First of Many

[hiddenaway]

Avalon gave a short laugh as the three youngsters ran off. He kept a close eye on them as he answered Atremisisa. We are doing well, than you. And how are you, despite this..ah..ordeal we have here? He looked at Cali, she had hardly said anything this entire time. He could only hope she wasn't upset by all the company. Avalon glanced at the shore line. He could see Vi, Klee, and Daiquiri playing in the sand. Avalon watched as Klee splashed around in the shallows. He paid extra close attention, not wanting the colt to venture out too deep. Avalon doubted he would head deep enough to reach the drop off, but better safe than sorry. He saw Vi run off, only to reappear a moment later with Daiquiru trying in vain to keep up. Avalon smiled to himself. Soon enough the colt would end up out running most anything. He gazed at the sun, now beginning to set. As Avalon watched the babies play memories from his childhood flooded his memory. Images of him and the only other foals in the herd. All fillies. His mind played it over and over again. From the time he was born to the time he was kicked out of the herd, leaving his closest friends behind. He shook it from his head. No time for flashbacks now. He had several new responsibilities to look after.

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

Umber orbs wandered, paying attention to the folicking of their foals. Daiquiri struggled to keep up, but she knew it was just because of the age of his legs. With all the fine breeding warmbloods had in their lines, she was sure he would be a very fast stag when he matured. Cali let her attention wander back to Avalon and Artemisia. Yes it's been nice here. We have been fine, but it seems there has been a lot of dissapearences around here. Jasper, Thayer's whole herd, and probably much more. Nevermind that, how are you doing on your search? She expressed clear curiosity, almost bored curiosity as if she had been telling everyone about the missing horses.

Umber spheres darkened. This is the first place I checked. So far, not very good. An upwelling of sudden annoyance and tension brewed in Artemisia. About four known horses were missing, maybe more, and she expressed boredom. The fae's stance tensed, showing discomfort. She broke the slightly hostile eye contact and looked over to where the foals were tumbling around.

[hiddenaway]

Avalon glanced wearily at tue two mares. When Cali told Artemisisa of the missing Darks, a slightly hostile look sparked in her eyes. Cali had a bored tint in her voice when she spoke of the Dark faes, but Avalon didn't blame her. The less Darks the better. He was concerned about Jasper though. Surely he would return, but when? Suddenly, a new thought crossed Avalon's mind. He didn't have too much contact with other herds, of course, the usual every once in a while visit. But he hadn't seen not herd of Vivian for quite some time, and his lands where not far. Have you herd anything of Vivian? Avalon turned and glanced at Cali, then followed her gaze toward the foals romping in the sand. He had also caught word of a new Dark stag around these parts, be he decided not to mention this.

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

Her gaze slowing broke from the foals romping to chocolate spheres trying to get an answer. Vivian. Artemisia had met him at the...Light meeting! She remembered him! That was the most recent she had seen of him, though. Vivian; I saw him at the Light meeting. That was the one and only time I saw him...She trailed off, thinking.

Cali glanced back to Avalon. Ok, well we don't know much about other herd's statuses, but do we know of any Dark plans? He could've been the one behind it, making up an alibi...his mares! That could be his fake alibi! Her eyes sparkled, excitedly churning the wheels in her head, thinking.

[hiddenaway]

Avalon nodded slowly. He knew Vivian would have been there, but if no one had seen him more recently then it was very possible he too was missing. Avalon turned to Cali. But I don't think that one Dark stallion could have captured Jasper and Vivian, if that's what you are getting at. They're smart, and would most likely have escaped by now. Thoughts churned in Avalon's head, thinking back to when the Dark brute had payed a visit looking for his mares. He hadn't noticed anything that suggested a lie. Another thought popped into being. Are any Light mares missing? He asked quietly. Avalon realized no one was paying attention to the foals. He glanced over quickly, and seeing three moving shapes, turned his concentration back to the issue.

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

Cali looked to the ceiling, contemplating. You're right. That would be quite a task...She trailed off wondering where the heck they would be then. Orbs squinted, frustation evident on her feminine maw.

Eyes circled slowly, wondering. Aleta maybe? Cryssy? Montana Gold? I think there's a lot more missing than we think. She said this carefully, hesitant in each word. What could have happened? There was only one Dark stallion around at the time, so who, or what, else could have caused this?! A Prominent frown furrowed it's way onto Artemisia's maw.

[hiddenaway]

A deep frown distorted Avalon's normally smooth features. There are far too many missing for the Darks to have taken them all. He shook his forelock out his eyes. Vivian, Jasper, Montanna Gold and her foal, Aleta, the Dark faes, Cryssy...and Silverpelt. Has anyone seen Silverpelt? Avalon's eyes glittered dangerously. What could have happened to them? They had practically vanished into thin air! That's seven Lights, all strong fighters. It is too impossible a task for Darks to be holding them all. Thoughts ran through Avalon's mind faster than ever before. And Thayer's out his three mares. That leaves him and I believe Barin is the other Dark stallion. Not possible. Avalon swished his tail, deep in thought. No matter how cunning, seven on two was not going to hold out in the Darks favor. Avalon sighed. He was sure they would return, but when? He was so deep in thought, Avalon didn't realise the foals had bounced out of site. He whipped his head around, sharp eyes searching the beach. Where did they go? He asked anger and concern accenting hsi words.

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

So darks, out. What the heck? Where could they have gone?! She noticed the alarmed expression on Avalon's face. She followed his line of sight to the beach. Daiquiri. Where did they go?! What? Where could they have gone?! The moonlight now held the sky, soaking it in white light, taken over. Strange shadows were cast from the power of the night sun. The foals were gone. In the dark. It would be very hard to see little horses in the strange light; great.

Hazel orbs swam the land, pupils dilating to take in as much light as possible. Perspiration started to bead on her spring coat. Muscles tensed, ready to spring, whole-heartfelt, into the blackness. She couldn't see them, she couldn't hear them. Artemisia couldn't even smell them! WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR?! She sprang forward, emotions running high. Orbs struggled, wheeling around, not seeing anything. She ran, blind, through the land, running into things, tripping over rocks, at least she thought they were rocks, until she rammed into a sharp, cold wall. Legs wobbled, eyes still blinded. She stumbled back and tripped on branches, falling over and blacking out.

Daiquiri had had fun playing with Klee and flirting with Vi but the trio now realized it was very dark outside. The young colt looked around, not recognizing any shapes in the haunting light of the new moon, the night star. Guys, maybe we should just camp out somewhere until morning? He turned his head, finding two graciously appreciative nods.

[hiddenaway]

Don't care all that much about Darks either. Avalon muttered before launching in to full gallop. He quickly passed Artemisia and shot away, gaining more distance every second. He let out a long whinny, letting it echo faintly of the land. Avalon skidded to a stop on the beach where the foals had been playing. He put his nose to the ground and followed Daiquiri's sent. It lead Norht-west a ways. Is there any sign they headed another direction? He called to the two faes. Avalon didn't bother waiting for an answer. Stretching his legs, he increased his already lengthy steps. Hooves pounded rhythmicly on the ground as he called for his colt. DAIQUIRI! Avalon leaped up a steep rise, scanning the area below. The moon lit up the land well, and well off into the distance he spotted two golden coats and one deep red. Avalon neighed loudly, hoping the foals would be smart enough not to run farther away. He looked back, the faes where far back, but following. Avalon pushed off, charging down and across the shallow valley. He slid to stop and reared high, showing the two mares he had found the foals. He dropped to all fours, a scolding look tainting his bright eyes. He dropped his head and stared into Daiquiri's curious eyes. Next time you ought to obey us and stay within sight. And I suspect you two are in for a good lecture as well. He nodded toward Vi and Klee, then turned his head searching for the mares. Avalon frowned, they where not there. He turned and herded the foals back into his lands. He spotted Cali off to the right, near the forest. He rushed the babies over to her. Where...? Shocked crossed his face when he spotted Artemisia lying unconsious on the ground. Here, watch them. And stay. He said firmly to the youngsters. He walked up to the painted fae, coat glistening. She was still breathing normally, thank goodness. Avalon snorted and nudged her gently until she stirred. He looked at Cali. Did you see waht happened? His voice was filled with worry, this mare was his responsibility as long as she was within his boundries. He nudged her again. Artemisia shifted slightly. Looking closely, Avalon could see small scrapes and cuts dotting her boyce. It appeared the fae had run into the large rock looming in front of her like a wall. At least they where inside Avalon's boundries, safe. He backed away a few steps, giving the mare space as Avalon watched her wake, making sure she hadn't harmed herself too seriously. He scanned the area, still picking up four sents behind him, meaning Cali was succesfully keeping the foals in hand.

OOC: That was long xD

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

Cali whipped her head around, what was happening? The situation registered as she lunged in behind Avalon's large strides. The light speckled the land in a strange way, making her bounce around like a fool keeping away from dangers. She stopped seeing that he had found them. She listened as he told her to keep them. What happened? Why would you leave? Nevermind that, let's get back. Cali shook her head, startled by the sharp alarmness of whatever had just happened. Harks turned, hearing Avalon throw a question at her. She walked over to the stag and the still fae. No, I was behind you. What did happen? She looked around, making sure the foals were still with her.

Blackness engulfed her mind, her body, her soul. She couldn't see or move, she couldn't feel or smell. Artemisia's mind raced as her heart fluttered. She didn't know what was happening. She could hear faint noises, Avalon and Cali probably. The sound wooshed in and out, not registering, just sounding like a strange music. She lay there, unresponsive and helpless as she tried to listen.

[hiddenaway]

Avalon gazed back at Cali. This may sound odd, but I think she may have run into this boulder here. She was very frantic. He stared at Artemisia and a frown creased his maw. They where hardly a hundred yards from the ocean. Wait here. He told Cali, an idea sparking in his mind. He trotted down to the shore and backed into the cool water until he was entirely soaked. Mane dripping, Avalon trotted back and stretched his head over Artemisia's. Avalon shook his mane hard, water dousing the painted fae. He spoke loudly, trying to get through to the mare. Artemisia? Are you okay? He snorted. The water seemed to have an effect, though a small one. Avalon sighed, then shook out his whole coat, sprinkling Artemisia until her coat was speckled by the drops of salty liquid.

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

Her world spun. She couldn't tell if she was standing sitting or lying. Her mind swung around, stomach churning. The fae felt something, it was tingly, on her boyce. The noises were starting to come in clearer. She could hear Avalon and it sounded like he was talking to her. Artemisia willed her nerves to let her move something, her leg. She struggled as she tried to push her front dagger out, then the other. She opened her eyes, everything spinning. The strobe of the moon didn't help either. Both daggers were firmly on the grass in front of her. Artemisia tried to hoist herself up, barely standing straight. Her body tingled and she was falling, front leg caught her. Orbs swished around, trying to understand what she was looking at. Avalon? Cali? What's going on? She shook her crest, almost toppling over again.

[hiddenaway]

Avalon watched as Artemisia managed to right herself. Artemisia? If I'm not mistaken, you ran into that boulder there when we where searching for the foals. Avalon cocked his head, trying to determine if the fae was injured in any other way. She wasn't. Don't worry, Vi and Klee are safe and so is Daiquiri. Cali is watching them. He tossed his head, Avalon was already mostly dry. Are you up to walking? We aren't far from the cave, you can rest safely there. He studied Artemisia, who was swaying a bit on here feet. To him she did not look like she wanted to move. But that was for her to decide. Avalon moved toward Cali, aiding to keep the foals in line and give Artemisia some space. Avalon looked at the full moon, it was slowly dragging itself across the sky. Thanks to the glow, Avalon could clearly see each of them now standing with relief in their eyes.

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

Umber orbs started to clear, she could see now. I'll come but don't wait for me. I might be slow. She started to walk forward, sashaying with the slightest breeze. Some hangover. Avalon, Cali and the foals were gradually getting farther in front of her. She could feel consciousness slipping from her. Artemisia willed herself to see, to keep going, until she got to her destination. The cave was in sight as she walked, almost zombie-like, there. As soon as she stepped inside, the fae dropped to the ground and immediately fell into the darkness.

The light morning setting threw different colors everywhere, guiding Cali, Avalon and the foals to the cave. Trotting swiftly, they made good timing. She stepped through the threshold and smiled. Cali turned to Avalon and nuzzled him lovingly feeling happy. She watched as Artemisia dropped in exhaustion and as Klee went over by her to lay by her side. I love you Avalon... She trailed off as she softly nuzzled his nose and went over to lay. Her eyes started drooping, body taken by tiredness of the day.

I'm sorry that we got lost, Daiquiri. It was my fault... Little chocolate orbs looked over to her slumbering dam and brother. The little filly walked over to lay next to Klee but close enough so that she could be by Daiquiri as he lay by his dam. Her eyes fluttered as she slowly fell into sleep.

[hiddenaway]

Avalon watched as the rest fell asleep. He nuzzled Cali, a smile on his maw, then stepped outside. Avalon surveyed the area with sharp senses. The sun was just managing to tint the horizon. He took a last glance around, and ducked back inside. His gaze landed on the elegant form of Cali with their fuzzy colt curled into a fuzzy ball at her side. He sighed happily, and then laid down beside Cali, the little colt between them. Avalon glanced around the small group ensuring everyone was completely settled. Finally Avalon set his head down and fell into a light sleep.

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

Sides raised and lowered rhythmically. Harks flickered involuntarily. Her mind slowly started to come alive. Sounds, smells, they were starting to register in her brain. She didn't want to wake up yet, why was she then? Cali yawned and opened her eyes to find Daiquiri and Avalon curled up beside her. A sleepy smile crawled onto her maw. The fae nuzzled them lovingly. Chocolate orbs wandered around, scanning the cave, caressing the landscape. She didn't want to get up. Everyone was sleeping so she lay there, completely content, watching her family's slow breathing.

Eyelashes flickered as dust settled on them. Daiquiri was waking up as he could hear the rhythmic breathing of his dam and sire. Chocolate orbs opened to see his dam was already awake. Good morning mommy. The colt smiled sleepily at Cali. She looked down at him, smile on her maw. She nuzzled him in greeting. Daiquiri settled his head on her leg and just laid there.

Eyelids started to flicker as her mind woke up. She could smell and hear now. The fae opened her eyes, seeing that Cali had already woken up. Daiquiri and Avalon surrounded the mare. Artemisia glanced at her two foals, loneliness unexpectedly punched her in the chest. Jasper was gone. She hadn't seen him in what felt like an eternity. Air flew out of her lungs in a sigh of a sob. She laid her head down, watching the ceiling, as slight teats pooled in the corners of her eyes. Artemisia laid there in complete depression for awhile. Nostrils widened, noticing it before she knew what it meant. Fire. She could smell the charred wood, the burning grass. Her eyes widened and she turned her head, looking behind her to the land. It was defiantly fire. Hazel orbs observed the beautiful flames. Red, orange, yellow, and the occasional blue. The situation didn't reach her for awhile, beauty maiming her senses. Once she realized they were in desperate danger, the flames were licking the ground, running fast to the cave. They were going to be stuck. Artemisia squealed as she jumped up. GET UP! GET UP! THERE'S FIRE! GET UP! She nudged her twins desperately, waking them up. She had gotten through to them. As their brains came into the light, she stood in-between them and the threat. Orbs scanned the land widely, looking for an escape. It was so close now the mare had reflections of flame in her eyes. She stood still though, nothing could touch her foals without taking her first.

Vi yawned as she awoke. The filly could hear her dam yelling wildy. She didn't know what was going on. She jumped up to discover the wall of flames coming in on them. What's that? She whispered, knowing it wasn't good, at all. Little chocolate orbs met terrified ones. Artemisia told her to get to the back with Cali, Avalon and Daiquiri. She did what she was told. Everything happened in slow motion. Her legs took her, numbly, over to the huddle as she watched her dam scream. She had never seen such pure determination for survival.

Klee squealed at his dam. The flames were getting so close now, he knew Artemisia probably felt intense heat. Little eyes looked around wildly. He had never seen fire and he was hoping it would go away. They were so intimidating. More than Jasper was to him when he met him, more than Avalon was when he met him, more than a Dark stallion, more than two stags fighting to the death. He could feel heat now. There was no way they could get out.

[hiddenaway]

Avalon lifted his head slowly, still heavy with sleep. He could see Daiquiri and Cali next to him. Stretching his head, Avalon nuzzled them both a good morning. And looked over toward Artemisia and her foals. Still half asleep. Avalon shook the drowsiness from him. Full awakeness came slowly until the strong smell of smoke filled his nostrils and the visiting fae's shout blocked out all others. Avalon leaped to his feet, only to come face to face with high flames blocking the exit. He spun back around sharply. Thankfully the floor and walls of the cave where dirt so the fire was delaying entrance. Dirt. That was it! The cave walls where dirt and rather crumbly. Come farther back. And stay low, the smoke will rise. Avalon knew it was a long shot, but it was their only option other then letting the flames burn out. He took a breath, and struck out at the caging walls. Dirt fell from the wall. Avalon whirled and pawed, daggers flying. Finally, a small hole about a six inches thick appeared in the wall. He kicked out sharply until the hole was big enough for the mares and foals. Go! Now! I will be out shortly! Do NOT wait for me! Head straight for Artemisia's land. GO! Avalon kicked a last clod of mud from the opening now large enough for Avalon to fit through. He ushered the feas and foals through, and ducking, managed to squeeze through. The air was faintly tainted with smoke, but not as strong as before. Squinting, Avalon could see that the fire was a small one, but still life threatening. Not much damage would be left, though some would be charred. He huffed a light sigh, then trotted away eager to be in fresh air, the rest in front of him.

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

ooc: continued in goldfields :3

[hiddenaway]

OOC: probably late, but we don't have to move we'll end up posting for like one post each xD

[RalphieDaMaster ;)]

ooc: yep too late xD