𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐃𝐒 － open！！

[xCatastrophex]

Ａ ＬＡＲＫ'Ｓ ＳＯＮＧ.

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lone valkyrie ❈ six years ❈ deaf ❈ tags; Bjorn, Winter, Rhaenys, Vanir, Thera(mentioned) ❈ location; edge of hnitbjorg.

A small wave of relief washed over Lark as she looked up to sky. She was comforted that the rain and driving wind beginning to die down. Perhaps the gods did hear their prayers, or it was just a fluke that the storm was wearing down and there was more to come. She didn’t know, but she hoped it was the work of the gods in their favor. The palomino mare tossed her head, moving her wet forelock from her icy orbs. She cocked her hind leg on the tip of her hoof as she relaxed a bit, feeling safe enough with the other mares around to let her guard down a bit, though she perked up as she spotted movement from the corner of her eye; followed the dark mare’s figure as she moved in the direction of the other two kings, addressing the larger of the two directly. Surely this was not a very good idea, but she was not a part of this herd, so it wasn’t her place to really worry about it. However, she continued to watch from her spot a little ways away from the group. It was times like these that she wished she could hear what was being discussed. Especially when just minutes before, the Alfheim and Jotunheim were just gawking at her moments ago. It was frustrating to say the least.

The palomino mare snorted lightly twitching her shoulder a bit as a chill sent tingles through her body as result of being wet for so long. Sunlight couldn’t come fast enough so she could finally get dry. Her attention was soon drawn back to her protectors as Ironborn made his way back towards the group, Jotunheim mare alongside him. Though they weren’t alone. Another dappled grey mare followed close behind, leading two youngsters. That made three new births into the herd. The champagne stallion was surely blessed, despite this difficult trial. It kind of opened her eyes to why he was so on edge; He had a family to protect. Made sense.

A small smile fell across Lark’s face as she watched Ironborn prance circles around his newborn offspring. Not many stallions took interest in their young. Well, the few that Lark has encountered away.. So it was sweet to see. However the moment was cut short as the Jotunheim mare stepped a little too close to the newborn and the mother defensively stepped between her and her newborn. Why was a valkyrie from a different herd was mingling with the champagne king anyway? It was a mystery to her. In any case, Lark had a feeling good intentions were not present. However, she didn’t know for sure.

[five.six.seven]

● stand by your own trial, and not by what others say ●
name; rana rank; valkyrie gender; mare age; four stage; one herd; alfheim tags; alfheim herd, titan, mazikeen mentions; gaagi, winter, bjorn

rana couldn't help but notice the surprise on the new mares face as she extended her friendship. when the mare nickered back to her, rana felt pleased knowing she had help the other horse feel just a little bit safer in the chaos. although she was pretty, rana was oblivious to the idea that this other mare could very easily hurt her, and the thought never crossed her mind. she was more than willing to appoach a stranger and just try to become friends. she was ignorant to the violence between horses in valhalla, since she was still so used to the peace and friendliness of her forest herd - she had yet to discover the brutality of her new world.

as titan declared the herd was going to leave, she walked quickly with the rest of her herd, trying to hide the mare and foal from a large, dark valkyrie from bjorn's herd. she pulled up close to the mare and filly once again. she still seemed tense, and rana was still curious to get to know the mare and filly better. once again not considering the danger of bothering the frustrated and protective mother, and not noticing that she was speaking to titan, rana squeezed in tighter to get closer to the pair. she put her head over beside the mare, before quietly saying "my name is rana. I know you're unsure about telling us your names, but I swear by the gods above titan means you no harm. he's a kind stallion." she looked towards the king before turning back. "could I at least have something to call you by? it's strange to just refer to you as 'the mare and filly'. and i won't tell titan, if that helps." she nudged the other mare playfully, hoping she would see she meant no harm.

[azhefa.]

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{ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ɪꜱ ɴᴏ ɢʀᴇᴀᴛᴇʀ ᴡᴀʀʀɪᴏʀ ᴛʜᴀɴ ᴀ ᴍᴏᴛʜᴇʀ }
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rory ● 18 ● hnitbjorg valkyrie ● nursing [atreus] ● location; hnitbjorg

tags; bjorn, oydis/herd, thera, vanir/twins, others mentioned
the painted valkyrie lifts her head from where she grooms her son to look up towards the sky as she feels the rain diminish before fading all together. finally the storm has ended. rhae snorts before looking over towards where oydis had been standing earlier only to find the heavier mare gone. she glances around and notices that winter was off as well, leaving only gull and the new pale mare behind. the elder almost whinnies for the two missing valkyries, now wasn't the time to split up, predators were going to start snooping around again now that the rain has ended, but cuts off the sound before it could reach her lips. over near the other herds stood both hnitbjorg mares, their backs were to her as they talked to what seems to be titan and phantom. rhae's ears flatten for a moment before flicking forward in curious interest. the way the mares moved and stood suggest they were declaring the truce over and telling the herds to leave. thank the gods. she was in no state to speak to the stallions, nor does she have the desire to do so, oydis and winter are more than capable of the task.

the mare's ears twist back as rustling is heard behind her and she turns her head to eye the brush, her ears flattening as she noses her son to stand in front of her so she has the ability to use both hind legs if she should need to do so. luckily, a shimmering gold coat appears instead of a predator and the mare brightens considerably. rhae nickers deeply and affectionately to her stallion as he dances around their son, reaching out to nibble at his coppery mane. atreus was both unsettled and excited with all the sounds and sudden appearance of a large stallion. the colt hasn't actually met his sire yet since he had been asleep back before bjorn left with thera. as the stallion stands still and starts introducing the new mare and foals he had found in the forest, atreus totters around him, sniffing and bumping along his sides. their coats were the same, though his own was a bit darker and shaggier. rhae burrs to her son and he returns the sound while moving back to her side to nurse, his little tail wiggling happily as he feasted. his coat now smelt of both his mother and sire and it pleases rhae to no end.

though she wasn't overly thrilled with yet another addition to the herd so soon after the last, rhae doesn't react negatively to the new mare. she glances from bjorn to vanir and back before dropping her eyes to the little fillies. they were lovely little things, though the gaze of the littlest was slightly unsettling, how horrible it must be to not see the beauty of the land around them. rhae gives a nicker to vanir, but doesn't move to properly greet her since atreus was still nursing, though she also doesn't want to be near the newcomer just yet in her weakened state. rhaenys snorts softly at bjorn's words, shelter them indeed, there was no way he would force these lovely creatures to leave once he gets to know them. the elder mare shakes out her mane before nudging her colt ahead of her, limiting his nursing for the time being since it will only slow him down and give him aches if he is too active with a full belly.

rhae nickers to bjorn once he was finished with his introductions, her dirtied tail flicking a little behind her. "i know i'm not the only one who desires a cleansing bath at the falls," her voice was like warm honey, smooth and sweet as she speaks to her beloved stallion, though it holds a bit of a teasing edge as she eyes his dirtied legs. all the walking has muddied his lovely coat from his legs to his underbelly. her own painted coat was muddy from laying down and so was her son's, the other mares in the herd probably had dirtied legs as well from all the mud. "i know titan and phantom will be off to the falls as well for a wash, let us do the same. besides, i'm sure the foals want a nice run about while everyone relaxes after all this tension." the lake at the falls wasn't very big, but it was a good enough size for everyone to wash and relax without having to deal with the others being too close. atreus perks up at the mention of running, he would very much like to sprint about on his new legs, prove to everyone that he is as strong as his sire was.

xxxx
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{ ɴᴏᴛ ᴀʟʟ ᴡʜᴏ ᴡᴀɴᴅᴇʀ ᴀʀᴇ ʟᴏꜱᴛ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪ ꜱᴜʀᴇ ᴀᴍ }
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beka ● newborn ● jotunheim foal ● signe [adopted] ● location; hnitbjorg

tags; signe/vidar, phantom/herd & titan/herd mentioned
it felt both odd and pleasant to have signe nuzzle him affectionately, but he enjoys it none the less. the colt watches his brother with curious excitement and does a little hop as he gets the desire to play, but the feeling is cut short as signe has to force vidar to nurse. beka snorts his amusement before trotting a few steps ahead and sniffing about curiously, his former fears and anxiety long forgotten. the colt perks up as vidar finishes nursing and signe ushers them away through the trees. he follows after his new mother obediently, his attention averting only when the herds come into view. beka's ears perked forward at signe's whinny, but fold back in hesitation as he spots the towering figures of two stallions nearby. neither of these stallions smelt right, but who was he to know which was his sire, he was only born a few hours ago. he sticks close to signe anyway, uncertain and shy with the new horses. the feelings of hesitation and confusion seem to be shared with signe since the mare didn't seem very thrilled with what was going on around them. was there danger here? it doesn't seem dangerous, but it could be a hidden danger.

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{ ᴍᴇɴ ᴅᴏɴ'ᴛ ғᴇᴀʀ ꜱᴡᴏʀᴅꜱ, ᴛʜᴇʏ ғᴇᴀʀ ᴍᴏɴꜱᴛᴇʀꜱ }
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sam ● 10 ● band earl ● 1 mare ● location; hnitbjorg

tags; ylva, eliza, stjerne, herds mentioned
the dark stallion glances over to the maiden as she cuts in with her deceleration to join him and ylva, his gaze curious and unsure. her eagerness seemed rather sour for his taste, something wasn't quite right. his gaze returns to eliza as she spoke, the curiosity turning to amusement at her words. so defensive of a place that wasn't her own, at least not anymore. her champagne coat was a dead giveaway to her heritage, but he keeps his knowledge to himself, acting as if he wasn't from these lands and didn't know any of the kings who ruled them. her connection to the lands and the golden king makes this a difficult conversation for if she new the truth about him and his own lineage, things wouldn't be as friendly. no king likes having a previous ruler's spawn running around, especially one at his age and strength. he was a threat to each of the kings even if he holds no desire for their power. who would believe him if he said as much? many stallions claim to be uninterested in king's power only to later challenge for it. their false words make it impossible for others to believe him, making it a struggle to live in these lands as a bachelor.

sammael's lips twitch into a smile at eliza as she scoffs at his offer to take her through the forest, a feisty little thing she is. her tone suggests she was confused at how he doesn't recognize her, something that pleases him since it means his bluff of ignorance was working. sammael dips his head to the golden mare as she corrects him, a silent thanks to her willingness to give him a bit of aid. when stjerne's acceptance hits eliza, he could tell the older mare was upset at such an action and seems both surprised and confused. the maiden's acceptance must be odd indeed then. sammael nods to eliza as she speaks once more, offering to escort him out of the forest before the herds catch up. "thank you for the offer, it seems i'm not as knowledgeable about the forest as i had thought," he tells her, his tone light and amused as he picks fun at getting himself turned around in the maze-like forest of hnitbjorg. his head dips again as she also tells him she will be returning to her king. "as you wish, i won't keep you from your beloved if that is what you choose." it was a little disappointing to be unable to keep such a lovely creature, such spirit and passion. she would have made a fine addition to his little family.

the stallion looks to ylva and is about to motion for her to follow, but is unable to since the mare suddenly darted forward to forcefully shove stjerne away from himself and eliza. the painted mare's action makes sammael step away to give her space, his ears flattened and head raised in case of a strike, but none comes. he thought for a moment she was upset about the maiden joining them and was going to rage at him for it, but instead it was the maiden to took the valkyrie's wrath. his ears perk forward at ylva's words and a tingle sparks in his chest, how fierce this mare was, how strong and wonderful she was. her demand for stjerne to respect eliza makes sammael's insides flutter with glee. he thanks the gods for putting this feisty little paint in his path. the stallion lashes his tail a bit as ylva claims to be the eldest in his band, the words making his heart squeeze in delight. his mare indeed. he can only imagine the foals that she will carry for him if she chooses to, beautiful and fierce yet compassionate and kind. he prays to the gods that they would be kind and generous.

his ears flick around as ylva turns to eliza and kindly rejects her offer to escort them to idavoll, explaining her own knowledge of the area. sammael pauses a moment before piping up, his eyes still sparkling with delight at ylva's assertiveness. "perhaps we can all travel together to franagng's falls in idavoll? i'm sure that's where everyone would be going and i would feel terrible if something were to happen to you if we left you behind," he says to eliza, his tone softer than before and more suggestive, he doesn't want to anger either of the valkyries by making the suggestion, but also doesn't want to feel guilty for leaving eliza behind and worry if she will make it back to her stallion safely. sammael's posture was less flashy as well, his head held at a comfortable level instead of lifted to display himself. perhaps his softer demeanor will draw both mares into agreeing on the shared journey instead of splitting up. "but i won't force you to join us should you want to travel home alone." he holds back on suggesting he aid her in her heat scent for now, not wanting her to get angry or upset with him over such a suggestion. he just hopes he'll be able to bring her to her king and show everyone that he wasn't around to steal their mares and tear apart their families. he just wants his own and be left to raise it in peace.

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{ ᴅɪғғɪᴄᴜʟᴛ ʀᴏᴀᴅꜱ ᴏғᴛᴇɴ ʟᴇᴀᴅ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇᴀᴜᴛɪғᴜʟ ᴅᴇꜱᴛɪɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴꜱ }
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ellie ● 8 ● alfheim valkyrie ● heat 2 ● location; hnitbjorg > idavoll

tags; titan/herd, others mentioned
the dark colored mare fidgets as she awaits the storm to end, her ears flicking around and her tail constantly twitching. she wasn't at home in the forest, all the shadows and underbrush that could hide predators. perhaps she was being a bit paranoid, but she doesn't care, she just wants to go home to the grassy plains of alfheim and enjoy the ocean again. when titan left and later returned with not one, but two new members of the herd, ellie was uncertain. wasn't it against the truce to acquire mares here? the mare shifts her weight around a bit, careful of the mud that was starting to coat the ground with all the rain that was falling. her coat was already muddy brown so it wasn't very terrible to get some mud on her legs, but it still didn't feel nice. ellie reaches back to nip at her flank as a bit of mud lands on it from the other mares moving about and flicking their tails. it itched to have it on her pelt, making even more fidgety than usual.

she attempts to graze on what little grass wasn't yet smushed flat into mud, but gives up after only a few nibbles. ellie sighs and looks to thera for the tenth time in five minutes, seeking her guidance even if they weren't doing anything besides standing around, not wanting to be doing something wrong in another king's land. elysia flicks her ears back and forward a few times as titan moves to talk with phantom, unsure about the other stallion. she can feel her heat upon her and having the other king around wasn't something she was trilled about. her ears go flat completely when thera leaves the herd, her anxiety shooting up as the mare heads off to chat with bjorn. was she leaving the herd? she wouldn't do such a thing right? who's going to lead them out of the forest now that the rain has stopped? as the questions fill her mind, she doesn't notice oydis and winter's approach, but she does notice the heated conversation that takes place between them and the two kings. elysia freezes like a deer in headlights when titan turns his attention upon her and orders her to lead the herd to franang's falls in idavoll. she was to lead? how in the name of odin was she going to do such a thing? thera was the leader, not her.

after a moment of hesitation and anxious tail flicking, elysia nods to titan and trots on ahead to take the place that thera usually would. just get to the falls, just get to the falls... her internal chant keeps up as she focuses on leaving the forest, her ears pressed flat and her tail swaying from side to side. it was the first time she's had to take control of the herd and she hates it deeply. she's not made for such things, the weight of the responsibilities and stresses would crush her spirit like a house of cards. if only thera was back, she'd be doing such a better job at this leading thing than what she's doing. elysia glances behind her to make sure she wasn't walking to fast for anyone, her desire to be clear of the forest making her move a little fast. the sooner they were out of the forest the better.

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{ ɪ'ᴍ ᴀ ɴɪɢʜᴛᴍᴀʀᴇ ᴅʀᴇꜱꜱᴇᴅ ᴀꜱ ᴀ ᴅᴀʏᴅʀᴇᴀᴍ }
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mae ● 3.5 ● lone maiden [> jotunheim] ● heat 3 ● location; idavoll [franang's falls]

tags; open
[aaaaah, rip muse, she's at the falls cx]

[na'vi.]

ＶＡＮＩＲ ──x❝patience is the companion of wisdom.❞
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◀ ❰ lone valkyrie ❱ ❰ mustang ❱ ❰ mare ❱ ❰ 6 ❱ ❰ foals: Gersemi & Frigg ❱ ❰ status: nursing ❱ ❰ location: Hnitbjorg ❱ ❰ tags: (fillies), Bjorn, Thera, Hnitbjorg herd, Rhae ❱ ▶
Vanir merely ignored the stallion, it wasn't out of disrespect or distaste for him at this moment. She understood his actions, the primal urge to wipe out young that weren't his. While she understood it didn't mean she accepted the actions in any form, she was merely being a protective mother. A good mother. Instead she remained silent and moved along as if she were an obedient brood mare whom got caught fraternizing with an Earl. Though she did take notice of how much clearer this trail was in comparison to the rest of the forest, it was clear of twisting vines, uprising roots, and other natural barriers that Frigg would have had difficulty traversing. With a sigh Vanir broke her stoic silence, "Thank you Bjorn." She said it calmly, in her tired state her voice was raspy yet thick like honey. It was the first time she had addressed him in a borderline friendly manner, and she was sure it wouldn't be the last. Though the thought that her foal was marked by Thor couldn't escape her mind, plus the stallion had spared both of her fillies. As much as her ego and pride didn't want to let on, she was indebted to him.

A thud pulled Vanir's head upwards and she turned, letting out a nicker that was imbued with concern as she saw Frigg slumped over, one of her small hooves caught in a tangle of thorns that dared twist and bend into the path. She was so caught up with her own internal thoughts and dialogue that she hadn't been paying attention to her smaller daughter. The dappled mare pulled away, circling back and nudging Frigg's flank with reassuring whuffs. Slowly she watched as the filly rose, pressing her nose to Vanir's flank the mare let out a sigh walking forward again, this time breaking into a trot to catch up the King. Gersemi and Frigg were alongside her, each on one side of her frame. She'd be telling herself a lie if she denied the fact that the golden stallion brought a sense of security over her frayed nerves. Though she couldn't help the hesitation and fear that bubbled in her veins as she overheard him tell her new found friend that she should return to her herd. "She isn't your mare?" She asked the rhetorical question, as if in disbelief. Instead Vanir paced forward and laid her head on Thera's withers, letting out gentle whuffs towards her fellow mare. She'd miss her newfound companionship with the painted mare. "We must stay in touch." She whispered quietly, ears perking she lipped along the crest of Thera's withers in a friendly manner before she turned on her hooves to follow Bjorn to his herd. To his folly of mares.

She paced forward, her ears perked and alert. As they neared the gathering of his herd she swung her head, tucking Gersemi and Frigg behind her. Her posture was less aggressive and more defensive as she followed behind the golden stallion. Her body ached as she stood still, shifting her weight nervously as she shielded her fillies from the prying gazes that were sure to ensue upon their arrival. Vanir knew all too well that herd mares could be cruel to new comers and territorial of their stallion. Though her interest piqued as she watched Bjorn prance around his son. It was obvious that the colt was newly born, she could smell it. He would be a successful legacy to the king. A colt whom carried the signature Amber Champagne coat of the Ironborn Son. She smiled softly as she watched the stallion pridefully gloat over his son but soon the smile was masked with indifference. She'd refuse to fall for him and his mooning over his legacy. When he introduced them, but more specifically pointed out Frigg's blindness her ears slicked back into her mane and she blew hot air out of her nostrils. Stamping a hoof she circled around her fillies fretfully before standing infront of them, blocking their view from the Hnitbjorg Valkyries. However she stood unwavering as she watched Frigg and Gersemi amble forward shakily, her fillies knew they were in the presence of new horses. Both were so young yet bold, curiosity driving their innocent movements. Vanir let out a soft nicker as they strayed too close to the Valkyries for her comfort.

Letting her gaze settle on a specific mare, Rhaenys, she returned the nicker softly- her call was weak yet friendly. It was an olive branch but still the dappled mare seemed skittish. She had no one in this herd in specifically her corner yet, if for some reason Bjorn's valkyries saw Vanir, Frigg, and Gersemi as a threat they'd be chased out. Instead the mare lowered her head, as if giving in she cocked a hoof, though her eyes brimmed with untold anxiety and fear. She didn't shoo her fillies away as they greedily nursed, gentle grunts could be heard from her young as they fed mercilessly their tails waggling happily as they drank. Vanir's eyes fluttered shut as she stood, unable to keep herself from trying to rest any longer. Instead the mare relished in the comforting grasp of sleep that grasped her tired mind and body. The past several hours had been an emotional, mental, and physical roller coaster that she was ill prepared to handle. In one moment her body suffered in the labor of love, her emotions then were held prisoner with love and admiration for her fillies. The next moment she was left crippled with fear of her situation, uncertainty for the future, and her weakened state from having twins after so long of not bearing any young. Sleep offered the mare a steadfast comfort she hadn't been able to taste for many seasons.

[lynettetan1]

[quote="lynettetan1"]

Midnight's Mirage
Tagged: Oydis, Signe, the foals, his herd
Mentioned: Titan, Bjorn

As Titan took up his retort what he'd left off, Phantom lapsed into silence once more, gently nuzzling Forseti once more and taking one more look over the combined herd to make sure everything was alright.

However, once the words were said, impending hoofbeats made Phantom focus on Oydis as the mare swiftly cut herself a path between the two stallions and Winter. Not that either of them would have tried to snake Winter in such a situation, but it was a smart move given how agitated they all were. As she spoke swiftly, Phantom nodded, watching as Titan left. Oydis had built herself a name in these parts, and every stallion generally steered clear of the dominant mare. Though if it came to a fight it might be equal, her attitude and demeanour was a strong repellent against dissent by itself.

With some parting words, Titan announced his departure, and Phantom nodded, hiding a smile. Both him and the other large stallion both knew that he hadn't exactly bargained for Heidi, for as far as bargains was, asking for a consideration was almost as good as nothing, and if he had brazenly asked for Heidi in exchange, he was quite willing to bet that the larger King would have rejected his request immediately. Thera popped out of nowhere at the other King's whistle, trotting gaily to her stallion and forming up at the back with an ease that made Phantom wonder if she'd been waiting in the perfect spot to do exactly that.

As the Alfheim herd left, he let out a whicker to his mares and daughters, getting them to close up the gaps behind him. As they did, he felt a little more relieved, though he didn't show it. That was one problem out the way, and Bjorn hadn't skinned them alive for Titan's new mare, so that was definitely a success. Now, if everything else could go fine...

However, it seemed Oydis wasn't quite done with him yet. When she gestured toward the returning Signe, Phantom could not mask his smile this time, though he managed to just barely keep his hooves from gravitating toward his mare. There were two small colts by her side, a fiery bay that was definitely his, though the other one...

Deciding to ask later, Phantom gave the other female a respectful nod, but did not allow her to cut off the conversation just at that. "Thank you, but I cannot leave yet. Eliza went after one of my daughters and whilst I trust that she knows this land, my daughters do not. Bjorn seems busy, so I will not ask for him to allow me to search in his lands, but that does mean I will have to stay here to await my herd."

With that said, he looked toward where Astrid's scent was the strongest. He longed to go after her, but with Bjorn's actions, was quite sure that leaving Bjorn with his herd was one of the last things he wanted to do. "Perhaps you could help me track her? Her scent is still strong." Bjorn would not want him to trot off with Oydis, so Phantom would stay, but he would feel a lot more at ease if someone who knew what they were doing was actively searching for her. Though Oydis seemed rough, she also didn't seem mindlessly aggressive. All her actions made sense so far, perhaps she would take him up on this compromise?

At Signe's whinny, he nodded to the mare, telling her it was safe and beckoning her over with a sweep of the tail. Once she got within reach, he reached out to nuzzle her gently, proud and overjoyed. "Welcome back. You must be tired."

Nickering at her gently, he took a look at the two colts by her side, making sure that Signe wouldn't nip him before proceeding, though he knew that the both of them were aware that he wouldn't do a thing to harm the two. Nuzzling the older one first, he paused, smelling the traces of death on the colt, before teasingly nudging it with a friendly whicker. Then, he nudged the bay, whom was already trying to wander off and explore the forest. "Has a mind of his own, doesn't he?" He remarked, bemused, before looking at Signe and speaking lowly. "Where did you find the other one?"

Before he could let her reply, however, Phantom quickly gave the other a headsup. "Lots of things have occurred, do not be alarmed about the others smelling like the Alfheim herd, Eliza went off after Stjerne and Astrid is missing and I am awaiting her return, hopefully we can get someone out to look for her." Saying that, he nuzzled her gently, grooming her mane. "But I've got this handled best I can, and there is nothing for you to do but rest up as we wait." At that, he looked back up at Oydis, wondering if she was going to tell Bjorn or do something about it. He honestly didn't mind either, but he couldn't afford to leave before he knew where his daughter was.

Northern Quiver
Tagged: Bjorn, Vanir, Elysia
Mentions: Hnitbjorg herd, Alfheim herd

If looks could kill, Thera might have had to say goodbye to her life back there and then. Luckily, they didn't. As Bjorn raged angrily, Thera simply watched calmly, hiding the fear that struck her at having a stallion two times her size threatening to end her then and there. Still, she couldn't help but analyse his words, even when they were spat at her like molten anger."You think me foolish, but I think there are always more than two ways of doing things. Perhaps you can find a compromise."

But he didn't seem to be listening, what with the other mare attacking him. He looked skyward, but seemed to have stopped for the moment. As the other mare introduced herself weakly, Thera nodded, giving the other mare a warm smile. "Take your time, your twins need you healthy as well, and birthing twins is no simple task."

As Vanir told the brown filly to follow her, Thera nodded, nudging the brown one playfully. Seeing how the filly looked unperturbed, Thera knew that it was best to provide distraction instead of comfort. With a friendly little nicker, she hopped away playfully, trying to draw the filly away. It worked for a moment, the filly dashing over to her side playfully. However, in a second, the filly seemed a little unsure, and then she shot back over to Vanir.

Letting out a quiet chuckle, Thera smiled. These two were definitely going to be a handful for their mother. Thanking the lords that Heidi was now a lot older and she didn't have to deal with this for the immediate future (Author's note: huehuehue jokes on you Thera you're having twins), she caught Bjorn's eye as he left, his feelings obviously having been hurt. Though he tried to act like he didn't care, it was blatantly obvious that he did, even going so far as to choose an easier route on the hooves, and Thera hid a small smile. She trotted up next to him, though didn't touch him, seeing as how he would probably react to something like that. "Thanks. I appreciate it, even if you don't care much for what an outsider thinks."

As they reached, Thera heard Titan nicker and looked over, a ear trained on Bjorn as he was still speaking. As she did look over, however, she felt a nip and startled a little, hopping sideways away from the golden stallion to look at him in surprise. As she realised what it was for, however, Thera smiled, warm amusement coming into her eyes that she did not attempt to hide. So he had a petty side to him. His words were fair, though she didn't bother pointing out that Titan wasn't exactly lording over all of them. She didn't think he would believe her.

As he spoke of her Gods, she cocked her head, seriousness coming over her. Though she didn't often invoke the Gods' names, she did believe in them, but not to the point where she looked for signs everywhere. Instead, she believed that they all had a part in making the inavoidable parts of life, and how one responded was what the Gods looked out for. After all, why else would all the trials be present?

Seeing as he was backing away, she nodded politely, but spoke. "Perhaps, but wouldn't you think that since the Gods are so powerful, how they leave us our interpretations may be a sign of how they wish for worship?" She lowered her head, once more showing that she meant no harm. Religion was obviously a sore spot for the golden stallion. "I'm not saying that they shouldn't be one's hope, and I know everyone sees things differently, but perhaps they not so much give us a purpose and meaning as much as they give us trials and hints of possible paths along the way, before they sit back and watch how we work and interact with what they say to arrive at meaning for ourselves."

As Vanir spoke in disbelief, Thera gave the other mare a sorry smile as she went up and laid her head on her withers. Thera gave a friendly whicker, nuzzling the other mare in comfort."It is unfortunate, but I belong to Alfheim, though I am sure I will see you around." As she said that, she had a particular sparkle in her eyes. It was obvious that the mare did plan on visiting the dapple, even if she had to pull some things to make the 'coincidences' happen. At the other mare's whispered words, she nodded, pulling close for a minute before she finally backed away. "We will."

Turning with a shrug, she looked back at Vanir, giving the other mare a smile. The other mare was in safe hands, whether she knew it or not. Thera gave the younger mare a quiet nicker. "Good luck!" Then, turning to the stallion and his herd-which probably would like her to smack her around at this point in time-, she continued. "But then again, I am nothing more than a mare that is willingly an object to a plebian King, yes?"

With a teasing smile, she used a back leg to rub against the area where he'd nipped her so the scent would dissipate a little so Titan wouldn't get as angry, before she picked up speed, picking her way through the shrubbery to reach her herd. Seeing Titan and Heidi together, she slowed, seeing that they were having a moment. Heidi was a sweet girl, but she was sometimes so shy around her father with wanting to impress him that these moments were rare, and Thera had no wish to intrude upon that.

Ellie was leading the herd, much to Thera's amusement. The mare was experienced, but was often so submissive that she shrank to the background a lot of the time. Still, she looked like she was doing alright, though they were moving a little fast for an injured foal. Watching the mare almost fall apart, Thera waited for a while, wanting the other valkyrie to get a taste of leading. Whilst being submissive wasn't bad, Ellie was almost painfully so, and Thera did wish to let her herdmate build up some confidence.

After a few moments, however, Thera trotted up, nudging Ellie gently so the other mare knew she was back and taking over. As she did so, Thera nudged the other mare playfully, with a gentle smile. "Good job taking control whilst I was gone. You did perfectly." Though Thera wasn't usually the type to be so kind to horses that weren't her foals, Ellie's inability to stand for herself meant that Thera occasionally took the younger mare under her wing, mentoring and encouraging her. Of course, that was only when she had the time.

Slowing slightly for the foal in the back, Thera made her way toward the falls, hoping that there would be some good sun to get her to finally dry off. Thinking back to how interesting Bjorn and his herd was, and looking back at her beloved herd and family, Thera smiled gently to herself. Of course Titan cared for his mares. She couldn't imagine any other stallion that would allow someone like her to traipse wherever she wanted with the trust that she would return, and she loved Titan for it. No matter where she went, the mare always returned, smiling gaily as she always did.

[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: 3 stillborn, none. ❱ ❰ status: pregnant ❱ ❰ location: Headed towards Falls ❱ ❰ tags: Thera, Elysia. ❱ ❰ mentions: Alfheim herd & Titan ❱▶
Upon the news that they'd be leaving Hnitbjorg lands immediately following the break in the storm Citadel forced down a begrudging grunt. While she disliked the forest and being so near a rival herd just the same as anyone else in her herd she didn't want to do a whole bunch of moving around. Her belly hung low and swollen on her usually lithe and feminine frame- it was actually something Citadel loved. Thus far she had failed to give Titan any foals, only ones whom left the world as soon as they had entered. The very thought and pain bearing memories caused the mare's throat to lock up with grief and desperation. Just as much as she wanted to provide her beloved stallion a legacy she wanted a foal just for herself, it didn't matter to her if the filly or colt she would bear carried the obsidian pelt and proud stature of their father. She merely wanted a healthy youngster, her heart yearned for it and in the coming seasons she had found herself questioning her steadfast faith in the gods that seemed so keen to deny her heart's desire.

Nevertheless the mare looked upwards, letting her chocolate and golden gaze settle upon the sky. "Please Balder, provide me a foal a legacy or not i don't mind." Her voice carried untainted desperation as she pleaded to Balder, he was revered as the God of kindness and beauty. Perhaps his kindness will lift the veil of infertility that plagued Citadel and provide her with a healthy and beautiful foal that she could nurture and protect. As she prayed her faith in the gods above her never wavered and instead of dwelling she followed the lead of Elysia. Towards Franang's Falls, she cast an attentive glance over the herd of Alfheim. She counted heads quietly, while she certainly was no lead mare she did want to ensure that almost everyone was along with the herd, enough heads were present to bring comfort over her so she trotted forward, her cremello pelt remained dampened with the rain but with due time on the trip to the Falls it would dry and return to its former glory.

As she paced forwards she turned around once more, her heart giving a slight sigh of relief as she saw Thera emerge and head back towards the herd. Even if Titan himself hadn't said that Thera was the lead mare out loud to the herd Citadel treated the older mare as if she were the lead mare. She give a nicker towards the painted mare, glee over-coming her usually stoic and optimistic features. Her gaze drifted towards the stallion and his nearly carbon copy daughter, she didn't bother to listen in. It wasn't her place to know what was said between a father and his daughter. Instead she observed them, her muscles working from sheer memory of following the herd. The sight of him being tender with one of his offspring made her heart both jump with happiness and reassurance but ache at the very same moment. Titan had proven above all else that he was an excellent sire and even more of a patient stallion. Citadel had thought surely after her 3rd failure to provide him with a son or daughter that she'd be exiled, yet here she stood. Enough mooning over your King. The thought came quickly and as such she turned tail, quickening her pace so she could trot alongside Elysia and Thera. While the two mares were older than herself she found their maturity akin to her own.

"Where did you head off to with Bjorn? You smell of him and foals." She commented softly- her tone held no accusation only curiosity as she perked her ears towards Thera. As she moved along her tail lashed against her hocks and flanks, shooing away the small pests and insects that seemed to emerge in the masses after such dreary weather. She was thankful to be headed for the falls, it was a serene place and the desire to remove the mud that coated the lower half of her legs was agonizing.

ＦＯＲＳＥＴＩ ──x❝i still believe in you.❞
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◀ ❰ jotunheim maiden ❱ ❰ gypsy vanner ❱ ❰ mare ❱ ❰ 2.7 years❱ ❰ foals: none ❱ ❰ status: 2nd stage ❱ ❰ location: hnitbjorg ❱ ❰ tags: Signe & the Colts ❱ ❰ mentions: - ❱▶
As she realized the conversation and affectionate moment with her father was over the young mare sepearated herself from him, pacing around the outskirts of her herd in a slightly nervous manner. She remained unsure of if she should leave now or wait. She overheard Titan mentioning Franang's Falls to possibly take in Heidi there. She could use that moment to take her leave, the Falls was a peaceful and beautiful place, as well as a neutral land. Nodding her head and casting a gaze upwards, she had her plan. Now all she needed was for it be set in place. Accompany her herd to the falls. Wash her pelt free of the dirt, mud, twigs, and burrs that littered it from their stay in hnitbjorg. Say her final goodbye and leave. She recited the plan in her head before her nerves calmed, sure she would have absolutely no idea what she was to do or where she would be going once she was on her own but she had strong faith that the gods wouldn't lead her astray and she knew vaguely of where the territories laid. Perhaps an Earl would be at the falls and she could trail him once he took his leave to observe, perhaps.

Though soon enough the return of Signe was announced and the maiden spun on her hooves within a matter of seconds. Her eyes fell on the two foals that accompanied Signe and she felt her heart swell at the sight. The fiery bay was a half sibling to her yet the dun. The dun wasn't blood related. She could tell by the coat that the other foal wasn't Signe's nor was he Phantom's, instead an adopted foal whom's dam probably fell victim to the storm. The thought pulled at her heart strings and she trotted over cautiously, giving whuffs and nickers towards Signe and the little colts. She stood slightly behind and to the left of Phantom- she wanted to meet these two new colts before she was to leave the herd. Perhaps they were a sign of goodluck from the gods?

Forseti wouldn't come any closer if Signe wasn't comfortable with her being near her two new sons. Instead the large maiden lowered her head and stretched out her neck to whuff at the two youngsters. Her ears were flicked forward with interest as she tried to make her frame smaller and less formidable. Signe was a kind mare, so willing accept an orphaned foal in the same moment she had just had her own. It took a certain level of motherly instinct and drive to take in another foal while your own was so new and fresh the world. Then again the little dun colt too smelled newly born. He wasn't even a day old, he'd fit right in and likely grow up fully believing that Phantom was his sire and Signe was his dam.

[unnamed]

Ｔ Ｉ Ｔ Ａ Ｎ ！ ！
alfheim king . eleven years . stallion . tags: heidi . location: franang's falls

Titan had essentially ignored the brutish Oydis, turning his back to her as his peace had already been spoken towards Winter. He'd never been a fan of mares like her. While he valued and cherished his mares opinion he saw no desire for them to take up leadership which was supposed to be his - which included them telling others to leave his territory. He saw her as disrespectful, taking a king's job. He also believed it made the Ironborn appear weak if he couldn't so much as do his own job. But the dynamics of herds varied greatly, let Ironborn allow his mares to do all the work while he pranced around with mares not even his own. At the thought of Thera being away with the champagne stallion angered once again flared in Titan and behind him his tail swished violently. Never again would he allow such a thing.

He watched with amusement as Mazi, albeit with poor aim, struck out at him in frustration. She was a feisty one certainly, full of vigor and life and willing to stand up to any challenge. A small snort of a chuckle left him as she stood straighter and more pronounced in an attempt to show her full size. To an inexperienced stallion the seal mare would be unapproachable and a dangerous endeavor; however this was the Drums of War. He feared no challenge and backed away from no opponent. Mazikeen wouldn't be a problem for him either. He tilted his head curiously as she declared that how far she'd travel along with him was unknown. He somehow doubted that, she'd return to Alfheim with him even if they had to take it slowly. "The safest place for you and your foal is back in Alfheim, even if we must make our way there slowly. Band earls won't care to have a foal around," he stated simply. He avoided making any mention of the word death or speaking clearly what he meant. Doing so would only upset the poor foal and make her frantic, that was the last thing anyone needed. Mazikeen would understand well enough what he meant.

His attention was immediately pulled back to Heidi as she spoke softly, he savored the rare moment of openess between the two. Though he was always caring Titan often took the traditional role and provided protection more than he provided comfort from words. Hearing his own daughter's insecurities and worries eased him in an odd way. Even though she'd be leaving within the next day he knew there'd always be a place in her heart for him; no matter what if something terrible should happen he knew she'd know she had a home here. He sighed softly at her admittance of fear and her loss of bravery. He nuzzled Heidi gently as they walked, "Your bravery has not left you Northern Warcry, it's merely your heart that takes its place in the front. You've known only one herd your entire life and have always been under mine or Thera's protection. Your family does not grow weary of you my dear, they only realize that your time is coming for you to depart. Although cold, goodbyes are often easier said when a distance has grown."

Ahead of them he watched as Elysia took the lead and the herd began moving. He knew she was often submissive towards others leaderships but she had grown up in Alfheim and would know the way there almost as well as Thera. Speaking of which he turned his head as she approached and as she passed the smell of Bjorn on her found its way to him. He snorted angrily and the displeasure of her escapade now showed clearly in his expression. She'd hear it from him later. He couldn't believe Thera would be so brazen as to so much as allow another king to touch her only to return back to his own herd as though nothing had happened. One hoof came down angrily, splashing mud up onto his already filthy coat at the thought. Under any other circumstances he would have turned back and taught Bjorn a lesson, for now though, he had a herd to get to safety.

Feeling Heidi pressed against him his nerves calmed and he leaned into her, taking refuge in the final moments he had with her. "We all must face a test Heidi, given to us by the gods that defines who we truly are. You are as brave as you can possibly be and as intelligent as your mother. When we reach the falls and are no longer in a stressful situation you will find your bravery will return. Whether it leads you to Phantom or to remain with us another year it is still bravery; to say yes or to say no. In the end you have my blessing to do as you should please," he spoke softly. More than anything he desired her happiness and her safety, that was something she could find with Phantom if she chose to do so. He was certain of it.

Ahead of him he could sense Citadel's discomfort and felt worry for her, her belly hung so low he was concerned whether the trip to the falls would be too much. It wasn't as if they had a choice either way. He called softly towards her, hoping to give her some encouragement as they broke the tree line and in the distance the falls appeared. Not much longer now, but for a herd that had to move so slow with so many sore bones he knew the trip would seem that much longer to them. All the worry now setting in had Titan agitated. He kept repeating to himself that it wasn't much further. They'd get to the falls where they'd wash off, Heidi would lose her self doubt, Thera would despise Bjorn, and Citadel would birth a healthy foal.

ＡＳＴＲＩＤ ！ ！
jotunheim maiden . two years . mare . tags: haukr, mjolnir . location: hnjtiborg
*reposted former post*

The more this new stallion talked the more uneasy Astrid became. She did not like him, there was something about this stallion that despite his charming words gave him away as not being good. Her agitation began showing as her hooves gently stamped in the ground, mud rose over her hooves and began covering her white legs everytime a drop splashed upwards. As he came closer she snorted softly, the best she could manage of a warning. As the stallion forced her to turn she attempted to move away but his size made it difficult. Instead, the mare's fear rose up inside of her and stunned her both into silence and inaction. How was she supposed to handle this? Phantom couldn't teach such a calm, inexperienced mare how to successfully ward off earls and thus she'd never learned.

At the sound of Haukr's own aggression she looked behind her only to see the other rising up in an attempt to strike Mjolnir. Her once frozen stature now melted away and in a slight panic Astrid rushed to the side, moving away from the two stallions and circling back until Haukr was in between herself and the other. She was surprised to see him coming to her defense and it didn't seem to be because he wanted her for his own (she didn't doubt it was a factor though.) It seemed he was doing it because the other stallion's pushiness. Perhaps Haukr wasn't quite so bad after all?

[azhefa.]

xxxx
⚜ ° ＡＭＡＥＲＡ ° ⚜
{ ɪ'ᴍ ᴀ ɴɪɢʜᴛᴍᴀʀᴇ ᴅʀᴇꜱꜱᴇᴅ ᴀꜱ ᴀ ᴅᴀʏᴅʀᴇᴀᴍ }
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mae ● 3.5 ● lone maiden [> jotunheim] ● heat 3 ● location; franang's falls

tags; open
luckily for her, the storm that had sent the herds cowering into the forests had no effect on the bay maiden currenly bathing in the small lake by the falls. storms were common back home, some even stronger than what had recently ended and she's lived through them all, what's another to add to her tally score? amaera rolls once more in the water before shaking out her lovely pelt and moving over to the shore to groom herself better. one would think rainstorms wouldn't get them dirty with all the water that falls from the sky, but the winds had kicked up a lot of dirt that took a liking to her once shiny bay coat. how frustrating it was to keep clean in these lands, she hadn't been here more than a few hours and she's had to bathe twice already. perhaps she'll just live around this lake instead of searching for her sire, keep as close to the water as she could in case she needs to have another dip.

the storm had separated her from sammael as the stallion followed the herds into the forest and she remained by the falls. forests weren't something she enjoys and refuses to enter them if she can help it. amaera has followed her sire all the way across the lands to this forsaken place, valhalla he had once called it. the maiden scoffs as she lips and scratches at her coat, what a silly name. sammael had claimed it to be a godly name and had once told her the gods watched over it all. rubbish, all of it. she had always rolled her eyes and ignored his talk of gods and prayers, even as a foal. there were no gods, much less the all mighty ones he so deeply believes in. she has grown to hate these gods he talked about, believing them to be the reason sammael had just up and left the herd one day. not so much as a goodbye or offer to take them along. it seems he missed his birth lands more than he loved his mares and foals, leaving them to suffer at the hands of bachelors who came and tore the herd apart once he was gone. the black stallion will get quite the earful once he comes out of the forest, her wrath has been simmering for days now and is ready to explode.

[evixtus]

♕ O Y D I S ♕
▙ ▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▖▟
sydney ● 16 ● hnitbjorg valkyrie ● stage 3 ● location: hnitbjorg
tags: Phantom, Herd, Vanir & Co ● mentions: Astrid, Signe, Beka, Vidar

Seeing Titan ignore her nonempty threats was irritating, but she brushed it off, he was leaving anyways. Against her own wishes, her fur bristled in annoyance as Phantom received her words and explained why he wasn’t able to leave yet, all to her dissatisfaction. “I will not look for your maiden who wandered off in unfamiliar territory, she obviously has a death wish. If I do see her, though, I will escort her off Hnitbjorg to the border of Idavoll. Otherwise, she’s on her own.” This was the nicest she’d ever been to an outsider from her own family, but she understood where he was coming from. That was his offspring, and she slightly complied to his wishes, just on her own terms. ”My best suggestion would be to help your mare with her colts, since one seems to be deaf to her instruction.”

Cerulean gaze focused on the backs of those retreating from her home, Oydis flicked an ear back slightly as Bjorn summoned both her and Winter back to the group. Turning slightly, she overlooked the young mare beside her and lowered her chiseled head, brushing her muzzle against the other valkyries withers before side-stepping towards the left to move past, approaching the rest of her herd with her long legs striding out, grey plume swishing across her haunches and fetlocks. Her tail was barely brushing against the ground, it had taken sixteen years to reach that length, it was one of her attributes she was most proud of.

The other she took pride in, was having the ability to make Bjorn bend at her will. Sidling up against the champagne stallion once again, she bumped the base of his neck with her head, dropping it down to get a better look at the two foals who just joined alongside Vanir. "Blessed by Thor, another which has been previously unseen. The gods are in your favor, Vanir. You'll be safest here, until you've made your mind clear."

A change in her gut stimulated her senses, making the Iberian warmblood swish her tail once again. Nostrils flaring, she understood that she was almost to her peak stage, which would be preferred to breed in, but she wanted it over with now. She had never enjoyed her heat cycle, the tangy scent driving her nares wild, and the shift in her gut made her more hostile than she'd like towards the rest of her herd. Naturally aggressive towards those outside her family, Oydis wasn't seen as a kind-hearted and considerate mare to those on the receiving end of her brash nature.

Rubbing her head against Bjorn once more, her rubbery kissers brushed against his slick, golden coat, brushing her white pearls across his withers. She had developed a code with him through basic body language, which she thought was ideal compared to voicing what she wanted, but it also gave her a sense of privacy throughout the group. Tugging on his mane and bumping her hip against his, she was making it more obvious by the second that she wanted personal time, before anything else could interrupt them--again.

[lynettetan1]

Midnight's Mirage
Tagged: Oydis, Primrose, Forseti, Vira
Mentioned: His herd, Bjorn

As Forsetti moved beside him to check out the two foals, Phantom nudged her slightly with affection. Always the caring maiden, Forsetti had a love for foals that rivalled any mother, and he could see her growing into a steadfast valkyrie.

As he did so, Oydis' words only flamed his anxiety as she spoke. Astrid was the last maiden he would describe as having a death wish. The confirmation of the dangers that existed in the forest only made him worry more, but having him run off helter skelter would not only possibly result in lots of injuries, but also leave his herd open, very probably to Bjorn's almost guaranteed wrath. With her promise, however, he looked at the ground, reviewing his options. He was no longer welcome here by Oydis, and looking at how Bjorn seemed tugged around by the thoughts of his herd as well as his hermited nature, it was safe to assume that the golden stallion would feel the same way.

Oydis promising to look out for her, however, was some of a good thing, if anything, and he would not like to lose that either. An experienced and strong mare that knew Hnitbjorg well, she was probably one of his best bets for finding Astrid, and he didn't exactly want to anger her into taking that away. Perhaps it was best to go along with that. Staying quiet, he finally dipped his head in agreement. "You have my thanks. We will linger at Idavoll, near Hnitbjorg, but hold no ill will, only hope for our loved ones' return."

With that, he looked toward his herd, letting his eyes roam over all the mares that were still with him. Whilst going to Hnitbjorg had definitely helped them weather the storm, he wasn't quite sure if it was worth it if some of his herd was going to be lost anyway. Still, there was no point for regrets. Whickering gently to Primrose, he gestured toward the direction Oydis had pointed out, making her take the lead. "A distance away from the Hnitbjorg border, but close enough that we'd be able to see Eliza and the others if they emerge."

Traditionally, Signe would be the one to lead the herd, what with her being the eldest, but looking at it, she had two colts on her hands, one of which was already proving to be a bit of a hard one to rein in. She had her attention full at the moment. As he did so, he nudged Forseti with his hip, pushing her closer toward the foals. Forseti was a maiden that would never harm any foal, especially one of his herd, and he knew that she would definitely be able to lighten Signe's load for the journey out the forest, if Signe let her.

Forming up at the back, he nudged Vira gently, knowing she might be worried about her sister as well as praising her for a job well done. They had all managed to pull through and if they just got out the forest and waited, they would emerge as they always did. Starting to move, he hoped that they would move out the forest swiftly, and he hoped against hope that Eliza, Stjerne and Astrid would be there, no matter how improbable that seemed.

Northern Quiver
Tagged: Citadel, Ellie (last post), Titan
Mentions: Amaera, her herd

It was impossible to not link her arrival to the almost immediate angered pound of Titan's hoof. Knowing what it was for, Thera withheld a sigh. Though Titan was tolerant, he was also prideful, and Bjorn's nip would cost her far more than the golden stallion would probably have thought it had. She had a brief surge of annoyance at Titan's behaviour at that, she'd been feeling so loyal toward him, too! Then again, she thought with a sigh, it was wrong to expect exactly what she wanted.

Still, knowing that she had done nothing wrong helped her maintain her composure, as well as the fact that her heat scent still hung heavy in the air. He would be able to tell that nothing had happened, and though he would probably be sore about the whole thing, he wouldn't get too enraged, especially with the new mare's personality. Looking at the two interact only made Thera hide a chuckle. Yes, Titan had his hooves quite full, and if she knew him, he couldn't be any happier about it.

At Citadel's welcoming nicker, Thera nudged the other mare back, happy in the welcome. Citadel's belly hung large and low, and Thera worried for the other valkyrie. What had been a bold personality had faded with the years and disappointments, and had grated Citadel into a hardened but motherly personality. Thera did hope the other had a healthy foal. She deserved it, with what she'd been through. Thera wasn't sure if the other mare could splinter any more, but she knew that though she enjoyed pushing buttons, this was one limit she did not want to find.

At Citadel's question, Thera let out a soft snort, remembering the dead look in the golden stallion's eye. "I went to investigate a strange sound in his territory, and he tagged along. Found a mare with twins. Couldn't quite convince her to come with me without invoking Bjorn's wrath."

Holding in a sigh, they drew toward the falls, making Thera's ears perk up at the sound of the rushing water, though she grew more alert. With how noisy the waterfall was, it was a little harder to pick up on predators. Additionally, there tended to be lone maidens and valkyries as well as many band earls, making any trip in Idavoll one full of chaos. Glancing back at the group of horses behind her, Thera kept her eyes open.

It seemed she had needed to, too. Seeing a large bay figure made her slow, but the scent of a tart heat scent quickly helped Thera identify the other horse as a mare, though her size made her easily confused for a stallion, being about the same height as Titan, even. Looking back, Thera caught Titan's eye, letting out a questioning neigh.

Though they currently had their differences, Thera had been with Titan for a while and they knew each other well enough to know to present a united front when there were newcomers. Thera wanted to know if Titan was going to go after the new mare, showing that she was prepared to lead the herd and keep them all together in his temporary absence if he did. It would be a bit of a pity that Titan seemed to have so many things to do, looking at how he had to deal with the new mare as well as possibly this bay, what with her heat scent growing stronger. Still, Thera was nothing if not patient, and she was prepared to wait and do what was asked of her.

Still, the bay looked angry, and given how Titan seemed agitated-possibly partly because of her-, it might turn ugly, and if it did, Thera wanted the herd a safe distance away. As such, she slowed everyone to a slow walk as she awaited Titan's response, waiting for the signal to proceed with her next move.