Ramiel can’t say he’s surprised at the turn out, but it’s still disappointing when so few horses trickle into the meeting. The Dale is vast and wild; he hopes that perhaps some are still making their way to the knoll. A jagged mountain stream is stalling them, maybe. Or a steep hill must be navigated with the utmost caution before they can reach the gathering. He thinks there are many physical obstacles that could be standing in their way, not to mention personal matters. It’s a best case scenario, of course, but he tries to be optimistic. Anything is possible; he is living (and dead) proof enough.
He can feel the weight of his parent’s gazes, though, and their unspoken trust is enough to sustain him. It fuels him, and coupled with his pride in his home itself, it keeps him focused on what needs to be done. There is a lot to do. There is a lot of work that needs to be distributed, to be delegated, in order for their home to rise to where they all want it to be. The older members have known the struggle for a long time – longer than he’s been alive, even – but it’s the new comers he worries more about. Their loyalty to a quiet place is surely tested with each passing day. He wonders sometimes if Weir questions his choice to come here in the first place. He wonders if rumors have kept potential recruits away.
More’s the pity for them.
There is a real chance to do something here, to build from the ground up. Tiphon has developed the Dale’s strong foundation. It was solid and built on the cumulative years of the loyalists. But those who came after can now really make a name for themselves. Ramiel sees the potential in so many faces, but few actually commit.
He blinks and these thoughts disappear for the time being. Weir is the first to speak, and he listens to the roan’s mantra of dedication. He is staying, the young stallion thinks happily, surprised to find that he’d been worried. The man is intelligent if a bit odd (in a good way to the equally odd boy) and he had hoped their silence wasn’t an indication of their incompetence. Ramiel smiles and nods in recognition of his decision. His eyes move about the group, waiting to receive any news or criticisms they may have. Elysteria steps up next, and he agrees immediately. “I thought we might send feelers out at this Desert competition. If you are attending – and I greatly encourage mingling, even if you do not wish to participate – try to get an idea on the relationships between each of the kingdoms. I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for such passive analyzing.” He doesn’t say spying, because it isn’t. Camrynn and her co-queen had invited them into their borders, after all. There is nothing wrong with learning as much as they can while they are within them.
There is more news to share with them. The grey stallion wonders if they already know about it, or have sensed it, at least. “Our home has also gone through several changes in the last few weeks.” Ramiel looks at Tiphon questioningly, making sure it was all right to tell part of his story. “The spirit of the Dale visited us and gifted us with a spring up in the mountains. Its purpose is still becoming clear, but in time we will learn of its full potential.” He remembers the face with its beady, black eyes. He remembers how it had reached up to him but had disappeared with his next breath. When he descended the mountain hills, he had felt almost guilty leaving it behind. Even still, he feels like a part of his very soul lingers up there. “Until then, we need to protect it at all costs.”
“In addition, it has broken the bars against non-mythicals. They are allowed to live amongst us and join our ranks like any other kingdom.” The boy-king smiles at this. He had hated the prejudice, even if it was all he knew growing up. “Finally, the spring-pool is allowing traits to be bestowed upon our most loyal and hard-working. The head of the peace will receive empathy upon drinking.” He turns to the bay mare again. “Elysteria, the gift is your’s for as long as you remain governor.” “The head of the army will receive a horn. We can also have an airforce consisting of two horses who will receive wings.” Their military has been severely neglected, and he hopes that will now change. “I will consider any applications who wish to join.” Ramiel quiets then, letting them ask any additional questions they may have before breaking off into smaller groups.
r a m i e l
what a day to begin again
ooc: mostly wrapping it up and giving the Pharate info. Let me know if you have any questions though! <3 And Call, I'll add Weir to both castes =)