Welcome to Hickstead, home to both Seven Oak Stables, and Blue Acre - two rival stables. Both offer opportunities for their clients to reach the highest level of excellence. Each stable differs from the other, so choose wisely and never forget, loyalty is everything... Meanwhile as the stables battle it out, there's trouble brewing at the university. Be careful, if you don't pick a side you may get caught in the cross-fire...
This is an chilled out rpg with a super friendly and relaxed atmosphere! Remember to sign up with your characters full name in all caps and don't forget to do your claims! Thank you and Welcome, we've been established since 10th March 2009 but unfortunately have had to close guest view of our boards due to multiple sites ripping off our hard work, such a shame! Come chat to us in Discord before joining if you like!.
That's because nobody is like me - I am unique, and therefore you have to keep me around! Otherwise your life will be very boring! Phew, I'm glad my efforts are not in vain then, I was about to worry - and quit writing this one back to you. Joking of course, I would never do that to you. It is weird writing letters, I don't think I've ever done it, other than postcards home on my travels before phones were a thing and all that. They said it's easier to do letters, internet is okay at the barracks but we'll be posted out soon and then I don't know what will happen, but I imagine it'll just be a letter when I can. Have you been climbing since we went together? If not, feel free to use my stuff - I should have given it to you before I went but everything was such a rush. My brother can let you into my flat easily enough, I left him with a key.
I'd help you with that, if you wanted or needed it of course. Though you don't need it to travel - just need a bag on your back and some money in your pocket. Not even too much of it either if you don't mind working along the way. Wow, finally giving in and settling down? For a fellow runner that does't sound possible! It's your decision to tell your family or not, whether you feel ready to take that step or not, but either way I'll be here for whatever you decide.
You'd get jealous? Now that's interesting. Why would you say that? Are you sure you're okay? Take it easy and rest up, he's probably right and you need time to recover. The cold season is on it's way, and I need you fit and healthy for my return so we can go out for these drinks!
P.S please find attached said photo in uniform - complete with x's and o'x on the back.
I'm glad I'm entertaining you enough! I don't think a pen pal in middle school would have the same effect, you can't replicate my kind of witty banter - and they definitely would not have been as handsome as me. Shall I attach a photograph next time so you don't forget what I look like? I try not to sell myself short when I can but maybe I do it every now and then so you can give my ego a little boost - you are very good at it after all. I'm glad you agree about lines, maybe we should play double dutch and skip them together?
That would be fantastic! If it's something you want to do go for it! Journalism would be sure to take you all over and be rather fascinating - or even if you like the imagery part of things, what about location scouts and things like that? I don't quite know how you get into that but it seems like that would get you travelling and finding some beautiful places you might not ordinarily see? You sure have an eye for capturing beauty.
Or am I the bad influence on the horse hmmm? Who can tell? We have been having some words since we met, but I won't kiss and tell. I'm sure you are more valuable to them than finding a replacement for you over a loose horse. Bear might be telling porkies about being unable to read considering he can talk, don't you think? Why won't you let him eat them, I'm sure that's all their worth - extra fodder for the pony to keep him warm?
I'm offended by your parting comment, I am never in trouble. Much.
I'll treasure those words until the day I die. I promise I'm not being sarcastic - it's not usual for people to say those kinds of things about me. Call it mushy or sad, but I'm not a reliable sort. Or I never used to be. I'm trying to be better at that, this recent disappearing stint aside of course. People generally want to change me though. I'm not responsible enough or thoughtful enough or whatever else I'm meant to be. So it means a lot, and this was quite a load of crap for me to circle around to that. I'll have to hide this reply from the lads or I'll never hear the end of it.
Tit for tat then on the unlikely compliments! I'm glad I could return the favour. Seriousness is absolutely over-rated but I know how much it sucks when people laugh at the idea of you being called it instead of accepting that you have the ability from time to time. It's just more fun to throw caution to the wind and live your life. That sounds like really good news though, they're definitely good enough for more than advertising. Maybe you should branch out with them some more? Get them out there for people to use?
I'm upset you didn't think time but I'll let it go for the fact you're saying there will be a next time. I'm still laughing over this, and I am so not going to let you live it down. How do you know Bear can't read? Have you tried? When I get back I'm going to teach him how to get into your bed. That will be my mission! I'm sure it can't be that tough as he's already figured his way into your bunk....first obstacle sorted.
I do? Here was me thinking I was never going to make it to the big romantic leagues. Now you sound even more like my type! I hope you weren't trying to persuade me otherwise, sorry but the more disruptive the better. Don't be dense of course you're smart - and I know how messed up that sounds but trust me, I'm a doctor. I really hope you get that reference. I was never a complete moron, if anything I think I was too clever when I was younger, and it got me into more trouble than it was worth, but I've learned by a long shot that actions have consequences. I will hold out through this for the idea of travelling with you - hopefully it won't be long until I'm back.
I can understand that. I felt a little like that going to my job interview. I've worked many different jobs over the years but people knew I wasn't going to be sticking around long because of the nature of them, so they weren't particularly difficult interviews. This one at the uni was - it was kind of daunting. I take you serious though, I think you're a very serious adult! And your pictures are award worthy! I'd say Oscar worthy but that's not right is it? I look forward to receiving my hat. I would give you the address here to send it but I want to be with you when you hand it over. Plus... I've been told we'll be moving out of base camp soon. Have to admit I'm scared, Lani. I'll take the hat however it comes, it'll be my favourite hat all the same because you made it - artist skills or not!
That sounds hilarious, I need to see this footage when I come home. Careful he doesn't see what you have and start to think maybe he needs some added luxuries like a TV or a fridge in the corner of his stable. I didn't even think about how big he would be compared to your door! And did he even really fit in your room? I can't believe you missed the photo op. Guaranteed you'll come home late one day and he'll be starfished on your bed.
Sometimes I do thank the Lord I met you Lani, you seem to understand me when a lot of people never have. Where were you all those years ago when I first left everyone behind? Maybe you could have explained it better for me! I know I said it before, but when I return home, maybe we should travel together - if you would like of course. Can't just assume these things. There's so much more out there I haven't seen. Funny, I just realised I called Hickstead home. I've never really thought of a place as home before. Even where I grew up. Guess that's changed.
That takes patience - to practice to copy a new handwriting. If anything mine is only going to get worse as I go - my mum would call it laziness. I'd agree. I like your handwriting though, it's pretty and I can read it - not like Doctor's notes. Cowboy up. I like that. Make me a badge with that on and I'll wear it with pride. Or a hat! Whatever would be cooler. I'm not good at being told what to do - I've been my own man for too long, but you don't get much of a choice here. I get it, it's not just some random job, if you go off on your own you get yourself or other people killed. It's just tough to go against the grain.
I wish I could have seen that; perhaps Bear just wanted to make sure you were tucked in nicely. I hope he didn't make too much of a mess for you to deal with? Tell me there's at least CCTV somewhere for me to view when I get back? I'm sorry you don't get on with your family, that must be tough. They say we can't choose them, but sometimes I think even if we could it wouldn't help. Don't worry - I'll be coming back. You've promised me a drink after all. It's all that's holding me together.
No! I'm sorry you felt that way, it was never my intention and I know I should have come to see you before I left but it all happened so quickly and I'll admit that I didn't know how to say it. Maybe there was some denial I was actually doing this. It was a little scary once I'd set everything in motion. Your handwriting is wonderful, your old teachers don't know what they're talking about! I could never make mine all loopy and that, you're lucky it's not gone off the edge of the page. I can't write straight to save my life, I'm surprised reading doesn't make you feel dizzy. We had the option to email but they warned us about the length of time those can take and sometimes we'll be places that the internet won't reach so, writing seems the easiest solution.
I am lucky I was in good shape before I came, the exercises they had us doing weren't too much of a challenge, and if anything I couldn't help letting out my competitive side just a little. But, I found it hard to take the sergeant's seriously and paid for it dearly. This letter might be extra awful; my arms still haven't recovered from the additional press ups I got myself. They only quit shaking yesterday and this was three days ago.
I don't know about noble and I'm pretty set on selfish. I'm ashamed to admit I've missed many birthday's, Christmas', christenings... I'm an uncle to kids that barely know who I am. I've gotten better, but I've never been what anyone would call reliable. But I couldn't stand by this time and watch Dustin walk away. That family have been torn apart by war, and what do I have to hold me back, to keep me from going apart from you. I'm not saying this to incite sympathy but if I'm killed in action, I'm not leaving anyone behind. There will be a handful of people who'll be sad for a short time but that will be all - nobody needs me, not like Dustin's family need him. I'll allow you to buy me a drink when I get back, but the first round will still be on me. I owed you first.
Joel knew something was up - something big. Avery didn't generally call on him in the way that he had unless he really needed to talk to someone, and it was usually something serious. It didn't necessarily mean it was bad - Joel remembered when Avery had called him before to talk about asking Holly to marry him for example. But he also remembered the times he'd needed to talk following his accident's. It could go either way, but Joel anticipated from the tone of the call that Av needed to talk to someone and it wasnt anything nice. They met a few times to talk about Joe, but Joel could do nothing more than offer an ear for that really. He didn't know about the army or how to handle coming out of it - only similarities with people he had met along the way in his travels.
He had told Av he'd swing by after work, putting off some after school stuff to make the time. He knew when someone needed him - as flighty as he was and as much as he could disappear and be unreliable, when he was here, he would do anything for his friends. Now he had somehow put down some roots that took even more hold over him. He hadn't even brought beer, though he had been tempted, but he didn't want to be inappropriate should the conversation not be something to drink toward. The driveway was empty as he headed up to the front door and gave it a loud knock, wondering if Avery had cleared everyone out for some reason or if he had taken this opportunity to call him round.
I'm so sorry. Firstly, for my handwriting. It sucks, I don't really do letters but apparently this is option A, B and C to talking to anyone. There will be a lot of mistakes, please don't be too upset with them, like I said before I'm not an English teacher. Secondly, I'm sorry for leaving. It might seem odd as we've only just met but I like you and I feel like I owe you an explanation. I didn't mean to just up and vanish, I had every intention of taking you out for drinks as we planned. I had reservations booked and everything. I should probably explain better.
I've joined the army - the French army at that. It sounds impossible I know. Trust me this is insane. My best friend's family gave the best part of their lives for the army, they were forced to flee their home because of war. They have a new life now in Hickstead, and after everything they've been through, my friend's brother was recalled. He has more family now to look after than before - a newborn baby and another on the way, a younger brother recently returned from the British army. I couldn't let them do it. So somehow, I've taken his place.
Tt's alright here. It was never something I wanted to do but it felt like the right thing, and for once it felt good to do something for someone else. I've always been a bit selfish. But now they get to stick together and what do I have to stay in Hickstead for aside from you. I won't be gone forever, it's not a long service, and I hope I can still get you that drink when I return. I should have told you before I left but it happened so fast and I'll admit I was a coward. But I think I need you to get through these months. Don't leave me hanging?
Feel free not to reply but know that I'll be hurt if you don't.
GENDER: male AGE: twenty-seven D.O.B: 22nd January SEXUALITY: straight - has dabbled with guys STATUS: dating PLAY-BY: gaspard ulliel HEIGHT: 6ft HAIR: black EYES: blue
"TAKE ME TO THE MAGIC OF THE MOMENT,"
TATTOOS:this sleeve, this on the other arm, on his chest SCARS: the odd one or two DRINK: socially SMOKE: socially DRIVE: yes GLASSES: nope HOME: flat 25, woodbain flats BORN AND RAISED: michigan, usa
"ON A GLORY NIGHT, WHERE THE CHILDREN OF"
adventurous, courageous, free-spirited, adrenalin-junkee, determined, irresponsible, spontaneous, hard to pin down, un-grounded, confident, joker, will put himself to any task and will try anything at least once, tenacious, thick skinned, calm and not easily ruffled, comfortable in his own skin - not embarrassed easily, easy going, outgoing, extrovert, get up and go, active, not good at sitting still, easily bored, impulsive - doesn't always think first, takes action before thinking it through
LIKES: extreme sports , being active , women , the smell of a forest after rain , being spontaneous , travelling , dogs , freedom , news places , architecture, culture and history , teaching kids , having a laugh DISLIKES: being tied down , having to do something he doesn't want to , authority , control freaks , boredom , sitting in one place too long , getting injured - he can't sit still to rest it , reading long books , instant coffee STRENGTHS: chilled out guy , sports in general , not easily embarrassed , good memory , turns his hand to anything job wise WEAKNESSES: not good at being responsible , impulsive , unable to turn down a dare - no matter how stupid , overly flirty at times , a pretty face FEARS: birds , girls handbags SECRETS: he returned to hickstead to escape trouble he'd gotten himself into with a drug cartel , regrets not spending more time with his nieces and nephews as they grew up.
"TOMORROW DREAM AWAY, IN THE WIND OF"
STATUS IN SOCIETY: working class OCCUPATION: sports (p.e) teacher/extreme sportist EXPERTISE: any adrenline filled sport travelling WEALTH: not much PROUDEST MOMENT: he doesn't really have one - he isn't proud of himself, but he would probably say he's proud of his mum for raising him as a kid by herself. MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT: similarly to his proudest moment, he doesn't tend to get embarrassed easily. he can sing badly or well in front of people, lose or win a contest, fall over, get knocked down, get turned away by people or women and he just shrugs it off with a grin.
"CHANGE. BLOWS STRAIGHT INTO THE FACE OF"
FATHER(S): Harrison O'Hara - 65 MOTHER(S): Arianna Belle King - 64 - florist STEP-PARENT(S): none OTHER HALF: dating - Kalani Mele Rocha - 20 - barn/ranch hand at Diesel Ranch SIBLINGS: half brothers - KYLE MITCHELL O'HARA - 36 - doctor CHILDREN: none
joel was born a bastard child, but he never that change things. his mother had an affair with a married man who had a whole family already - she was strung along like a fool and left dangling when she was knocked up. joel's father wanted nothing to do with his son or the woman he had claimed to love, but joel's mother picked herself up and managed regardless as a single mother. joel was not an easy child. free-spirited and hard to pin down he was never naughty and always smiling but he rarely understood the word 'no'. he was always toddling off and exploring, going places he shouldn't, never able to sit still. his mother had him tested for adhd but apparently he just had itchy feet.
growing up didn't change things, he went to school most of the time but had the kind of friends that would follow him anywhere and even encourage, and when he had the ideas to leave school grounds to go exploring a place he'd seen that looked cool or interested - old houses - abandonned ruins - lost tracks - off he went. his grades suffered but he just about scraped through with passes. he didn't want to bother with uni, but his mother nudged him that way for the sake of it. only bothering with a couple of years, joel went for something he knew he would enjoy - sports. aside from his love of adventure, he absolutely loved being busy and active, trying everything under the sun and finding a love of adrenline. he often came home - past curfew - with cut knees or scrapes and even the occasion broken or dislocated bone. it never stopped him.
as soon as he passed his teaching degree, joel left home. with only the money in his pocket, he took a backpack and went travelling. he spent years living off the land, living off the money he made from fly-away jobs, meeting all kinds of people. he got himself in trouble plenty of times, though only thought it dire enough to call home a handful of times, he rekindled a relationship with one of his half brothers - kyle - when travelling across america. he didn't stick around long but kept in touch following this. eventually he joined kyle in hickstead, many years later. he lied and said he needed to settle down, but in actual fact he'd gotten himself in trouble and had been on the run, wanting to lie low (accidentally mixed in with a drug cartel and fucked things up for them without meaning to). he picked up a job at the university and popped back off to travel in degrees when he was sure everything had settled back down for himself - finding he liked settling a little now he was older.