ❱ ❰ newborn ❱ ❰ dam: vanir ❱ ❰ other: blind ❱ ❰ location: Franang's Falls ❱ ❰ tags: Bjorn. ❱ ❰ mentions: Azarias, Athena, Imp ❱▶
Having had her fill of milk and Vanir's final testament that there'd be no more suckling for the time being Frigg pulled away, the filly's head swiveling around to blindly peer over the herd that dotted from the fall's edge to the little grove. The filly's dark velveteen muzzle coated in a frothy white mustache of milk, not that she could see it even if she tried the runty filly was oblivious to it. However the scent of a new mare and foal she hadn't yet come to know filled her muzzle and the start of a quiet whinny had left her muzzle before Vanir promptly herded her away from the scent and closer to the tree that before long she and Gersemi were resting under. Yet surprisingly Frigg wasn't tired and her ears flicked forward at Bjorn's whicker and she returned it with one of her own, unsurprisingly it was a weak call but one that clearly conveyed her effort of trying. It should be of little surprise that the petite filly would be weaker than her larger sister- twas the tale of most twin births.

Lowered her head to nuzzle her mother and sister the little filly ambled blindly towards Bjorn and the two new scents that surrounded him. Her gait was awkward to say the least. Her legs buckled ever so often and her tiny hooves tripped up on roots and stones that littered her path but she trucked on and before long ended up walking directly into Bjorn's rump. Letting ot a petulant snort the filly fell back onto her own rump but soon roused herself upwards, ears flicking as she reached forward with her muzzle, touching it to his body as she made his way to the front of his frame. At ever bump of her muzzle to Bjorn's pelt left a tiny little wet patch of fur from her muzzle but eventually making it to the head of the stallion she let out a whicker towards him, her head angled up blindly. Her eyes seemed to swirl between shades of crystal blue to cloudy baby blue, she stretched upwards, bumping her muzzle to his own however his shift of posture caught her attention and the petite filly had all but forgotten about the mare and foal pair opposite of Bjorn and instead she pivoted, standing beside him but her blind gaze was locked onto one individual, Azarias.

[Queen Lapis]

Nochi Mura

Cursed Soul, Mare, Foal, Loner, 2 months, Infertile Tags: Cita, Dream, Titan's herd

The small, timid, black foal cowered between ber mother's legs: her only source of shelter from the rain. The palamino did her best to stand strong in the wind, shielding the daughter from it's effects. While Frigid shores had some form of success, she was not as mighty as she once was. Old age took the strength from her hooves and color from her coat. She was not as capable of raising a foal as she once was. At least not without a herd.

But a herd was not an option. Surely the stallion would kill her precious foal at first sight. Bargaining her daughter's life was not an option for Frigid.

A sensation overcame her body, and Frigid gazed down to see her foal nursing again. Frigid snorted, twisting her head to nuzzle the black filly. Was there anything she wouldn't do for her precious, beloved foal? This foal, of odd though beautiful aopearance, the prodgeny of a mysterious sire of darkness, was Frigid's life. She was a mother. Mothers would die for their children. Mothers would kill for their children. Mothers would go through Hel (Name of the norse Mythology deathplace) and back for their children.

So standing through this endless storm was a task Frigid would gladly do

A sudden crack of thundered echoed through the horizon. The suddenness and the sound struck fear into the valkyrie. It was too much alarm for the elderly mare to bear.

She fell to the ground, dead.

Leaving Nochi Mura exposed to the elements.


The filly whinnied, desperately nudging her mother to rise and provide. But the corpse remained deathly still. Nochi Mura whinnied again, pawwing at the ground. Her mother did not rise.

Nochi Mura whinnied a third time, and finally surrendered to fate. The poor, fragile thing fell to her knees, cuddling close to her mother. She attempted to nurse from whatever milk remained, and take comfort in any remaining warmth. But soon, the corpse ran cold and dry. But Nochi Mura remained by her mother's side, uselessly hoping.

And for two days, she remained in that state. She did not rise to drink from the Falls, nor feast in the plentiful grass. But she remained loyally curled by her mother's side. The storm had ended, and the sun and moon returned to the sky. But Frigid falls had bit returned to Nochi Mura.

The foal had grown skinnier and dehydrated in these few days. Her body was weighed with weakness. And it had grow plainly obvious to Nochi Mura the fate of her mother. The foal begun to weep at her loss. Her mother, litterally the only horse she'd ever known, has left for the Rainbow bridge.

She was gone.

Dead.

And perhaps, Nochi Mura was soon to join her in running across the stars.


But a sudden warm, familiar scent caught Nochi Mura's nostrils. It instabtlt wiped that last thought from her head.

Milk!

Nochi Mura had been deprived of it for so long, and she'd grown desperate. The foal could see the source:

A completly white mare, in the midst of a stand off. Beneath her stood another filly, lucky enough to have her mother. Nochi Mura snorted, blindly charging forward.

Her desperation carried her a few hundred meters within a minute. Nochi Mura did not care for the giant blacl stallion standing guard above the herd: only for the warm, sweet milk.

The black foal, reeking of the stench of fear and death, raced towards and reached the mare. She knocked A City's Dream from between her mother's legs, and instantly begun to nurse.
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Vira
Hope, Mare, Maiden, Jotunheim, 3 Years, Gestating, Tags: Phantom, Phantom's herd, Dia
"Father..." Vira instantly grew petrified at the sight of Dia. Her eyes grew as he neared her once again, ready to reclaim her. But lucky for her, Phantom came to her rescue.

He snaked the entire herd into a dense circle, unwilling to let a single one of his mares or daughters be harmed. Vira was instantly submerged in the warmth and familiarity of her herdsmates. It melted her fear, and Vira calmed.

Finding a strand of her old bravery, Vira moved to the edge of the herd.

"Leave us be, Monster!" she boomed to Dia. Her voice was herd clearly through Valhalla, even with all the screams of stand-offs and thundering hooves. Vira's hooves slowly stopped trembling, and she pushed herself completly onto her hind feet. It was a feat she'd not accomplished before, even if she remained veetical for only a fraction of a second.

"I am not yours! I will never be yours!"
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Nigel
Reaper's Eclipse, Stallion, Lieutenant Stallion/Earl, 3.5 years, Spouseless, Tags:Phantom's herd, Dia
"You heard her, pile of rat scat..." spoke a tense voice behind Dia. Behind him stood a Silver-black stallion, head lowered and eyes enraged. This was a well-known stallion among the Earls. This stallion was one to be wary of. He was Jotunheim's second pair of eyes, and another soldier to Phantom's mares. This stallion was Nigel: a loyal protector, and he would fight. "Leave my sisters and mothers alone..."

Nigel charged forward, an positioned himself so he stood right between thr herd and Dia. His ears layered back in his thick black mane, and his teeth bared. A fierce, enraged fire burned in his eyes. He stamped his hooves and hung his head low

"Leave...."
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Mjolnir
Flash, Stallion, Earl, 4 years, Spouseless, Tags: Eliza, Phantom, Phantoms's herd
"I remember you very well, sister..." Mjolnir spat. " So young and foolish... you really think I will leave? You have a mare that belive belongs to me. Hand her over, and I shall leave."

The threat was very well an empty one. Mjolnir spoke it while bleeding from his nose, where Phantom landed a buck. Aside from that, the skin beneath his white-splotched-beige coat darkened in a bruise from where Signe tackled him. She was obviously not a mare to be reckoned with.

The burlier mares and Phantom formed a circle to barr Mjolnir from the foals and frailer mares in the center. Mjolnir's prize, unfortunatly, now stood behind a mass of muscle. But Mjolnir would not be giving up.

But a sudden hair-raising roar from across the fields caught the Earl's attention. He turned to see his own father roaring, keeping him at bay. Mjolnir grumbled, stamping his hoof. He backed up from his Bjorn's herd, making it clear he did not want to clash with that particular herd.
But for the kindhearted king of Jotunheim, he was still out for his mare.

He charged once more at Phantom, headbutting his chest. The impact knocked the younger stallion back. But he rose, still determined to fight.

------
Bullet
Skyette, Mare, lone Valkyrie, 11 years, Foalless, Tags:Bjorn's herd

Bullet marched through her old herdsland, finally reaching the old falls. She'd forgotten names at this point, but she remembered the falls were neutral territory. Some horses gathered around, some fighting and some chatting.

Bullet chuckled, and made her way to a gathering of mares: she was unaware of any kings in the area. Getting covered was the last thing she needed. But it would be wise to join a herd: power in numbers.

So the middle-age mare scooted towards the Valkyeries, Maidens, and their foals, awkwardly joining the group.

She was an odd sight: a missing eye, scars and dried blood covering almost every hand of her pelt, a bridle and saddle upon her body, and the stench of man.

"Soo... What is this Valhallan Drama?"