Kyaishi's Teepee

[Kyaishi]

Name: Diabolus
Gender: Male
Breed: Satan's Servant
Temperment: Devious
Birthdate: 11/04/09
Parents: Unknown
Siblings: Unknown
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Diabolus is, in a word, sadistic. Known also by the name of Astaroth among his brothers, he is one of the nine demons of Satan's Hierarchy. His purpose on these lands is none other than to create followers to his cause- to please his Lord and Master. He manipulates, coerces, lies and kills to get whatever he wants, and feels no guilt for it. He delights in creating discord and despair among others; will go far out of his way simply to ensure that he has inflicted as much agony on another as possible. Frequently, he will take sacrifices for his Master- and no one, stallion, mare or child, is discounted from his victims.

Likes: Chaos, destruction, suffering, himself

Dislikes: Everyone and everything. He only uses them to his advantage.

Romance: There is no such thing.








Co-Ownership Agreement  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Rubedo
Gender: Male
Breed: 5th Gen
Temperment: Chivalrous
Birthdate: 04/17/10
Parents: Aquene and Belial
Siblings: Cetra, Canaan, Mako and Momo
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Rubedo is the knightly sort- strong, loyal, but a bit... stifled. He doesn't quite know how to fun, thanks to a rather strict upbringing by his older sister, who believes in tough love and duty above all else. He is, however, quite warm-hearted, especially towards foals, and quick to offer help to anyone in need of it. Family is the most important thing in the world to him, and he will go to any lengths to protect his herd. He will leap to the aid of anyone who appears to need it- and some who don't- heedless of the dangers it might present, and seek to right any wrongs that he might feel are unjustified.

Likes: His family, racing his brothers, bright sunny days, walks in the forest

Dislikes: Snow, ice, arrogance, injustice

Romance: While romance doesn't seem to be outside the realm of possibility for Rubedo, it is something that he has simply never considered. He has always been content living among his family, and doesn't seem to think about much else. He also doesn't really know the meaning of the word 'flirt', and any sort of romantic pursuits would likely go right over his head. Still, it does seem that one day, he might pursue romantic interests, and he would likely treat his future mate like a princess.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Freyr (unmasked)
Gender: Male
Breed: Spirited
Temperment: Arrogant
Birthdate: Unknown
Parents: Nanaki and ??? (mock-breeding)
Siblings: Kelva, Aquene, Kiros, Rui and Seto (half-siblings)
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Born into a herd renowned for their efficiency in, and love of battle, Freyr was the b*****d son of the chief's daughter, unable to claim leadership due to the circumstances of his birth, but still an honored son in his grandfather's eyes. Freyr thinks highly of his kind because he was raised to believe so, and not because of any particular disdain for 'non-fighter' Soquili- though one may not be able to tell from limited conversation. Despite this, he does have manners, though he may be quick to forget them if his temper is roused. He values honor and strength above all else- even life.

Likes: Battle, training, honor, glory

Dislikes: Deception, injustice, hypocrisy

Romance: Coming from a race that was bred for war, Freyr doesn't have a particularly high priority for- or interest in- romance. In fact, most mares would probably find his views on the fairer sex... unsavory. His mannerisms towards females are not impolite by far- in fact, he could likely charm a mare off her hooves with the best of them, if the occasion called for it- but he has no respect for a female's place on a battlefield. Because of this, Freyr has no intention of taking interest in a female anytime soon; though, perhaps, the right type of mare may eventually be able to change that.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Verath
Gender: Male
Breed: Draconic
Temperment: Bitter
Birthdate: Unknown
Parents: Unknown
Siblings: Unknown
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Once a proud leader, now nothing but a forgotten exile from his homelands, Verath is anything but approachable. Bitter and jaded from his years of solitude and rumination over his past, he is quick to anger, but rigid in the morals that defined his leadership. Though unlikely to resort to violence unless provoked, he has no qualms with using verbal abuse to drive off those that would intrude upon his isolation. Unsurprisingly, he has a particular abhorrence to discussing any details of his origins, so the full extent of his history remains, to this point, unknown to any but himself.

Likes: Solitude

Dislikes: Noisiness, crowds, talking about his past

Romance: If asked about this directly- if he doesn't maim you first- Verath would assure you that romance is simply impossible. The reality is that it is merely improbable. Very, very improbable, but not impossible. Patience and empathy are only the beginnings of the qualities a mare would have to have in order to get through to him, but perhaps the opportunity to move past the loss in his life will arise one day.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Abilene
Gender: Female
Breed: Asgina Kanehelvsgi
Temperment: Mischievous
Birthdate: Unknown
Parents: Unknown
Siblings: Unknown
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Abilene is a mare who delights in trickery and confounding others with the mystery of her origins and personality. Manipulative if it suits her, enigmatic to most. Occasionally, one might get a glimpse into something darker and malicious, but most times it is gone as quickly as it appears, covered with a smile shrouded in mystery. One of her favorite pastimes is to share the story of a young mare who sold her soul to a demon in order to obtain a beauty that would snare a young stallion's attention. The story, however, varies each time she tells it- sometimes the mare willingly submitted herself to the demon's lure, others, it is a tragic tale of naivety and innocence, ultimately resulting in her downfall. Because of her penchant for embellishment, no one is certain what parts of the story hold truth- and Abilene prefers it that way.

Likes: Storytelling, flirting, midnight walks, singing, thunderstorms

Dislikes: Being ignored, noisy groups, authority

Romance: Though not above using her charms to ensnare stallions, romantic pursuit with Abilene is... unlikely, at best. While she may pretend to show interest when it suits her, most stallions bore her after they have worn out their welcome, and she will move on to the next soul that intrigues her. She does not intend to settle- whether that is a result of the tragic tale she weaves of her first lover's untimely end, or simple nonchalance about the idea of romance in particular, is ultimately unclear.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Arcadius
Gender: Male
Breed: Gen 3
Temperment: Protective
Birthdate: 11/26/11
Parents: Zara and Hadrian
Siblings: Aquitaine and Aurelian
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Because of his quiet and contemplative nature, as well as his fierce protectiveness of his family, Arcadius may sometimes come off as hostile, but this is far from the truth. While reserved in front of strangers, he is open and even outwardly happy amongst those closest to him, though he struggles sometimes with the nature of his predatory side. Because of a defect he shares with his brother, he requires consumption of meat to live, and his looks can be deceiving. He is naturally kind-hearted, but because of outward appearances, has developed a wariness and defensive nature towards those who are quick to judge.

Likes: His family, quiet, long walks, sunset

Dislikes: Blood, gore, noisiness, condescension, arrogance, judgement

Romance: Although he has never given much thought to romance as an attainable pursuit, Arcadius does share the desire to find someone close to his heart. The opportunity, of course, has never presented itself, and he is wary of the fact that any such pursuit may always be secondary to the care of his family. At this moment, nothing is more important to him. This may someday be subject to change, but not in his foreseeable future.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Lyssia
Gender: Female
Breed: 4th Gen
Temperment: Oblivious
Birthdate: 08/08/12
Parents: Feilea and Kuumo
Siblings: Lothorien and Matias
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Lyssia is a walking danger magnet, and is none the wiser to it. Whether it is simply tripping over her own feet or stumbling into a nest of vipers, she frequently only narrowly avoids serious injury, and usually all but hops away with a smile on her face, completely oblivious. Lyssia is an unrepentant klutz, but has a very sweet temperament, amiable and considerate- discounting the near-heart attacks she gives her mother on a daily basis. She is warm and compassionate, though she does tend to be a bit sensitive and even melodramatic at times.

Likes: Her mommy, her brothers, flowers, running (without tripping), swims on sunny days

Dislikes: Tripping, being laughed at, being ignored

Romance: Although she is clearly a loving, compassionate soul- as stated previously, Lyssia is a tad bit oblivious. While she knows that romance exists, it is likely that she would not be able to wrap her mind around a romantic pursuit for herself unless someone were to proverbially beat her over the head with it. As things stand now, she is a happy, playful soul, not interested in much beyond her next adventure or new friend. This, of course, could change in an instant, were the right person to provoke further thoughts on the matter.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Mariko
Gender: Female
Breed: Gen 2
Temperment: Conflicted
Birthdate: 10/25/12
Parents: Amaya and Shyam
Siblings: Hisako and Iki'ryo
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Like her mother, Mariko struggles with the nature of the kalona side of herself- though her mutations have afforded her a greater conflict than Amaya ever faced in her own childhood. The angeni blood in her does little to dilute her more bloodthirsty instincts, despite her own wishes to remain passive. Mariko is a kind soul, though her own views may be somewhat skewed due to the confused nature of her father's 'Fallen' descent, and her mother's struggle to come to terms with it. She is proud of her parents, and the love that she holds for them is not dulled by her internal conflicts. The mutations passed on to herself and her siblings have caused strife and pain to each, but she holds the personal belief that each is stronger because of it.

Likes: Hunting, flying, sneaking, her family

Dislikes: Hurting others, being touched, being asked about her chains

Romance: Romance seems far-fetched for Mariko at present time, when mere physical contact causes her pain. She shies away from being touched, so intimacy and affection, if they ever happen, would need to be from someone infinitely patient, and she doubts that anyone outside of her family could possibly understand this. Her appearance alone has been known to scare off passerbys, and she has stopped, for the most part, making attempts to convince them otherwise.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Raziel
Gender: Male
Breed: CYO Plush
Temperment: Disquieting
Birthdate: 12/17/12
Parents: Unknown
Siblings: The Brotherhood
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Raziel is, in a word, disturbing. While he may be all charming smiles in one moment, the next he may be a devious sadist, hell-bent on causing destruction and suffering- all with a twisted and self-satisfied grin. He can turn at the drop of a hat with no warning signs, and it is part of what makes him such a dangerous adversary. Born to the Brotherhood, he takes pride (and great enjoyment) in what he does for a living: taking lives. His origins are a mystery, and though he might garner allies from time to time, he has never made friends. More than likely because he would turn on them without a second thought. His only loyalty is to the Brotherhood... and even that may be questionable at times.

Likes: Blood, gore, suffering, flirtation, seduction

Dislikes: Taking orders, being ignored

Romance: The entire concept of romance is laughable to Raziel. He uses seduction and manipulation to get what he wants, and that is the end of it. Breaking hearts, and getting a little fun out of it in the process, is a personal favorite in some of his assassination assignments- although when he can stage two 'romantically inclined' targets and pit them against one another, it is simply icing on the cake. Raziel will procreate when he wishes an heir, but will never pay any mind to the mare he seeks to accomplish it with.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Rui
Gender: Female
Breed: Gen 2
Temperment: Audacious
Birthdate: 3/25/13
Parents: Star Catcher and Nanaki
Siblings: Kelva, Aquene, Kiros, Seto and Freyr (half-brother)
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Rui is a bit of a tomboy, unlike her mother or the sister that she resembles most. She loves to go off on her own adventures, explore new areas, and frequently get herself into trouble. Particularly, she enjoys doing these with her partner-in-crime, Seto. The siblings often get themselves grounded by adventuring just a bit too far outside their parents' sight, although it's often their elder niece Cetra that sets them straight. Rui herself is bright, enthusiastic, and constantly bubbling with energy. She is a bit envious that she did not inherit the warrior-like traits that her brothers covet so, but enjoys her own exploits too much to really pay it much mind.

Likes: Her family, adventuring, play-fighting with her brothers, exploring

Dislikes: Being lost, being left behind, being scolded, Freyr

Romance: Too young.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Kalea
Gender: Female
Breed: Gen 4
Temperment: Impish
Birthdate: 6/5/13
Parents: Kazuko and Illumise
Siblings: Luana
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Kalea is a mischievous sort who loves teasing and getting a rise out of others. Most of the time, she's harmless, but she does sometimes tend to take it a bit too far and doesn't seem to notice or care all that much when someone might be hurt by her pranks. She is generally flighty and unrepentant about it, but if pressed for an apology, she can be sincere. She is firmly of the mindset that life should be fun, and no one should take it too seriously. One of her more admirable traits is that she does enjoy making other people laugh, and may occasionally (rarely) let a joke be at her own expense, if it's all in good fun.

Likes: Flirtation, seduction, pranks, her sister

Dislikes: Being ignored, seriousness, boredom

Romance: Although Kalea considers romance to be a fun and worthwhile pastime, she bores easily, and never seems to stay in a relationship for very long. Flirting and the chase are all very interesting, but the settling down part just doesn't seem to appeal to her at all. She has no desire for family, or really any extended companionship beyond simply a fun exploit, and it seems unlikely that this will change with time. Although really, in the end, who knows what can happen?  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Zimri
Gender: Male
Breed: Fiery-Throated Hummingbird
Temperment: Flirtatious
Birthdate: 3/26/14
Parents: Unknown
Siblings: Unknown
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Zimri appreciates beauty in all its forms, and knows very well that he has his own. He doesn't necessarily flaunt it, but there is a certain amount of vanity, there, and he does tend to be a tad selfish at times. He loves complimenting pretty mares (and sometimes stallions), showering them with his unique brand of flattery, and considers any smiles or blushes he gets in return as personal victories. He is never, however, deceptive or manipulative with his attentions, and would never seek to hurt anyone, he just adores spreading as much of his attention around as he can.

Likes: Beauty, romance, flattery, adventure

Dislikes: Ugliness, manipulation, dishonesty, boredom

Romance: Unsurprisingly, romance is a favorite pastime for Zimri, but his exploits are all relatively short-lived. He never makes any secret of this, of course- he despises deceiving others, and is open with the fact that he rarely makes commitments and will likely never settle down. He is very caring, affectionate and even loving, but plans to spread this love as far and wide as possible. There is always the slim possibility that this may change with the right person, but it appears doubtful.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Nevara
Gender: Female
Breed: Wind
Temperment: Patient
Birthdate: 12/11/14
Parents: Unknown
Siblings: Unknown
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Nevara is a sweet, gentle, demure mare, quick to smile and quicker to offer kind words. She is a bit naive, but not necessarily to her detriment- she finds enjoyment in just about everything, and is an eternal optimist. She is also, however, almost insufferably shy and afraid to offend anyone. Previous acquaintances have sometimes likened her to a 'doormat', and though she struggles to overcome that particular flaw, she does have a habit of making it her own personal mission to make sure she pleases everyone, or at least tries to. She will go above and beyond for just about anyone, whether they're friends or strangers.

Likes: Helping others, foals, flowers, sunny days

Dislikes: Large crowds, being the center of attention, ridicule

Romance: Nevara believes in fairy tale love. She dreams that someday a prince will arrive to sweep her off her feet, pay her endless compliments and banish her insecurities. Of course, some part of her knows that life doesn't quite work like that, but ever the eternal optimist, she still hopes for it. The challenge for any stallion involved, of course, would be helping her to overcome the self-doubt that plagues her day in and day out, but she would return the favor tenfold with love and affection.  

[Kyaishi]

Name: Reina
Gender: Female
Breed: CYO Plush
Temperament: Benevolent
Birthdate: 1/14/14
Parents: Aquene and Aethon (mock-breeding)
Siblings: Cetra, Canaan, Mako, Momo and Rubedo (half-siblings)
Mate: None
Offspring: None

Reina is a very tranquil, sweet and compassionate mare, and she tends to be a wonderful listener, as well as being rather good at giving advice. She may occasionally stick her nose where it doesn't belong, if things don't seem to be going well for someone else, but her intentions are always good. She adores her family and herd above all else, and while she takes her duty to them very seriously, she believes sometimes that she could offer a lot of help to those outside of her kin, and tends to get herself involved in a lot of things that are beyond her control. She is an eternal optimist, however, and will never give up on anyone, regardless of whether they ask for her help or not.

Likes: Listening, offering advice, storms, foals, her family

Dislikes: Violence, bullying, ignorance

Romance: Reina adores the idea of romance. She can't quite yet bring herself to put it high on her list of priorities with everything going on in her life, but one of her biggest goals is to find someone to love unconditionally. She hopes to someday have a large family of her own, and makes no secret of it, although flirting is something that she doesn't tend to be particularly skilled at. Smiling, laughing, joking when appropriate are all things that she needs no help with, but deciphering when to pursue romantic interest is not as easy as it sounds, and she sometimes bumbles a little bit with it. Words of wisdom come naturally, but pretty, flowery words meant to flatter draw an utter blank from her.  

[Kyaishi]

The Birth of Hakan

Nanaki and Sukari

Immediately following the 'Bloodlust' incident

Chaos. Every inch of the battle-scarred clearing before them was in disarray, blood staining the grass and trees so deep a crimson that he feared this place may always stink of death. This place that had once been his home- their home- torn apart by the mare that they had sought to grant asylum. Abysmal as it may have seemed, he did not regret his decision... only that the proper precautions had not been taken to ensure the safety of the lives around him. It was not a mistake he would allow himself to make again.

It was shortly after the others had all managed to pull themselves together- with, perhaps, the exception of his daughter- that Nanaki found himself approaching Sukari, head low and eyes reverent as he observed her dignified stance and proud gaze, even in the state she was currently in, nursing her own wounds. She had come out of it perhaps the worst of all of them, and yet... there was something to be said of the manner in which she held her head high, unwilling to consider her defeat as a mark on her honor.

They had come a long way from that day he had found her preparing to exact revenge upon the ill-fated two-leggers that had suffered a great loss already at the hooves of Alora and her followers- eyes full of misguided hatred and bitterness. At that moment, he had known she would be a force to be reckoned with; though positive or negative at that particular moment had been unclear. At this moment, however... he was more sure than ever that there was no one else he would rather have at his side as an ally. Witnessing her uncharacteristically heroic rescue of Nahuel had opened his eyes to the protector she had become- a dangerous adversary, in any situation- but most definitely worthy of consideration to have as someone to watch your back.

"Will you be all right?" his low voice broke the tense silence as icy blue hues finally snapped his way and softened, ever so slightly, in recognition. He was sure now that she had come to look upon him, at the very least, as a comrade-in-arms... perhaps even a confidante, if he would be so bold as to say. She may never have verbally admitted it, but it was clear enough in her gaze, in the nearly imperceptible dart of it towards his own wounds, in the way she had stepped forward to protect the close-knit family that she claimed to despise. In her own, cynical, roundabout way, she cared for them all, however loathe to admit it she may have been. Her actions this treacherous night had proved that much- to him as well as all of the others. Shadow was still in absolute shock, too speechless in her presence to offer adequate thanks for his son's life, though it was impossible to miss the gratitude shining in his indigo irises.

When had things changed so much? It seemed only yesterday she was bemoaning her fate to the heavens and trying her damndest not to look into her son's eyes for fear of seeing the recrimination of someone long gone there- he knew very well that the love of a family could change everything, but he had never expected her to care for any of them beyond the simplest of acquaintances- most certainly not enough for her to risk her own life for any of them. Now, though... she may not have realized it, but she was an object of admiration for a great many of them, even preceeding this event. His own daughter had looked up at her in awe since she was only a filly- a view that he was only know beginning to understand, and even share.

If only she knew.


It hurt to move.

It hurt to breathe.

Sukari could not remember the last time she had been beaten this badly, forced into submission by an enemy that seemed to brush off her attacks with all the care of a fly being swatted from her hindquarters with a swish of her tail- but her pride could not be deterred, even as the blood staining her silver fur spread dangerously quickly, and the wound spanning the length of her face burned in agony.

If there was one thing she never learned to let go of in her entire life, the winged mare coveted her pride more than anything else. It was the one constant, though foalhood, adolescence, and all throughout her adult life- if she had nothing else, she could always hang onto her pride. Being beaten into the ground with such ease by the unikalona mare had carved a deep gash into it- but hadn't destroyed it, not by a long shot. If anything, she was more determined than ever to make sure she was strong enough to protect what she had- now that it wasn't so little or petty anymore.

Troilus. Kureno. Sorai. All three played an integral part of her life now... it was an odd feeling, to love all of them. For Kureno, her feelings may have been skewed, tainted, and misconceived- but she did love him all the same, no matter what he may have believed. Sorai... her long lost daughter. It was a blow to her ice-covered heart to think that she had lost so much time with her only daughter... never meeting her as a filly, never able to watch her progress to adolesence, watch her take her first steps, say her first words. She would not make the mistake of estranging herself from her child again... and hopefully there was still an opportunity for new memories to be made. And Troilus... once, a one-night stand with a stallion she barely knew, but saw a glimmer of something she had appreciated one lonely night... turned love of her life. His warm, gentle prodding of her weakening barriers had broken through to her heart in so short a time.

And finally... this herd. Her strange, diverse, sometimes unbearable and almost always irritating... but warm and welcoming family. Even that imbecile Shadow had grown on her... though perhaps he was a bad example. It was easy to chalk it up to simple attachment to her lifestyle- she was comfortable with living near them, with offering her two cents in discussions- which was usually limited to glares and monosyllabic answers- but if she were honest with herself, it was more than that. She relished in the pointless arguments, in the long-suffering sighs of feigned exasperation when she really wanted nothing more than to laugh aloud at Nahuel's multi-subject ramblings. To smile at Aquene's naive view of the world when outwardly she rolled her eyes, but desired to protect it all the same. She had watched them grow up, find their own places amongst the world... but even Nanaki, whom she had felt nothing but animosity and contempt for in the beginning, had earned her respect and even a smidge of affection.

At Nanaki's question and scarcely veiled concern, however, she straightened, ready to cast a threatening glare at his insinuation- but faltered. Genuine worry was something she had still not learned to comprehend very well, despite being on the receiving end of it from Troilus for some time now. Instead, she merely turned her head away and stared into the lightening horizon. "I'll be fine," was all she offered, hoping it was enough to assauge the damning worry she could see within those knowing golden eyes.

As much as she respected him, there were still things that Sukari would not tolerate others seeing in her. Vulnerability was most certainly one of these things.


Although he knew a half-truth when he saw it, the fiery stallion took his cue and backed off, allowing her the space he knew she coveted. For all his assertions that Sukari had changed, Nanaki knew that there were some things that would never fade- her standoffish demeanor might have improved, and may continue to dwindle, but he doubted it would ever truly disappear. Her family would have the greatest opportunity to influence that change, but the family she had earned here would not simply sit idly by, either. She was loved here, whether she knew it or not... and he suspected she did. Reluctant though she may be to acknowledge it, or even admit it to herself, she had a family here with them, too.

"You should let Shadow take a look at those," he spoke in a lowered voice, as if to ensure that he did not invoke her more defensive tendencies, eying the wounds she had only just brushed off as insignificant with a fair amount of worry. As much as he respected her ability to take care of herself, and even look after them as she had proved tonight, the bloodied injuries were deep, and would almost certainly leave scars. Were they any deeper, he might have been concerned for her life, but at the very least he trusted her to bring something of that magnitude to his attention. The silver mare was proud, independent, but not foolhardy. She did not rush in to challenge that which she did not understand- at least, not anymore. The amount of growth she had exhibited since that fateful night on the moonlit hills was astonishing even to Nanaki's eyes, when granting second chances was something he sought to give everyone... something he lived by, after what he had learned of his father.

Someone who he had once thought a coward, but in truth was the bravest hero he had ever known. One who gave his life for his family, his village. The parallels he was beginning to see could not have been coincidental.

There was no greater cause than to protect someone you loved. While he might have, at one point, doubted her ability to love anyone but herself, Nanaki had to concede that Sukari was one of the most caring souls he knew, in her own way. She would wear her scars like a badge of honor; not because she had faced down a foe that was many times her own strength, or because she had stood fearless before her own death, but because she had done this to save a life. Not her own, not even one related to her by blood. Whether she liked him or not, Nanaki could not say, but the signs were there nonetheless. She was someone who he could trust to step in when there was danger, to risk her own well-being for that of her herd.

Herd. They were a herd, were they not?

Although it had never been official, and he had never confirmed a designation as their leader, the small collection of families and individuals had leaned on one another for support at the worst of times- bolstered each other, gave each other hope when despair had seemed to reign. He and Shadow were simply the eldest of the bunch, and so looked to for guidance, but the leopard-spotted stallion had no interest in bearing the responsibility of others. At least, not to the extent that Nanaki was willing. The fiery stallion was familiar with battle, and bore his own scars not without a bit of pride, but until now, he supposed he had never truly considered how far he would go to save his kin. Not only his own blood family, but those around him that had become his extended family. Brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. Would he die for them? Kill for them? Certainly for his mate and daughters, but for these souls that bore no resemblance?

Golden eyes glimmered with an inner light as they rose to meet ice blue, and for one instant, they saw each other, felt each other, he knew Sukari thought the same.

Yes.


The arabian mare deliberately wrinkled her nose at the mention of the elder stallion with a decisive snort, dismissing the notion that she should seek him for help- although the gesture was without any real heat. Perhaps it was because her energy was all but gone, perhaps it was because she was beginning to see reason, or didn't want to start an argument when they seemed to have reached a rare moment of understanding- whatever the case, she let the matter drop with the comprehension that Nanaki would not prod her any further on the subject. She could see from the set of his shoulders that he was giving her ground on the matter, and for a moment, she paused to marvel at the fact that she could read him so easily.

Had they come so far, that she need only silence him with a look? Ruefully, she thought that that might have been a useful talent back when she could barely tolerate his preachy self-righteousness, but they had both come a long way. She could admit freely now that she had made mistakes, not the least of which had begun to lead to her own demise- but in giving her a second chance, Sukari had only begun to discover what life had to offer her. Love, companionship... happiness. There was still a great deal that she sought to change, but no one could deny that her own views and morals had taken a drastic turn for the better. Where would she be now, if Nanaki had turned her away? Left without a home, without a friend, or even a soul that knew where she was, would she have even survived? She had learned that survival was not enough, that living was what was important, and truly no one who lived could fear death. Even now, with all that she had gained, the importance of the lives she protected seemed to take precedence.

Knowing what she knew now, that the kalona may have been able to kill her with nary a thought... would she have done it again? Merely to save the child of someone she claimed to despise?

Yes.

She may have played it off as an act of pride, but even without the added lure of protecting her dignity, the winged mare would have stepped in front of that calamity time and time again for those ideals. To protect the lives of those that had taken her in, shown her care and even the capacity for friendship, things that she hadn't even known she was still capable of. Facing certain death would not have dampened her resolve, would not have permitted her even a breath of hesitation before a fate such as this. The concept was new, unfamiliar, but there was no shred of doubt in that realization.

As the golden hues she had come to know so well rose again to meet her own, Sukari knew in that moment that Nanaki shared in her thoughts, in her fierce resolve and determination. No one would dare harm their family again.

"I never... thanked you," her voice broke the silence that had settled over them- not tense in nature, but comfortable, understanding, even with the iron undercurrent of the newly-formed resolve between them. It did not need words or admissions, no boundaries or oaths made to seal its convalescence. Still, even now she felt almost inadequate, humbled in the face of what he had bestowed upon her. The unikalona monster had made it all-too clear what could have become of her, had he not given her the chance for redemption. "I could easily have been the perpetrator of this disaster, in the state that you brought me in. I was... reckless, stubborn. Unyielding." The confession surprised even her, with the ease that it fell from her parted lips. Only moments ago she very nearly raged at his insinuation of her vulnerability, and now she freely belittled herself at his convenience.


A rare chuckle rose between them, slightly disbelieving as the ground stallion realized that this was much more than a turning point. He had never heard Sukari speak so plainly of herself, of her regard for others. It was an exceedingly rare treasure, and one that he had no doubt would be in his memory for years. She compared herself to the threat that had torn through them, but he had known from the very beginning that Sukari was no threat to anyone but herself. Even at her lowest, he had doubted the reality of her stand against humanity. "But you were not." The statement was simple, plain, and he did not elaborate. There was little point in wondering 'what if' when the possibility was behind them, and she had left it behind a long, long time ago.

"And you will never need to thank me, my friend."

(In progress)