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Description

Ahh yep, it is 3.32am, and I am in a bit too much pain for sleep to come easy. Whilst I await it, here's chapter 2 of my little story :> I finished it a while ago, I just needed to draw the matching image to accompany it! Please get comfy, and welcome back to the Realm!
Part one!

The day of the trial was slow to arrive. There was anticipation in the hearts of all the residents of Raust, and word of the fallen star had reached the ears of those in surrounding villages. The humble settlement could hardly contain the swarm of curious traveler's trekking hours, even up to a days journey, to view the mysterious Stallion of the stars.

It had been three days since Arctic Lullaby fell from his residence in the sky, and three days since he had last felt warm and comfortable. His metal chest piece and slippers were almost unbearable in the freezing environment, but despite the many suggestions of removing them, He couldn't bring himself to part with his only connections to home.
He had spent the time gazing up at the wide expanse above, questioning under his breath why he was stranded in this frozen tundra. Was this all just a bad dream, and He'd wake up soon in the safety of his palace?

The two young colts who witnessed his descent stuck to him like paste, listening to every word he said in an attempt to decipher the mystery that lay before them. Nic looked up at the weary unicorn, noticing the dark rings around his eyes.

"You have a palace?"

The question brought a smile to his lips, and Lullaby lowered his eyes to meet Nic's.

"Not just a palace, I have a whole realm. It reaches far beyond this one, above the clouds and amidst the stars."

Toby listens intently, awe spreading over his face.

"You have a whole realm to yourself?"

"No, not just myself. I share it with my father, mother, brother and sister. We maintain balance of our realm, which in turn keeps balance to your realm. We would have no purpose were it not for your realm, nor would your realm survive without ours."

The two boys nod and exchange a look, confirming that neither of them understood what he was talking about. Lullaby returns his gaze to the sky, and winces at the unfamiliar pain in his stomach. He feels his eyes sting and his throat feels tight. He tries to swallow and let's out a panicked and audible gulp when he feels what seems to be a lump in the way. The boys' ears flatten with worry as a look of anguish comes over him.

"Do you need some water?" Nic, help me get some!"

Toby canters off, kicking up snow in his haste. Nic remains, intently studying the stallions movement and behavior. He steps a little closer.

"You miss your home, your family?"

The thought of these makes the pain worse, and Lullaby looks at the young boy through tears in his eyes. His voice cracks as he answers.

"Yes"

Nic nods.

"I think You're feeling homesick. It's where you feel really sad and miss something or someone so much, that it hurts. I get it really bad when I think about my Ma, she's not here anymore."

Lullaby takes in these words and nods, agreeing that this fits his circumstances.

"Where did your Ma go?"

The caring expression on Nic's face fell to one of sorrow. He knew the answer, but wasn't sure he should tell someone so unfamiliar with this land and the laws of nature.

"She..-"

"Nicolas"

He was cut off by the voice of his father, and both turned towards the source of the sound as Toby and Nic's Father approached them. Toby had a tin bucket of water in his mouth, and as he lowered it to the ground, his tongue stuck to the cold metal, and he ungracefully struggled to get free.

"Afternoon Mr Lullaby, hope it goes well at the trial today. Nicolas, come and get yourself ready."

He turned to leave, but Nic protested.

"Pa please can I stay with Him, someone must be by his side through the trial, it's his first time and everyth-"

"Not. Another. Word."

His Father's voice boomed deep and harsh, causing Nic to flinch as if he was physically struck. Lullaby felt his stomach twist bitterly, struggling with the situation that was unfolding.
Nic's Father was a stallion of few words, and had barely spoken a full sentence since they met. When he did speak it was curt, almost barking words to form questions or demands. Though he spoke bluntly and aggressively, he was kind and gentle in actions.
He softened his expression, realizing his words had caused unease, and gave Nic a half smile.

"You must eat something first, 'else you won't have the strength to be by your friend."

With that he nodded at the two and turned to leave, treading past Toby. Poor Toby continued his fight to free his frozen tongue from the tin bucket, and Nic broke the silence with a loud laugh at the struggle. As Toby's inaudible noises of effort turned into uncontrollable giggles, the warmth of his breath set him free.
Nic set off to follow his father, and Toby hurried off at his being summoned for tea, leaving Lullaby to look at the sky alone once again.

Emerald Glade was the Mayor of Raust. She was well liked, well respected, and well thought of amongst the townsfolk. She had a way of making you feel safe in her presence, like you're in good hooves. Her stern expression was intimidating, yet behind those slanted brows and narrow eyes was a warm and motherly soul, always ready to offer you an extra woolen poncho and blanket on those freezing winter nights.

The day was gloomy. The clouds were thick in the sky, and the dark log walls of the town hall made the interior seem small and cramped. The noise of the crowd was softened by the deep snow lining the roads, but as she strode towards the gathering, she could barely hear herself think. She wondered when the town last had such a commotion, if ever!
Guards positioned themselves between her and the crowds, guiding them back to create a pathway into the building. The doors to the hall were open to accommodate those visiting from other settlements. This caused the cold to seep inside, no matter how bright the fire pit burned. Compacted slush and gritty snow got tracked into the hall, putting the Mayor in a particularly sour mood. Her assistant was waiting for her, taking shelter from the crowd behind the large wooden throne she would soon be sitting in.
She leaned in close to hear her assistants soft voice.

"Miss Emerald, I hope this trial runs swiftly, the hall is not built to contain such a ruckus!"

She replied with a nod, and took a moment to steady herself before facing the many equines that pushed themselves into the room. Her assistant smiled reassuringly;

"You'll do great, Miss!"

Draped in a thick makeshift robe, Arctic Lullaby walked towards the mass of ponies and felt butterflies drown out any feelings of longing for home. His little side companions trotted confidently at his side, showing very serious expressions. They were ready to protect their friend from the hundreds of curious faces that tracked his every movement. Nic's Father walked at a distance behind them. He was concerned of how this situation would make him and his son look in front of the public, and did not want to blemish his family name. However, he admired the courage his boy and his friend were showing, bravely standing up for Lullaby. He was going to give his support for what his son believes in, though it be from a distance

They could make out snippets of conversations, hushed voices uttering theories and accusations amongst the drone.
"... blessing the land he may be, a giving spirit! Look at the way the colors of his mane shift and shimmer..."
"... never seen anything like him, what business does he have in this quaint town?.."
"... a bad omen, some kind of trickster. Remember what gramps used to say about meddling in affairs one doesn't understand..."

It took several moments for their eyes to adjust as they enter the town hall. The air felt thick, heavy with the warm breath from the roomful of witnesses. They walk through a narrow aisle lined with guards, feeling eyes burrow into them like branches poking at their skin as they walk by. Sitting at the far end of the hall, silhouetted by the bright fire pit and torches, was Emerald Glade. She looked down her long nose and raised an eyebrow as they approach.

"Welcome, foreigner and young ones. I must say I have heard much talk of you. Much talk, yet little real information. What is your name?"

Her voice carried through to the end of the hall, instantly bringing the crowd to a hush. Sniffles and coughs were the only sound as her question hung in the air. Taking a deep breath of the stuffy air, Lullaby spoke with slight hesitation.

"A- Arctic Lullaby."

All listened intently, then looked to the Mayor to continue the questions. She nods,

"So I have heard. And where do you come from?"

"I- I come from.. the sky. My home is a palace in the sky, in the realm above the clouds."

A few gasps could be heard, along with some scoffs that rung out through the crowd. Emeralds gaze was unwavering, and her eyes remained intently observing.

"I see. What is your purpose here?"

"I... I..."

Lullaby's voice cracked as he choked on tears and he tried to bury his rising desperation.

"I- don't know. That's all I'm asked, but,, I don't know why I am here, I don't know.. how I got here, I-.. I just want to go home-"

His words tumbled and tripped out as he fought to keep his composure. She could determine he was being honest, and his hesitation was not deceit, but genuine fear and frustration. The crowd gave way to loud chatter, growing quickly into an uproar. She felt surprise at the harsh words being yelled and hurled at the panicking unicorn, stranger he may be, and two frightened colts that were now trying to console their friend. Angry at the madness stirring in her hall, she rose from her seat and stomped a hoof down on the wooden floor. The sound rung out like a gunshot, and all froze, eyes panning to the Mayor who stared daggers at the unruly crowd.

"Silence! Don't you dare show such appalling unkindness to this foreigner on our soil, or I'll be the one bringing bad omens to your land!"

The atmosphere shifted from madness to embarrassment, as the crowd uncomfortably shuffled their hooves in place and looked at the floor with sheepish remorse. Glaring at any who dared meet her eye, Emerald approached Lullaby, who was now crumpled in a heap of tears and sobs, and knelt to be level with him. She gently pulls up his robe over his shoulders, and wipes some of his tears with her own shawl.

"Now I must apologize for the terribly rude reception you have had here today, I expected much better from them. We're going to figure out how to help you best, and how we can get you home, okay?"

Lullaby nodded, his lip still quivering, and looked at her through wet eyes. She brushed his face with a gentle hoof, and on seeing him take a deep breath and calm himself, she turned her attention to Toby and Nick, who's eyes were wide as dinner plates with fright.

"I commend you two on your bravery. You are fine examples of how I expect these townsfolk to behave, not the mob of angry fools they seem to be. Your courage will be recognized."

Smiling warmly at the three, she returned to her throne and called for her assistant.

"We need answers from those who have eyes in the stars. How can we get our guest here to the highland palace where the Fabled reside?"

Her assistant ponders the question, and watches Lullaby return to his feet and regain his composure.

"I believe the travelling merchants are to be departing for the Trader's road in a few moons. Depending on which route taken, they pass straight through the Starbloom village."

"Ah, yes, the merchants are preparing to leave. However, the route they take will be the jungle track, which detours right by the Starbloom village... Though- a deliberate visit can be arranged for a matter like this. Perfect."

Emerald turned to face the crowd that still remained in awkward silence, and looked to Lullaby who had renewed confidence.

"You will set out with the travelling party of merchants and venture to the Starbloom village. From there, you must find a way to reach the highland Palace, and seek answers from the Fabled. They reside on a plane of existence that allows them great understanding of many mysteries. They will have what you need, though their wisdom is usually delivered through riddle and puzzles. I very much wish you find what you're looking for, and you shall always have a home here should you need it. Travel safe, fallen star."

Description

Ahh yep, it is 3.32am, and I am in a bit too much pain for sleep to come easy. Whilst I await it, here's chapter 2 of my little story :> I finished it a while ago, I just needed to draw the matching image to accompany it! Please get comfy, and welcome back to the Realm!
Part one!

The day of the trial was slow to arrive. There was anticipation in the hearts of all the residents of Raust, and word of the fallen star had reached the ears of those in surrounding villages. The humble settlement could hardly contain the swarm of curious traveler's trekking hours, even up to a days journey, to view the mysterious Stallion of the stars.

It had been three days since Arctic Lullaby fell from his residence in the sky, and three days since he had last felt warm and comfortable. His metal chest piece and slippers were almost unbearable in the freezing environment, but despite the many suggestions of removing them, He couldn't bring himself to part with his only connections to home.
He had spent the time gazing up at the wide expanse above, questioning under his breath why he was stranded in this frozen tundra. Was this all just a bad dream, and He'd wake up soon in the safety of his palace?

The two young colts who witnessed his descent stuck to him like paste, listening to every word he said in an attempt to decipher the mystery that lay before them. Nic looked up at the weary unicorn, noticing the dark rings around his eyes.

"You have a palace?"

The question brought a smile to his lips, and Lullaby lowered his eyes to meet Nic's.

"Not just a palace, I have a whole realm. It reaches far beyond this one, above the clouds and amidst the stars."

Toby listens intently, awe spreading over his face.

"You have a whole realm to yourself?"

"No, not just myself. I share it with my father, mother, brother and sister. We maintain balance of our realm, which in turn keeps balance to your realm. We would have no purpose were it not for your realm, nor would your realm survive without ours."

The two boys nod and exchange a look, confirming that neither of them understood what he was talking about. Lullaby returns his gaze to the sky, and winces at the unfamiliar pain in his stomach. He feels his eyes sting and his throat feels tight. He tries to swallow and let's out a panicked and audible gulp when he feels what seems to be a lump in the way. The boys' ears flatten with worry as a look of anguish comes over him.

"Do you need some water?" Nic, help me get some!"

Toby canters off, kicking up snow in his haste. Nic remains, intently studying the stallions movement and behavior. He steps a little closer.

"You miss your home, your family?"

The thought of these makes the pain worse, and Lullaby looks at the young boy through tears in his eyes. His voice cracks as he answers.

"Yes"

Nic nods.

"I think You're feeling homesick. It's where you feel really sad and miss something or someone so much, that it hurts. I get it really bad when I think about my Ma, she's not here anymore."

Lullaby takes in these words and nods, agreeing that this fits his circumstances.

"Where did your Ma go?"

The caring expression on Nic's face fell to one of sorrow. He knew the answer, but wasn't sure he should tell someone so unfamiliar with this land and the laws of nature.

"She..-"

"Nicolas"

He was cut off by the voice of his father, and both turned towards the source of the sound as Toby and Nic's Father approached them. Toby had a tin bucket of water in his mouth, and as he lowered it to the ground, his tongue stuck to the cold metal, and he ungracefully struggled to get free.

"Afternoon Mr Lullaby, hope it goes well at the trial today. Nicolas, come and get yourself ready."

He turned to leave, but Nic protested.

"Pa please can I stay with Him, someone must be by his side through the trial, it's his first time and everyth-"

"Not. Another. Word."

His Father's voice boomed deep and harsh, causing Nic to flinch as if he was physically struck. Lullaby felt his stomach twist bitterly, struggling with the situation that was unfolding.
Nic's Father was a stallion of few words, and had barely spoken a full sentence since they met. When he did speak it was curt, almost barking words to form questions or demands. Though he spoke bluntly and aggressively, he was kind and gentle in actions.
He softened his expression, realizing his words had caused unease, and gave Nic a half smile.

"You must eat something first, 'else you won't have the strength to be by your friend."

With that he nodded at the two and turned to leave, treading past Toby. Poor Toby continued his fight to free his frozen tongue from the tin bucket, and Nic broke the silence with a loud laugh at the struggle. As Toby's inaudible noises of effort turned into uncontrollable giggles, the warmth of his breath set him free.
Nic set off to follow his father, and Toby hurried off at his being summoned for tea, leaving Lullaby to look at the sky alone once again.

Emerald Glade was the Mayor of Raust. She was well liked, well respected, and well thought of amongst the townsfolk. She had a way of making you feel safe in her presence, like you're in good hooves. Her stern expression was intimidating, yet behind those slanted brows and narrow eyes was a warm and motherly soul, always ready to offer you an extra woolen poncho and blanket on those freezing winter nights.

The day was gloomy. The clouds were thick in the sky, and the dark log walls of the town hall made the interior seem small and cramped. The noise of the crowd was softened by the deep snow lining the roads, but as she strode towards the gathering, she could barely hear herself think. She wondered when the town last had such a commotion, if ever!
Guards positioned themselves between her and the crowds, guiding them back to create a pathway into the building. The doors to the hall were open to accommodate those visiting from other settlements. This caused the cold to seep inside, no matter how bright the fire pit burned. Compacted slush and gritty snow got tracked into the hall, putting the Mayor in a particularly sour mood. Her assistant was waiting for her, taking shelter from the crowd behind the large wooden throne she would soon be sitting in.
She leaned in close to hear her assistants soft voice.

"Miss Emerald, I hope this trial runs swiftly, the hall is not built to contain such a ruckus!"

She replied with a nod, and took a moment to steady herself before facing the many equines that pushed themselves into the room. Her assistant smiled reassuringly;

"You'll do great, Miss!"

Draped in a thick makeshift robe, Arctic Lullaby walked towards the mass of ponies and felt butterflies drown out any feelings of longing for home. His little side companions trotted confidently at his side, showing very serious expressions. They were ready to protect their friend from the hundreds of curious faces that tracked his every movement. Nic's Father walked at a distance behind them. He was concerned of how this situation would make him and his son look in front of the public, and did not want to blemish his family name. However, he admired the courage his boy and his friend were showing, bravely standing up for Lullaby. He was going to give his support for what his son believes in, though it be from a distance

They could make out snippets of conversations, hushed voices uttering theories and accusations amongst the drone.
"... blessing the land he may be, a giving spirit! Look at the way the colors of his mane shift and shimmer..."
"... never seen anything like him, what business does he have in this quaint town?.."
"... a bad omen, some kind of trickster. Remember what gramps used to say about meddling in affairs one doesn't understand..."

It took several moments for their eyes to adjust as they enter the town hall. The air felt thick, heavy with the warm breath from the roomful of witnesses. They walk through a narrow aisle lined with guards, feeling eyes burrow into them like branches poking at their skin as they walk by. Sitting at the far end of the hall, silhouetted by the bright fire pit and torches, was Emerald Glade. She looked down her long nose and raised an eyebrow as they approach.

"Welcome, foreigner and young ones. I must say I have heard much talk of you. Much talk, yet little real information. What is your name?"

Her voice carried through to the end of the hall, instantly bringing the crowd to a hush. Sniffles and coughs were the only sound as her question hung in the air. Taking a deep breath of the stuffy air, Lullaby spoke with slight hesitation.

"A- Arctic Lullaby."

All listened intently, then looked to the Mayor to continue the questions. She nods,

"So I have heard. And where do you come from?"

"I- I come from.. the sky. My home is a palace in the sky, in the realm above the clouds."

A few gasps could be heard, along with some scoffs that rung out through the crowd. Emeralds gaze was unwavering, and her eyes remained intently observing.

"I see. What is your purpose here?"

"I... I..."

Lullaby's voice cracked as he choked on tears and he tried to bury his rising desperation.

"I- don't know. That's all I'm asked, but,, I don't know why I am here, I don't know.. how I got here, I-.. I just want to go home-"

His words tumbled and tripped out as he fought to keep his composure. She could determine he was being honest, and his hesitation was not deceit, but genuine fear and frustration. The crowd gave way to loud chatter, growing quickly into an uproar. She felt surprise at the harsh words being yelled and hurled at the panicking unicorn, stranger he may be, and two frightened colts that were now trying to console their friend. Angry at the madness stirring in her hall, she rose from her seat and stomped a hoof down on the wooden floor. The sound rung out like a gunshot, and all froze, eyes panning to the Mayor who stared daggers at the unruly crowd.

"Silence! Don't you dare show such appalling unkindness to this foreigner on our soil, or I'll be the one bringing bad omens to your land!"

The atmosphere shifted from madness to embarrassment, as the crowd uncomfortably shuffled their hooves in place and looked at the floor with sheepish remorse. Glaring at any who dared meet her eye, Emerald approached Lullaby, who was now crumpled in a heap of tears and sobs, and knelt to be level with him. She gently pulls up his robe over his shoulders, and wipes some of his tears with her own shawl.

"Now I must apologize for the terribly rude reception you have had here today, I expected much better from them. We're going to figure out how to help you best, and how we can get you home, okay?"

Lullaby nodded, his lip still quivering, and looked at her through wet eyes. She brushed his face with a gentle hoof, and on seeing him take a deep breath and calm himself, she turned her attention to Toby and Nick, who's eyes were wide as dinner plates with fright.

"I commend you two on your bravery. You are fine examples of how I expect these townsfolk to behave, not the mob of angry fools they seem to be. Your courage will be recognized."

Smiling warmly at the three, she returned to her throne and called for her assistant.

"We need answers from those who have eyes in the stars. How can we get our guest here to the highland palace where the Fabled reside?"

Her assistant ponders the question, and watches Lullaby return to his feet and regain his composure.

"I believe the travelling merchants are to be departing for the Trader's road in a few moons. Depending on which route taken, they pass straight through the Starbloom village."

"Ah, yes, the merchants are preparing to leave. However, the route they take will be the jungle track, which detours right by the Starbloom village... Though- a deliberate visit can be arranged for a matter like this. Perfect."

Emerald turned to face the crowd that still remained in awkward silence, and looked to Lullaby who had renewed confidence.

"You will set out with the travelling party of merchants and venture to the Starbloom village. From there, you must find a way to reach the highland Palace, and seek answers from the Fabled. They reside on a plane of existence that allows them great understanding of many mysteries. They will have what you need, though their wisdom is usually delivered through riddle and puzzles. I very much wish you find what you're looking for, and you shall always have a home here should you need it. Travel safe, fallen star."