The Mark of a Brilliant Mind... or is it Madness?

[ocean]

DISASTER ADDICTION
Paint x Thoroughbred
7yrs x vixen x chestnut
multiple personality disorder x schizophrenia

They call it Liberty Shores, but how much liberty does it truly offer? What kind of liberty comes from being trapped within a herd, expected to surrender your mind to the leaders of the mass? I shudder violently at the thought as I meander along the beach, weaving around mares and wolf b*tches as they stand or sit, some sleeping, others looking around hopefully; mostly they stood by themselves, with a few standing in twos or threes; watching and waiting for the few males to turn their attention to them. It's so depressing here, so disgusting and pathetic. I glide past a male wolf on his way towards a pretty b*tch, and he growls ferally; I only pay him enough attention to throw a half-hearted kick at him; it misses, but who cares?

I'm only passing through, I'm not stopping until I'm safely on the outskirts of this sorry place; I won't take any d*mned chances. That's right, Addy, keep walking, you already have a herd. My eyes fell onto the reddish wolf that raced past me on his way back to his lands, three females tailing him. His yellow eyes glanced at me briefly, and deep within, past the curiosity of the beast himself, were the iron eyes of Darkrite. My eyes snapped away and I ignored him, switching my tail; he had been pestering me all day, and my nerves were fraying. I willed the hard-headed control freak to be silent, and felt the soft nudge of Sakura and Brilla, encouraging me to be calm.

My hoof nicked the top of a whitened piece of driftwood as I passed over it, and the soft scraping noise squeaked almost inaudibly. Viral's high-pitched voice came to mind briefly and my lip curled up resentfully. I continued to walk slowly across the white sand, chatting idly with various Muses, their bright colors dancing across my brain. The fog that I am so accustomed to rolls across the bodies in front of me, and I wonder if the border to this area is close. The random strangers I often meet in my wanderings always expressed confusion when I told them I couldn't see them until they were close, and it was from those experiences that I learned that this fog, this washed-out world around me, was unnatural. Just another ugly scar gifted to me by Mother Dearest. The only decent thing she gave me was the Muses, for I also know that it is abnormal for a horse or other beast to hear the voices of others in their mind. The big cats, on the other hand, well, it is very normal in their culture.

A soft breeze ruffles my fetlock, and I toss my head into it, letting it tug gently on my ears and mane. The waves of the ocean crash onto the sand, small and foamy; the sea itself seems grey, but I can feel the sun on my back and tell it's a hot, bright day; to anyone else, the sea is likely a brilliant blue. But I don't care, I would not trade the vibrant colors of the Muses for the bright ones of Mother Earth for anything. I gaze at the sea for too long, and feel my breath whisk out of my chest as it collides with something warm and hard. I glance around to see I've collided with a black friesian stallion, he twists his head to scowl at me, and pivots his body to face me, baring his teeth. I assume an innocently bewildered look, apologetic yet slightly witless; I have found that few can remain angry with a well-meaning fool.

He curls his lip and snorts violently, clearly he is one of the few; I feel a weight in my stomach that I think is panic, and I feel Viral retreat as Darkrite lurchs forward, prepared to toss me aside and deal with this brute himself. The weight becomes heavier as another Muse lurks into consciousness; the demon of my mind and my personal tormentor, Beetle. Darkrite falters, but It does not get in his way, simply watches, a sense of eager delight brightening the vemonous color of It. Darkrite turns, and I'm suddenly sitting in the darkness, a color surrounded by color, and I'm watching through my eyes like a spectator.

Darkrite snarls, demon-like, at the friesian, and the opposing beast says something, I can't quite hear what; Darkrite laughs, a bitter, mocking sound, and tells the stag to 'shove off'; he says 'she's not interested', and the beast looks bewildered. I laugh as I realize that the brute thinks Darkrite is a mare, and why shouldn't he? Mine is a mare's body. But truthfully, I like to think of myself as like Beetle, genderless, just existing, and that the organs within me only exist because the Gods could only fairly give me a few deformations. But I would be willing to trade those organs for a proper voice, and sometimes I feel resentment at their choice. I feel Sakura and Beetle laughing with me, Sakura's a gentle, secretive thing, and Beetle's histerical, mad, frightening. I stop, and concentrate on the confrontation between Muse and Fool.

status//complete
word count//865
notes//Mwaha, beware the erratic shift in personalities. ^^

[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size]

[Pyrrhüloxia]

OOC: I am very interested. =D And I kind of doubt you'll find another RPG quite as active as Sobibor.

Pride of Darkness
Alone Under the Sun

He didn't know why he was here, maybe it was just the want to get away once and a while. Maybe to just be free from everyone and everything around him. Pride of Darkness leisurely made his way down onto the beach, the tan grains of sand loosened under his great weight and he sank a bit into it. Trudging with a weary mind down the stretch of beach he noticed it wasn't quite as empty as he had found it just the other day. But guess that's what he gets for wanting to take a stroll in the middle of the day. Sighing tiredly, Pride let his head hang downwards, not wanting to watch the frivolous play of other young wolves and equines. It only tired him out more.

A long, wavy tail brushed the beach behind him as his stroll carried his large size over unstable soil. Both ears listened to the soft, distant shift of ocean waves as they slowly gurgled up the shoreline then sighed as they retreated back into itself. The repetitive sound was soothing to a troubled mind, along with the high pitched squawks of seagulls soaring in the light blue sky above this lonely figure just trying ever so hard to make his way through life. Heavy eyelids drifted downwards over crimson orbs as the sounds of the beach whisked him away into the deepest realms of his mind. Pride's ripped, jet black body walked on at a slower pace, sinewy muscle rippling under his dark pelt with each sweeping stride.

Ah, the lovely noises of the ocean. And the salty flavor in the crisp air that lingered in your mouth and on your coat after a long day by the sparkling sea. Music to the ears, food for the soul and rest for an anxious mind. The ethereal breeze brought more peace, carried upon it's gentle whispers, straight to the pointed ears of this horse mix. He relished the flavor of calm, reveled in peace and adored the golden sun rays pouncing upon his sleek, onyx coat stretched over a short, muscular back. Both eyes remained closed for quite some time as Pride's worrisome mind let go all troubles. He'd been here quite a few times before this, and while the black colt should have been frolicking or rolling in the silky texture of the sands like all the other equines of his age, he preferred to imagine himself alone on a tiny island comprised of mostly sand and surrounded by sapphire ocean waves. At night he would look up into the sky at the bright, twinkling, twilight stars that glared down in diamond beauty at him and just smile his carefree smile. Straight ivories with their sparkling gleam would--

A harsh sound interrupted the dark stag's peaceful thoughts. Both eyes cracked open, staring at the ground where beige sand became rough, jagged brown rock. His humongous hoof had struck the trip where rock abruptly ladened the ground then grew into a massive boulder adorned with sea snail shells, different crustaceans, bone white barnacles and pink frilled anenomes in the shallow depressions on the rock's exterior. It seems he had accidentally strayed a little too far to the right and happened upon this odd place. But that was expected when one was so deep in your own thoughts or imaginations.

Pride turned to face the short hill of sand that led back down towards the rest of the beach, sounds of laughter and chatter filling his auds once again. He frowned, a splitting headache broke out on the inside of his skull. Such peace he once knew was now permanently lost until it quieted down some. Hauling himself across the crowded sands towards the glittering waters, his ruby eyes caught a red shine in their corners. Halting swiftly, Pride regarded a nearby chestnut mare with curiosity. She apparently bumped into a nearby friesian and he wasn't happy about it. His deep voice rumbled forth then dissipated. Bleh, that weakling was no where as strong as the friesians back in Pride's homeland. And the only reason he brought that up within his head is because all the masters and free-roamers had such huge egos it was unbearable at times.

Ah well, the mare looked nice enough. She was a very healthy looking chestnut and averaging probably about, at least three or so years older than himself. The two year old colt trotted swiftly towards her, distancing himself just enough as he realized she seemed to be talking to herself. Pride cocked his head as he smiled warmly. "Greetings," he said, straight white ivories gleaming towards her. His body signals were passive, he tried to look as friendly as possible for this slender lady. Perhaps they could be friends.

[/blockquote][/blockquote][/sub]

[ocean]

DISASTER ADDICTION

five of seven

What a pathetic fool; he has been communicating with Darkrite for several minutes now, and still has not figured out that he is talking to a different being; it will take him even longer to figure out that Darkrite is not female. But the beast is not entirely stupid, he can see the bloodlust in our eyes, and he is beginning to break. ”Back down, boy; or I’ll let the Beetle come out to play,” Dark’s words are heard by everyone this time, and at the sound of our voice’s harsh rasp, Beetle lets loose a vicious hiss, a dead giveaway of Its sadistic desires. We all know Dark’s not playing; he hates Beetle, and he would not risk Its wrath if he was bluffing. The Friesian looks confused, and a little frightened; he must think we’re crazy, like all the rest of them. Wouldn’t it be pathetic if one day these morons found out it was really them who were mad?

The friesian seemed to have given up; I watched through grey haze as he turned and left, his gait clumsy as he attempted to leave quickly, but appear nonchalant. Ha! I tossed my head and flicked my ears, vaguely noting that I was back in control as I gloated over our victory. There were horses and wolves nearby that I was certain were eyeing me curiously; a few even went elsewhere, but I ignored them contentedly, and stood my ground. I shut my eyes and lowered my crania, opening my ears to the sound of the waves and turning the laughter and talk into a distant murmur. But one word got through.

Greetings. The word echoed through the cave of my mind; at first I thought it was one of the Muses; but my belly wasn't tingling, my mind not buzzing; so it was an Outsider. But why was this one word standing out above the rest? Because he is beside you, dear. He was? Yes; I could sense him now, and I felt a flash of anger; how dare he disturb me? I switched my tail in frustration, hoping vindictively that it whipped him. I kept my head down, but slowly opened my eyes; through the grey haze, I could see hooves attached to sturdy black legs; had that foolish friesian come back? No; this one had a different scent, a richer, friendlier one. I wanted to continue ignoring him, but I was beginning to feel rude, and reluctantly, I lifted my head.

He was much younger than the first stallion, and younger than myself, but his eyes were not filled with the naivety of youth; they were clever eyes, and- hopeful? Yes, he seemed quite hopeful about something, and I wondered if it was me. Bitter resentment welled up inside of me as I thought that perhaps he wanted to claim me; but could one so young claim anyone? I eyed him suspiciously, but turned my body to face him, my way of greeting him. "Greetings to you too." I considered giving him my name, but I knew that if I did that, he could control me; that was what most horses didn't realize; giving your name to someone gave them control of you. So I decided to give him an alias; "I am Addy." I didn't want control over him, so I didn't adk his name.

status//complete
word count//561
notes//apologies for taking so long. ^^

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[Pyrrhüloxia]

Pride of Darkness
_{Curious About You}

<sub>As the tall colt waited for her to reply, a whip-like tail shot towards him but barely missed as it floated back to its original position. She seemed a little irritated, perhaps it was not such a good idea to talk to her? Oh well, he already said hi, how would it look if he simply turned tail and sauntered off like a frightened pony? No, perhaps he'd wait just a bit longer. Soon the mare's eyes opened slowly as she turned to face him, her lyrics came out somewhat distorted. Or was it just his hearing? He swore she sounded normal, but an odd hint of... well, abnormality hung beside the words. Ah well...

Pride's smile grew, he replied to her returned greeting with a thundering voice, "My name is Pride, a pleasure to meet you Addy." facing the mare eye-to-eye finally, it was a relief to find someone his size, most were either shorter or taller. This time he was only a mere 3 inches taller. Well anyway, he couldn't just stand there comparing their sizes, he must at least try striking up a conversation. "I hope I am not disturbing you, I was just strolling down the beach and my concentration happened to be lost, so I sought someone to speak with." strangely enough, Pride gained an odd vibe from the distant mare, she was somewhat pretty with dazzling, if not kind of diluted, multicolored eyes. A pretty combination of colors though. And his mind just couldn't let go of the fact it was like she was talking to herself right before his hulk appeared.

"I hope you don't mind? I'll leave if you want me too?" now Pride felt like he was being obnoxious, or attempting to make her feel bad. Ugh... now he felt bad. Such a wandering mind he had! Why couldn't he just stay on one subject whilst thinking quietly to himself? It was always one thing to another, from feeling awkward around this lady, to comparing sizes to finding her beauty and then back to feeling awkward... uh oh, now he was ignoring the mare by thinking!

Pride flicked his tail and turned his head away momentarily to glance at three wolf cubs laughing and rough-housing in the sand by their tolerant mother. Again the thought of his own youth popped up, but the onyx stag pushed the distracting thoughts away, turning his roman nosed head back towards Addy. He tried not to retain too much eye contact, as a lot of horses didn't like that, still, he wanted her to know that he was interested in a possible friend, so he kept a cheery demeanor about his mass.</sub>

[ocean]

DISASTER ADDICTION

better judgement is failing

<sup>What a fool; hollering his name out so loudly for everyone to hear; and what a ridiculous name at that. Pride. I do believe mother warned me about fools with fool’s names; but when did dear Essence ever give me advice worth taking? When had the b*tch given me anything worth taking? She gave me near-blindness and a damaged voice box. Some would argue that her neglect had brought me the Muses, but that’s bull; they chose me; it never had anything to do with the wench named Silver Essence. I tossed my head irritably at his cheerful demeanor, sighing in slight impatience. This colt was strange, and I never cared for strange. But; he seemed to have innocent enough intentions, and sometimes it was good to converse with someone apart from the Muses; all knowing they were, but also very arrogant.

”Hmm, the same thing happened to me, except I sought to avoid speaking with someone,” I replied, referring to the previous stallion, but unsure if Pride had even seen him. It was peculiar that I didn't have my normal urge to be snide towards him; I hated other horses, and wolves too, because they are stupid, vain creatures of mediocre intelligence. But, annoying as he was, this colt seemed different; he had genuinely kind eyes, and his words were courteous. Slightly lacking in confidence; something I hated; but courteous. "No, I don't mind," I found myself saying, and flinched as Darkrite flared angrily; he would have many words for me later, but for now, I shoved at him, and ignored him and all the rest. "Perhaps I am deranged, but I actually think company would be... enjoyable." I had to force the word out, my vocabulary refused to allow that word to be used for the companionship of another entity, but I found that after I said it, it was quite true. In his case anyhow; he was unique. Perhaps.

I found myself suddenly in a very uncomfortable position; he was not saying anything, and I didn't know what to say. 'What should I do? What should I say?' I begged the Muses to offer suggestions, Sakura and Darkrite were good at this stuff, they were the ones who interacted with Outsiders the most. I don't care, just be rid of the whelp before I must, came Dark's jealous snarl; he despised other stags; he was the stallion of the Muse herd, and I was a part of that herd. Ignore him, child; the ability to have a conversation is a good skill to have, it is time you learn it. Besides, he seems like a nice boy. Ha, of course she would give me such useless, parental advice; and maybe he's not, maybe we're all wrong. Viral wanted to put her two-cents in, but I ignored her, turning back to Pride; I knew what the little sl*t would say, and I didn't want to hear it.

"Um..." I started, laying back my ears in frustration, "Um, what is this country called?" I knew what it was called; Sobibor. It was a rather morbid name, I thought, but in a vague way, like a nightmare you don't really remember. Everytime I heard the name I got a chill down my spine, and I could help think that this place would be very influential to my life, but perhaps in a bad way. I shuddered as I looked at Pride; what if this cheerful colt had something to with it? But I hadn't had anything else to say, and it was the first thing to pop into my mind.</sup>

status//complete
word count//600
notes//I'll try not to take so long next time. ^^ I'm having 'puter drama.

[/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Pyrrhüloxia]

Pride of Darkness
_{You Seem Easy-going... yet I am Daunted}

Pride cocked his head off to one side, watching Addy's body movements. The clouds in her eyes showed many things, at first she seemed irritated, then somewhat tolerant... other such emotions were not as easily figured out, but they were there, and it disturbed the colt slightly. He tried to keep his smile, finding her presence welcome yet dangerous, as if she held secrets. Suddenly the colt spoke, hollow vocals rumbling out in their deepness.
"Sobibor, it's called Sobibor- I think." Pride lifted his head off to the side, cocking one tapered ear as he thought. "I myself have only just arrived maybe a month or two ago. Ah my memory, not reliable in the slightest, although I assure you it is Sobibor." relieving weight on the two right limbs, Pride slowly shifted his weight to the left side. As he waited patiently for a reply of some sort he couldn't help but feel he had somewhat lied to her.

Pride's ears twitched at the sound of an obnoxious group of horses passing, they were loud, so Pride had to raise his voice just a tad to be heard. "I am sorry m'lady, my full name is not Pride, it is Pride of Darkness. 'Of Darkness' is merely a title, but a part of my name nonetheless." the loud group passed, leaving behind a 'piece of peace', just for the two it seemed. Thusly, the colt, Pride, lowered his voice again, speaking softer. "So, enough of my name, what brings you to the twisted realms of this country? Surely it had to be for the scenery, I cannot find any other reason why anyone would want to live in a place like this unless it was for the absolute beauty the lands possess. Stunning really..."

his thoughts lingered a bit on his own words, he sounded rather foolish, speaking so boldly like an open book. In actuality Pride was an open book, but sometimes his words began to fly before his mind could keep up. Well it was getting to that point, not quite, but getting close. He'd have to be careful about what he spoke, especially when the subject of lands and countries came up.

[/color][/sub][/blockquote]

[ocean]

DISASTER ADDICTION

trust is for fools

<sup>Yes, Sobibor; it sounded so much worse out loud, like a plague. So the colt had only been here for a short while? Well, it was comforting to know I wasn’t the only newcomer to these lands, but I had to wonder how helpful he could be; certainly he had to know some things, after two months, but he would not know the customs that would help us to blend in with the locals. ”Yes, Sobibor...” I replied absently, but as I snapped out of my thoughts I continued, ”I arrived in this place only a few days ago, and I’ve been trying to reach the opposite border. I don’t know if I want to stay here.” I don’t know why I told him, it was unlike me to share my plans, but it didn’t seem to matter.

I flicked my ears and tossed an ugly glare at the loud, raucous group that sauntered past; I stamped my hoof in the sand and fastened my glance onto a young mare; Beetle ghosted across my vision then, and the girl glanced my way and lurched forward quickly. I snickered; my eyes must have looked like the bowels of Hell for that second when Beetle was there. I looked back at Pride, Beetle settled in the back of my mind, listening curiously to his peculiar... was it an apology? He was so strange; it was obvious he didn’t come from the same place as I did; did his people even worship a God? Mine did, my herd had been called the Sky Tribe, it had been one of six herds that honoured a nameless God.

"In my country, we believe names are nothing more than spells of control. Giving someone your name means giving them control. Names also decide fate. Pride of Darkness; well, that is a better name than Pride. Addy is not my true name, only part, but I have not shared my name with any but my harem, and the Muses." I hadn't meant to mention the Muses; horses didn't understand them, and I didn't want to be terrorized for being superior. "Don't take it personally that I don't give you my name, it's never personal; I trust no one. Perhaps there will be a day when I can trust someone, but I truly doubt it."

He was right, of course, I had come to Sobibor because of the lands; it was beautiful here, and it had reminded me of my homelands. Perhaps that was why it felt so ominous, my homelands were a place of bittersweet memories; the only ones who had ever loved me were there, but so was she, and the nightmare that had chased me away. "It reminded me of somewhere else, but now I see that it is nothing like that place. There was no such thing as slavery there; this is a concept I do not understand, and I abhor it. Why would you do such a thing to your own kind?</sup>

status//complete
word count//499
notes//*is bewildered* I thought it was Tuesday, but according to my computer, it’s Wednesday...

[/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Pyrrhüloxia]

Pride of Darkness
_{Death was my Life}

<sub>At first he was a little startled when Addy spoke. Her people believe names are spells for control? Well that is rather odd, but it'd be best not to criticize. Mention of something called 'The Muses', Pride felt a little bit as though he knew what she spoke of. Perhaps she meant elders? In Pride's lands everyone was ruled by five Elders, perhaps the elders in her lands were termed Muses? It made a little sense. Once the mare was finished speaking, he spoke in turn to her, looking into her eyes, entranced by their interesting appearance. Her emotions changed so frequently, he wondered if she was holding back anger at his words?

Pride chuckled, "I wouldn't know, it is truly despicable, slavery is. Back in my homeland everyone is free, with the price of constant threat and bloodshed. My people are violent, they are no one even worth speaking of... I came here looking for my father, I've never known such beauty as forests and green things until I came here. Unfortunately, my home is barren and fiery, like a portal to hell itself. I hate it. It is a relief to be able to visit such wonderful escapes as this beach, or to be able to gaze upon the ocean." the colt looked away, feeling downhearted by the mention of his waste of a homeland.

"My father was once dubbed the most evil creature to have ever walked upon the earth... I search for him to learn the truth; I'm only telling you because we were on the subject of purposes." he looked back up at her and smiled warmly. "It really isn't important though, is it? I'll never find him, but I have met some really nice people on my journeys here. I easily trust, and I trust you. But one thing has been tugging at my brain, who are the Muses?"

He asked his question freely and with a smile, a look of innocence flashed in his eyes, and a look of curiosity. The charred stag wasn't looking to irritate anyone, just asking a simple question. He hoped deep in his gut she wouldn't get angry at him for inquiring about these 'Muses'.

Ooc: Lol, that's funny. I'm sick, so my brain ain't working. T.T</sub>

[ocean]

DISASTER ADDICTION

is there something missing?

<sup>I was surprised to learn that this colt hailed from a violent land, he seemed so... peaceful. ”My country looks much like this, except perhaps more open areas, and fewer trees. My herd, the Sky Tribe, was very peaceful; maybe ridiculously so. But we worshipped freedom, and I can’t understand this... slavery idea; there is little in this world that bothers me, but this makes me feel ill.” But the Muses think it’s funny... I thought to myself, and they cackled madly in agreement. ”There was no ocean near my homelands, the sand and the waves are new to me, but I think I like its openness.” He looked unhappy, talking about his people, and I wondered just how terrible they could be; but it was none of my business, and I didn’t question it.

Why has it taken you so long to ask him about his current herd, you fool? Ask him who the lead is, and ask if that lead has a mate! Think about it, I cou- I mean we, could lead a herd! Viral lurched forward, but I suppressed her with a violent shake of my head. Viral was the only Muse I hated, the only one I didn’t respect, and I had learned how to keep her from taking over my body; I had seen her antics too many times, she was power hungry and single-minded. I truly hated her.

”Hmm,” I chuckled, replying to his warm smile with a friendly smirk, ”Perhaps your father should meet my mother; she’s the reason I’m half-blind. She could give your father a run for his title.” the sad thing was, she probably could; if she hadn’t left in the dead of night like a coward, she would have been banished by the leaders; something that rarely happened in my land. ” I suppose to some, the truth is important, but I’m content not to look at her mug ever again.” this kid was growing on me; his parental issues made me feel a sort of comradeship to him. But even so... there were things that were mine to know, and Ours alone.₁ His question chilled me, and I felt depressed at the mention of the Muses for the first time... ever. I looked away from him, and it occurred to me that although I had never told anyone about the Muses, I had never felt any desire to tell anyone; I had been happy to be alone with my invisible herd.

While talking to him, I found myself wanting to go home, where they pretended to understand what the Muses were, because they loved me; or to return to the wild cats, who lived in harmony with the Muses. Not just mine, but all. It’s funny what a single chance encounter can do. ”Then you trust too easily, because I am not trustworthy; I am unpredictable, and I am dangerous. And I am afraid... that it must tug some more, because I cannot tell you what you wish to know.. It is not a matter of trust, but of understanding. No one understands the Muses, or what they are; none but the wild cats.</sup>

status//complete
word count//527
notes//Hmm, I don't really like this post.

[/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Pyrrhüloxia]

Pride of Darkness
_{I was never happy 'til Now}

<sub>Pride chuckled, a margin of his sorrow seeping out from within as his voice closed on him and he silenced himself abruptly, speaking hesitantly henceforth. "No one from my lands are trustworthy, and they consider themselves the most powerful horse breed in the world, just because they can reach a height of twenty hands. I will not say they are actually defenseless, no, far from it; but their egos would do well to soak in a pool of their own medicine. They thrash horses like the ones you see here without a thought of mercy, they are unflinching in their savagery. They worship no one but themselves... and my father was like a king to them. The 'Maggot Lord' is his title, so I'm told. But from what you have said, it seems both of us got the worse end when it came to parents." he chortled again after just about clenching his teeth as he spoke about such lurid memories. Oddly enough, the handsome young colt felt a great weight being lifted from him, never before had he had the chance to get out the rage in him about home. No one had ever bothered to ask, perhaps he liked this mare, they were very alike and... she made him smile. Pride didn't care who the Muses were, or how unreliable she was, their friendship was all that mattered for the moment, and they both seemed to be getting a lot off their chests.

"About the Muses, I do no really care who they are, and I do not mean that in an offensive way at all! I am merely suggesting towards, if they are a private matter or you wish not to discuss such things, I will be sure not to ask again. I strive to make those who surround me as comfortable as possible and if you are uncomfortable, just say the word." Pride told Addy blithely. The colt shifted his weight again, that was an insatiable habit of his, constantly shifting his weight around. He found standing uncomfortable, unlike most equines, he preferred to lay down when he slept; this 'laziness', if you will, made his legs ache terribly after a while of standing. However, as long as the two spoke, he would shift, and as long as she stood, he would stand.

Ah, so different they seemed from each other, and yet so alike. It was never too common a colt or filly would befriend another so much older than themselves, but Pride had a knack for it. It was likely to be blamed upon his rearing, being raised as near 'royalty' in the Elder's temple, under the watchful, twisted influence of his wicked, highly esteemed mother and violent, Pit Champion aunt. It was the love of a mixed beauty that chanced upon him which lead him down the path to goodness. She taught him many things and was more a mother than anyone ever could be to the colt. In some areas Addy reminded him of his foster mother. Kind and gentle.. with a secret. She had a violent secret, what did Addy have? What was she hiding from him behind those clouded eyes and wary, sorrowful gaze that made her want to warn him of possible danger? He could more than hold his own against any horse, big or little, mare or stallion, depending on situations of course; and yet, deep in his gut a voice nagged at his mind, telling him to seek others. His foster mother had always told him to listen to his heart, not his gut. He would do this now. He would believe and trust in what his pounding heart declared so blatantly, 'choose your path. Build a friendship that could last your lifetime. You might need a shoulder to lean on in the nigh future, what with the world as grim as it has become.' So he did.

Status// Complete
Word Count// 654
Notes// This is perhaps a better post of mine, and personally I find all your posts pleasing to read and sumptuously well done. n.n Oh, and sorry for the delay in my reply, I was banned from the computer for centuries it has seemed. Lol.</sub>

[ocean]

DISASTER ADDICTION

you're too good to be true

<sup>Twenty hands... that was quite tall; I had rarely met a horse that could reach such a height. I observed him curiously; he was still young, and perhaps had a little more height to gain, but would he get so tall? It would be interesting if he did, I quite liked equines taller than me; I myself was quite a decent height, if I say so myself, and most equines were shorter or identical in height. Already Pride was taller than me, but not by much. Trust meant a lot to me, because I had never felt it, and it sounded like these creatures Pride had grown up with were utterly vile. Not even Essence was that vicious. "We have something in common then," I mumbled. The Maggot Lord? What a disdainful name; I felt Beetle stirring in the back of my mind, It's interests focused on what the young colt was saying. Unsurprising that It would be fascinated by Pride's people, It probably would have been happier inhabiting one of their minds. Well, they could have It, and Viral too, for all I bloody well cared.

I had a peculiar feeling in my gut; a pleasant warmth, that was very new to me. I pondered it willingly and was surprised to realize that the feeling was being projected toward the ebony male in front of me. It was odd and I turned my head to look at my belly, tilting my ears curiously. I felt Sakura laughing and Darkrite fuming, I peered up at the black wolf crossing behind me, and for an instant, black eyes glanced at me, flashing with an ugly wrath. Well, Darkrite truly did not like this colt. I looked back up at Pride and felt my face twist into a grateful smirk; I switched my tail and laughed slightly.

"I do appreciate that, Pride; much more than you know. Not many are so interested in the comforts of their companions, and it's a nice change. I would like to return the kindness and reciprocate. If I make you uncomfortable, just tell me." He reminded me of someone, but I couldn't think of who it was. Not anyone I'd known recently, it had to be someone from my early years; I couldn't picture their face or remember their name, but I knew that Pride of Darkness reminded me of somebody. Well, it didn't matter, did it? That person was from the past, and the past was meant to be placed behind you. Maybe.

"Can I ask, Pride, what your father's name is? My mother's name was Silver Essence. It sounds so pretty, doesn't it? It sounds like a name for a very kind mare... but I've learned that names rarely have anything to do with your personality." I switched my tail again, thinking about the grey mare that 'mothered' me. I felt a bitter taste build in my throat and threw her out of my mind; why did I ask him that? Pride's father probably made him feel quite similiar to how Essence made me feel. It was nasty of me to ask that, and I regretted it, but didn't want to retract my question; if he didn't want to answer, he didn't have too.</sup>

status//complete
word count//540
notes//Aw, thank you, ^^ I must admit I love your posts as well, they’re always fun to read. Don’t worry about the delay, shtuff happens. =3
lol, BTW, the 'feeling' Addy has in her gut is friendly affection.

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[Pyrrhüloxia]

Pride of Darkness

I can't Help My Feelings

<sub>The midnight-hued stallion's mind jumped when he caught the friendly giggle from chocolaty brown/red Addy. For some reason, even if it wasn't a laugh out of mirth, it touched him someplace warm. She seemed so tense and flustered when they met, now she seemed a lot more calm. Pride suddenly felt great. Quickly he let his vision escape from her view as if becoming bashful by her amiable words. He let her finish before looking back up to stare into her eyes. He was an honest lad and couldn't lie, he didn't care what she asked him, he had released the weight that bound him for so long, and made a valuable friend in the process. They truly seemed to understand each other's thoughts so well. Pride would perhaps always remember this meeting as one of the best conversations he ever managed to hold.

"How true that is, Addy. My father's name was-" he hesitated, seeing his friend's ashamed expression. "His name is Fear of Darkness. It is tradition in my family to bestow the title we bear onto the firstborn, but his name still rings opposite his nature." a terrible guilt wrenched at his mind. Pride only let his eyes flash with the pain he gained from saying his father's name once. It was hatred and sorrow for the poor creature. Guilt for himself. He kept the title and even planned to bestow it upon his own firstborn. Was that bad? Was it so wrong? He hadn't ever thought about it until this exact moment in time. A wandering mind soon found it's way back to Addy's feelings. That look on her face after she asked him the question. He could understand feeling rude about such a thing, but he didn't care.

"Addy, I feel like you could ask me anything and I would answer no matter what!" thunderous vocals blurted out abruptly. Augh! He thought he had that under control! But it seemed fate had a different game to be played. But why did he have to scream it at her?? Pride took one solemn step back and lowered his head, ears bent back towards his poll. He felt so stupid now. "I- I am sorry. My words must have escaped my mouth before I could plan a way to speak them." the apology was as sincere as he could muster, what with shimmering eyes now staring at the two in wonder. How embarrassing. Even after apologizing, it would be agonizing to glimpse the mare's face. She was probably in shock, or thought down upon him. He might not be home where such emotions were punishable by law, nevertheless, it was always weird, no matter where you called home, when one or another confessed any inner thought in a tremendous outbreak of their welled up feelings. Being raise the way all were in his homeland, he had a very strong tendency to withhold more emotions than just his anger.

Pride dared a sheepish glance up at the mare, hoping she wasn't angry or frightened. This always happened! How much more coltish could one get? It was very obvious Pride was feeling an immense amount of embarrassment and regret. Even though it had been an accident, he knew his words were true, he would never take them back, for it would be a lie. And a lie, no matter how 'small' was a terrible thing to commit.

//Status: Complete
//Word Count: 584
//Notes: I think I've adopted the 'status' word' 'notes' thing, lol, and I think I love this entire thread, it's so heart warming.^^ xP</sub>

[ocean]

DISASTER ADDICTION

now who’s the crazy one?

<sup>Fear of Darkness... Pride of Darkness; it was so obvious why his sire had given him that name. What an interesting tradition; it made sense in a way, but I didn't know many others whose names were derived from their parents. Ha, mine wasn't even derived from my ancestors, it was the name of a past leader of the Sky Tribe; a monstrous tyrant that had led the Sky Tribe into an era of misery that did not let up until many years after his death. Disaster Addiction... the only equine I've ever known of whose name truly befitted him; but recently I couldn't help but think: Did it suit me as well? I was no tyrant, but looking back on it, my life had been slowly crumbling since my birth.

Shock ran through me and I laid my ears back as Pride's voice rose, blurting out something that he clearly hadn't meant to say at all; I stared at him warily for a moment, surprised by his enthusiasm. It was the guilty expression on his face that chased away my shock, and slowly, I began to laugh; a little hysterically, and maybe a little maniacally. He was just so... I couldn't say, really, but he very much amused me. I flicked my tail and forced my laughter into a choked halt before fixing my gaze back on him. "Stop looking like you just revealed the secret to destroying the world, boy. Yell at me all you want, I'm like the Plague," I leaned forward, a wicked grin on my face, "You can't get rid of me."

Well, I hadn't been sure at first, but now I was very sure; I had just found something in this colt that I'd never found in anyone before, not even the Muses: a friend. The Muses had never been, and never would be, my friends; they were companions, and that was all. Most of them I liked; Sakura, Darkrite, Brilla, Tokoraj, and all of them. It was only Viral that I hated, and only Beetle that I feared; but anyone who had met Beetle, feared it. But they were not creatures that I could have a light conversation with, like I was having with Pride; it was nice to talk with another horse, I rarely did so.

I hesitated for a moment, and then stepped closer to him; not much closer, I liked my space, but a little bit, in an attempt to relay my good humor towards him. I flicked him playfully with my tail. "So, boy- Pride; do you have lands, or are you a wandering hobo, like me?" I liked calling him 'boy', it wasn't meant to belittle him, just a teasing name because of our age difference; I didn't think he would mind, he seemed like a laid-back fellow.</sup>

status//complete
word count//470
notes//lol, convenient isn’t it? And I agree; I didn’t think my anti-social spazz would find someone she liked so quickly! But they just click. ^^
Hey, at some point would you mind if Fear met Beetle or Darkrite?
This post is not my best, because I've had a cold since friday, yet worked two eight hour shifts over the weekend because we were busy and they needed me; now, my asthma is freaking out and I think my cold might be strep.

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[Pyrrhüloxia]

Pride of Darkness
_{Relatively Different from Normal}

<sub>At first he didn't know what to think of her laughter. Was she mad at him and about to attack? He'd seen the shocked look on her face, perhaps she had gone insane with anger... no, Pride raised his head, not wanting to appear sheepish, nonetheless, he still felt extremely embarrassed, even after listening to Addy's comforting, if not a little strange, words. He smiled and laughed with her. Boy was a new one though, no one had yet called him that. He didn't much mind, it did sort of fit his situation; with Addy being years older than himself. After a moments pause, Pride felt relieved to know she wasn't angry or confused, this charred stag could breathe just a little bit easier now. As well, he could feel the bond between them grow with each word. There was no denying it, she was friendly and kind, someone he could honestly say he enjoyed being with.

To answer her question, he spoke softly, his words a little hesitant. His space wasn't exactly something to be proud of... in fact, it was down-right disgusting. He would just have to leave details out. Lich's Cove was, after all, the only free territory available. And Pride utterly despised violence, he couldn't see himself taking down a burly brute for land.
"Ah, not lands, per se, more of a territory. Smallish yet roomy. I don't much enjoy it there. Actually, I think I preferred being a wandering hobo, there is plenty of shelter here and you get to travel a lot more." Bleh, he was terrible at leaving details out; so comfortable was he around the mare he nearly wished he could blurt everything out about his life, past and present. Not that he wanted to get fresh with her, heh, he just didn't have many friends, and it felt indescribably great to swap words with another.

"Um, well, I would offer you a place to stay... but I believe my realm is completely unsuitable for a friend."
It was true, Lich's Cove rivaled every land in Sobibor, probably ranking number one in both the evil and filthy categories. Not a place at all to invite someone over... not unless you were a blood sucking vampire; of which Pride was not. As Pride spoke his words, he rubbed his overlarge front hoof into the sand, looking down as if he was ashamed of the place he lived in, or ashamed of ever suggesting giving Addy a warm place to sleep if she so desired the hospitality.

Raising a friendly gaze back to concentrate on the thorougbred, he couldn't help but ask. "So, any interesting traditions in your homeland? Has it a name? My does, err- unfortunately it is a secret. I can give you its common name though, 'The Badlands', simply that. In my opinion that does not nearly cover its malevolent landscape good enough." Pride was somewhat randomly picking a new subject, just to get away from the topic of territories. He regretted claiming the place, however, he would have regretted bloodying up an opponent for another even more. Besides, this new subject might turn out more interesting. It was always fascinating for the young colt to learn about other's past lives and adventures, almost as much as he loved sharing his own tales.

Status// Complete
Word Count// 566
Notes// That could very possibly be a deadly match! Beetle + Darkrite + Darkness = blood and death XD
But I wouldn't mind at all! I love rping my evil charrie almost as much as Pride. Lol.

And that's horrible about the strep thing! I hope you get better quickly! I had strep once and thought I'd die, it was awful.</sub>

[ocean]

DISASTER ADDICTION

like no one else you’ll ever meet

<sup>I laughed, wondering why he’d even claimed them in the first place, if he didn’t like them. But what did I know? Maybe Pride wanted to settle down in this country, and create a harem of his own; that would be nice, he seemed a rather lonely soul, only unlike me, he didn’t seem to like being alone. I did; I’d tried only once after leaving the Sky Tribe to assimilate into a herd, but I just couldn’t do it. Being in large, or even small groups of other creatures put me under intense stress; my back muscles bunched so badly my spine would start to hurt. I grinned weirdly. "Travelling isn't all it's cracked up to be, but I must admit, it's nicer than being tied down to one place."

I watched his sheepish gestures as he made his offer, and my ears shifted in annoyance. Why make the offer if he didn't mean it? How pointless. I turned and walked a few steps away; I wasn't leaving, but standing was making me stiff; I rarely stood for so long. I shook my dial to chase away an insect that by all logic should dead by now; so far into winter, and fixed my gaze back on Pride. "Unsuitable or not, I will not likely ever take you up on that offer. I get antsy inside herd lands, I get..." I pondered which word I wanted to use; "Itchy. Itchy for freedom." I snickered, "But if it is a harem you seek to build, I will advise any stray mares I come across to seek you out."

I considered his questions, trying to remember any name my country may have had. I came up blank. "Well, a secret name is better than no name; I don't think my country had one. I, at least, never heard it. As for traditions... we had many superstitions; names weren’t the only things we believed had strong purposes. I smirked slightly, ”The color of your hide was supposed to symbolize a strong trait in your personality." I started to laugh at this point, "Chestnut symbolized insanity!" I cackled, thinking of the irony; between myself and my parents, I was the only one who suited her coat color. White was supposed to be purity, but my dam was a back-stabbing b*tch, and my chestnut father was as mentally stable as you could be.

"Why don't we wander a bit? My legs are stiff, and this beach is boring." I turned away and began to walk, peering behind me to see if he followed.</sup>


status//complete
word count//429
notes//hehe, absolutely! And it would be a neat plot if, while Addy knows Pride, one of her Muses knows his oh-so-beloved daddy. ^^

This post sucks...

I’m sorry this took so long, I’ve been really exhausted. XP But... one of my dad’s friends, who happens to be a ‘computer guru’, is looking at my laptop this weekend, so hopefully within the next week or so, I’ll be able to log on to proboards on my laptop, in which case I’ll be posting more regularly. ^^ Cross your fingers!

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