Vae Victis

I Realize that this is coming as an exceedingly late response, but J.R., you have been an inspiration to not only me, but others as well. You talk about me dealing with hardships? Buddy I feel like what I've dealt with in life is a cakewalk compared to what you have had to exert extreme amounts of patience with. You're always there no matter what, and I must say, that is a pretty good quality to have. You don't judge people, you are kind to everyone, and most of all, you know what you need to do to be successful in life and you are willing to work for it. You, Corona, Louisvillepride ( now ironically Ice Blizzard. XD ) P-jay, goob, Blank, and everyone in that skype chat have been kind to me and have kept me going. I feel like an old man at times but with all of you, I actually feel like I have energy again. And I'm sorry this seems kind of short. Normally I'd be writing paragraph upon paragraph but....... Well, work. I love ya John. Remember that. And thanks for the birthday wishes

Hello! I was wondering if you'd be able to do this commission for a friend's OC. I've been trying to figure out what could make for a great gift, and then I came across this art shop! I have successfully paid for a $19.00 full body shot, I think it was? https://mlpforums.com/page/roleplay-characters/_/tyra-shatterhoof-r7858 This is the OC in question. Now, this is more of an action oriented character, and I understand if drawing the axe is out of the question, though it is preferred. But if there is one thing I may request, is that the helmet be included. That adorable little Viking pony would lose a part of her soul if she didn't have that XD. And... Maybe a heroic pose, if it is not too much trouble. I am not a picky man, and neither is he. Proof of payment is attached. And might I ask that this be sent to user Unicorncob upon completion in a PM? He'd love that Thanks for your time and consideration!

Watching over them, Galtos would stand up straight, crossing his arms once more and eyeing down the crowd from the hill he sat upon. His grin disappearing, Galtos would unexpectedly let loose a resounding roar of commands. He was as every legend that had been passed by generations of Saduarians depicted him to be in this one moment, a proud leader of merit who had stood uncontested by many. " Krigare Tyra! You have indeed done well! This, however, is where the waking world receives you once more! When you awaken, you'll find both Lorec and Sifana in good health as well, now come forth, and be counted one more time by my side! " At this point, Many in the main group had turned towards Tyra, and raised their fists in the air and cheered her to go onward. Even Lorec had stood up and smiled widely at her, with Sifana mimicking the motion hand-in-hand with her father, her eyes still wet from crying over the fight. " Better to not keep Nuulvak waiting, Shatterhoof. " After speaking these words, Lorec placed his right fist over his heart, with the thumb facing inward as a traditional mino-sadaurian salute. All others within the crowd would follow suit, even Sifana. No words were needed at this point. _______________________________________________________________ @@J.R. Kazas, snapping out of his romantic lapse, grabbed at the menu with absolute haste, breaking eye contact with Vera. He opened it while trying to contain an awkward laugh, " I knew what I'd like before we even came here. I'm having the fried snake. How about yourself, Vera? "

Fair enough! I can wait XD

@@P-Jay Well, if that post wasn't obvious enough..... Naga Versus Caliber?

@ Kazas, eagerly taking a seat and by now, almost degrading into little more than a creature of instinct that was guided only by the resolute calls of a starving stomach, made his way merrily to the table of which had been selected by Vera. Even with his hunger exerting influence over his thought processes, Kazas would not neglect his proper etiquette. Pulling out a chair at a snail's pace, Kazas would sit directly across from Vera, and gazed over at the menu. Of course, this was rather unnecessary, as Kazas's mind was still concentrated upon the delicacy that was fried snake meat served with various, steam cooked vegetables. It was of course, that Kazas began to smile widely, much more vibrantly than he ever had in the past decade and a half. And not even realizing it, he was looking at Vera as he basked in his own self-perpetuating jubilee. He was genuinely happy with his life now. Though some aspects could stand to change, he most certainly was not one to complain at all. He had forged great connections with many others over a half a lifetime of tribulation and strife. He had obtained a job where he could travel the world and see with his own eyes what the lands outside of Leovia had to offer, And now... He had Vera as well. In Kazas's mind, The all-maker, in his mercy, had smiled down upon Kazas. He said nothing, as the ashen knight of phoenix was smitten with whom he was facing. He only stayed silent, unaware of the awkwardness that would be generated by the situation. Truly, a love-stricken fool at this point. ______________________________________________________________ @@P-Jay Sometime after the whimsical festivities that had welcomed Naga to bangcolt died down, the uncanny monk would find himself deep in the threshold of a forest clearing, meditating to purify his soul. " " Ohm Benza Satto Hung, Ohm Benza Satto Hung, Ohm Benza Satto Hung....." It was during this reflection of spirit, that he would remember his first encounter with Caliber the swordspony, months ago in a cafe. Sure enough when a certain fellow displayed a disdain for kindness that was quite possibly born from pride, it was Caliber who would come to Naga's side in order to defend the peace-loving pilgrim from the ornery wrath of another. And not too long after, it would be that the Rakshasa would aid in a much needed cleansing process that Caliber had requested not long after they had met. And it was in a clearing like this, that Caliber had fought the monk when the karmic purification attempt had gone awry, and within Naga, had caused him to regress into a bestial state of which the 108 temptations held sway and acted through. Through Caliber's sheer force of determination, combined with his skill, He soundly defeated Naga in his feral state, allowing him the much needed time to burn through the negative karmic energies that were previously residing in Caliber's heart before the monk had absorbed it willingly in order to aid him. This was proof that Caliber could indeed handle the more powerful, and frightening monstrosities of the world. And yet, as Naga thought of these things, his chanting had ceased, and his eyes opened slowly as the grin of reminiscence faded into a foreboding frown. The Stormbringer was coming to have his lust for wanton battle fulfilled by Caliber. And he was leagues above the monk. standing on all fours now as he descended from a controlled hover that was second nature during meditation, Naga would not finish the cleansing ceremony on this day. He was far too worried that his beloved comrade and first mortal friend in nearly a decade, would not be ready for the hurricane of blood, debauchery, and blood-drunkenness that would soon seek him out. Had Caliber ever fought an enemy on that scale before? Was he truly ready to cast in his blade against what many would contrive as a god that thrived upon the killing fields of battle? Alas, he did not know. And that is what made him fearful of the potential outcome of the fated duel. Looking skyward, Naga took off into the heavens above, and charted his course immediately towards Bangcolt. There was only one way that the vetala could be sure of Caliber's ability to not only survive the oncoming storm, but to force it back as well. Naga would challenge the wanderer himself. And in that battle, he would give himself entirely to the loathsome negativity that constantly vied for control. But even then, Naga could not be sure that this was enough to emulate the level upon which his superior was accustomed to. _____________________________________ @@Unicorncob Lorec, having been called forth by Tyra, looked back at his wife and son. They nodded at him, understanding that he was needed elsewhere at this moment. Letting him go from their embrace, and to his adoptive daughter, Lorec would kneel on one knee as he reached to play with Sifana's hair a bit with his left index finger. There were no words between them. Only a subtle beginning to what would become intensive sobs from the little taurette. Slowly, he reached towards her shoulder and pulled her in close, as she wept. At that point, Two minotaurs stepped forward from the crowd, another couple, whom both shared Sifana's brown hide, the female of the couple sharing her emerald eyes with the young one. They watched silently as they adjoined hands, smiling sorrowfully at the sight. The two were unsure if Sifana would even remember them at this point. And thus, they waited until the raw emotions had poured out of the eyes of their child... And inside, they both rejoiced as Lorec had kept his promise that he made to both of them as they had passed away in each other's arms two years ago.

@@Unicorncob Sifana, unable to fully comprehend the surreal powers that had conjured this event into fruition, was still taking everything that her eyes had been telling her at an exceedingly slow pace. Seeing Tyra call out to her would only serve to estrange the young taurette further. Even so, she kept her pace, eventually reaching the group as the majority fell silent at her passing. Coming to a stop as she finally had reached Tyra, She looked around, still bewildered. " Tyra...? Where are we? Is Papa here too? " Lorec and his reunited family were still in the thick of the crowd, and were unable to see or hear Sifana as of yet. Perhaps, If Tyra were to call out....

oooooooooohhhh wee. okay. Looks like we've been frozen for awhile. sorry about that. Partially, that's on me. But, now that I finally have my little office space up, I suppose I should jump right back into it, ready to rock. Let's see if we can't breathe a little life into this one!

@@Unicorncob " And so you have the right to be! My husband may may no longer be within his prime, but he will always be the beast of Saduaris. And you are his sworn, the Great Winter's Axe of the Frozen North. That makes you one of us as well. " Lorec, now rubbing the back of his head in a small fit of bashfulness, was actually blushing, a sight that would come a once in a lifetime. " Still one for the grand speeches... Huh Venna? " Venna, his wife, got off her knee, and shot him a dirty look with one eye cocked. afterwards, she let a soft grin creep slowly across her face, as she proceeded to playfully punch Lorec's right arm. Letting out a small yelp and grabbing at the area of which she struck, rubbed it slowly as she scolded him. " Oh, do not give me that nonsense, Lorec Krin. You and I both know that you've always been overzealous with those flopping gums of yours. " Hearing this, the entire group of the Golden Horns burst out laughing in whimsy and jubilee. Even Lorec's son was joining in the lighthearted hazing. " Well, it seems that my mother is still even to tame my father, after all this time! " After a few moments of laughter ringing throughout this realm of dreams, Venna then pulled the emotionally emasculated minotaur into her embrace, and then offered a light peck upon his lips. Everywhere throughout the knolls of the metaphysical, a resounding "oooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!", not unlike that of a schoolhouse full of teenage stallions and mares, was being vocalized by the entirety of the Golden Horns as this occurred. Venna then pulled away from Lorec, and pulled his hand away from the bicep that she had struck. She then began to rub it slowly herself as they pulled each other into their respective gazes. " And that's one of the reasons why I married you, ya big bastard. " She winked at him. Lorec, speechless and left with no knowledge of what to say next, would only pull her into an overly encasing hug, along with his son. _________________________ Galtos, as he sat upon the hill overlooking his heirs, chuckled to himself a tad, thinking back to the times where it would be him in the middle of that encirclement. ' But... There's still one missing from this reunion... ' Beside him, a small taurette began to materialize out of thin air, seemingly being composed of orbs of white light. Taking shape, it would reveal the form of Sifana, as it was the Stormbringer's will that would drag the slumbering young one into the dream as well. Raising her head and looking around in confusion, Sifana, startled as she turned to the pale hero, backed away hastily. " Who... who are you? Where am I? Where is papa... Where is Tyra? " Galtos, choosing to stay silent, pointed downwards to the congregation, directing her. Still not fully aware of what was truly occurring, she slowly paced towards the group downhill, showing a rare sign of timidness that did not usually befall her. __________________________________________________________ @@J.R. Kazas, running ahead of Vera towards the establishment, eagerly opened the door and awaited her entry, ready to finally eat a delicacy that was hard-pressed to hunt for around Leovia.

@@Unicorncob As these Saduarians parted as if they were a river divided, Lorec and his family turned to face the approaching warrior from the northern hinterlands of Equestria. Each of them smiling warmly, as if they were welcoming a member of their own family. Stepping forward, the taurette whom Lorec had embraced moments before took a few steps forward, and knelt down to Tyra on one knee. Eagerly wishing to make conversation with the little warrior. " So... You are the one who battled my oaf of a husband, are you?" ________________________________________________________________ @@J.R. Kazas would come upon the desired location not too long after Vera had spoke of it to him. Swooping down and landing lightly, the ashen griffon knelt down so Vera could safely dismount. " Well now, here we are! I can't wait!"

@@The Down Trotten Audax paused so that he could collect his thoughts accordingly, and within a matter of moments, formed his rebuking statement with a nonchalant manner of expression. He brought his hoof to the stubble on his chin, and slowly began to rub it, almost as like a normal pony would do. It was evident that he has spent much time among regular ponies if he was acting like them. "If there were any changelings that were foreign to my tribe, yet on the same feeding grounds, I would say it would be a cause for concern. The tribe is far too busy with various experiments and testing to even think of venturing out, and the chieftain and I stand on the same plateau when it comes to how the tribe should be handled. When the time comes to adjourn this meeting, I'll be sure to check into the matter..." He paused, and then shot a look to the one who had called this meeting. "Now on the subject of reigning the tribes in.... If the queen thinks that is a wise idea, then by all means, I say go ahead. Let her make a fool of herself and lose the support of the tribes. Let her sow the seeds of discontent herself, and reap the upheaval of her own throne later. I can promise you that if subjugated, the Nexis tribe will offer little to the ways of resistance." He leaned in closer. Even the air in the room carried a tinge of heaviness to it. After all, this was the case whenever politics were in discussion, be it changeling or pony. "But we will not exactly be supportive of future endeavors, either. Now.... Is this all that was needed? I have an ailing wife to get back to." Audax sat back in his chair, relaxed once again and waited for the meeting to adjourn.

Having heard that there would be no need for disguises, Audax nonetheless chose to remain in his disguised visage. Normally, the Nexis tribe kept to themselves, even when meetings such as this were called. Such is the byproduct of pseudo-paranoia one could expect from a tribe that valued secrecy and exclusion on a level that was almost bordering on xenophobia, even from their own kin. After all, Audax's tribe prided themselves upon being one of the most magically and technologically inclined hives, constantly trying to develop superior methods of feeding along with studying their 'benefactors' excessively, hoping to perfect the formula of blending in to pony society without being spotted. Audax's appearance was that of a grizzled old earth pony, obviously within the blue-collar worker caste. The form he took was nothing special at all. His coat was a sage shade of green, and his mane and tail were a tried-and-tested gray. The eyes were a light shade of brown. He was also sporting a somewhat unsightly stubble that could mark the beginnings of a beard, the kind of which one has after a few days after shaving. His clothing, so to speak, was also rather plain and even a tad boorish. A greasy, buttoned up white shirt with brown suspenders that were holding up a pair of brown workers' slacks. Had he not been wearing all of this, one would see that his chosen cutie mark was that of a sledgehammer nailing away at a railroad spike, with sparks flying from the impact. Why, he seemed no younger than sixty years of age, with a face that seemed as though it was wrinkled with experience, and hooves that were calloused with years of hard labor. Nothing lavish, or outstanding about this particular form. Just the way Audax preferred it. "For the sake of the current project that I am involved in, staying incognito is vital to the experiment. As for my sole representation of the Nexis tribe, I apologize for the chieftain's unwillingness to cooperate in terms of actually appearing here before you all. But understand this; he is merely following the precepts of our tribe and keeping true to the vow of absolute secrecy. We trust no other but our own brood. Even I pondered if I should be here or not. Now in terms of population, I assure you that we have ours under control, as per the tenant of stealth." Audax would hopefully refrain from even giving a name out, if he could help it. After all, that cold help them track him down if need be. Even from kin, the secrets of his tribe would need protecting. After all, with no military might, only coyness and careful strategics would be their saving grace.

@@Unicorncob As those who had gathered around Lorec cheered at this otherworldly reunion, Galtos would only sit back and watch the festivities from afar while sitting on the ground. This wasn't his moment. It was Tyra and Lorec's and even the Stormbringer knew when to step out of the spotlight to allow another their fame. Some of the crowd who found themselves on the outskirts of the gathering had turned to see Tyra approaching them. As she did so, The minotaurs would put a fist to their chests and and beat once upon their breasts; A Saduarian salute of respect. The Saddle Arabians would give a single, deep nod. And as both took these actions, they began to part for her, allowing her to pass. One by one, those who were in the outermost layer would gain the attention of their fellows, and call upon them to do the same. Like a blade that was being dragged through a puddle of water, the entirety of the group joined in the bow, allowing a path to Lorec and his family to be made. Some of the whispers from the crowds could faintly be heard. "It's her... Shes the one!" "This one beat Lorec? A tad on the short side, if you ask me." "Don't judge a warrior by their size. I bet she could cleave you in half without a second thought." "She'd make a fine Golden Horn, if I do say so, m'self." And with all of this occurring, Galtos himself expected one more to join the fray, very soon. _______________________________________________________________________________________ @@J.R. Once Vera had mounted up onto his backside, Kazas had taken off and began to fly at mid-to-low altitudes, as the location that they were traveling to was not too far by most standards. however, he would take the short trip nice and slow so that he didn't overexert himself, and so that Vera could enjoy the flight for at least a while.

Alrighty, where to start.... The tribe, known as Nexis (Roughly meaning exchange) Is a small, well-hidden conglomerate of changelings that have taken refuge within a cave system that is not too far from the city of Fillydelphia. The way of Nexis is to value three tenants above all others. The Tenants of Nexis ________________________________ I. Above all else, respect the source from which nourishment comes. Those of the Nexis know very well that they cannot and will not survive without the love that all pony kind provides for them. Instead of teaching contempt for the " Dwellers of the upper realm" as they have grown to call them, the changelings of this tribe take heavily after the highly revered Primordus. Ponykind is respected and adored. For example, if a stray pony or group of ponies find themselves lost near the home of this tribe and a scout sees, then the entire tribe will be alerted and will then use means of simple guile (Such as that of a mine worker to warn them of " dangerous conditions" to essentially shoo them away) Or even non-lethal means, of which involves knocking them out with a stunning bolt of magic and making sure that they are taken safely back to the city, albeit with all notions of stealth taken into consideration. II. Stealth takes precedence in all matters. As this particular hive usually does not take militaristic action, even in times of high political upheaval (such as the installing of a new sovereign over all changelings.), Secrecy and the ability to stay well hidden, even from other tribes, is considered as important as breathing. This has helped shape a major portion of the Nexis tribe's culture. The cave system in which they live is extensive, and intentionally so, to ward away those from other clans who might seek to, for whatever reason, plunder the hive, and also to keep regular ponies to from discovering the hive. This falls in line with the protection of the 3rd tenant, as the 3rd tenant is what differentiates them from other changeling tribes. III. Advancement of knowledge is the key. Nexis changelings, instead of devoting all time to learning just how to disguise themselves properly, have been inspired to find more efficient ways of feeding, understanding the psychological profiles of potential ponies that they may feed upon, the culture of ponies, etc. Everything that the Nexis tribe does is done efficiently. As such, the Nexis have almost completely sacrificed combative training for research and development. While eventually coming out on top when it comes to technological and magical advancement, the Nexis tribe, if ever discovered, would easily be wiped out by a hostile force. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ The rule of four: Eventually, through the ages, it is the primary goal of the Nexis tribe to find a way to more effectively capture and condense the magical energy of love into what could be construed as a meticulously crafted miniature Dyson sphere. This super-condensed magical energy will be enough to feed the entire tribe for a week, and thus, will a majority of changelings will never have to venture outside of their hive again. This will eventually lead to the “rule of four.” The rule of four states that four changelings shall be selected from the hive in order to find a partner for life that is a pony. These changelings will reside mostly above ground, within Fillydelphia. They are given great training in how to slowly age their pony appearance, how to act like a pony, eat like one, cultural values, everything. These four are sent out to the upper lands, seeking a suitor to their liking. They are even encouraged by the elder that ends them off to enjoy life outside the hive, and to genuinely care for their would-be lovers. These Changelings carry with them the Dyson spheres in the form of a small necklace, with the age-old tale that it was a family heirloom. These changelings, as they are encouraged to do so, tend to actually form true bonds with newly made friends, associates, and loved ones, and tend to actually enjoy life outside the hive. These four are, for the sake of safety, however, rendered sterile and unable to bear/give birth to children, and for good reason, a testament to the respect for the late Primordus. These changelings eventually leave the necklaces in a safety deposit box, where the same elder who chose, trained, and sent them forth disguises himself and obtains them using a copy-made key, under the guise of a business pony. He then switches out the filled Dyson spheres for the new, empty ones, and the special four will travel, on different days, to pick them up, and thus, the cycle begins anew, continued every week. As one is used per week to feed the hive, a netting of three additional spheres every week occurs, and will eventually lead to a large quantity of raw, magical love over time, eventually ending in this tribe being able to survive for years and years on end, should anything happen to the primary source of feed. ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Problems that the hive faces: Curiosity, and eventual jealousy: As ponies are highly exalted by this tribe, it is only natural that many within the hive would have an interest in meeting their would-be endowers. However, for the safety of the hive, the chieftain, guided by his elders, forbids this. While this is easily chastised for a long time, with the eventual advent of magical and technological advancements, this brings about the rule of four. While respected, many of the Nexis are jealous of the chosen four. After all, why should they stay within the confines of the hive when ponies are so ignorant that they wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between their own kind and a changeling in disguise? Why should they be forbidden from enjoying the same happiness that the chosen four do? Surely, this will cause trouble…. Lack of might: relying upon Research and Development instead of basic combat training, the Nexis tribe is very much susceptible to annihilation by military action. While the Nexis tribe does have a few astute warriors that serve as the personal guard of the high-ranking members and even posted around the cavernous system, this would not be enough to fend off invasion from a hostile force. Outcry for expansion: The Nexis tribe will eventually achieve the Dyson Sphere technology. When this occurs, food will be more plentiful than ever before. With this will come a strong call for the expansion of population, as there are heavy regulations on how many changelings may be allowed within the Nexis tribe. Political weakness by default: As the Nexis tribe is excessively secretive, they often even bar themselves from politics to hide from even other tribes. Whether the high sovereign knows of their existence or not, remains to be seen. (pretty much, left up to The Down Trotten ). This works in tandem with outcry for expansion and lack of might. Some feel that having the blessing and support of the sovereign would aid in the defense of the hive. Some would feel that sharing the technical knowledge that multiple generations have sacrificed to obtain could very well aid in a super-expansion and betterment of the entire race, which is caused by the wish to end the isolationism. ___________________________________________________________________________ Changeling populace: 358 ___________________________________________________________________________ Representative: Audax, the cloistered. Status: An ancient changeling approaching the 18th decade of his life by the time Chrysalis had taken power. While the chieftain may hold final sway over the politics that happens within the Nexis tribe, it is often seen that Audax presumably wields most of the power. Audax was responsible for helping the implementation of the Nexis's policies. Audax is known for his keen observations. A favorite phrase of his being; " I did not learn from watching the right role models. Instead, I learned how to survive by witnessing fools fall. I am inspired to protect this tribe by not committing to the same fallible follies of our predecessors and other tribes." Audax is both well respected, and yet at the same time, loathed heavily for both his policies and his ability to seemingly influence the chieftain heavily. Many see the chieftain as a sort of puppet-leader, and Audax as the true leader of the tribe. This has caused many dissenting opinions within the tribe. Some say that the chieftain should keep Audax, but not listen to him as much and rule as he would see fit. Some see Audax as the true chieftain, and would like for him to take the mantle of the Nexis tribe leader. Some of the more radical changelings within the hive, however... See Audax as a great threat, and even a tyrant. These are the ones who wish to do away with him, either through exile, or worse. But as strong of a voice that he may have, Audax is most certainly not tyrannical, at least, intentionally. Audax's policies, and the way of life that he believes so heavily in, is the by-product of his truest desires; the thirst for knowledge, and to see his tribe safe. Not only that, but to potentially " lead " the changelings in what he sees as an evolution through research and development. Knowing that he has put the tribe at risk by concentrating nearly all efforts in the pursuit of knowledge instead of combative training, It is actually his hope that one day, when the tribe peaks in these two categories, that the policy of isolationism could possibly end. That they could bring their knowledge and prowess to the high sovereign and the main tribe; Therefore ensuring a mass-scale evolution for the entirety of the race, the ability to sustain large numbers with relatively little effort, and the knowledge of past failures to ensure future success. However, as old as he is, Audax knows that he is reaching the end of his rope. And with everything that could potentially go wrong, he has a very limited amount of time to fix the problems of the Nexis tribe. If he could truly have his way, then changelings would co-exist with the ponies in peace, and his methods would not be necessary. But that is not the case. Audax respects and loves ponies; in fact, he is the elder mentioned above that collects the dyson spheres after they are implemented along with the rule of four. He often dresses as an elderly business earth pony to do this. The reason for his gracious view of the ponies is actually due to the fact that he used himself as a guinea pig in an experiment devised by the elders of the hive during his time as a young changeling. He was the progenitor of the rule of four in a sense. The experiment was very much long-term. The goal was to find a suitor, and to actually spend extended time with said suitor with meticulously practiced, advanced shapeshifter training that, when practiced correctly, seemingly aged his pony form with that of his lover. during such time, Audax learned much of pony psychology, ways of culture, everything. He had actually formed attachments during this long span of what seemed about 55 years, and only returned to the hive after he had outlived all of the ponies he had associations with on the surface. Reporting everything that had happened, he brought back scores of knowledge, from psychological profiles to customs, dress habits, ways of life... everything. With this knowledge, he was seen as influential in establishing policy and doctrine, advising based on what he knew and sharing his vast wealth of information with the others. Such knowledge, much like the concept of a Dyson Sphere, would be taken heavily into consideration, and thus, many old ways were abandoned in favor of researching ponies, love, and more effective feeding methods.

* Meekly crawls from the wreckage of studies, to post once again*

Well, the thing is, is that while Nightmare does have that ability, Let us not forget that Nightmare is pretty much an epitome of all things evil. It could have been that Nightmare would have found it impractical to use a technique such as his mass soul-stealing ability, because Guts is just one man, and it would be unnecessary in Nightmare's eyes. It could even be said that, being an epitome of evil, the azure knight wanted to toy with Guts to feed his/its own ego, or even break the monotony of being the vessel for an accursed blade by actually engaging in a fight. Contrast to Gut's attitude of willing to do ANYTHING ( and I mean anything ) to get the kill, along with usually ending the fights he gets in with one mere stroke, well... Guts would have the winner's mindset, in my opinion. Not to mention that Gut's when he battles using the berserker armor that he is known for, he actually does contend with an inner beast that desires his soul. That inner beast being a hellhound. Now it is true that Guts needed help to come back to sanity's end, but the hellhound is a part of him, whereas soul edge is an outside influence... I'm not sure if that equates to much, but I feel like Guts would be able to resist such an attempt with the berserker armor active. While some of this is iffy and I most certainly agree on some points, I do disagree with the point of Gut's being immediately possessed by Soul Edge if he were to pick it up. If I recall correctly, probably around the middle of Volume two of Berserk, many souls of the dead had been attracted to, and even attempted to possess him via the brand. However, Guts is actually able to force these spirits out of him almost instantly by sheer force of will. Now I'm not saying that willpower computes into resistance to unholy possession in all cases, but if you know everything that Guts has been through, then you know that the only thing that matches his arm strength ( THAT IS A 400 POUND SWORD. THAT HE CAN ONE HAND IF SO DESIRED.) Is his will to live through and persevere through any obstacle that comes his way. While I don't think that Guts would even attempt to pick up the sword as screw attack pointed out, but if he did, I think that he would be able to resist the blade's temptation for a long time before he would succumb.

Lorec, dumbstruck to the point where words failed to escape him, had blocked out every other thought, save for one. And that one thought, was only to advance forward towards his prize. Down the hill, and in the grassland that formed the basis for the dream world, many others had just appeared within the dream, almost instantaneously. A conglomerate of Saddle Arabians and Minotaurs alike. Looking around in awe, A few of them had managed to scout Lorec walking down the hill, and immediately started pointing at him, letting it be known the rest of the group that he had arrived. At the forefront, a Taurette, apparently in her late thirties to early forties, stood by her son, whom, while not as tall as Lorec, certainly resembled him in almost every other aspect. And beyond that, they had resembled the stone warriors that Lorec had subconsciously summoned during his ascendance to the level of an awakened keeper. More specifically, the ones who had walked side by side with him, and had aided in the delivering of the final blow. The group of about a hundred or so only stood in silence, as the two Minotaurs that were leading advanced a tad towards Lorec, as if waiting for him to contemplate what was happening. The beast of Saduaris, stopped in part due to the shock of what he was seeing, allowed his mouth to drop just a little. For what seemed like an eternity, Lorec struggled to force the words he wanted to speak from his mouth. But, in the end, he could only muster two. Two names, spoken with affection, shock, and disbelief. " Byuuln....? Venna...?" The two at the front smiled graciously, and nodded at Lorec with eyes that were not so different from a family welcoming a member home. And as soon as they had done so, Lorec immediately ceased all hesitation and threw out all semblances of reasoning. This was his family. His son, of whom was his pride, and his wife, of whom held his heart above all. Rushing towards them in jubilant rejoicing, they too, copied the motion. Colliding with each other, all three of them would embrace warmly, having been torn apart by death's threshold two and a half years before. As this sight occurred, the minotaurs would throw their arms up in a resolute cry, and the Saddle Arabians would reel back and whinny as they cheered loudly. The large crowd would eventually swarm towards the three, gathering around them and cheering. But Lorec, while overwhelmed by the sheer joy of seeing his fallen brothers and lost loved ones once again, could not hear their cheering. His mind had all but blocked them out, and he would only be able to hear the words of the two that he held in his arms. Both of them, strong and hardy, and yet, still small compared to Lorec, allowing them to rest in his war-scarred arms. "...I...." Venna spoke, intentionally cutting him off. " No words, liebe... ​None necessary at all... Even a beast needs to coddle among his loved ones at times, no?" It was then that his son, Byuuln, spoke as well, adding to the long-waited reunion. "Vater, ich wartete zu lang, um Sie wieder zu sehen! And of course...You're still taller than me." Lorec, failing to find words, only hugged them tighter, and smiled warmly. There were no tears, no sadness. Only joyous reunion. And opting to savor it, Lorec would not speak. Instead, he let the warmth and the tightness of the coddling do the speaking for him. All the while, Galtos still stood on top of the hill. However, instead of just crossing his arms and waiting with armaments ready to draw at a moment's notice... Galtos had actually begun taking off his armor! The pale minotaur stripped the steel plate armor set off of him, piece by piece, allowing it to fall to the ground with heavy thuds. He even disarmed, allowing his weapons to rest near the armor pile. When he had finished, he was a sight to behold, even without his usual apparel. A silver, sleeveless tunic to compliment his white, pasty hide, with the blue trousers even matching his eyes and his noticeably thick, blue veins. All in all, he was a healthy, imposing figure. And while his voice suggested that he may be in his mid-forties, he may as well been ten years younger than that. Calling out to Tyra, he would answer her question. " In the end, a Golden Horn is a Golden Horn. They are my brothers and sisters in arms. We look out for one another, drink together, fight together, and die together. Lorec is no exception. We look out for our own. And as Lorec's sworn, that promise of loyalty is extended to you, from all Golden Horns. Some of them yearned beyond death to see him once more... And that yearning is what brought me here today. As for how I brought them here... Well, you will find out, eventually... But why don't you go down there and be recognized, Shatterhoof? I'm sure you'll have a hell of a time in a Saduarian mosh pit!" Galtos only sat down upon the hilltop, watching with satisfaction, and a large grin on his proud gait. __________________________________________________________________________________________ Kazas, opening his good eye widely in excitement, almost began jumping up and down for joy, eager for his next meal. His tongue was literally almost hanging out of his mouth, and he failed in his attempt to stop fidgeting around. Seeing him do so was actually making for some good entertainment on the part of passerby's, who were all chuckling at the armored griffon as he clunked up and down through sheer force of excitement. "Really?!? Now that catches my fancy! Mount up, Vera! We must arrive there with the speed of Avae himself!" Surely, if Kazas did not come off as an innocent, child-like griffon before, he certainly was now. He had put the sword back to his side, and had taken a bent, pouncing position, offering Vera a seat upon his backside.

.... I'm just leaving this here, but the results of the Guts Vs. Nightmare battle was very pleasing. Obviously there is no bias whatsoever here.

Galtos, nodding at her, spoke in an eager voice, putting his arms behind his back and turning away from them. "One moment. This shall not take too long." Upon doing so, the pale Minotaur went completely silent, and his head dropped, as if unconscious. Lorec would only look to him with wonder in his eyes, eagerly awaiting whatever 'gift' that his beloved hero of yore was about to bestow to him. __________ In the waking realm, in a place all but hidden from the eyes of the world.... The pale Minotaur snapped out of his dreamlike trance. He awakened to find himself in an area all too familiar to himself. It was a proving ground, not so different from what one would describe as an ancient Romane empire-type Colosseum. Encircled within a dusty abode by the great stone walls of this hallowed place, Galtos immediately sees images flash through his head, as his history is as extensive as the grand arena. So many training sessions had taken place. So many Saduarian brawls. So many honor duels and tournaments to scout out warriors that were great, or at least, held a lot of potential, so that they may be called to defend the city, if need be. And finally, the place where many had attempted to take his title, that he offered up as a way to potentially find a half-decent fight. But, there was no one in this hidden city that could do so, save for only two others of the governing group that he belonged to. His king, and that sniveling, self-righteous bird who thought himself too holy to indulge in the pleasures of the flesh and drink. But now was not the time for dwelling in the time of memories past. The proud Saduarian turned around to face a group of about a hundred fellow Minotaurs, all wearing the badge of honor that was the Golden Horn crest on their persons. All of them, worthy combatants, deserving of god Yuulver's praise. For they had already fallen once in battle. However, their souls were yet unwilling to pass on to the other side, and yearned to live on. But in this world, almost completely devoid of second chances, that would seem nigh impossible, had it not been for Galtos's lord. Having sought out their restless spirits, the ruler of this hidden city brought them there, and provided for them, the gift of a physical presence once again through forbidden sorcery that had been refined with an untold amount of time, trial and error, and scientific exploration that extended way past the threshold of taboo. But was such taboo truly evil... When such methods could be used for good? Two Minotaurs stood at the forefront of the hundred warriors. One was female, battle-scarred, yet fair in appearence, and would have earned the wandering eye of many a suitor. The other was a tall, muscular male, obviously bred for war and sired from a giant. Even still, he shared some features with the female. Being that he appeared as though he were in his early twenties, and she in her mid-forties, one could denote that they were mother and son. All of them were wearing casual, rough-spun tunics and trousers, typical of Saduarians on an off day. Speaking in a soft tone, the stormbringer would inquiry into the pair. "It is time. Everyone who wishes to see them is gathered, then?" The female Minotaur, with a voice that seemed as though it could soothe any beast and lull it back to sleep, spoke back to him, in a tone that suggested an eagerness. Her face gave way to impatience, as she was ready to finally meet that mighty beast whom she had sung for once before. "We are ready. Please, take us to them." " Very well.... Everyone! join hands, and hooves, at once! I shall take you all to the realm where your beloved brother-in-arms, and pride of the Golden Horns is now!" Following his command, the two in front fell back into what was a long, singular line of comrades. Some were minotaur, others, saddle arabian. But all were brothers, sisters, friends, family, and beloved. When all had joined, the dark-armored pale rider marched to meet the Taurette as she stood with her allies. "So... sure you don't want to..." " You may be considered a god of conflict, Galtos Fyuuln... But even I am not above slapping one of Saduaris's most venerated for trying to make an unwanted advance." "Well, I tried... Loyal and beautiful... Damn that Lorec, he certainly does have a good taste in females. Alright, Are you ready?" The female Minotaur nodded, and readied herself. Galtos then reached for her shoulder, and rested his palm upon it. Almost instantly, he, along with all others, fell into a trance-like state, and their heads dropped, as if to suggest a standing sleep... ________ Back in the realm of dreams... Galtos's head rose back upward, and he turned to face Lorec and Tyra once more. "Follow me over the hill. The gift is waiting for you there." Galtos began to traverse over the hill upon which he had stood, and reached the apex not soon afterwards. Lorec, eagerly following, ascended not to long afterwards. Standing at the top and and viewing whatever was below from on high, Lorec's sense of excitement was overcome by a gait of disbelief, as his arms dangled to his sides almost lifelessly, like he could not move them at all. He spoke, not able to believe what he was seeing. "...This isn't real..." ​Galtos, in a gesture of camaraderie for his fellow Golden Horn, wrapped his arm over Lorec's shoulder, and assured him of what he deemed impossible to fathom. "You may be in the realm of dreams, boy, But they are who you think they are. I brought them here for you. And they have been waiting two years for this. Are you really going to keep them waiting any longer? Get down there!" Silently nodding at Galtos's command, Lorec began to descend slowly down the hill, rendered almost dumbstruck by what he was seeing. Was the gift that the Stormbringer was giving him that great in scale and value? __________________________________________________________________________________________ @@J.R. Kazas responded to Vera's calls, trotting to her standing position at a turtle-like pace. Still using the sword as a makeshift walking stick, he was starting to feel at least a tad bit better. Looking over her shoulder and at the map that she posessed, Kazas would scan it along with her, wondering if she had found a suitable place at which to dine. " Yes Vera? Did you find a location that you wish to visit?"