[fleabittengray]

x

MADAGASCAR

made by remi of rilla go! and adoxography

The day had started off dreary, with heavy rain and gray skies as far as the eye could see, but by noon the clouds had parted to expose the baby blue abyss above. Feeling antsy once the rain had passed and the temperature started to rise, lingering in the low 60s, Maddy had decided it was about time she made her way to Meraki Woods to meet the ruling King and Queen of her alliance. She knew a little bit about Avinash just because he had been King for a while now, but the new Queen, whose name she had heard was Boudicca, she knew nothing about. Nor did she know what had happened to Orel, the Queen before her. Honestly, Maddy had been stayed cooped up in Eacarrah since the Helkaer had raided them - and her daughter had gone missing. From what she had been told, Fergie hadn't been so much taken as she was bribed into going with the Helkaer mare that had attacked their home. It was devastating to the mare to know her daughter was not in the Outlands, probably being brain washed into thinking such evil thoughts. But... as much as she hated to admit it... there was also a sense of relief, knowing her daughter was out of her hands for now, and the guilt and shame she felt for thinking that were suffocating.

Maybe by visiting the Royal Lands, she would be able to talk them into helping to get her daughter back, or at least, do something for the betterment of the Kingdom. She wasn't much of a fighter, by any means (she had fled during the raid once the fire started) but she liked to think she was a kind, nurturing soul. Maybe her kindness could help aid in the current war somehow... She didn't know. She really just wanted to get out and about, stretch her legs, and meet the King and Queen for the first time, officially.

It wasn't too terribly far away from Eacarrah, and the weather was nice despite the dampness that clung to the soil that her hooves gently sank into with every step. She found herself feeling more relaxed than she had in some time, breathing deeply and letting it out in a slow sigh. Everything was going to be okay. She would manifest it. This war would come to an end and Fergie was going to be alright.

The foliage began to change as she neared Meraki Woods, the trees becoming more dense. In the distance, from somewhere in the forest, she could hear the babbling of water over rocks. Her ears, the right one partially reformed by burn scars the took over the majority of the right side of her face, perked forward. The scarred chestnut tobiano huffed softly, blue eyes carefully observing the path she found before her. She didn't want to intrude, really, so she figured she would just stop here and call out for someone, announcing herself with a sweet whinny that would hopefully carry far enough for someone to hear her and come greet her.


aliyaah w/ Avinash, ☽ caely ☾ w/ Boudicca
516 | Profile
Hope you don't mind me posting her here! One or both of you can reply. She is part of the Neutral Council thingy from a little while ago <3
8 years 10 months, autumn, afternoon

[☽ caely ☾]

[attr="class", boudiccaContainer]

[attr="class", boudiccaChild]
The deep, dark earth and alabaster mare stood along side one of the rivers that carved through the wooded landed. Her auds hung lazily to each side of her dome. Tilted out in a relaxed position, which matched the rest of her figure. Her serpentine nape hung lower than normal and was lined up with her topline. Her hips looked angular with how one hip was resting on the tip of a dark, stripped hoof. Her intense, gem-like eyes were unfocused and half covered by dark eyelids. Those lid lids lowered then rose slowly, her lashes kissing her lower lash line with the gentleness of a butterfly kiss. The rains that had come earlier in the morning had come and gone, leaving a coolness in the air, and the canopy dripping the remnants of the rain fall. The drips falling and splattering on whatever surface they landed. Leaving a cornucopia of sounds that seemed to synthesize into a song as the drips seemed to land repeatedly on leaves, trees, branches, and even in the water before her. The song was steady and soothing, which is how the normally tense and serious mare found herself nearly lulled to sleep. She inhaled deeply. Pulling the distinct scent of Meraki Woods into her nostrils and the cool air in to refresh her lungs. The woods seemed so vibrant and pleasantly pungent after a rain. The scent was one Boudicca found comforting somehow. It was strange to her considering she had grown up in a complete wasteland. But, perhaps, that was why afterall.

Just as she was on the edge of sleep, the sandman had nearly coaxed her into a slumber, a whinny echoed through the trees. Bouncing off each one as the sound traveled through the trees. As they reached the auds of Boudicca, her dome lifted and she blinked away the sleep in her eyes. The sound was soft and gentile, but a summoning at its core. Though, she had to acknowledge how respectful or, maybe, less demanding they seemed to be. The queen shook her dome, which then traveled through her body, as she shook to rid herself of excess water. The water was flung from her coat and even her mane, which had previously been somewhat plastered to her neck, was nearly back to its bouncy, voluminous appearance. She turned and made her way towards the source. It did not take her long to see another between the trees as she traveled down a noticeable path. She was much more alert now, but her look of seriousness and intensity had eluded her. It would seem that the acoustic sounds of the forest had lulled her into a softer state. As she grew closer, the figure was beginning to be easier to spot. A twitch of her wide nostrils easily found the strangers scent, and the proud queen let out a low, soft nicker to alert her that she was coming. She was red with splashes of ivory, but as Boudicca rounded the path to see the mare full on, she was not expecting to see the permanently fire licked skin. Boudicca did not show any outward expression that would give away her shock and concern. She slowed to a halt several feet away, and raised her dome slightly, not to the same intimidating level she normally did, however. Her gazers moved over the mare, who she could now see, she did not recognize or know. She inhaled and a soft smile formed on her lips. Which, was normally, very difficult for her, but perhaps in her sleepy state, it was more achievable. "Hello," She said, her deep raspy tones echoing from her lips. "Welcome to Meraki Woods." Her smile widened slightly before she spoke again, "I am Boudicca. And you are?" As the words escaped her lips, only realizing after they had escaped that she had not labeled herself as Queen. But, for some reason, she did not feel as though she needed to correct herself. She watched and waited for the other mare to respond to her greeting.

[attr="class", quoteCredits]

Artwork by CaelyCat

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fleabittengray aliyaah

[fleabittengray]

x

MADAGASCAR

made by remi of rilla go! and adoxography

The forest here was so peaceful. Meraki Woods gave off a safe, welcoming aura that had Maddy smiling as she waited for the arrival of either the King or Queen, or even a guard for the Neutral Kingdom. She was more so expecting a guard to be the one approaching her, but as the time ticked by and she heard a rustling of another approaching equine, it turned out that she was quite lucky! Of course, upon seeing the scarred maiden approaching her with with a soft nicker, Maddy did not immediately recognize her as being the Queen. Had she known, she would have lowered her head a little more, a bow of respect and awe. She couldn't imagine being Queen! Maddy knew she wouldn't be able to handle the pressure of it. She at first assumed the woman that walked up to her with a smile was a guard, due to her appearance. It wasn't that she looked rough or ragged, in fact, she looked almost a little sleepy, but scars littered her earth and ivory hide and she looked every part a warrior. Maddy grinned at her, if a bit bashfully, knowing that her own appearance was anything but warrior-like. She had a drafty build that was largely covered in burn scars, and eyes that were so full of kindness and compassion that it was clear from the get go that she meant no harm.

"Hello," The mare spoke in a raspy tone, one that displayed comfort and confidence in her position. "Welcome to Meraki Woods." The still nameless stranger smiled at her, and Maddy felt at ease in her presence. "Thank you! It is lovely here." And then, she woman was introducing herself, and Maddy's blue eyes widened a bit in surprise and awe. "I am Boudicca. And you are?" The Queen! Maddy couldn't believe she was actually meeting her! Feeling a bit shy, she shuffled her feet slightly, weight shifting from hoof to hoof. "I'm Maddy, from Eacarrah. I spoke with Gavin about being a part of the Neutral Council, several months ago, and I... figured it was time I introduced myself properly to the King and Queen - which, if I have heard the news correctly, you are the new Queen of the Neutral Kingdom?" She averted her eyes a moment, timid, but returned her gaze to the other woman's face a moment later. "I hope it's not any trouble that I'm here. I just wanted to get to know you and Avinash, too, if he's around and not too busy for little ol' me."


☽ caely ☾ w/ Boudicca
429 | Profile
Ali, still feel free to pop in if you'd like, at any time! <3
8 years 10 months, autumn, afternoon

[☽ caely ☾]

[attr="class", boudiccaContainer]

[attr="class", boudiccaChild]
Boudicca offered a soft smile to the mare as she awaited her response. The painted queen could not help but wonder about the appearance of the other mare. The scars that littered her pelt were unmistakably from fire, and yet the look in her eye.. it was soft, sweet, and kind. Her gaze made it easy for Boudicca to find a genuine, not even slightly awkward, soft smile. ”Thank you! It’s lovely here.” Boudicca nodded in agreement and found her soft smile growing ever so slightly. Meraki Woods truly was a beautiful place. The forest was comforting, even with the crispness of fall and the tightening of winters fingers on the woods, it was peaceful. Boudicca watched the other mare’s eyes grow wide as Boudicca introduced herself. The black bay and white splashed mare tilted her head curiously before straightening it back to its original position. The surprise that was written on the stocky, chestnut painted mare’s face was one Boudicca had not expected. The mare began to shuffle her feet in discomfort or maybe shyness, the queen could not decipher. ”I’m Maddy, from Eacarrah. I spoke with Gavin about being a part of the Neutral Council, several months ago, and I… figured it was time I introduced myself properly to the King and Queen – which, if I have the news correctly, you are the new Queen of the Neutral Kingdom?” Boudicca blinked and nodded. ”Yes, I am.” Boudicca said and dipped her head to the mare in respect, ”It is a pleasure to meet you, Maddy. I am thrilled at your interest in the Neutral Defense Counsel. Come, walk with me, and we can talk more.” Boudicca’s raspy, deep tones were calm and as warm as she could manage them. She took a step back and turned slightly and motioned for Maddy to walk with her, by tilting her head in the direction she had come. Luckily, before she had begun walking away, she had caught the next words of the other mare. ”I hope it’s not any trouble that I’m here. I just wanted to get to know you and Avinash, too, if he’s around and not too busy for little ol’ me.” Boudicca nodded a few times in a row to acknowledge her concern before she spoke, ”It is no trouble at all, Maddy. You are a member of the neutral kingdom and are absolutely welcome here. As for Avinash, he may join us later, but he has been very busy with the war and figuring things out. But, if just my company will suffice, I would be delighted to get to know you as well.” Boudicca blinked her gem-like eyes as another warm smile found it’s way on her lips and she motioned once more. ”Come, I insist.” She beckoned the mare sincerely as she turned down the path she had come. ”So, tell me what interests you within the neutral defense counsel?” She inquired about the mares interests and possibly her areas of expertise. Boudicca hoped it would be a good place to start getting to know the mare, to at least address the reason for her to come in the first place.

[attr="class", quoteCredits]

Artwork by CaelyCat

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fleabittengray <3 Yes, Ali feel free to pop in if you'd like!

[fleabittengray]

x

MADAGASCAR

made by remi of rilla go! and adoxography

Compared to the Queen, Maddy felt incredibly plain and just... ordinary. Boudicca was stunning and powerful and Maddy just... wasn't. Her hooves shuffled in the earth again, feeling so very shy and timid, faced with royalty. As a child, Maddy's mother had hoped she would marry into royalty, but that was all in the very distant past. It felt like a totally different lifetime. In a way, she was glad it hadn't worked out, but only wished it hadn't taken tragedy and trauma for her to end up where she was today. She still remembered the fire, as clear as day, the one that had caused her to get these scars that were littered across the majority of her bodice, most noticeably being the right side of her face. She hoped the Queen didn't think poorly of her or pity her because of the burn scars... she just wanted to live life to the fullest as best she could these days. She didn't want to be pitied.

”Yes, I am.” With Boudicca's identity of Queen now confirmed, Madagascar lowered her head in a more respectful bow. She kept it there a moment before raising it slowly, grinning sheepishly at the other mare. ”It is a pleasure to meet you, Maddy. I am thrilled at your interest in the Neutral Defense Counsel. Come, walk with me, and we can talk more.” A walk through Meraki Woods? Maddy's eyes widened again and she suddenly froze, feeling awkward. "Oh! Yes, alright," she sputtered out, sounding nervous, but she was smiling as she watched Boudicca back up a step and then turn. She stared after the Queen a moment before starting forward, feathered appendages carrying her after the leader of her Kingdom.

”It is no trouble at all, Maddy. You are a member of the neutral kingdom and are absolutely welcome here. As for Avinash, he may join us later, but he has been very busy with the war and figuring things out. But, if just my company will suffice, I would be delighted to get to know you as well.” Maddy chuckled, soft and warm, and bobbed her head eagerly. "Yes, of course, I'd be honored to have your company!" Hopefully, that didn't sound as awkward to her as it did to Maddy. ”Come, I insist.” Feeling more confident now, Maddy quickened her steps until she was walking side by side with the Queen - oh, she couldn't believe it herself! ”So, tell me what interests you within the neutral defense counsel?” The question had her smiling softly, fondly. "Well, Eacarrah is supposed to act as a place of refuge for those in need... and I've always been the type to want to help others. When Gavin announced the opportunity, I felt inclined to take it. I'm hoping we can all work together, especially now, with the war, to help those who need it."


☽ caely ☾ w/ Boudicca
481 | Profile
notes
8 years 10 months, autumn, afternoon

[/quote]

[☽ caely ☾]

[attr="class", boudiccaContainer]

[attr="class", boudiccaChild]
Boudicca watched Maddy fidget and move her feet, Boudicca assumed it was out of nervousness or perhaps shyness? Boudicca wondered if she had been too cold or rude in some way to bring out such a behavior. Still in a sleepy daze, Boudicca did not think to consider that that may have been Maddy’s demeanor. Although Boudicca would never blatantly stare, from the corner of her eye she had noticed the large scars that littered the chestnut mare’s skin. Primarily on her right side. The only thing that Boudicca could think did something like that was fire… but she would not ask. Boudicca remained diligent in looking Maddy in the eyes as to, hopefully, make her feel respected and heard. However, with the confirmation of her identity, Maddy lowered her head into a respectful bow. Now it was Boudicca’s turn to feel antsy. Boudicca clenched her teeth, the muscles in her jaw bouncing as she released and clenched. As Maddy rose again, Boudicca allowed the tension in her jaw to vanish and was replaced by a soft smile. With Boudicca’s invitation to walk with her, the other mare’s eyes turned as big as saucers and then she froze awkwardly. Boudicca blinked as she had already started down the path, while the mare barely managed to get out the words, ”Oh! Yes, alright!” However, Boudicca could feel the mare still trailing somewhat behind her. The black bay and white splashed queen tilted her head to the side to have a better look of Maddy. Boudicca noted on how Avinash was busy, but if she would like to stroll with her, Boudicca would love to have her company. And the mare offered a chuckle and a bobbing nod, from what she could see, as the mare responded with, ”Yes, of course, I would be honored to have your company!”

Boudicca smiled and felt relieved as Maddy fell in line with her down the path. Boudicca was happy that she had decided to accept her invitation to take a nice stroll through Meraki Woods with her. Soon, the queen asked Maddy where her interest lie with the neutral defense counsel. As they strolled down the path, Boudicca focused her closest eye on the mare and swiveled her closest ear towards her. With the leaves falling from the trees, the ground had become a bit crunchier, and Boudicca had come to find out it could sometimes drown out other’s voices. Even if they were beside you! So she took the precautions to not have to ask Maddy to repeat herself. ”Well, Eacarrah is supposed to act as a place of refuse for those in need.. and I’ve always been the type to want to help others. When Gavin announced the opportunity, I felt inclined to take it. I’m hoping we can all work together, especially now, with the war, to help those who need it.” Boudicca nodded in agreement. "Well, you sound exactly like the equine I am looking for!" Boudicca exclaimed with some exuberance. "I have plans to strengthen the neutral defense counsel, but to also open the neutral kingdom’s borders to those who have been displaced or even those whose lands need some recovery." Boudicca said excitedly, as her eyes switched from looking ahead of the pair and back to Maddy. "Obviously, there are some sorting out more of the finer details that needs to happen, but that is my idea." Boudicca grew quiet for a moment as they walked. The rustling of the leaves beneath their hooves made white noise in the background. Until Boudicca turned her head slightly and asked the chestnut painted mare, "What do you think of that idea? Do you think it can be done?" Boudicca grew quiet again as she waited a response. Boudicca was open to criticism.. or even if the plan needed to completely be scrapped all together. Though, she did hope it sounded reasonable in the very least.

[attr="class", quoteCredits]

Artwork by CaelyCat

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fleabittengray <3

[fleabittengray]

x

MADAGASCAR

made by remi of rilla go! and adoxography

Maddy had grown up in a much smaller herd than was typical in Wild Equines. The lands had not been nearly as vast. There had been no Kings or Queens, and nothing like the Helkaer, Versai, or Vigilum. Meeting Boudicca as Queen of the Neutral Kingdom was something she never expected to happen in her lifetime. It gave her a sense of awe, to be walking beside the Queen of her entire Kingdom. Maddy never wanted that sort of power, she'd do no good leading an entire Kingdom, but she admired the mares that could handle it. Madagascar knew she herself was too simple, too plain, too boring to be Queen. She wasn't all that interesting, and she was hardly knowledgable enough about politics to be of any use! Boudicca looked like a woman who knew nothing but power. She had scars scattered across her bodice, scars from fighting numerous battles Maddy assumed. The smaller maiden wished her own scars were from protecting someone or defending herself, instead of flames licking across her figure. A small chill zipped down her spine at the memory, ears twitching back gently, for a moment, before they perfect forward once more.

The freshly fallen autumn leaves crunched loudly beneath their hooves, but it did not bother Maddy. She felt safe in the Queen's presence. Boudicca had no reason what so ever to bring her any harm. In fact, being a part of the Neutral Defense Council, she had no reason to keep Madagascar alive. "Well, you sound exactly like the equine I am looking for!" Beneath her chestnut and white coat, her skin flushed with heat and she giggled softly. "I have plans to strengthen the neutral defense counsel, but to also open the neutral kingdom’s borders to those who have been displaced or even those whose lands need some recovery." Maddy's ears twitched, listening intently to what the Queen told her. Opening their borders could be dangerous, but it could also save lives. They had to make sure to weigh the pros and cons. A thoughtful look on her face, Maddy glanced over at the Queen as they both walked and she continued to speak. "Obviously, there are some sorting out more of the finer details that needs to happen, but that is my idea." A comfortable quiet settled between the two women, towards the end of which Maddy finally spoke and said, "I think that's a beautiful idea." It would have to be fine tuned to make sure the Kingdom remained as safe as possible, sure, but a good idea nonetheless.

There was another brief blip of silence, filled only with the sound of rustling leaves, until the Queen looked at her and asked for her opinion. "What do you think of that idea? Do you think it can be done?" Maddy blinked, not having expected the Queen to ask for her opinion, to give feedback on the idea. She grinned, timid but warm. "I think it's a lovely idea. It can save many lives - but could also put our Kingdom in danger, if someone decides to take advantage of our hospitality. We would need to make sure we have enough extra guards or something, to do thorough checks at the borders, to question those coming through seeking refuge and do our best to make sure it's not an enemy seeking to harm us from the inside." She frowned then, looking away from the Queen and looking ahead, down the path. "I would not put it past some, the Helkaer specifically, to try and use open borders against us. I do not know if you know, but Eacarrah was raided by the Helkaer before. They-" Her voice wavered at the end, with sadness and with shame. "They have my daughter. And I think they could easily use Fergie to get inside information, if they wanted to."

It was painful, admitting that her daughter could potentially be used as a spy, but it was better for the Queen to know. It was not a secret that Maddy wanted to take to her grave, no matter how badly it hurt.


☽ caely ☾ w/ Boudicca
687 | Profile
*dramatic music*
8 years 10 months, autumn, afternoon

[☽ caely ☾]

[attr="class", boudiccaContainer]

[attr="class", boudiccaChild]

As they strolled down the winding path that led deeper into Meraki Woods, Boudicca mused softly to herself about her previous life as a queen. In the arid, dry deserts of the wasteland, there was not much to rule over. There were the ruins of a old human castle built from the pale orange stones of a mountain face that was too steep for almost anything to traverse, which lead to it becoming the impenetrable backside of the fortress. It was within this fortress that Boudicca had lived, and then ruled, for a brief time. Within its walls the economic system was obvious. The very poorest or lowest lived within cave dwellings or what was left of buildings within the walls. It was from these low places that Boudicca rose from, and she would never allow anyone to feel as though they were undeserving of basic necessities. The lowest of low citizens there had to squabble and fight for rations, which were given out only every third day. Above them were other citizens with jobs that seemed to serve a purpose. Boudicca could not stand to watch the current city she lived in live the way it had, and while the Queen had done her best to rectify the situation. There were more raids, more battles, and war between her fortress and others in an attempt to monopolize and gather rations for all. It had worked, and it seemed to be going well. Things were starting to flourish and yet the painted warrioress was unsatisfied. She had to the conclusion looking out over one of the many balconies that looked out over the wasteland beyond her kingdom’s walls. Her view was a burning red sunset that painted everything in pigments of red. As the sun lowered beyond the horizon, the sky blended from bright red and orange clouds into a drapery of the darkest of midnight blues. The stars hung in the sky with a particular brightness, even now when the sky still held it’s sunset colors. It was in that moment that she knew this place was not for her. It had never been home and never felt like a home. That was when she made the choice to find a successor and to leave.

While Meraki was now a mix of similar colors of the wasteland, except the colors were that of falling leaves. The orange, red, and yellow leaves were not nearly as brilliant as the sunset sky of those desert wastelands, but they’re soft cool colors were just as lovely. The green place her mother had always talked about seemed to have found her, inadvertently. A soft smile formed on her lips at the thought of her mother and the idea that she might have guided her here somehow. She blinked as the crunching of the leaves below her feet drowned out her thoughts. An eye moved to gaze at Maddy, just in time to see Maddy’s auds flick back for a second before moving forward once more. Boudicca thought for a moment to ask if she were alright, but her auds flicked forward so quickly that she did not know if it was worth prying about. Boudicca remarked on how Maddy seemed to be just the right equine she had been looking for and she was met with a soft chuckle, only for her to start listening intently again when Boudicca mentioned her plan about opening the neutral kingdom’s border. Then silence fell between them and Boudicca enjoyed the presence of the chestnut paint. ”I think that’s a beautiful idea.” Maddy said just before Boudicca asked what she thought of the idea, and Boudicca smiled awkwardly and turned her head to show she was sorry for interrupting. Regardless, the painted mare gracefully seemed to take in stride and Boudicca found herself met with a warm, but sheepish grin. "I think it's a lovely idea. It can save many lives - but could also put our Kingdom in danger, if someone decides to take advantage of our hospitality. We would need to make sure we have enough extra guards or something, to do thorough checks at the borders, to question those coming through seeking refuge and do our best to make sure it's not an enemy seeking to harm us from the inside." Boudicca listened intently to Maddy’s opinion and her thoughts. She nodded in agreement but her nod came to an abrupt end when the chestnut paint frowned and looked ahead of them. Boudicca watched her carefully, and listened closely as she began to speak. "I would not put it past some, the Helkaer specifically, to try and use open borders against us. I do not know if you know, but Eacarrah was raided by the Helkaer before. They-" Boudicca’s brows furrowed as the mare’s voice wavered and the aching sadness and shame released itself within her tones. "They have my daughter. And I think they could easily use Fergie to get inside information, if they wanted to."

Boudicca’s nostrils quivered, and her eyes narrowed. She turned her face away from Maddy and inhaled and exhaled to calm herself. "When did this happen? Tell me everything that led up to this raid on Eacarrah." Boudicca’s raspy tones were deep and serious, almost even cold. Which was not directed to Maddy in the slightest, rather, she could feel the blood in her veins bubbling to a boil at the thought of anyone raiding a land within the neutral kingdom. Boudicca’s sharpened gaze turned to Maddy, and softened slightly to convey her sympathy. "I would hope that Fergie will not be forced in any way to reveal secrets before we can save her." Boudicca was very intentional with her words as she remarked that they would get Maddy’s daughter back. Boudicca did not yet know how, but she would find a way. The Haelker seemed to have caused quite a bit of trouble for the neutral kingdom. While Boudicca would rather not start problems while there was an active war going on, however if it came to that, then so be it. Boudicca inhaled again and attempted to unlock her jaw before looked at the path ahead. "Has anything been done for Eacarrah or its residents in the wake of all of this?" Her voice was softer now than it had been before. She was calming herself slowly, and thankfully, the pair was not far from the large pond within Meraki. It was a good enough place to peruse or to talk. And it sounded like there would be a lot of talking between the Queen and Maddy.

[attr="class", quoteCredits]

Artwork by CaelyCat

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fleabittengray <3

[fleabittengray]

x

MADAGASCAR

made by remi of rilla go! and adoxography

Maddy hadn't initially thought to bring up the fact her daughter was missing to Boudicca. It had just kind of happened, slipping out before she could stop it from happening. The fact was, Maddy was sort of relieved that Fergie was gone now, as cruel as that sounded. She had tried to hard to raise the girl right. She never gave harsh punishments, nor did she hardly ever raise her voice at the girl growing up. And yet, something wasn't quite right with Fergie. Maddy hated to admit that her own daughter made her uncomfortable. Maddy had always believed that Fergie was a ticking time bomb, just waiting to go off at the right moment. It frightened her, and this nearly a year without Fergie at home had been so peaceful for her, without having to worry about what trouble her daughter was going to get into. She did not want to had to admit that to the Queen, to anyone, because it made her feel so terribly guilty. She hadn't been a bad mom! She didn't know how Fergie had turned out so wrong. To be honest, she probably fit in much better with the Helkaer than the Neutral Kingdom.

But the raid had been mentioned, and there was no turning back now. Now, it was going to be discussed. Maddy twitched her tail nervously, anxiously, and stared down at the forest floor as they walked. "When did this happen? Tell me everything that led up to this raid on Eacarrah." Maddy tried her best to calculate a timeline. "Almost a year now. It will be a year, come winter time. I am not entirely sure what all led up to it. Something about Gavin's mouther owing Sly a debt or something. I... I didn't really ask too many questions." Her voice wavered nervously, nostrils flaring as she sighed. The raid had been traumatic for her, mainly due to the Helkaer's use of fire. It was once the flames came that she did the only thing she could think of to do - she ran. "I would hope that Fergie will not be forced in any way to reveal secrets before we can save her." Her reaction to that was to tense, frowning deeply. Any other mother would have been jumping for join at the thought of getting their child back.

"Boudicca, I..." She trailed off, sighing heavily and hanging her head. "I wouldn't be surprised if Fergie didn't want to come back. She might fit in better with the Helkaer than with our Kingdom." Her tone was embarrassed and ashamed as she spoke of her daughter. She couldn't look at the Queen, not after admitting her own flesh and blood fit in better with a bunch of murderers than in a Kingdom of peace. "Has anything been done for Eacarrah or its residents in the wake of all of this?" Clearing her throat to stop herself from starting to cry, Maddy finally tried to attempt looking at the Queen again. "The Helkaer tried to set Eacarrah on fire. A Versai helped put out the flames. I believe her name was Luna." She paused, trying to think of what else, if anything, they needed. "I do not think we currently are in any urgent need of anything, but I do appreciate you asking." Now, if only Boudicca could forget she had ever mentioned Fergie, that would be great,,,


☽ caely ☾ w/ Boudicca
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8 years 10 months, autumn, afternoon

[☽ caely ☾]

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Boudicca’s auds swiveled to listen to the chestnut paint beside her as she spoke, ”Almost a year now. It will be a year come winter time. I am not entirely sure what all led up to it. Something about Gavin’s mother owing Sly a debt or something. I… I didn’t really ask too many questions.” Maddy’s voice lost it’s strength and wobbled at the end, which was followed by a sigh. Boudicca felt her jaw begin to clench. Muscles bounced in her cheeks as continued to listen and a frown formed on her lips. She shook her head back and forth, "Mmm." She hummed lowly with a tone of dissatisfaction and quiet anger. Boudicca’s brows furrowed together as her thoughts swirled like a tempestuous storm on the ridges of Kunipar Cliffs. Her black and white nostrils twitched as they walked, and Boudicca silently questioned herself on just how this could happen. Boudicca found herself growing angry. Not at Maddy. Not at Avinash. Not really anyone in particular. Maybe herself for not being here sooner. The painted queen would never allow such disrespect or violence from anyone against her people. Although she had not been Queen for long, the people of the neutral kingdom were her people. Just as the people of the wasteland were her people. Like the brutal warlords before her, Boudicca did not tolerate any kind of gesture against her or her people. Any individual or neighboring clan would find themselves begging for mercy at the hands of her and her army. Boudicca’s ideals had not changed, but her mentality had since then. Now she lived in a place not filled with constant war and raids for resources. Now she lived amongst a peaceful people, which was something she strived to be. She had wanted to settle down… hadn’t she? She questioned herself as she found a fiery rage growing in her belly and vindictive thoughts enter her thought space. She inhaled and exhaled as quietly as possible as she attempt to calm the fire and the thunderstorm in her brain. She attempted to rationalize her feelings as overprotectiveness, but she could not deny the want to make those pay for their heinous crimes against her people. It was in that moment that Boudicca silently vowed that, so long as she remained upon one of the thrones in this kingdom, she would not allow another assault or targeting to go overlooked. No more would this kingdom be a target of the vile and cruel without repercussions from the warrior queen.

Boudicca’s gaze glanced at the member of Eacarrah, noting her deep frown. She seemed concerned or maybe even less than thrilled at Boudicca’s suggestion of retrieving her child. Turquoise chasms watched from the corner of her eye, ”Boudicca, I…” The other mare’s voice was defeated, and she sighed heavily allowing her head to fall. Boudicca’s strides slowed and she turned her head to gaze upon the mare that was obviously experiencing some kind of emotional pain. ”I wouldn’t be surprised if Fergie didn’t want to come back. She might fit better with the Helkaer than with our Kingdom.” Boudicca blinked in surprise and curiosity, but noted Maddy’s embarrassment and even shame in admitting that information. Boudicca’s hooves came to a stop. She stared at the mare waiting for her gaze, but it was never found. Boudicca asked another question, and she heard the mare clear her throat and begin to gingerly look at Boudicca. The neutral queen could see the glossiness in her eyes and finally made the connection that this admittance was more painful than just the slightly disappointment that Boudicca had felt when the words found her ears. ”The Helkaer tried to set Eacarrah on fire. A Versai helped put out the flames. I believe her name was Luna.” Boudicca blinked and her gaze moved up and beyond the other painted mare as if trying to picture the scene. ”I do not think we currently are in any urgent need of anything, but I do appreciate you asking.” Boudicca nodded and lowered her gaze to find Maddy’s once more. She allowed a soft, genuine smile form on her lips as she began to speak as gently as her raspy, deep voice would allow, "If that were the case with Fergie, then so be it. We cannot force anyone to remain anywhere their heart does not call home." She paused. "I am sorry, Maddy. I can see that it affects you greatly. It is your choice if we pursue her or not. You know her best, afterall." Boudicca’s voice ended abruptly as her voice threatened to crack and go out anyways. She inhaled and nodded and turned to continue down the path which would open up shortly to the area where her coronation was to be held. "I am relieved to hear that you all are rebuilding and finding your way.” She said in reference to Eacarrah. Her lips pressed together as she prepared to ask her next question. "What do you know of the Helkaer? Aside from this.. debt." She asked the mare. Perhaps it was best to gather as much information as she could from all that were willing to tell.

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Artwork by CaelyCat

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[fleabittengray]

x

MADAGASCAR

made by remi of rilla go! and adoxography

There was so much shame and guilt that Maddy felt about the whole situation. The way she had fled the scene, the way she had allowed her daughter to essentially be taken... and how she'd not attempted even once to get her back. She feared the Helkaer greatly, especially knowing they wielded the power to create fire out of nothing. Fire had nearly killed her once, she would forever carry the burn scars to prove that, and she wanted nothing to do with flames again, not if she could help it. But her herd had needed her! She should had stayed, should have confronted her fears, but she couldn't. Gavin had never said anything about it, but she still was so ashamed of herself. And now, admitting to the Queen that her own daughter was potentially now a Helkaer ally? She doubted it was giving a very good first impression... What was she even doing here? Walking beside the Queen like she deserved it. She didn't deserve anything. Maddy could feel a lump forming in her throat, like she was going to cry, and she tried her best to swallow it down.

Boudicca seemed angry after she spoke about how long it had been since the raid. Maddy didn't ask why. She was nervous now, wondering if the Queen might be suspecting her of something. She was innocent, yes, but she could not help but to worry. Was she making herself look suspicious? Her ears tilted back slightly but she continued to walk with the Queen, trying to appear casual instead of skittish as she looked around the forest they were walking through. It was pretty here, with the leaves all several different colors. She hoped that wherever Fergie was, she was able to appreciate its beauty... if the girl even appreciated anything at all.

When she finally found the courage to look back at Boudicca, as the two mares came to a halt upon the path they walked, she saw that the Queen held a smile on her face. It was soft and kind and understanding. Maddy blinked at her before offering a timid smile in return. "If that were the case with Fergie, then so be it. We cannot force anyone to remain anywhere their heart does not call home." Even though the mare's words were deep and raspy, they were still gentle. It soothed Maddy's nerves, ears perking forward once more. "I am sorry, Maddy. I can see that it affects you greatly. It is your choice if we pursue her or not. You know her best, afterall." Did she, though? In all honesty, Maddy didn't think anyone knew Fergie. Not really. "Thank you. That, um, that means a lot. Truly." She smiled a little wider, despite the sadness in her eyes remaining, but they were at least a little brighter now.

The duo of mares continued to walk, until the path opened up slowly, becoming a clearing. "I am relieved to hear that you all are rebuilding and finding your way.” Boudicca spoke of Eacarrah again and Maddy nodded. She loved her home. It was a beautiful place to live. "What do you know of the Helkaer? Aside from this.. debt." This question caught her off guard and her head lifted slightly, blue eyes widening, and for a moment she was quiet as she thought on all of the information she knew of. "I know they are cruel. They bow to no Kingdom, not even the Dark Kingdom. I believe their Commander's name is Sly. They -" She felt that lump in her throat, remembering the flames, and she swallowed hard. "They can summon fire. I do not know how much power they have over the fire once its set. They lived in the Outlands. I heard there's another desert there, but I've never been brave enough to go to the Outlands myself to see what it's really like." She seemed to shudder just the thought of the Outlands. "There are three members of the Helkaer, just as there are the Versai and the Vigilum. Aside from the fire, they also have their wolves.


☽ caely ☾ w/ Boudicca
688 | Profile
so sorry for the wait!
8 years 10 months, autumn, afternoon