[IC] =Twiddle's Teepee=

[Twiddle]

1.18.06, Kestal and Kali

Twiddle

Kestal lay beneath a tree, though he hated the dirt he was sleepy and didn't want his lovely coat to be marred by the suns rays. Yawning he stood after his three hour nap and stretched, walking over towards the small lake nearby. He was never too far from that lake, as he loved to gaze upon his beauty in the watery depths.

Walking over to it, he shook the dirt from himself and made a 'tsk tsk' noise, wading into the cool water to get clean again. He didn't get his lovely mane wet, though he did wash his tail off.

As he finished he walked out and shook off, letting the sun dry his coat and tail. He wondered if there were any mares around, he felt like letting someone be amazed by his beauty.

Cihiru

Bordem led to strange things, and even Kali was susceptible, though she generally thought herself a purposeful and resourceful mare. There were only so many ways for one to spend her time, after all. She didn't have much control over that. So, there were days like this one... Where she took off adventuring like a yearling, hunting for hidden treasures and whatever else she may find buried in lands undiscovered to her. She enjoyed it too, though she may have been hesitant to answer someone's inquiries about her activities. The simple joy in happening accross an untouched apple tree, or the adrenaline coaxed by suspense in wandering through a darkness-laden cave were somewhat difficult not to appreciate.

It was, however, also a little hard to enjoy simple fields like this one. Average in virtually every way... Trees here and there, a pond or maybe a garden of boulders. What was there to be excited about? Except company; that was always refreshing. Kali's ears perked forward when her gaze fell on the form of another, and she approached with little reservation. The mare paused a short distance off, offering a soft whinny and a friendly smile. Then gave her tail a deliberate, almost thoughtful flick before speaking. "Hi! I'm Kali." A little forward, maybe. Risky, probably. But the mare had never been accused of shyness.

Twiddle

Kestal looked up, and he blinked as he saw the beautiful, winged mare. He had never seen anyone as lovely as she, perhaps even, more beautiful than himself! He shook himself from his thoughts, and gave her his charming smile, trotting over towards her. "Why hello, lovely maiden of the winds." He bowed his head to her, and as he straightened he smiled. "I am called Kestal, it is a fine pleasure to meet you."

Cihiru

The stallion's antics drew a laugh - perhaps more inward than outward; her smile broadened and a hint of amusement glittered in her eyes. This was refreshing, indeed. She'd yet to meet someone quite like he. Whether or not this was a good thing had yet to be determined, but it was humorous for the moment, and she allowed herself to play along. "Just Kali suits me fine, thank you, sir." The mare returned his bow with a curteous nod. "Pleasure is mine, Kestal. What possesses you to grace this field with your presence?" The mare could see his ego in his posture and word choice, and for a moment wondered what made her dare to encourage him. Hopefully it wouldn't harm anything; he seemed innocent enough. In an I-love-myself manner, that is.

Twiddle

Kestal's smile widened as she spoke, and he flicked his golden locks from his eyes gracefully. "I have yet to venture far from here," He said, his posture proud and strong, "I like being near the lake, and having an abundant supply of apples at my call." He motioned with his strong, good looking muzzle towards the apple tree he had been under not long ago. "Would the lovely maiden Kali like an apple?" He asked, smiling at her and hoping to show off.

Cihiru

She wasn't sure how much longer 'lovely maiden Kali' would be a tolerable title, but it was alright for now. Maybe he'd drop it once the novelty wore off; she wasn't much in the mood to call him out over it just yet. "But don't you tire of the same scenery day after day? You don't thirst to see something more?" The field wasn't much to brag about, after all. Her initial impression remained - it was average in essentially every way. Average was all well and good from time to time, but it wasn't enough to satisfy her. "Maybe one wouldn't hurt; I ate recently though."

Twiddle

Kestal was full of himself and pig-headed, but he knew when to cool it. At least a bit. "Ah, I do long for the thrill of adventure, that is actually why have travelled here." He spoke true, he had left his herd a while back, in search to make one of his own. Or perhaps just to find a companion. "And these apples are quite delicious." He trotted towards the tree, and pushed himself off the ground, lightly grabbing an apple in his jaw before landing gracefully once more. He strode back over towards her and held it out to her, a grin on his face.

Cihiru

"But there's no adventure in settling in one place, never venturing from its boundaries... That's a little contradictory, don't you think?" She made an honest effort to sound conversational rather than contradictory; it was hard sometimes to judge this sort of thing. "I don't doubt that." Apples generally were, after all, but she opted not to voice that part. Smart-aleck though she was, she didn't want to go pushing buttons yet. She took the apple instead, resisting the urge to put her wings to use and pluck an apple from the tree's higher branches. While 'out-doing' him might have been fun, she doubted it would be well-recieved. "Thank you kindly." The mare had placed the fruit on the ground to speak and give her head a small bow, but she looked back to it now and took a modest bite.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled as she bit into the apple, "I've only been here for about two days, actually." He said nodding, looking around, "I has yet to be boring, especially after meeting someone like you." He grinned, he loved flirting. Shaking his golden locks from his eyes, he spoke again, "So, what brings you here to this quaint little field, Kali?"

Cihiru

"Two days? That's not long at all. You are enjoying the area, then?" She had managed this before he continued; his following comment almost made her wish she could withdraw it. It wasn't that she didn't appreciate the compliment (nor that she minded), but having a brother as your only real social interaction didn't exactly teach one to react gracefully. She was accustomed to joking around and horseplay, not this. A simple 'thank you' wasn't really appropriate, and ignoring it wasn't polite. "You mean to say 'it has yet to be interesting' surely, for noone in their right mind would say that about me." She had intended this to discourage further comments, not goad them, but in retrospect she worried it might have been taken otherwise.

"Wanderlust, you could say. I was hoping for a cave or an orphaned foal or something, not a field, but I suppose I haven't been disappointed." She had taken opportunities during her pondering to steal bites here and there, and as she saw futher opportunity, finished the remainder of the apple. Kali risked an unladylike lick to free stray bits from her whiskers, and flashed an embarrassed smile.

Twiddle

Kestal was not discouraged, nor hurt or perturbed in any way by her comment. He could see she was not used to being complimented, which honestly surprised him greatly. "Well if that's the case, I lost my mind a long time ago." He smiled at her, chuckling a bit at her embarrassed look. "We could wander together, if you don't mind the company. I would love to explore here, and being with someone..." He was going to compliment her again, but thought better of it and corrected himself, "who is kind, will make it all the more exciting." He smiled once more and waited her respose, ears titled forward and tail flicking with anticipation.

Cihiru

"Me too, I suppose." Few hadn't 'lost their minds,' come to think of it. Everyone had their own quirks and oddities; the variety was interesting and almost necessary. She couldn't imagine a world full of 'sanity' and normailty. How boring. "Wouldn't have it any other way." She sighed inwardly, in relief and appreciation. He couldn't have made her awkwardness more painless. Kali noticed his effort not to repeat the experience too, and she smiled softly. "If you'd like, though I should warn the surrounding areas aren't much to brag about. You've likely found the prettiest spot nearby." Maybe she could show him the river a ways off. Unlike the one flowing near the village, it boasted a waterfall cascading into a deep pool. It was nice to look at and listen to, if nothing else, she thought.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled to her, and nodded. He held back yet another easy attempt at telling her how pretty she was, "Lead the way." He said with a smile. He wasn't really that interested in the area, but he was interested in her. He wanted to get to know her better, which was rather odd for him, since normally he'd much rather tlk about himself. Pushing the thoughts aside, he followed her as they went. "So, Kali," He said, looking over to her, "Do you have a mate?" He asked blatantly, hoping it sounded like a regular conversation starter, hiding his eagerness for her answer.

Cihiru

"That's a mistake I hope you won't regret later." Letting her lead, that is. Like her brother, she had a nose for trouble. Or it a nose for her. Either way, she often found herself in situations a little stickier than average. Granted, it kept life interesting, but she hoped it wasn't something that would catch up with her. But she swallowed her thoughts and pushed ahead, pausing momentarily to glance at Kestal and make sure he was in-tow (though she knew he was without checking). "No..." It wasn't something she'd really considered; she didn't need someone to look after her and wasn't really thirsting for companionship. Actually, she was too busy reflecting on the realization to think it an odd question. "Do you?" She doubted, considering his conspicuous and rather shameless flirting, but one could never be sure.

Twiddle

Kestal shook his head sadly. "Afraid not." For a moment his ego fell, and it was obvious that he longed for a companion and mate. Quickly he brought up his superficial exterior again though, flashing a grin in her direction. "But you never know what's around the corner in life." He smiled a little, and hoepd to change the subject by asking, "Do you have any relatives? Or are you part of a herd maybe?" He hadn't asked about her wings just yet, he didn't want to offend her in any way, though his eyes continued to drift down and gaze at the feathered body parts.

Cihiru

Afraid not? She hardly considered independance a bad thing, but given her impression of his opinion on the issue, she thought it best not to mention. Some just didn't like being alone. For Kestal, perhaps it was more of a pride issue, but she didn't dare to question that either. "My brother and I live as wanderers; we haven't been part of a herd since we were little." Little was an understatement, but who was telling. For the moment, he didn't need to know the only reason she knew she ever had a herd was her mother's recollections of it, and the stories she shared with them. "It seems a lot of Soquilis live with the humans though, in a village accross the horizon." She did notice the way something distracted him - it was only natural to assume he was glancing to her wings, considering the way his gaze kept flickering. Kali wasn't sure what to say about them though; it was impossible to judge what was on his mind otherwise.

Twiddle

Kestal nodded a little, "I was in a herd for a while, but I left after my mother passed away. There was really no point in staying after that, and I wanted to travel anyway." He smiled a little, "I dont really care much for humans. They haven't been the most kind things I've met." His eyes flashed with anger for a moment, but it was gone as quick as it ahd come. He found himself glancing to her wings again, and quickly looked back up to her face, an apologetic smile on his own.

Cihiru

"I'm sorry." She was familiar with the tragedy, and knew there wasn't much she could say to comfort him. Kali guessed her death may have been recent too, and didn't want to risk resurfacing dark emotions. "I guess it's not really worth hiding... Our herd outcasted our family when my brother was born without wings, so our mother took us to a forest and cared for us herself." The mare chose to leave out the 'she parted when we were young' part, it wasn't really relavent. "Is that so? I haven't had many encounters with humans. The one woman I met seemed kind though. You can't go wrong with sugar cubes, if I may say so myself." She offered this to soothe the discomfort she thought she felt from him, but it disappeared quickly and she chose not to pay it further mind. "What, do they make me look fat?" Kali grinned jokingly, and stretched her wings to their somewhat impressive span, exposing the trim figure that had been previously obstructed.

Twiddle

Kestal nodded a bit, "I'm sorry." He said in response to her tale of being outcasted. "The only ones I've met were very... well, nevermind. I'm sure not all of them are bad, I'd just prefer to not be around them." He smiled a little, as she spread out her wings. He was obviously in awe off the sight, and watched gazed at her openly. "Wow..." He smiled, "What's it like to fly?"

Cihiru

She simply nodded, declining the notion to respond to his sympathy. "Fair enough," she replied instead. It was a bit like... well, every other dislike, she supposed. Hard to explain, but there nontheless. You couldn't really force yourself to start liking something or stop disliking another. "Describing flying is a bit like describing running. It's fairly impossible to capture the sensation in words." Kali gave a reassuring smile, mindful of his awe but unphased by it. "Think of it kind of like running, but wings do the work and you don't get to feel the pound of earth beneath your feet. Not for those afraid of heights!"

Twiddle

Kestal chuckled at her comments, and nodded. "I would love to fly. You're very lucky." He smiled at her, and continued forward. "So, miss tourguide, where are you taking me anyway?" He looked around, he had yet to venture this far.

Cihiru

"I've heard that a time or two, but don't believe it. It's not as great as it sounds - it's just natural to want what we can't have. So much easier to romanticize something we can't try for ourselves." She nodded thoughtfully, gazing to the sky for a moment before looking back to him. "But it wouldn't be any fun if I told you! Surprises aren't surprises if you give them away beforehand." Kali grinned broadly and picked up her pace, pushing it to an easy canter. There weren't any roses to stop and smell anyway; she doubted he'd regret spending a little less time passing through an unamazing field.

Twiddle

Kestal loved her sense of humor and her spirit, and he smiled, picking up his own pace to match hers. "Very true, you're very smart." He loved the feeling of the wind flowing thorugh his golden locks, and he let out a happy whinny without thinking about it. He was a bit embarrassed, but didn't show it in the last, his pride not letting him do so. "Well wherever it is, I hope it's somewhere interesting."

Cihiru

The mare was at a loss, and found herself unable to do anything but smile... an almost shy smile? An unusual notion for her, but it suited her features. "Of course! I wouldn't lead you from one quaint field to another quaint field. Not on purpose, anyway." Kali grinned at the thought, but a faint sound met her ears and chased away any suspicion. Flowing waters could be heard from here, colliding with rocks at the base of the fall, though the river was just pulling into view. "I hope you're a fan of swimming. Or that you like water, at least." She took off at a gallop, pounding toward the river.

Twiddle

Kestal blinked as she smiled almost sheepishly, he thought maybe it was his imigination. Shaking it off as she suddenly sped ahead of him, he grinned and took off at full speed ahead after her. He quickly caught up, his muscled body pulling ahead. He backed off though, and made it seem like he was struggling, letting her get the upper hand and go ahead to win.

Cihiru

She laughed as she saw him near, and knew at the speed he persued, he could have passed her. But he didn't, and that amused her. It was an odd place for chivalry. "Don't be silly." Kali nipped playfully at his shoulder and pushed ahead, quickening her pace, but not testing herself. She wasn't racing; she had something else in mind. As the mare came up on the banks, she propelled herself accross the wide stream, spanning her wings and taking advantage of their aid. It was a long jump - even with the gliding extension, her hind hooves landed in shallow waters with a splash. The mare rounded up on the other side, completing a wide, running circle before slowing to a stop on the opposing bank. "I think we're here!" she called accross the river, over the lulling crash of the waterfall.

Twiddle

Kestal grinned as she nipped him, she had figured it out. Though it was rather obvious. As she soared through the sky, he skidded to a stop and watched in awe. She really was beautiful. As she called to him from the ther side, he laughed a little, "And where exactly IS here?" he called back to her, his voice barely overpowering the rush of the water.

Cihiru

Kali grinned broadly, though it was unlikely he was able to see her. "Isn't it obvious?" She pushed herself off the ground, kicking off her haunches at full force and flying more blatantly back over the river. It was an arched, soaring motion, and even she had to admit to herself she did a pretty decent job of making it look graceful. "A waterfall, of course." She gathered her limbs beneath her and landed easily on the other side, striding a short distance to slow herself. "It's the only one I know of within a day's traveling distance."

Twiddle

Kestal chuckled, though couldn't help but be awed once more by her show of graceful flight. "Well I can see that," He said smirking, "But why are we here? It's rather beautiful, though I've had the pleasure of much more beautiful company recently." He gave her a slight wink, and strode into the water, lapping at it.

Cihiru

"Why shouldn't we be here? It's a fair sight more interesting than a field, I think." Kali could feel a flush in her cheeks, but her dark coat saved her further embarrassment. It wasn't like compliments (yes, even flirting) should make her uncomfortable anyway; she couldn't quite place why that had bothered her. "Besides, it would seem one of us is thirsty," she commented. The mare considered her options momentarily, then opted to follow suit and entered the coursing flow. She did not drink immediately as he did, but she enjoyed the feel of the water and the serenity of the area... and company that made her smile softly to herself.

Twiddle

Kestel grinned as he looked back up at her, "I'm not saying I don't like it." He said with a smile, "I just figured we were gonna go somewhere a bit more... exciting." He smiled and lapped up the water a few more times before walking out, and shaking off. Sometimes he hated having a long tail, it always got wet when he wanted to get a drink, and then it would drag in the dirt and get all dirty and gross. He flciked it a few times, hoping teh sun would dry it off before they headed out again.

Cihiru

"If you're looking for danger, you're going to have to look someplace else." Kali gave him a sideways stare, but didn't try to hide the amusement in her eyes. "I'm a bit too fond of my skin to donate it to somebody else, and I like my bones in-tact." She stretched her wings again, giving them a flapping shake before returning them to their comfortable rests at her sides. "Not sure what other brand of excitement you could be looking for." The mare dipped her nose to drink from the rushing waters, and took her time in doing so. The cool waters and gentle spray were too relaxing to rush, and she didn't see much reason to hurry anyway.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled a bit at her, catching the amusement in her gaze. "Well, are there no areas you have yet to explore?" He asked, hoping to get a bit of adventure out of this place. And he also loved having the chance to show off in front of Kali. "And nowhere dangerous, just... different."

Cihiru

"Um..." She feigned an act of pondering, but ended it quickly. "Nope. Not really." Kali gave an ornery grin, flashing rare mischief in her eyes. It wasn't that she was mean-spirited, she just enjoyed throwing rocks on the road on occasion. "... There is a cave though, that I might have forgotten to mention." The mare pulled herself out of the water and shook unceremoniously, flinging droplets this way and that. Her forelock hung disheveled in her eyes, but she didn't care enough to dislodge it. "Follow me," she called as she started off. Kali followed the sloping banks to the base of the fall, where there was a shelf of rocks spreading the width of the river. "Mind your step." The slick surfaces did not lend themselves well to hoof-hold, but she made her way accross in what looked like effortless fashion. The ebony mare paused mid-way, just short of the waterfall, then disappeared behind its cascading curtain.

Twiddle

Kestal grinned as she spoke, and he followed behind her. He couldn't help but admire her the entire time he followed. As they amde thier way across the rocks, he slipped more than a few times, but kept his balance and walked after her into the waterfalls cave. "Now this," He said looking around, hearing his own voice echo abck to him, "Is fun." He grinned to her.

Cihiru

"Excited already?" she nearly whispered, as she wasn't fond of echoes. "We just got here." It was obvious the light faded quickly, and if they continued forward, they'd soon find themselves in darkness. And not just nighttime type darkness, either. Total lack of light; pitch black. It would be difficult to see their own noses, let alone eachother and where they were going. "I don't suppose you need reminding, but stay close," she teased. "I want to show you something before you go wandering." Kali gave a soft snort, testing the damp cave air before heading fully inside.

Twiddle

Kestal could tell by her soft voice she didn't like the echo, and he lowered his own as he spoke, "Another surprise eh?" He grinned, "I quite like the idea of being totally along in the dark with you." He grinned teasingly, his tail swishing against her playfully. As they ventured further in her became aware of the fact he was going blind slowly.

Cihiru

"I had a feeling," she replied, brushing against him as she pressed forward. Kali walked slowly, taking her stride almost a step at a time. While she could see her path for a while, it wasn't long before the darkness vieled them, and she had to rely on hearing and memory alone. Fortunately (for both of them?), the journey was not a long one, and she soon found herself where she had intended. Ahead of them, there were several tall columns - Kali was aware of this because she had the misfortune of finding them there by touch. One of them, however, was only about chest high to them, with a bowl-shaped hollow in its tip. "Come here," she urged, ushering him forward with her muzzle. As they approached, a light source became visible... Just barely glowing from the short pedastal. Kali looked down at it, and smiled in simple satisfaction. There was a small pool of water there, and inside it, there was a (likewise) small school of fish. Glowing fish. Each sported a sort of transparent skin, exposing their inner skeleton and organs, allowing them to emit a surreal sort of dim light that illuminated the pool's surface. "Look."

Twiddle

Kestal walked forward, his eyes adjusting easilly to the dim light. As he heard her spoke, he looked down into the pool and blinked a few times, his eyes widenening. "Whoa.." He breathed, watching the small fish circling inside the water. "This is.. amazing." He said, gazing up at her. The soft glow of lightplayed across her features, and he found himself staring openly at her, finding her sensational in the light.

Cihiru

"I think so too," she said simply. "Makes me wonder how they got there, and how they survive. And why..." Kali caught his gaze in their reflections, and it pushed her to peel her eyes away mid-thought and look at him. "... do you look like you've never seen me before?" This was not how she had intended to finish the comment, but it sounded natural, and she added a goofy, almost innocent smile. "The stunned look doesn't suit you." She leaned forward and gave his shoulder a nudge.

Twiddle

Kestal blinked, and he felt his cheeks flush slightly. It had been the first time he ahd ever felt embarrassment, and it was an odd feeling to him. "Heh, sorry. You just... look really lovely in the light.." He smiled almost sheepishly, his compliment very true this time. As she nudged him he smiled, "Let's exaplore further in." He said with a mischivious grin.

Cihiru

Her expression faltered, if only for a moment. She hadn't intended to cause him embarrassment. "Don't apologize." Kali reinforced her smile, and worried for a moment that might not have been enough to reassure him. So she nuzzled him just to be sure. "It's just, eh... Nobody's looked at me that way before." This too was difficult to admit, and she mirrored his sheepish expression, though only briefly. "If it suits you, but I haven't gone much further than this. Finding the way out can get troublesome, so I never really bothered."

Twiddle

He smiled a little at her nuzzle, and as she looked sheepish he nuzzled her back. "I'm surprised." He said honestly at her comment, he really was surprised no one had looked at her like that, or at least never told her how lovely she is. "And I think we'll be okay. I have an idea." He looked over to the little fish, and then left the cave briefly. "Be right back," He said with a grin. He came back a few minutes later, with a small, battered bucket. "I saw it while we were walking." He set it down on the ground, and carefullt placed some of the glowing fish inside it, along with some water. Looking inside he grinned as he saw they continued to glow. "Now we have a light." He lifted his head, proud.

Cihiru

An idea? Not that a light in this literal darkness was a bad thing, but it seemed so... random. And unlikely. And "where in the world did that come from?" She laughed softly, mindful of the echo, but amused by the unexpectedness of it all. "I suppose we do." Kali nodded at him, and stole a glance in the bucket, just to reassure herself it really was there and the fish really were inside and she wasn't just imagining it all. It still seemed so strange. But no stranger than a pool of glowing fish in the middle of a hidden cave, she supposed. "Would you care to lead the way? I don't really know where I'm going either."

Twiddle

Lifting the bucket in his mouth, Kestal nodded and smiled, flicking his tail a bit. "If you can't see, you can hold onto my tail or walk right next to me." He said, though his words were slightly muffled by the bucket. He was careful not to spill any of the water, nor any of the fish, as they ventured further into the cave. The light provided a good enough source, and he was able to stop before slamming into wall or corner. Soon, they came into a large, open cavern. Looking about, Kestal noticed that there were now two other pathways. He set the bucket down, walked over to the entrance they ahd just come out of, and slammed his powerful hooves into the stone. A loud clapping noise was heard, followed by the echo of it, and finally the sounds of sliding stone to the floor. "So we know which way we came from." He smiled. "You pick." He said, motioning towards the two paths.

Cihiru

"I'll be fine." There was a hint of teasing in her tone, but she did follow right at his side - close enough he was within reach if she became really desperate. She couldn't help but eye him with some reservation as he kicked the wall though. "That's kind of dangerous, you know..." Kali gave the newly created pile of rocks a sideways stare, as though daring them to move. "What would you have done if they all caved in?" she teased, half hoping he had a silly remark for this too. "Um..." The mare studied both paths expectantly, trying to find some distinguishing feature to discern one from the other. Unfortunately, they looked remarkably alike. "Left, I guess."

Twiddle

Shrugging a little, hiding the fact he hadn't actually thought of that, Kestal smiled a little to her. "Don't worry. I'll save you if anything happens!" He went into a dramtic, hero pose for a few moments. "Ah, left it is then! The way of rebels!" He chuckled and scooped up the light bucket again, heading into that area. He warned her to stay close, even though he knew she would anyway.

Cihiru

Kali grinned defiantly, and laughed a little at his jesting. "I'm sorry, but I think the cave-in would win." When he resumed his journey, she followed in-tow, conciously keeping him near as they progressed. "Ah, yes. Rebels against absolutely nothing. How heroic." She cast a curious gaze around, absorbing what she could see inside the light's small radius, and guessing the rest with the way their steps echoed off the stone tunnels.

Twiddle

Kestal grinned and chuckled, "Too true." He looked around them as they went, and he stopped short suddenly. "Wait, shh.." He said softly, his ears perked forward. "I think I heard something."

Cihiru

"What?" She paused abruptly, and tucked her wings tighter yet in apprehension. Even now though, as she stood statue still, Kali wasn't sure what it was he was listening to. Maybe she wasn't paying enough attention... The mare scolded herself mentally and vowed to try harder. She even tried to hold her breath for a moment, and strained her ears against the silence, flicking them tentavely. Still nothing; she exhaled softly and drew in a deeper-than-average breath. "I don't hear anything..." Kali gave her tail an absent flick while her gaze darted back and forth.

Twiddle

Kestal listened for a few moments, and didn't hear the sound again. "Odd... oh well. Let's keep going. Probably my imagination." He felt as thought something was watching them as they ventured further in, though he didn't tell Kali, not wanting to worry her.

Cihiru

"I don't know. Stay alert." She didn't doubt there was something lurking here, hiding in the cover of the darkness. After all, it was unlikely the fish had the entire cave to themselves. She was not, however, sure what else could have been there. It was a little much for her imagination to fathom; what would call a damp hole like this home? Especially one such as this, tucked away behind a waterfall? Kali realized then she could nolonger hear the rush of the crashing waves outside, and she wondered just how far inside they'd wandered.

Twiddle

Kestal nodded a little as they ventured even further inside. Looking around, he noticed they had entered a verylarge cavern. A soft, hot breeze played against thier legs and he wondered how there was any breeze inside the cave. He didn't see any openings or holes anywhere... Hmm. "This is strange," He found himself talking very softly, almost inaudible. "I feel a breeze, but there's not holes or entries."

Cihiru

She too had become aware of the wind; at one point it pushed her to make a full stop and reassess her surroundings. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary though; at least, nothing she could see. No patches of light, no glowing eyes, no... Ok, there was a thin carpet of mist around their hooves. She may not have noticed it, but it rippled in little wakes when the breeze carressed it. "Um..." Kali took an apprehensive step backward, and gave her ears a nervous twitch. Was that breathing? No, it must have been something else. "Kestal?" she whispered. The mare had become so absorbed in her thoughts and concerns, she lost track of him for a moment, and had to reassure herself he was still there.

Twiddle

Kestal stepped back and touched her flank gently with his own. "I'm here," He could hear the fright in her voice, and even his own heart had started pounding hard. "Let's just get out of he-" he was cut off by a sudden movement to thier right, the area where the wind was coming from. Kestal held the light out towards it, and his eyes widened as he saw a huge, black bear standing before them. "Kali, run!" He yelled to her, backing into her, hoping to distract the bear and let her get out.

Cihiru

The reminder of his presence comforted her, but did not slow her heart. She was in a maze of a cave, surrounded by figurative walls and without the faintest idea of which way was out; nothing about the situation struck her as reassuring. "I don't know which way to go." It pained her to admit she was lost, but it was hardly top on her list of concerns at the moment. More importantly, how were they going to get out? Fortunately, for all of them, the bear was just standing there, looking imposing and not really doing much of anything for the moment. It was a shame she doubted it would last long.

Twiddle

Kestal backed into her once more, "Here," He shoved the bucket into her mouth, as the bear started to realize there were two horses invading his home. He let out a manacing growl, and started forward at them. "Go through the entrance with my hoof mark on it, go!" He ran away from her into the darkness, distracting the bear and making it follow him further into the cave.

Cihiru

Kali braced her weight against him, stubbornly refusing to budge. This was, perhaps, another quality she shared with her brother. "Kestal! Stop." She had some difficulty managing the words around the bucket she now found herself wielding, but she hoped they were comprehensive at least. I'm sorry, friends. The mare took a deep breath to bolster her confidence, and without further contemplation, tossed the bucket at the bear... water, fish, and all. "Come on!" Kali couldn't afford to wait more than a moment for the stallion to follow; she turned as soon as she heard the bucket collide with a crash and the bear gave a disgruntled roar. Please, give me guidance. She could do this; she could remember the way out. She had to.

Twiddle

Kestal glanced back bnehind him, and spotted the glowing fish flapping on the bear. He galloped after Kali, running up behind her. He almost slammed into her, and would have if he hadn't heard her hoof beats on the ground. "Are you alright?!" he asked as they ran in the darkness.

Cihiru

"I'm fine, but step lightly and listen carefully." She didn't have time to make sure he was not injured; if he could run, he was well enough, and they needed to move. Kali took off without further ado, her hooves making hollow claps against the stone with surprising confidence. Her memory was better than she gave it credit for; without panic clouding her judgement, it was fairly easy to guide their path to the exit... despite the fading sound of pawsteps behind them. As they entered the area she was dually familiar with, and light began to leak into the inky abyss, the mare allowed her pace to slow and attempted to still her heavy breathing. For the moment, she could nolonger hear persuit behind them, and doubted her legs could stand much more torment anyway. "Kestal, are you well?"

Twiddle

Breathing hard beside her, Kestal stopped and nodded, his body covered in sweat. "I'm fine, a bit out of breath but inunjured. You?" He checked her over quickly, hoping she was okay. "Well, I think that's the last time I venture into a dark cave." He grinned weakly, his legs shaking a little from overuse.

Cihiru

"Fine, just..." Kali paused, still breathing heavily. It took her a moment to collect herself enough to continue. "Tired." The mare could have sworn she heard pawsteps resume in the distance, but she dismissed it as nerves and instead made her way to the cave's exit. Not trusting herself to make her way accross the rocky bridge, she leapt over it, and landed in the pool beneath with a splash. Had she not been so exausted, she would have taken a moment to refresh herself and play in the crystaline waters, but her limbs begged for relief. Rather than linger, Kali swam to the shallow banks and pulled herself free from the miniature lake. Once she landed safely on the outside, she allowed herself to collapse, and rested on the sandy grass.

Twiddle

Kestal followed after her, also not wanting to see if the bear pursued them. He leapt gracefully off the side as well, landing with a rather messy splash in the cool water. He floated for a few moments, lapping up the cool water, loving the feeling of it washing away his sweat and cooling his aching muscles. As he swam towards the bank, he walked onto it and shook off, making sure not to slash her. He then walked over and laid beside her, his head not inches from hers. "Are you sure you're alright?" His eyes contained concern in their depths.

Cihiru

"Reasonably sure." It was easier to speak now that her breathing had calmed, and she managed a comforting smile. "I'm fine, really. Don't worry." Kali gave another smile; a more solid, confidant one. The concern she saw in him reassured her all the more, though she couldn't have explained why. "Are you sure you're alright, Mr. Self-Sacrificial?" She heaved a tired sigh and leaned against him, propping her head against his neck as she forced herself to relax.

Twiddle

Kestal blinked as she leaned against him, and he smiled a little, resting his head over her neck. "I'm very good." He said softly, watching her for a moment before his eyes slowly closed, sending him into the land of dreams, where no doubt Kali would be there to join him.

Cihiru

"I'm glad," she managed, though it was hardly above a whisper. Despite her blatant struggle against sleep, this was a sentiment she actually comprehended. She really did hear him reassure her, and she really did take comfort in this. It just might not have been overly obvious; sleep was winning the brief battle. It wasn't long before she felt her breathing steady, and her lids droop, until she gave up on trying to remain concious. Kali gave a soft snort in surrender and allowed herself to be carried away by dreams.

 

[Twiddle]

Cihiru

Ah, to be a foal again. She pranced jovially, a bounce in her step and a grin on her maw, headed to noplace in particular. Which was good, because she really wasn't making much progress in distance at all, especially given the energy she put into maintaining the over-elaborate gait. Not that it mattered; Kali was having far too much fun to mind. The way the sweeping flowers tickled her limbs as she pushed through them made her throw back her head in joy, and she trumpeted a euphoric, laughing whinny. When the edge of the energy had worn off, she slowed her pace, and settled for trotting eights in the waving grasses.

Twiddle

Kestal was acting the exact same way more or less; prancing around like a yearling with a crush. He bodded his spotted head up and down a few times, wondering if Kali was anywhere nearby. Though he ahd been wondering that all day. His ears flickered forward as the sound of a whinny carried on the cool, gentle breeze caught his attention. Kali! He reared, pounding the air with his powerful hooves, and let out a long, loud response, hoping she'd hear.

Cihiru

Someone had heard her. Kali's initial reaction was to withdraw from sheer embarrassment; her ears folded apprehensively and she felt herself take an involuntary step back. Only a moment passed before she realized though, that her audience was not an unwelcome one. "Kestal!" she called, almost laughing blatantly as she galloped toward him. "What are you doing here?" This too was light-hearted, though not quite so overt. She offered it as he pulled into sight and she slowed her pace to trot a circle around him.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled brightly at her, "I've actually been looking for you for quite a while." He said chuckling, "Though it sounds like you've had quite the good time without me." He grinned teasingly and stepped in front of her, blocking her trot. He quickly nuzzled her, hoping he wasn't too forward, he just couldn't control it. "How are you?" He asked, smiling, his eyes lit up when she was around.

Cihiru

"Quite a while?" she teased. "You mean ever since we last met, ages ago?" The mare's grin was hard to miss; she was amused and content and bursting with joy all at once. "Good times, maybe, but there's room for improvement." Kali pulled herself to a stop (not that she had much choice in the matter), and recieved the nuzzle with a still-beaming smile. "I could not be better... Now that you're here," she admitted. Maybe she was getting the hang of this flirting thing. Or maybe Kestal was just rubbing off on her. "And how is the day treating you?" She stole the moment to plant a nuzzle of her own.

Twiddle

Kestal chuckled at her comment, she was right! It hadn't been that long ago at all since they had last met. But even still, it felt as though it had been ages. He raised a brow at her comment about him, and he grinned happilly. "That's good to know. At least I'm wanted, as much as you are." He gave her a wink nd smiled, almost sheepishly, as she nuzzled him. "I'm wonderful, now." He answered, still smiling, gazing at her.

Cihiru

She could relate, actually, though she wasn't about to come right out and say it. He could assume it if it suited him, and if it didn't, she'd opt to ignore it. It was one of those things she could afford to let go unnoticed. After all, she didn't need to mirror his every notion. "I don't know if I'd go that far..." Part of this was jest, though there was some truth in it. She could see the adoration in his eyes, and part of her wondered if she'd be able to rival it. The rest of her just wanted to pounce the opportunity to poke fun. "Well then, Wonderful, what would you like to do with your day?"

Twiddle

Kestal chuckled lightly and shrugged. "Care for a race?" He said, eyes shining with mischief. He nipped her shoulder lightly and took off at a gallop, running towards nowhere in particular. "Come on slowpoke!" he called back at her, his golden locks flowing in the wind as he glanced over his shoulder to her. He grinned and his pace quickened even more, his feet pounding hard against the earth, boosting his body along.

Cihiru

"Any time!" she called after him, pushing herself into a gallop. This was, in fact, not her strong suit, but she'd never admit it. It was a sacrifice children of the wind had no choice but to pay... Wings just weren't aerodynamic, there was nothing she could do about it but buck up and try harder, ignoring the extra wind resistance strapped perminately to her sides. "I'll 'slowpoke' you!" Kali threatened, though the laugh in her tone belied her intentions. But she did push a bit harder, edging nearer to the end of the tether that was her physical limitations.

Twiddle

Kestal grinned a little, and his pace did indeed quicken. He waited though, so that she was almost neck and neck with him. He then sprinted forward, his hooves digging into the earth below them. He flashed a grin in her direction as he gained about a foot ahead of her.

Cihiru

She had been expecting this, so it didn't take her by surprise, nor did it bother her when he pulled ahead... Just as she'd been within reach of the lead, too. "But I bet you can't catch me." It was an ironic statement, considering he now had a healthy reign. But she had an idea, and though it was edging pretty closely on the boundaries of 'unfair', it was all in fun, and she'd voted to go along with it. So she spread her wings, and with vigerous flaps, used their leverage to propel her gallop and lift her hooves in a gliding stride.

Twiddle

Kestal looked up as she did this and he smiled. He picked up his pace even more, his legs propelling him forward even faster. He kept his eye on her, and took a flying leap into the air, pushing himself off the ground and using the extra momentum of the run to go even higher. He lightly, playfully nipped her side and landed with a thud on the ground once more, his run picking up again. He grinned up at her.

Cihiru

His speed actually surprised her; it was a fair sight quicker than she ever could have hoped to reach on foot. "Don't hurt yourself." It wasn't that she was flying particularly high; her hooves brushed the tips of the swaying grasses. Just that one wrong step could have resulted in a sprained leg, or worse, and a lame horse didn't have much of a future to look forward to. And it wasn't that the circumstances weren't always true, either. - The pace at which they were running, and the height he propelled himself just worsened the risks. Despite her concerns though, she still had laughter in her eyes and jest in her tone. "Wouldn't want you breaking a leg or something."

Twiddle

Kestal smiled at her, he could tell she really was concerned under her jesting, "Don't worry about me." He said smiling, racing alongside her. His breath came quick and sharp, and he knew he wouldn't be able to keep the pace much longer. He started to slow down, going from a canter, to a gallop, to a trot, and finally to a slow, steady walk. "Okay okay, you win." He said between taking deep breaths, smiling. "Too quick for me. Fair maiden of the skies! You have bested me!" He made a swooning noise, and fell on his side to the ground, grinning all the while.

Cihiru

Kali pulled ahead as the stallion's pace slowed, until she decided to make her landing. Her descent was a quick one; she propelled into a gallop as her hooves met the grassy earth, but halted with little effort... It was a gliding transition between gaits, until she made her way back to him at a liesurely trot (as she'd gone quite far ahead by then). "This fair maiden you speak of has surely cheated, like the crook she really is." She laughed again at his antics, and peered down at him with a questioning stare. "I hope you won't require assistance..."

Twiddle

Kestal opened one eye to look up at her, and smiled. Hopping to his feet he shook the dirt off his coat, looking at it with dissapointment. He really hated getting dirty. Oh well. Looking back over to Kali he smiled, "So now M'Lady, where shall we venture to?" He grinned, cocking his spotted head to one side. "Perhaps we can explore somewhere a bit less dark than yesterdays venture." He chuckled, though the thought of the large ebar still shook him a bit.

Cihiru

She quirked a brow at his expression, but thought it best not to inquire. Actually, that gave her an idea. Kali plopped on the ground and made a quick roll, taking care to disturb as much dirt as possible before picking herself up. Once she rose, she did not shake herself as he did. Instead, she let the earthy brown blanket her otherwise raven coat. "You could decide, maybe..." She gave him a goading grin. "You know, once every now and then." The mare walked another circle around him, sharing the dirt by brushing his side as she passed.

Twiddle

Kestal blinked and quickly shook the dirt off his coat as she passed. "Now now," He said with a grin, "No need for that." He thought for a little while, and smiled. "I haven't been near the mountains yet. Anything interesting up there? I am after all, a guest here. You should be showing me around." He grinned teasingly.

Cihiru

Kali grinned anew. He really was particular about that, wasn't he? For a moment, she wondered why it bothered him, but rather than dwell on it, she distanced herself and shook the clinging dirt from her pelt. "Mountains are mountains. Once you've seen one, you've seen them all." The mare took a few steps in his direction then. "Guest nothing. You said yourself you left to wander, and once a wanderer, you live wherever you stand." She returned his grin by wrinkling her nose at him.

Twiddle

Kestal smirked and laughed. "Ah, you are too smart for that miss." He smiled and nuzzled her wrinkled up nose. "Well then..." He said, looking around, his long tail flicking about. "I suppose we could just travel around then? Perhaps somewhere neither of us has been." He cocked his head to one side at her, smiling.

Cihiru

This made her shrug mentally; she wasn't much sure what to say. Kali had never really thought of herself as a particularly intelligent individual, she just had practical knowledge. "Or maybe you just need to touch up your wit." Despite her teasing, her tone was not an offensive one. "Lead the way." It would be a pleasent surprise if they happened accross something she'd yet to explore, and maybe if her feet weren't the ones making the path, they'd be less inclined to travel old roads. There was no excitement in that. "Maybe surprises await you," she added.

Twiddle

Kestal looked over to her, an adoration in his eyes. "I've been pleasantly surprised so far." He smiled and broke into a light trot, winding down towards a patch of forest, with a mountain beyond it. As he felt the wind blowing his curly locks around he smiled and closed his eyes, his legs automatically picking up thier pace, his trot turning into a gallop.

Cihiru

"As have I," she commented, giving him a nuzzle before he trotted off. Kali passed a look at their surroundings and bid it a farwell before following. It was a nice place for an ordinary little field, but undoubtedly bigger sights awaited them. "Any clue where we're going?" She followed almost absently, the inquiry the only indication she was paying attention at all. It was just too easy to get absorbed in such scenic surroundings. The landscape looked nearly too surreal to be tangible, with the misty mountain and towering forest. She was not so distracted she failed to notice his change in pace though, and mirrored it instinctively.

Twiddle

Kestal glanced over to her and chuckled. "Not a one!" He answered her destination question with a laugh. As they traveresed further through the forest, his pace slowed, only because of the trees becoming denser, bigger and closer together. Soon he was walking once more. "Ever been here before?" He asked Kali as he looked around, the air a bit chillier with the foreboding mountain ahead of them.

Cihiru

She looked to him just in time to give an amused grin. "Good to know." It didn't matter anyway; it wasn't like they were going to get lost. "Hmm..." Kali peered around as he voiced his question and more carefully observed their surroundings. "Nope, I have no idea where we are." She wasn't too fond of forests though; she never did understand how Loki could love them so. Perhaps it was because he didn't have wings, and didn't need to see the open sky above his head. Or maybe it was because he was just weird, and different in virtually every way. "Do you know what you're looking for then?"

Twiddle

Kestal smiled and shook his head. "That's the fun of adventuring." He said with a wink. As they went further in, the forest cleared and the terrain began to slant up, they were atthe base of the mountain now. Kestal looked around. "I wonder what's on the other side of this.." He pondered aloud, climbing higher.

Cihiru

"The other side probably looks a lot like this one," she answered, her smart-aleck nature shining through. Kali really didn't have much experience with mountains though - there weren't any at all near the forest she resided in, and a short travel brought only fields, fields, and more fields. Oh, with a few hills here and there. It was entirely possible there was something here she was missing; logic couldn't teach one everything, after all. "Seems like a big pile of rocks to me though."

Twiddle

Kestal looked over to her with a grin. "You never know what could be around the corner. Or in this case, over a mountain." He chuckled and headed further up, the slope getting more steep as they went. As they finaly neared the top, Kestral gazed out below them, blinking a few times. "Bet you weren't expecting this!" He called to Kali with a grin. As they looked down, they could see a large herd of reindeer grazing. Beyond them was a very large body of water, it almost looked like an ocean it was so big. Kestal breathed in deeply as the cool win played through his mane and tail.

 

[Twiddle]

Twiddle

Looking over the willow tree Kaga loved so much, he let out a heavy sigh. It hadn't escaped the flames as he'd hoped. Shaking his head he wandered over towrds the cool river that bordered the now burnt tree. He walked into the depths and cringed a little as the cool waters flowed aginst his charred legs and belly. But soon it felt mgnificent, and he smiled gratefully. He glanced over to the small muskrat family he had carried here, and smiled apologeticlly to them. They were across the river, on an untouched side of the valley. They started to rebuild their home, and Kaga smiled.

Cihiru

The fire certainly had thrown a kink into everyday routine. Even though Kourin was more or less tangibly unaffected, she could discern the ripples that drifted through her lifestyle. Hiabi seemed all but pleased; after the thankfulness for the mare's safety wore off, she had stalked into the forest, and Kourin had not seen her since. Surely she would return days later, her hands empty and her clothing laden thick with ash. Her morning strolls had to be altered too; she couldn't stand to follow the river through the charred vales. It was an insignificant price to pay though, especially when compared to the larger picture. She had her home, her safety, and her 'family.' Some were not so fortunate.

Was Kaga as fortunate as she? Kourin had been struck with worry when word of fire met her ears, but in the pandemonium that unfolded at the time, she was unable to act on it. She was more free to do... something now, once the chaos was calmed. It was just a shame she wasn't quite sure what 'something' was. The situation could have been likened to needles and haystacks, and that discouraged her. She had an idea though! It came to her as she gazed at the afternoon sky, and the quickly fading sensation of helplessness made her want to leap for joy. The mare refrained only because in her mind, she had no time to spare. - She took off at an outright gallop, dainty hooves flying over brittle grasses.

As she ran, she couldn't help but wonder what took her so long?! It was so simple. So obvious. Checking his favorite haunt should have been her instinct, and her failure to realize this made her blush sheepishly beneath her fur. The sentiment did not have time to linger though; it crumbled and gave way to apprehension as the verdant, untouched fauna was replaced by flame-cursed stumps and rubble. It was so stricken by tragedy, she doubted she would have been able to find her way if not for the steadfast river to guide her. Kourin thanked it with a placid smile, and with its aid, carried herself to what she'd come to know as Kaga's favorite tree.

Twiddle

Ears flickering around as the sound of pounding hooves caught his attention, Kaga opened his eyes and looked along the edge of the river. Normally the lush green trees would have obscured his view until the other was merely a few feet from him, but the lush trees were now more or less burnt sticks and he got a clear veiw. He smiled widely as he spotted the familiar shape of Kourin. He let out a long, happy and welcoming whinny to her. He didn't leave his spot in the river though, heknew she'd be worried if he revealed his burns to ehr to soon.

Cihiru

She was met with a mix of sadness and relief as she progressed; the flames had indeed spared patches of life, but others were lost beyond recognition, and ash still lingered in the air. The way the stung and caked her nostrils disconcerted her, but she had larger problems on her mind.

Well, not problems so much. The sight that pulled into view alerted her instantly, she'd been spared from the deepest of grief. Kourin smiled earnestly; a bright expression that graced her elegant muzzle. "Kaga!" she called so loudly she was sure half the world could hear, and she didn't care. Joy forbade self-conciousness; it didn't matter how she looked to anyone but him.

He did not run to greet her though, as she did him... And as he'd done time and time before. "Are you okay?" she questioned as she neared. The mare approached him until her hooves were planted in the cool waters, and she stretched her neck to gaze at him without risking further pain if he was injured. "Is there something wrong?" Kourin's concern was genuine, and it showed in both her posture and tone.

Twiddle

Kaga smiled over to her, a rather apologetic smile. He walked out of the water, knowing he couldn't hide it fromher, no matter how he wanted to spare her the worry. "Just a bit of a singe." He said, making the burns along his belly and legs seem a lot less worse than they were. "It's nothing. Are you alright?" He asked, looking her over with worry in his eyes. As he noticed she was alright, he smiled with relief and gve her an affectionate nuzzle.

Cihiru

She could feel her worry reinforced itself as he pulled out of the water; it struck her expression with a sadness, and she frowned blatantly, despite his smile. "Just a singe?" Kourin knew he was only trying to protect her, but her panic didn't appreciate the consideration. "Nothing! That looks like a lot of something to me." She fixed him with a warning stare, though it still belied her kindness. "You should see Aiyana, at least. Ignoring them isn't going to make them go away..." She repaid his worry with a calming smile, and returned the nuzzle with the gentlest one she could manage. "I really am fine. But I'd be better if you got a little fixed up."

Twiddle

Kaga smiled at her, he loved everything about her, and he hated arguing with her. "Alrght alright, I'll go see Aiyana." He said, nuzzling her once more. "Let me just soak for a few minutes more." He said grinning, walking back into the river, loving the cool waters travling over his burnt skin. After a little while he relutantly walked out, and nudged her gently. "You want to come along?" He asked, knowing she would, though he thought it polite to ask anyway.

Cihiru

That was easy; she knew it would be. It was only a woman's way to use her leverage to her advantage, after all. "I'm very glad to hear it." Her frown was replaced by her more characteristic soft smile as she observed. She chose not to follow him into the deeper waters, but she did watch attentively; fondly, even. "Of course I do." Kourin followed his path out of the river with a brief nod. "Are you sure you don't want to wait here? I could go find someone... It looks like it hurts to walk." The worry was back to tinge her expression; she couldn't hide it.

Twiddle

Kaga smiled to her, thankful for her kind eyes and attentiveness. "Don't worry, I'll be fine. Aiyana's teepee isn't far from here." He said with a slight nod as he started to walk slowly, judging if he could make it or not. It seemed as though the cooling water helped, though he knew it wouldn't last very long. He cringed a little as they walked, and hoped she hadn't noticed.

Cihiru

"Don't worry?..." There was a touch of 'are you serious?' in her tone, but it was difficult to hear through her mild nature. "I will try." Futile though it was. Kourin was a worrier; sheer force of will wasn't going to change that. She vowed she really would try though. "Alright then, off we go." The mare paced herself, taking one careful step after another, to be sure Kaga would not struggle to keep up. But how could she not notice he was struggling? He was the center of attention; she wanted to be aware of everything.

Twiddle

Kaga glanced over to her with a smile. "Yes, don't worry." He nuzzled her for a moment and continued to walk, his steps heavy and filled with pain in each. He hid it the best he could, and after about ten minutes, though it seemed like ten days to him, they reached Aiyana's teepee. She was currently rebuilding the small home, as it had been burnt down by the fire as well. Kaga looked over to her with a sad look in his eyes, he had hoped she hadn't been affected by the flames. With a soft whinny he walked over towards her. Lookingup, Aiyana gasped as she saw Kaga, and ran over, wrapoping her arms around him in a tight hug. "Thank the Gods!" she exclaimed happily, looking him over. Her smile faded and turned to a look of owrry as she saw his burns. "Oh my.." She muttered, and ran over to her pack, grabbing the salve she had made for the animals she found burned. Kneeling down, she began to place the concoction on his burns gently, and he sighed as the cooling stuff was put there. He looked over to Kourin with a smile.

 

[Twiddle]

Twiddle

The pounding of hooves upon the ground echoed throughout the valley, the spotted stallion flying across the open lands. He threw his head in the air and let out a loud, happy whinny, his mane flowing behind him.

He suddenly jumped into the air, flying over an unseen obstacle, and landed gracefully on the ground once more. As he approached the shallow brook, he slowed to a stop and dipped his muzzle to drink.

wooga Paes

Upstream to the stallion, another was making its way down. But rather-- he was swimming. Soon enough, the palomino stopped at the riverside, barely noticing Kes untill he had caught breath. He blinked, this one had so not been there before. Slowly, Pallaton made his way out of the water, sheking his mane out so it would dry, and attempting to swish a now, rather heavy, tail.

Looking once more, he let out a greeting. "Hello! " He neighed, waiting for the other's answer.

Cihiru

Even the not-so-observant would have had little trouble noticing her. The mare frolicked in the river with almost reckless abandon, throwing liquid up onto the banks and water-logging her gradiant mane and tail. It made loud, swishing splashes around her knees, and crashed against her sides in small wakes, but she was blissfully oblivious. Self conciousness had no place in the purest forms of joy; the mare threw back her head and let forth a whinnying laugh as though accentuating this.

However, even foals and butterflies had only so much energy... And Kali was neither. With a content, but faintly tired sigh, the mare slowed her movements to a mere wading walk, until she pulled to a stop. She peered briefly to the increasingly grey sky, and with a satisfied smile, bent her neck and drank from the crystaline river.

Twiddle

Kestal's ear flicked forward as he heard someone say hello. Looking up at the stallion, he raised a brow. "Hello." He called back, watching him. He must've gone swimming, he thought, taking in the sight of his soaking wet state.

His ear flickered around to his side, when he saw Kali in the river not far from them. He smiled widely and let out a loud whinny, reveling his presence to her.

wooga Paes

Palla too whinnied to the winged mare, before looking back at the cajun. "My name is Pallaton, whats yours? " He asked, before attempting to shake his whole body, wich almost resulted in falling into the water again. He felt a bit dryer though, and that made him content. He dipped his head to drink, amazingly, Palla didn't usualy drink the water while he was in it, wich was quite odd, in his mind, and probably the other Soquili's.

Cihiru

As she lifted her muzzle (and gave her head a delicate shake, disloding stubborn droplets), the mare tilted her head to gaze back at the brooding sky. Rain was heavy in the air, gracing it with a distinct scent that made her muzzle pull into a gentle smile. It was good weather, she decided; a taste she inherited from her mother. Kali gave her wings a fidgeting rustle as she imagined running through the swaying grasses while the clouds rained down on her, but something else demanded her attention.

Only partially attentive, the mare gave her ear an observant flick. That was a familiar call though; she turned her head to more fully observe its owner. "Hi Kestal!" The mare gave him an ornery grin as she pulled herself from the shallow waters. "How do you fare today, Firefly?" Ah, nicknames. This too was a family habit; where she came up with this one, however, was a mystery to all but herself.

Twiddle

Kestal gazed at her with admiration in his eyes, smiling as he watched her. He wondered what she was thinking about, but knew better than to ask. Shaking himself from his thoughts, he walked over to her and gave her an affectionate nuzzle. He cocked an ear at the nickname, but thought it better not to ask. "I'm very well now." He said with a grin, "Yourself?"

Cihiru

The nuzzle filled her with a warm smile, both inside and out. To adore and be adored was a... difficult sensation to describe, but she transferred it with a nuzzle. "While I am glad to hear it, maybe some day you'll tell me you're feeling down, and I'll be able to do something to cheer you up." Kali circled around him, fixing him with a scrutinizing gaze. "I can't if you're well already!" And she allowed the smile to resurface.

"I am... Content. Wonderful. Excited..." Kali tilted her head thoughtfully, causing her forelock to sweep over one eye. "It's going to rain. Do you like rain?" She certainly hoped so! Her imagination recreated the images that drifted through her mind, adding renditions with Kestal.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled at her and laughed. "But if I'm not well, then you'll worry. I don't want you to worry." He grinned at her and as she circled him, he flickered his tail in her direction, brushing it gainst her side. "Rain?" He looked up at the sky, "I haven't really thought about it before." He said with a shrug. "I suppose so." He looked back over to her with a smile again. "I can tell you like it." He watched her as she cocked her head and he smiled. He pushed her forelock from her eye gently with his muzzle, "I could learn to like the rain."

Cihiru

"I don't have to worry; I can fix anything!" Almost. It sounded good though, and she thought that counted for something. "Yes, rain." Kali gave the air a deliberate sniff, testing the humidity and soaking up the clean, heavy scent. And as though on cue, a droplet hit her square on the nose, followed soon by others. They landed with little 'plop's on her coat, creating dark spots on an already dark (and wet) canvas.

She gave a stifled laugh, the sound muted by the blanket that rained down on them. "Well, I think now's a good time to start." The sun had relenquished its throne by now. That was the best part; she loved the way the lightning played in the clouds, leaping freely from one to another while it graced the earth below with its glow. She'd admire it from the ground though, keeping her wings tucked safely against her sides, for instinct warned against soaring with the darting bolts.

"It's not going to stay there," she warned, giving an amused grin as she tossed her head to further displace the forlock from her gaze. "So! What shall we do now that the rain's blessed us?"

Twiddle

Kestal watched as the rain started to sprinkle down around and on them, andit soon became a steady shower of droplets. He smiled at her, as the droplets played across his coat, making him have dark streaks. "Well, finding shelter is the first thing that comes to mind. "He said loudly, his words blurred by the cracks of lightening, and the duistant sound of thunder.

Shaking himself off, only to be pelted with more drops, he wondered where they could go. The trees seemed the most logical place, though if a tree were to be struck by lighteing it may cause more danger than shelter. He looked over to Kali with a slight smile, "You wanna just stay here and get more soaked then?" He called teasingly.

Cihiru

"Yes, that would be the first to come to mind," she teased, leaning close to n** playfully at his neck. "But it's boring, and ordinary." The two did, after all, go hand in hand. Ordinary was seldom found without boring, and that never did satisfy the ebony mare.

She gave him a devious grin. "Nope," Kali called over her shoulder. "I'll race you." She had already taken off as she uttered this, fully aware she was approving her own figurative slaughter. Her limbs pulled her accross the ground anyway, her hooves landing in small splahes. "Last one to uh..." A hasty gaze scanned the horizon, trying to settle on a destination.

Twiddle

Kestal grinned and nipped back at her. "It's also safe, and wise." He said with a grin. Though he could tell this mare was not one to always follow the cautionary route.

As she sped off ahead of him, his instincts kicked in and he followed after her. As he came closer to her, he glanced around as well. "That cliff!" He called over the booming thunder and cracking lightening. He motioned towards a large drop-off, and sped towards it, his long legs stretching out to give him more speed.

Cihiru

"There are multiple ways to achieve safety, and wise is only a matter of perspective," she retorted. Kali snorted dismissively, hardly audible over the crack of thunder that peeled suddenly across the sky. As the rain thickened, so did the clouds, and it was impossible to discern one from another in the solid tapestry hanging above them, except when the lightning illuminated them.

Not only did it bring light to the skies overhead, but the ground beneath it too. It accentuated features that would have been otherwise difficult, or even impossible to see in the relative darkness... Like the cliff that appeared in the distance ahead of them, made conspicuous as the lightning lit its countours. Her eyes must have met it nearly the same time as his, because he made the suggestion as the thought crossed her mind.

"Chaaarge!" she cried, throwing back her head in a brief laugh while tucking her idle wings tighter still. Her speed was still no match for Kestal's, but she boasted stamina, and she so adored the rain (and his company), it did not burden her mind. She was content to run for the thrill of running, and the kiss of rain against her pelt.

Twiddle

Kestal let out a laugh as she yelled charge, and his spotted legs stretched further ahead of him. He could easily gained the lead, but like before, he had them race neck and neck. As the cliff was illuminated by cracks of lightening once more, he blinked and wonderedif this was really the best place to race to.

He planted his feet in the ground as they came close to the cliff edge, but the mud made him slide. As he skidded across the water strewn ground, his legs tried desperately to stop him, but from his former speed it wasn't gonna happen. He let out a sort of cry, hoping Kali wasn't having the same, frighting, problem.

Cihiru

Another flash lit the destination ahead of them - she realized it was nearer than her first impression. The marathon run she had imagined faded quickly with the gusting wind; this 'race' would be of the short and sweet variety. Kali nodded decisively and pushed her gait, matching him more closely.

Until she saw him skidding to a stop, his hooves sliding across the slick surface like ice. "Don't stop!" Was he trying to get himself killed?! "Jump!" she corrected, leaping at that moment to illustrate her meaning. It was a cliff, yes... A tall one, even; she could see ground far beneath her. But it wasn't just a cliff. The deep ravine had a matching wall on the other side, only a realistic jump's distance away.

As she landed heavily on the other side, Kali pulled herself back to the ledge as soon as she could slow her pace enough to safely do so. "Kestal?" The sudden crack of thunder made it impossible to hear anything else; had he made it safely across? Hastily, she searched around her, trying to catch sign of a sillouhette, scent, or other indication.

Twiddle

Kestal watched as she leapt to the other side, but he couldn't make out what she had said over the crack of thunder. He wasn't sure if it was the wisest idea for him to jump as well, since she had wings. He didn't have much time to ponder it though, as he felt the ground slipping beneath his hooves. He took a deep breath and pushed himself hard off the ledge, landing on the other side with a heavy thud. He quickly got up, though he winced as he put pressure on his right back leg. He had smashed it against the side of the legde due to his hesitance. He didn't care abut that now though. "Kali!!" He called frantically over the booms and cracks of thunder and lightening.

Cihiru

This was the reason nature's inhabitants sought shelter during the fiercer storms. The thunder's booms were disorienting, and the sheets of rain still pouring down impared both scent and vision. She had to rely almost solely on the occasional streaks of lightning to guide her sight, though her ears did perk observantly at his call. So, he had made it. Kali spotted him easily, even through the blurring rain once she heard him; a flash of light only assisted in the process.

The mare pulled herself to him at a brisk trot, and gave his neck a nuzzle. "Looking before you leap isn't always the best course of action," she jested, leaning close to whisper in his ear. "Are you going to be able to walk?" Asking if he was alright was idiocy; the way he favored one leg was obvious. She just wasn't sure what to do if he couldn't. "Let's get you someplace safe." Kali flashed an apologetic smile, but she'd save the sincere sorries for later.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled back at her, nuzzling her affectionately. "I'm just glad you're alright. And it's not bad," He lifted the leg, as if to make his point, "I can walk." He said with a slight nod. He caught her smile, and smiled back, knowing it wasn't her fault. Or at least, he didn't think it was.
Looking around, he wasn't sure where to go. Mostly cause he couldn't see if there was anywhere to go. As the lightening lit the sky once more, illuminating the scenery, he spotted a small cave. It didn't seem like the most relible source, but it was safe, and dry. He motioned to it, "What about that?" He called, even thought he was so close to her, he still needed to raise his voice above the noise.

Cihiru

She nodded her understanding. "Good, because I don't think I can carry you," Kali added jokingly, as though it wasn't obvious. His mobility made the situation considerably easier to work around; at least that wasn't something she had to worry about. Besides straining an injured limb, anyway.

And at the moment, there were bigger problems to concern themselves with. Like what were they going to call suitable shelter. Thickets and caves didn't exactly litter the landscape. Or did they? The mare followed Kestal's gaze as he spotted something, and tilted her head when her eyes landed on the object of his attention. "Care to take a guess at what else might be hiding there?" As the only cave and only natural shelter in sight, she didn't. But desperate times called for desperate measures... And, well, they were pretty desperate. "Add two Soquilis to that list," she commented.

Twiddle

Kestal looked over to her with a smile. He loved her sense of humor. Pushing the thoughts aside, he limped towards the cave, hoping that there weren't any other creatures in there. He didn't mind raccoons or rabbits, mice, any rodents really. But a bear; well that was another story. He didn't want them to have another bear episode like last time.

Pushing those thoughts aside as well, he stuck his soaking wet head into the cave, hoping a crack of lightening could illuminate it's inhabitants to them. As if on cue, lightening struck and illuminated the small cave. They would ahve to duck to get inside; which was good for them. A bear couldn't even fit inside. The largest would be a cougar, and Kestal sincerely hoped there wasn't one inside.

Cihiru

The mare bobbed her head absently and set her hooves into motion, obediently following Kestal's path and pace. The cave was indeed going to provide close quarters... she hoped it was bigger inside than it looked from out here, or the two of them weren't going to fit.

And it was, to her relief. She actually had little trouble squeezing inside; though not petite, Kali wasn't large either. "Kind of cozy," she offered sarcastically. It was okay to be a smart-aleck every now and then, right? She couldn't hide it all the time. "I hope you can get comfortable." This, however, was sincere... And she waited for Kestal to situate before finding someplace to plant herself.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled at her and chuckled softly. He laid down, his face distorting in pain as he did. It wasn't there long though, as he rested his leg against the cold stone. He looked up at her and smiled a little. "I'm fine." He said, though she hadn't asked. He yawned, and shivered a little. Now his worry was them getting sick from the cold, and wet rain. The thought didn't reside long in his mind though, as he yawned again. His body was yelling at him to sleep, and his eyelids felt like they were being pulled down. He didn't want to sleep until she was settled though.

Cihiru

Though she hadn't asked directly, his 'I'm fine' assurance was a modestly comforting reply to her previous comment. Kali took it as an okay to find someplace to rest herself, and settled on a patch of floor... well, much like all the other patches of floor.

"Get some sleep." She would lay and wait, keeping watch for danger as long as she could keep her eyes pried open. The mare was not yet sleepy anyway, so it didn't burden her... and she vowed to persist even after tiredness set in, as an equine with an injured leg faced grave danger.

 

[Twiddle]

Twiddle

As the morning sun dried the ground, the light contrasting the previous night heavily, the animals began to leave thier shelters and hiding places, glad for a new start, a new day. The aftermath of the storm wasn't too bad; a branch cracked there, a few puddles, nothing major.

As the light played across his face, Kestal cracked one eye open and looked outside of the small cave, watching a few rabbits hopping by. He started to get up, but winced and fell heavily back to the ground. Looking at his leg, he cringed at the sight of his swollen and bruised flesh. Sighing, he tried to get up again, more carefully. He managed to stand up, and limped out of the cave, into the sunlight.

Cihiru

She was anything but a sight for sore eyes. Sure, the athletic, yet elegant figure was there. And her slender face looked innocent as ever, her two-toned eyes hooded by heavy lids. Her posture, however, belied the intentions she'd held the previous evening. Kali had steeled her resolve to stay awake and be watchful, but raw determination could not keep the sand at bay.

So it was understandable Kali woke with a start at the shuffling. Perking her ears in an instant, she tossed a blurry gaze around the cave's confines. And in another instant, her sight landed on Kestal. She smiled softly at him and pushed herself to wobbly limbs, giving a gentle nudge as she pulled herself out of the cave's mouth.

The sun was a welcome sight, and it renewed her smile. "Good morning." The mare looked to him with a questioning gaze, trying to judge the extent of his injury without outright popping the redundant 'how are you feeling?' There were enough physical indications she didn't have to; swelling was bad.

Twiddle

Kestal looked over to her as she woke and followed him out. He smiled softly at her and gave her a good morning nuzzle. "I'm alright." He said, answering her questioning look. Though it was a flatout lie, he didn't want her worrying too much. If he acted like it wasn't sending shots of pain throughout his body, maybe she wouldn't notice. Right.

Now that the sun's rays illuminated the area, Kestal noticed the ravine wasn't a large space to jump at all. He looked away from it, not really wanting to remember it at that moment. "Have you ever been here before?" He asked suddenly, the unfamiliar teritory making him curious, and wary.

Cihiru

Uh-huh. "And I don't have wings." Kali gave the appendages a morning stretch, extending them expiramentally before refolding them against her sides. "I'm not blind, really." She smiled sincerely, appreciative of the notion. It was just a shame it wasn't true.

Having assessed that particular situation, she too turned to observe their surroundings in the more revealing morning light. "Not that I'm aware of." They were far from what she knew as home, now. While she did a great deal of wandering, she could only explore so much. And well, this wasn't part of it. "I'd suggest we head back, but I think that's a bit much travel for your current condition." So much so, it wasn't an option. She hoped he wouldn't indicate a desire to do so, but if he did, she'd put a stop to it.

"Sounds like we're stuck here, for a while at least," and in apparent contentment, Kali lowered her head to graze on the still-dewey grasses. "Unless you have another idea?" She paused a moment to glance to him.

Twiddle

Kestal looked around and shook his head. "Nope." He smiled a little to her, and followed suit, dipping his head to munch of the still wet grass. "I suppose we could see if there's anything of interest around." He said, looking to the small cave. "I doubt we can stay in that for very long. I'm sure something will want to get it's home back."

Cihiru

Kali gave a delayed, tired yawn. "How creative." Her tone was, perhaps, more venomous than she intended, but her good intentions rarely faded, and she was too sleepy to care much anyway. The grass she stole bites of every now and then made only a meager attempt to wake her, and she gave up on it after a while.

"We could." Wandering aimlessly didn't seem like the 'safest' nor 'wisest' thing to do though. Not while Kestal's leg was in such poor shape. He was right to harp about safety, so why stop following the advice now?

Because she had adopted reckless abandon long ago, growing up in the relative safety of the quiet woods near the Kawani village. "I can look around, if you want. It's a little easier to see things from up there," she motioned with the tilt of her head.

Twiddle

Kestal raised a brow at the tone of voice she used, and wondered why it was so. He pushed the thoght off though, and nibbled at the grass. "If you think you're up to it." He said, though he wondered if she was in the best condition to fly. He knew she wasn't hurt, but being tired probably wasn't the best sidekick to flight.

Cihiru

She made a small, half-hearted nod. "I'm..." and broke her sentence with a yawn, "fine. Really." Kali smiled for emphasis, blatantly sincere this time around. It wasn't that she was short-tempered; she just forgot to wake her humor. "Anyway, I can fly in my sleep. Don't worry about it;" anything but that. There were better things to worry about, if he felt inclined to bother. And it was best that he didn't; worrying was no fun at all.

"Any last words?" she offered in a far more good-natured manner. The mare paused only briefly, glancing over her shoulder to see if he really did have anything to say before she took flight. And with that, she took wing, lifting herself off the soggy ground with a powerful push of her haunches.

It was a gorgeous morning to be flying, all grogginess aside. The sun was still low in the sky, saving its blinding rays for later, and the only clouds to be found were of the light and puffy variety. A sight to behold, indeed. All it needed was a rainbow and it would have been picture perfect, she thought.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled to her, he figured it was just the fact she was tired that made her a little bit more on edge. He watched as she took flight, not saying a word, always in awe of the scene. He wondered what it was like to fly, though as he watched her he knew it was marvelous thing indeed.

As they ventured through their lands, one of the hunters pulled the reins on his horse back, stopping the dark animal. He pointed to the sky and hushed the other five of his group. "Look!" He whispered harshly to them, as he pointed to the black mare soaring through the sky. The other hunters gasped, a flying horse?! They had only heard of such a thing in legends and myths, a story creature indeed. Well, not anymore.

Kicking thier horses into a run, the six hunters started towards the flying mare.

Cihiru

She wasn't particularly sure what it was she was looking for; 'something interesting' was a rather large boundary to work within. Kali kept alert nontheless, and settled to search for anything out of the ordinary... though she did struggle to keep her eyes from the surreal horizon, and had to peel them away once or twice.

Inbetween peeks at the sky, the mare spotted the group easily from her vantage point. That definately looked out of the ordinary, but it was difficult to make anything of it from her height. After a squinting peer, she decided to swoop a little lower for a better look, and descended until she could discern details like... like the halters fastened on their horses.

The sight of them made her raise a brow; it was a fleeting curiosity that disappeared before she realized just what it was. A curiosity that gave way to dread, causing her ears to fold and her raven hide to give a nervous twitch. Something was definately amiss.

Kali didn't wait around to find out what was bothering her; she altered her path to an arching 'u', darting back in the direction she came. She might have been a little (okay, very) careless, but she knew the smell of danger, and wasn't one to question gut instinct. Kestal had to be warned, and they needed to seek safety of some kind.

Twiddle

Kestal watched her as she zoomed back down to the ground. He could already sense something was wrong, her movement were quick and he could sense her fear. "What's wrong?" He asked quickly, limping to where she landed.


"Hurry! Don't let it get away!" The leader of the men called as they watched her fly to the ground.

Cihiru

Kali landed with a heavy 'thud,' her hooves pulling her to a hasty stop. "No time to explain." She stole a quick glance over her shoulder, ears swiveling nervously. "We have to leave." But to where? There was no forest to be seen; the nearest thing they had to shelter was the cave, and that wasn't exactly ideal. She wasn't sure how deep it was, didn't know her way around inside, and who knew if they'd even be able to get inside before...

The group arrived. "Any ideas?" She was certain he would know now; he had to have heard the human's yell. Kali pushed herself between the group and Kestal, shielding him from view as best she could. "Cause we could really use some about now."

She could hear the footsteps at this point, rustling through the grasses in a rather hurried fashion. They were really out of time to act; meeting the party head-on didn't really appeal to her, but she didn't have much choice in the matter. Not long after Kali caught wind of their approach, shadows pulled into view, and a few humans slung themselves off their mounts.

Twiddle

Kestal wasn't the brightest stallion in the world, but he knew this was not a good thing. If he wasn't wounded they could have leapt over the ravine, and that would be that. But he was, and now they needed a much different, and very fast plan. The first thing that came to mind was the cave; but it was so small, they didn't know if it had an opening on the other side, and if not they would just box themselves in. Time for Plan B.

Watching the two horses in awe, the lead hunter brought out a lasso, slowly approaching the two. He made soft cooing noises and clucks as he did, and Kestal eyed him warily. "We can't trust these people." He whispered to Kali, as if it weren't obvious enough. "Fly away, now." He said, not wanting her to get caught. He pushed her aside, walking in front of her, placing himself between her and the group now. "I said fly!" He whinnied loudly at her.

Cihiru

Too bad there was no plan B. Not really, anyway. And no, 'stand your ground and fight!' didn't count as a plan. That was idiocy, too extreme even for her. What sort of fool planned to be foolish? She certainly didn't.

The antics might have worked on horses. Might have. But they were soquilis, not horses, and the men didn't have a snowball's chance in hell of swaying them. Soquilis carried with them a gift and a curse; the ability to sense human thoughts, emotions, and intentions. That was the source of the fear coursing through her veins; she could feel the dangerous reverence and curiosity. Kestal had to have sensed it too.

"You said what?!" Now was not the time to assert her independance, she chided. The shove went ignored; she merely braced her comparatively meager weight against him. "You should be thanking me," she spat, her jesting tone overriden by urgency.

Kali pushed around him, charging at the approaching human. She reared just short of him, extending her wings in intimidating fashion and lashing at the air with her forelegs. The man scrambeled a few steps backward, which satisfied her until she saw two more pull up beside him.

Twiddle

Kestal snorted at her, his ears against his head. "Get out of here! Get help! FLY!" Though his calls were ignored as she ran at the man. Kestal's eyes widened and he ran to her side, ignoring the rush of pain he felt from placing weight on his wounded foot. He winced and cringed but made no movement to stop.

The man eyed Kali with an eager curiousity, he was obviously thinking of the money they could get from this. He spun the rope around his head, about to throw it, when a hoof plowed him in teh chest. Kestal snorted at him as he fell, though the other were quickly circling them.

Cihiru

Kestal's cries fell on selectively deaf ears; she heard them, but they did nothing more than chime retorts in the confines of her mind. What help? The humans I can't communicate with? The soquilis that are liable to fall to the same fate? The friends you don't have? The mare had far too much to say to voice it all, especially when so much of it was too bitterly sarcastic to be appropriate for civil conversation anyway. "Don't do anything too stupid," she warned him with a sardonic grin. Leave foolishness to me, she mused.

It was about that time she thought to wonder where the others went off to. Yes, she was certain there were more. Hiding somewhere, perhaps, ducked just out of view, waiting to pounce. "Get away from me!" she cried at the man who dared approach her empty-handed, and snapped at his arm with her teeth. This was, perhaps, the moment he was waiting for, because it was then he slipped something over her head. Kali felt it tighten around the base of her neck with a tug, and pulled back out of instinct... only to be met with solid resistance.

Twiddle

Kestal looked over at her as she spoke and gave her a slight glare. He ignored it mostly though, as he spotted someone approaching him as well. He snorted and pawed the ground with one hoof, but the man was smart, mean, but smart. He noticed Kestal's injured leg, and with a long stick he smacked the Soquili's wound hard. Kestal let out a cry of pain, his legs buckling beneath him. The exact thing the man had wanted to happen.

The human ran at Kestal and slipped a rope around his neck, evading his snapping jaws and kicks. He then slipped another rope around his neck, and one around his foot. Kestal whinnied loudly, trying to get up, only to be dragged down by the men holding onto him.

Another rope was thrown over Kali's neck as well, by a man behind her, the two pulling at the same time to keep her in place; and on the ground. "Wrap the wings!" The lead man shouted, grinning with vigor. A young man tht looked quite afraid of the angry horses approached Kali cautiosly.

Cihiru

Everything happened so fast, she had trouble making sense of it all. Especially what was happening to Kestal; this was what they called tunnel vision, she supposed. "Kestal!" she called, more to make sure he was indeed still well and with her than anything. And then she heard his cry; it made her wince visibly, and for a moment she closed her eyes as though to block the thought of it.

When she opened them, it was with a new burst of resolve. Kali threw her weight against her vice, turning to face Kestal and lash futilly at his captors. It was a shame the men that bound her held fast; she rather would have enjoyed crushing them then.

Rather than the satisfaction of a bloodied corpse beneath her hooves, she was met with a force that made her legs buckle beneath her - a rather impressive feat. "Don't touch me!" she cried as she eyed the final man to approach. Kali spread her wings again, arching them defensively and thrashing them against the air.

Twiddle

Kestal heard her calls and he tried desperately to stand and aid her. He whinnied and kicked, snapping t them when they tried to get close. "Kali!" He called, looking over to her as the young man approached. He sent an aimed kick at his back, and the young man was thrust foward at her. Instead of collapsing as Kes had hoped, he merely smashed into Kali, her wings then hitting him. He yelled and ran away, droppingthe cloth he had been about to use for wrapping her wings.

Kestal smiled, at least her wings were free. If he could only get those two off of her she could fly away... but she wouldn't. He knew she wouldn't. Another man approached her, and grabbed the cloth, trying to force her wings down to wrap them up.

Cihiru

The collision hadn't really phased her; he was so light, it was rather like an acorn bouncing off the ground. More than anything, it was a relief to have her wings free, if only for a fleeting moment. Kali stole the opportunity to try and gather her limbs beneath her, but her effort to stand was met with more force, and she remained pressed against the ground.

And the moment was indeed a brief one; by the time she established she wasn't going anywhere, another had resumed the fallen's task. This was something that actually terrified her; a fear that wasn't going to be reasoned away. Her wings were her lifeline... her bridge from danger to safety.

Not that he cared. The man folded one wing with brute force, and pinned it against her side with his weight while he attempted to grab the other. "Don't!" she objected, scramblng one last (vain) attempt at freedom. It didn't delay him; in a dozen blinks, her wings were bound so neatly and tightly, it would have been difficult to tell they were there at all.

Twiddle

Which was exactly what the man had wanted. When they went back into the town, they didn't want anyone thinking of these two horses as odd in any way. Just a couple of wild ones they'd brought back with them.

Kestal however wasn't going to take this laying down. Well, maybe but he'd make a fuss about it. He tried once more to stand up, but the men around him brought him back down to the ground. His leg throbbed with pain, and he feared that soon he may pass out, which was not good for Kali. He needed to stay awake to help her. He forced himself to stay conscious, as the men began trying to get bridles around thier muzzles. Kestal snapped at the ropes as they tried wrapping them around his face.

Cihiru

But not impossible. "How'r you going to ans'r questions?" the man at Kali's side queried. He still had one palm pressed against her lump-for-wings, and was particularly aware the observant would have been able to discern them. The white feathers were stark against her dark hide, and created unnatural contours at her sides. It didn't take a genious to figure out; just a careful eye.

The same man took another rope in hand; one she recognized as the contraptions she'd spotted around the horses's heads. Before he even had opportunity to try and wrangle it over her muzzle, Kali snapped twice at his hands. The human's grumbling yelp notified his companions of her success, and though he managed to wrench free without taking any real damage, another came to assist him.

Unable to build a course of action to defend against them both, she shook her head frantically, tossing locks of mane in disarray. It kept them for a while, but she knew it was over when a burly hand clasped across her nose and steadied her thrashing. The bridle was soon to follow; first a loop over her nose, and then a tight strap behind her ears. Kali gave a dismayed, almost panicked snort, but lacked the words to say anything.

Twiddle

Kestal heard the fuss beside him, and looked over to see one of those rope things on Kali's face. He whinnied, hoping it wasn't harming her. He then felt a hand clasp over his own muzzle, a rope forced about it after. He shook his head and snorted, snapping at the fingers of the man. He dodged the teeth and glared at the spotted horse. "You're gonna get broken horse, and I'm gonna be the one to do it!" He suddenly grabbed Kestals mane, holding to it tightly in his hand. He forced the stallion's head back, and while doing so slipped the bridle around his head. Kestal whinnied and snorted, violently jerking his head from side to side, though it wasn't helping, the man's grip was too strong, and his head stayed secure until the bridle was fastened around it.

The men grinned and many cheered, thinking victory was theirs. Kestal didn't think so though. He smashed his head into one of the man's legs, causing him to trip and fall, and promptly took a bite from his clothing, ripping the cloth and snorting at the man.

Cihiru

The pain was far more emotional than physical; the ropes themselves didn't particularly hurt at all, except when she wrenched against them... Which was most of the time, actually. There was still the lingering hope maybe one of them would lose his grip, despite the voice that warned her it was only wishful thinking.

And the combined voices that reminded her she was outnumbered roughly three to one. She did have equine strength on her side, but there wasn't much she could do against sheer numbers. Kali recoiled briefly at the cheer, folding her ears tighter still and bowing her head closer to the ground. "Just leave us alone..." she whispered, and the ropes pulled her head up in response.

"You both 'ave far too much fire for yo'r own good," he uttered as he rose from the mare's side, clapping the dust from his hands. Kali reinforced the comment by snapping at his leg as he stood; he shuffled backwards, narrowly doding her bared teeth.

Twiddle

Kestal looked over to Kali, he was beginning to feel a sense of panic and desperation. He didn't like being tied up, he didn't like it one bit. But as he gazed upon the dark mare, he realized he needed to stay calm, and safe, for her. He stopped fussing, though his ears flattened at the mans response. He smiled as she bit at him.

A blanket was thrown over Kali's back, and the man who did it grinned. "Ah now, there's a solution if ah do say so mahself!" He laughed heartily, the others grinning and cheering once more. Kestal snorted and glared at them. "Now now painted horse, don't hold grudges!" He pet Kestal's neck and was met with snapping fingers. He glared at the horse, waving a finger in front of him. "When we get back to camp, you'll pay fo' that 'orse..." He grumbled, rubbing his now wounded finger. "MOVE OUT!" The call was loud and clear, and Kali and Kestal were forced to thier feet as they ropes pulled them along.

Cihiru

Kali tried to crane her neck as the material settled over her back; she could feel it even through the fabric that bound her wings. Her curious glance was not permitted though; someone tugged her head back in front of her, just before lifting the downward pressure, so that she may rise to her hooves. And she did, gratefully gathering her limbs beneath her and pushing to a stand.

Her instinct urged her to bolt... They must have known it, because their combined efforts forced her to take several steps back before they continued forward. Once the three men finally got the mare in a controllable, forward motion, her gait was a flighty, high-stepped one. It was a shame it belied her grace, because several men took notice. Not that anyone could blame them; it was a desirable trait.

"Where do you propose we put them?" One of Kali's ears budged from its tightly pinned position to swivel toward the voice's source. "Can't risk corraling 'em with the other horses, if yeh ask me." They were a danger to both others and themselves, at least until the group knew how they would react. It would be unwise to make assumptions.

Twiddle

Kestal was also forced to his feet, and his instinct was the same as hers. He wanted to run, to feel the ground under his feet as he flew across the land. But he knew even if he somehow escaped the ropes and men, he wouldn't be able to get far on his wounded leg. He limped forward beside Kali.

"We can keep 'em in the stables. They won't botha no one ther'." As the men admired Kali's grace, they pondered Kestal's wound. "Ya think we should just kill this one now?" One asked, looking at the stallion. "Tha' leg is pretty bad."

Cihiru

"I don't think that would be an intelligent decision," one of the hunters commented idly. He had been observing them rather carefully, noting small things like the way the equines glanced at one another, and walked so closely their sides brushed from time to time. "They are obviously attached, who knows what kind of emotional collapse it might cause." He knew none of them cared for their 'emotional stability' though. "She may die of sadness. She might find so much rage you have to kill her too," and he shrugged thoughtfully. "Who knows." After all, hell hath no fury like a woman's wrath.

All this conversation made a new discomfort wrench inside her; empathy warned her something wasn't right. They were in grave danger... a danger worse than capture. Kali would have paused, her limbs frozen with fear and apprehension, but the ropes around her neck and head urged her forward. The mare tossed Kestal a worried look instead, huddling protectively against him as he plodded along. She nuzzled him when constraints permitted, glared daggers when they didn't, and nipped warningly at anyone daring enough to touch them as they progressed.

Twiddle

Kestal looked over at the man saying it was not a wise choice, and he silently thanked the heavens for him. Even though they were captured, he knew tht, if they listened to him, he would remain by Kali's side.

"Not wise? Since when have we done what's wise?" Another man said, looking over his shoulder at the other. "Taking these horses from thier home is not wise, but we do it anyway."

Kestal eyed the men and their mounts. Thier mounts were what confused him so. On more than one occasion, he tried to whinny to the horses. Ask for help. Tell them to stop, that they could go back with himself and Kali and be free. But none listened, he got no response, and he sighed.

Whenever he felt Kali's touch, a new pang of hope spread through him. He smiled slightly to her, trying to let her know it would all be okay.

Cihiru

"Since you have in your posession the only winged horse you've ever laid eyes on." He shrugged and fidgeted with the bow draped over his shoulder. "You may want to start." This was a blatant threat; he let it dangle glaringly, confidant in the knowledge none would challenge him. He could feel their eyes flicking back and forth between them, calculating, and smiled inwardly. Two horses were better than one; it wasn't like his leg was broken.

"Besides." Kali tossed him a weary eye... he was the only man standing away from them, in an almost hands-off fashion. "What can it hurt?" The murmering amongst them made her wonder what it was they were discussing, but the lead in her stomach reminded her she probably didn't want to know. In this case, ignorance was bliss.

Or it would have been, if not for the ropes, and the force, and Kestal's determined calls to persuade their kin to assist them. "They're not like us." It was hard to tell if her tone was angry or defeated; her voice was soft, curt, and filled with sadness all at once. "Don't bother." Kali tried to reassure him with a nudge on the only spot she could reach - his neck, just behind his jaw. It was the best she could do; 'it's going to be okay' didn't really do the sentiment justice.

Twiddle

The man who had spoken earlier, and had also been the one to threaten and hurt Kestal, shot a challenging glare at the other. He, too, however had nothing to say in retort. He huffed and reajusted himself on his horse.

Kestal looked over to her, not liking the sound of her voice. "We'll get away." He said softly, his own tone filled with finlity, and a hint of desperation. He looked away from her suddenly, his nose in teh air. "Do you smell that?" Something drifted on the wind, blowing directly at them. The scent of meat cooking over a fire reched them, and Kestal contorted his nose against it. They were close.

Cihiru

Kali met his gaze with a steeled eye; her generally joking shine had given way to a determined fire. There was obviously much on her mind, but now was not the time to discuss it. Her heart would have to wait to bleed til later. "Yes," she said simply, snorting in dismay. "Fire." It smelled even more terrible than she remembered.

"Make sure th' stalls ah ready," the apparent leader huffed, jerking a thumb at the man who stood off to the side. He merely nodded and separated himself from the group, taking off ahead.

They wouldn't be following him any time soon. The closer they came to the village, the more stubborn Kali grew. She was not content to follow them blindly, one hoof in front of the other. When the cluster of shelters pulled into view, the mare stopped abruptly, bracing herself against the ground. And as expected, the men pulled against her, goading only a few shuffled steps forward. She gave her head a violent shake, forcing them to tighten their already deadly grips.

"Wha's gotten into 'er?" a man spat from Kestal's side. One shrugged, and another shook his head. "Who knows?"

Twiddle

Kestal snorted, as if trying to get the rancid sent from his nose. He hated that smell, cooked meat. Ugh, it was disgusting. He snorted again, and watched as the man rode away from the group.

"It's like she can understand us." One man said, the young boy who had been afraid of Kali earlier. The others laughed heartily t this comment. "Undastand?! Ahahaha! They're jus' dumb nimals!" More cracks of laughter sounded fter that, and Kestal glared at the men. As Kali stopped, Kes followed suit and planted his hooves in the ground.

"Ah, not this'n too!" One man said, aggrivated by the horses. He smashed Kestal hard on his hindquarters, and the stallion tried to rear, though with his wounded leg he couldn't manage it. He tripped a little, falling into one of the men.

Cihiru

"I can," she snapped, whipping her head around to glare and pin her ears at the loudest offender. He met her indifferently, granting her no more than a dissmissive 'shoo'ing motion. Kali snorted again, and gave one hoof an angry stamp.

"I don' care. Just get 'em moving." The men tried pulling her forward once again, more carefully coordinating their efforts. There was little she could do this time; when her hooves started sliding across the still-moist ground, she gave in. It hurt, and the pain wasn't worth the futile resistance. As she started foward, resuming her nervous step, the mare gave her head an uncomfortable shake.

"Where are we going?" she pleaded, fully aware the humans couldn't understand her. As if on cue though, a different structure pulled up beside them. There was a large, round corral in the distance, with horses circling half-heartedly within its confines. And nearest them, a cluster of smallish box-confinements defined a row. The openings on one side, and the man seated on one of the fences answered her question. They'd made it past the smoking fires and questioning inhabitants.

Twiddle

Kestal cringed and winces as his weight was forcefully put on his hurt leg, he had to catch himself. As the men started to pull them, he followed suit once again and continued to walk. As they passed by the village, Kestal could see small children running out to gaze upon them, as well s adults and elderly ones. He snorted at them and sent a threatening whinny, which made most back away and resume thier day.

As the small brown confinements came into view, Kestal became nervous, his skin twitching constantly. He kenw they would be put in there, but he wouldn't go without fight. He once gain stopped, digging his feet into the ground, pleading with the humns not to put him in there.

Cihiru

Kali had a far different approach on the matter, and glancing over at Kestal caused her to shake her head at him. Maybe they'd reward his obstinance with more spacious confinements, but she was growing too weary to care. The escape from the pestering and muttering, and the opportunity to rest was more than welcome. If they would only leave her alone, she would be content to go without a struggle. "Let me be," she snorted, glaring over her shoulder as she passed through the gate and into the boxed corral.

It closed heavily behind her, and a man followed the outer gate around to her front. With a hasty hand (as though he worried she would bite him), he loosened the ropes and jerked them over her head; leaving only the halter, which he fastened to the fence's uppermost rail. Satisfied with his handwork, he clapped his hands as he'd done earlier, and returned to whatever it was he did when he wasn't harrassing horses. The mare took the opportunity to try and peer over her shoulder; she strained against the ropes to try and steal a peek at Kestal, but couldn't spy much from the corner of her eye.

Twiddle

Kestal struggled as they forced him isnide, in teh stall beside Kali's. They took heed to the man's words about seperating them. Kestal snorted and shook his head, sending kicks to them whe he could. They dodged his hasty throws though, and he ended up inside the small confinement despitehis struggles.

"That one's gonna need a lot o' work." One man said, with a malice filled grin. He loved breaking in the wild horses. He was ripped from hsi thoughts as he felt a surge of pain through his leg. Kestal had kicked him as he shut the gate. He glared at the spotted horse and limped away, as Kes smiled in triumph. He then looked over to Kali, trying to turn his head against the halter. "Are you alright?"

Cihiru

The difficulty was rather short-lived; she had little trouble seeing him once he shuffled inside the 'stall.' "That's what I should be asking you." Kali made a small smile, but it did not mask her fatigue, nor her turmoil. "No," she said plainly, straightning her head to avoid his gaze. Now was the time... The time for her heart to bleed, and she couldn't bring herself to look at him.

"Do you remember when I told you 'I hope that's not a mistake you'll regret later'?" She heaved a sigh and shifted her weight uncomfortably. "This is exactly what I meant." She should not have returned to him when she spied the party to begin with; she should have steered them away. Maybe they never would have found Kestal; she was foolish not to realize it was her that intrigued them. Maybe she should have at least gone and tried to find help. Perhaps there was something they could have done. Hell, she never should have suggested they adventure in the rain to begin with. None of this would have happened if she hadn't. Kestal would not have hurt his leg, they would not have been captured, and they could be off frolicking in the swaying fields.

But she did suggest it, he did injure his leg, and they weren't frolicking anywhere. "I'm sorry." Kali shifted again, flexing her wings as best she could manage beneath the binds and cover. It was as she cast her gaze around she realized all but one of the party had left them. - One was still nearby; the one that had run ahead, and the one that had saved Kestal from almost certain death. He leaned against one of the outer walls, propping his elbows against the upper rail, and rested his chin in his palms.

Twiddle

Kestal watched her as she spoke, and he nuzzled her gently, glad the rope on him was long enough for him to be able to reach her. "Don't be. It's not your fault." He said softly, smiling at her. "We'll be fine." Kestl had seen the man already, and didn't acknowledge his presence, even though that was the one who had saved him.

Looking around, Kes tried to figure out a way out of this place. He loathed more than nything being enclosed in small spces, due to something that happened to him as a foal. He pushed the memory aside, along with the panic rising in his chest. He had to stay calm, for Kali.

Cihiru

The touch should have comforted her; should have chased away her fears with the fierceness of a raging lion. But it didn't. She recoiled, turning away from him as she pushed herself out of reach. The sight of her made the man against the fence frown softly, and and he leaned forward. "Don't be sad, Tahki. It's not your fault," he cooed.

This man did not scare her like the others; he did not fill her with dread, and his tone was sincere. At first, she merely flicked an ear at him, but sadistic curiosity got the best of her, and she turned to peer at him for a moment. What was Tahki? The gesture made him smile gently, even though she looked back to Kestal shortly after. "We will," she confirmed, sleepily bobbing her slender head.

Twiddle

Kestal eyed the man as he approached them, though by his tone he could tell this man was not like the others. He had, aftrer all, saved his life. He nickered softly at Kali, questioning without words if she felt the same as he did about this man. Kes looked back at hm, wondering why he had stayed behind.

Pushing the thoughts away, Kes yawned, his leg still pounding with pain. He wanted to lay down, though the rope tied about his face, and to the stall, forced him to stand. His eyelids drifted down, but he forced them back open, trying desperately to stay awake. He didn't want to sleep in thisp lace.

Cihiru

"I like him," she stated matter-of-factly, looking back at the man as she did so. "He's different." Why he remained, however, was a mystery. He seemed content to observe though; when Kali turned back to him, ears perked forward, he smiled again. "I'm glad you approve." Did he understand them? "Do you think...?" The mare left the question dangling uncertainly; she didn't want to sound foolish.

He may not have understood them, persay, but he could read enough of their body language to draw hints here and there. "You must sleep eventually. Don't worry, I'll watch over you." The man turned from them then, leaning back against the railing as he re-propped his elbows on the fence. "He's right, you know," she teased in the most good-natured tone she could manage, and gave a tired yawn. "You said yourself, it'll be okay." Kali passed the stallion a nuzzle before resigning herself to sleep.

Twiddle

Kestal was still wary of the man, but since Kali liked him, he supposed the two-legged couldn't be all bad. He let his head drift down, though he really wnted to lay down. He tried to, but only ended up tangling himself in an odd position.

Looking over his shoulder, the man blinked and carefully untied Kestal's harness from the stall. Kestal sank to the ground with relief, and the man gave another smile as he looked up at him. Kestal snorted and turned his head away. The man chuckled lightly as the stallion drifted to sleep.

 

[Twiddle]

Twiddle

Kestal stirred in his sleep as he dreamed. His eyes shot open as he felt a surge of pain course through his leg. He stood up quickly, stumbling but catching himself. He looked at his leg, which over the night had gotten more swollen. He sighed and shook his forelock from his eyes. He looked over the sde of the stall for Kali, catching a glimpse of the man who had untied him sitting in the corner, still asleep.

Looking away from the man, whom he was still wary about, he nickered softly to Kali.

Cihiru

The evening had been a restless one, filled with discomfort, nightmares, and at times, fear. She woke repeatedly, sometimes jolting to alertness with a start, and shuffling nervously within the narrow confines. And every time, the man had been there to reassure her. His gentle voice chased her groggy, lingering terrors away, and lulled her back to sleep eventually. She even permitted him to touch her once; that time, it was a careful scratch behind her ears that sent her back to dreams. Uncomfortable though it was, the night would have been far less restful without him.

But he probably would have gotten a lot more sleep without her. She woke naturally this time, cracking a lid to peer tiredly at the rising sun. The morning rays lit the horizon as reliably as ever, hailing a new day and casting an appreciated light on everything its fingers could reach. Including a figure nearby, huddled on the ground and leaning against the fence, obviously asleep. Finally; it was about time he got some rest. Kali smiled softly before turning to the equine greeting her. "Morning, Kestal." The mare gave her head a wake-up shake, tossing her mane about. "Are you doing alright?"

Twiddle

Kestal watched as she woke, smiling to her. "I'm fine." He was glad she couldn't see his leg, that was one good thing about the small confines of the stall. "How are you? Did you sleep well?" He knew he hadn't, he hadn't woken up very often, but his dreams were full of storms, fright, and pain. Shaking the thoguht off, he concentrated on her again.

Cihiru

She was relieved he could still find it inside himself to smile. It was a miniature sort of window to hope, reminding her despite everything, one could still stand and walk again. Figuratively, of course. It was comforting to know nothing could keep them down, if they refused to let it. "Terribly." She laughed; actually laughed. A wonderful feeling, that, even though she really had nothing to laugh at. "Feels kind of like my back is half broken too. I haven't gotten to stretch since... this time yesterday." Kali tilted her head thoughtfully, and sighed a little. "Not that it's anything much in compairison," she added.

Their exchange must have woke the man propped against the rails; he stirred lightly just then. The rustling of cloth and cured leather made her glance over at him, just in time to catch him lift a hand and run it through his disheleved hair (mussing it even more than it was already). Once he finished, he heaved a tired yawn, and peered over at them. The smile he gave as he met her eyes reassured her, this man was certainly not like the others. "Morn'," he murmured to them, pushing himself to his feet. Kali gave him a soft snort of acknowledgement, but she didn't dare linger on him for long, and turned quickly back to Kestal.

Twiddle

Kestal smiled sadly, how he had missed her laugh. He nuzzled her affectonately, his ear twisting over to the man as he stirred. Kes had to admit; this man was not like the others. If any of them were worthy of even the slightest bit of trust, it was him. Kes didn't grant him that trust though, not yet. He snorted in his general direction, and looked back to Kali. "That one," He said, motioning his head slightly towards the man, "Isn't like the others." He saw the man smile slightly out of the corner of his eye at Kestal's snort.

Cihiru

Kali frowned, though only lightly. The nuzzle filled her with a sort of sadness that was difficult to explain. Just something about the stalls... the barrier between them wasn't right; it felt awkward. "No, he's not." She chased the discomfort away with the topic Kestal offered, and smiled gratefully. "He stayed here all night, like he said he would. I'm not sure if you noticed or not." He seemed to have slept a little better, even if only slightly. She hoped he hadn't noticed; it would have meant he hadn't been restless like she had been.

"I hope you don't mind the name I chose. I promise Tahki is a far sight better than it would have been if the others got ahold of the opportunity to pick, anyway." Kali turned to look at the man as he spoke; he shrugged idly. "I'm Elan, by the way," he offered conversationally. "You... still need something to go by too." The mare noticed him gazing thoughtfully toward Kestal, and caught his somewhat bemused smile. "Unless you like being called 'stupid paint' and 'spotted horse'..."

Twiddle

Kestal's ear flickered toward the man, and he raised a brow at what he called Kali. Tahki? What is that? Oh, a name. He was naming them? Kestal wondered why he would, they already had names... But he doesn't know that. He thought, watching the man. He whinnied and stamped his foot at the comment of 'stupid paint' and 'spotted horse'.

The man smiled, yet eyed Kestal. It was as though he understood. "...Well, let's get that leg taken care of anyway." He murmured, peering over the stall door to look at Kes's leg. He cringed a bit at the sight.

Cihiru

Tahki was alright, she supposed. Kali would have been preferable, but she didn't have much choice in the matter, couldn't communicate what her name really was, and didn't have any reason to complain anyway. Tahki really wasn't so bad. "Could be worse..." The mare looked to Kestal and fixed him with an impish grin. "Silly paint." It was not, perhaps, the best time to be fooling though. She could tell he was still in a great deal of pain.

And yet again, so could the man who introduced himself as Elan. This intrigued her greatly; the behavior and understanding was not something she'd come to recognize as typical. Why could he communicate with them where others could not?

The injury looked worse than he recalled and anticipated; hopefully it had not passed the realm of recovery. "That's quite a number you managed," he mumbled to himself, and made his way around to the gates. Kestal's stall opened easily, the leather 'latch' giving in to practiced hands. Elan was careful to pull it closed behind him; it would have been a very poor time for him to take back to the wilds.

Twiddle

Kestal glanced at Kali with a shake of his head at her comment, yet he smiled as well. He still loved that sense of humor, and was glad she could still pull it off, even in this environment. Kestal watched and listened as the man talked, and as he came into the stall, Kes backed up, eyeing him warily.

"Don't worry boy, I'm not here to harm you." Elan spoke softly, his voice smooth and low. "I'm just going to try and help that leg of yours." Kes watched him as he knelt down slowly, carefully trying not to spook the stallion, and grabbed a few bandges and a light greenish salve from his bag. Kes though had no idea what these things were, and he snorted, his ears twirling forward at the man.

Kestal eyed Elan as he started to carefully approach his back leg. "Easy boy, I'm not going to hurt you..." He said softly, as Kes backed away from him, his skin twitching. He glanced to Kali, hoping she could tell him if it was safe or not, since he wasn't sure.

Elan slowly, carefully spread the salve on the bandage, not daring to touch Kes directly yet. As he wound the bandage around his leg carefully, Kes cringed but let him do it, his ears flat against his head. Elan smiled and stood, leaving the stall and closing it securely behind him. "There, you'll heal much faster now."

Cihiru

The mare shook her head at Kestal, ears wilting in sadness toward his mistrust. "Listen to him - I really do believe his words." What had happened to make him hate them all? Here she was, standing against her will inside a small enclosure, robbed of her freedom of flight, and she couldn't find it within herself to hate him, too. The others were free game, but he did not deserve her malice. "Was that so bad?"

Elan had circled around the fence once he left the stall, brining him back around to the side her halter was still tied. She didn't seem particularly bothered by the restriction, but he went to untie it anyway. Kali noticed the man took his time in doing so, stealing glances at her now and then, as though he was using the activity as an excuse to observe her from such close quarters.

This amused her. He was exceptionally meticulous, taking particular care not to spook or offend them, even in situations such as this one... Where it was probably uncalled for. He did not bother her; Kali tried to let him know by pressing her nose into his palm. Elan answered with a pat on her velvety muzzle. Did that mean he understood?

It was a poor time to communicate ammends, either way. Their interaction caught the interest of three passerbys; men she recognized as part of the group from yesterday. Their expressions shared varying degrees of satisfaction, but they greeted Elan with a no-so-friendly sneer. "'Lo. Tamed the beast already?" The largest of the trio had approached the line of stalls, and leaned obnoxiously over the top of one of the fences. "Must not'o been so bad after all, if you could do it."

Kali refrained from turning to bite him only because Elan had her lead still in-hand. The mare pinned her ears instead, and gave her tail an agitated swish. "Not so much," he warned, his smile fading from his expression.

Twiddle

Kestal watched as Kali let them pet her, and he smiled a little. He finally realized this man was not there to harm them. Looking over at the me that came into the barn, Kes snorted and stomped one foot. His ears flattened against his head as well, but since no one was there to restrain him, he grinned. He leaned over the stall, and bit the man's hand, hard. "AH!" The man yelled and pulled back, ripping his hand from Kestal's jaw. "Damn paint.." He muttered, cradling his fingers.

"That one is crazy." One of the other men said, eying Kes. Kes snorted at him, stomping his foot once again. He wanted to go out there and pound every one of tehm under his hooves. But the fact that he was in a small stall, and his leg was still wounded, didn't permit him to do so. He snorted once more and whinnied. "He's not crazy; he's wounded and doesn't like you." Elan replied, with a slight smile on his face.

Cihiru

"I can't blame him," he added thoughtfully, scratching his chin in an almost musing manner. "Don' tell me what tha' stupid h-" "Ahote likely has more sense than you do," Elan interjected. "So I think I'll make that decision myself; thank you for your concern."

The man huffed angrily at him and shoved himself off the fence with his palms. "A'right, Elan. If yer such a horse whisperer, yeh must have th' mare quiet as a rabbit b'now." He invited himself into Kali's stall and took hold of her bridle, 'politely' forcing Elan to surrender his hold. And he did, bowing his head in acknowledgement, while a voice inside him chimed you don't know what you're getting into.

Was he ever clueless. Kali followed him out easy enough; she was so eager to be free of the tiny confines, she didn't really care about the method. Even more welcome, his first order of buisness was to pull the blanket from her back and toss it on the ground. The mare shook immediately, sending the dust lodged under the cover flying. Ah, that felt good. Stretching her wings would have felt better; she could feel them twitching against the binds in anxiousness.

But this wasn't stretching; not at all. Rope clasped in one hand, the burly man took a fistful of mane in his other hand, and slung himself over Kali's back. The extra weight hit her unexpectedly; the moment she spent stationary was the split second she was too stunned to move. The following moments were spent with the man clinging desperately with his hands and legs as she reared, using the base of her wings as an advantage to help keep him seated. "You okay?" one of his companions questioned after a minute or two.

In a pristine example of time-honored perfection, he lost his grip at just that moment. The man stayed on her back for only seconds after that, sliding quickly down her spine and landing on the dusty ground with a 'thud.' Kali exhaled a heavy, relieved sigh when she felt him fall, and distanced herself as far as she could before someone else grabbed the rope she trailed behind her.

Twiddle

Kestal stood by Elan and watched as this took place. As the man grabbed Kali's mane and heaved himself atop her back, Kes practically destroyed his stall. He bucked his good foot against the side, his front feet bashing against the door. The hinge creaked dangerously, and Kes would have gotten through if Elan hadn't restrained him by grabbing the lead rope attatched to his head.

Elan watched, shaking his head, and hiding the small smile on his face. "Damn mare!" The now embarrassed man shouted at Kali, glaring. "Elan, ya didn' do a very good job o' breakin' this 'ere mare." He said, trying to put the blame on his companion. "I never tried to." Elan replied calmly, watching the other with a knowing smirk.

Kestal whinnied to Kali in teh mean time, reaching out his neck as far as he could, trying to get over to her. "Are you alright?" He asked, almost frantic.

Cihiru

"She'll be alright," Elan assured, whispering to the paniced equine beside him. "She can take care of herself. Besides," he leaned closer still, steadying Kestal to the best of his ability. "You'll like the ending." The man nodded to the horse as he stilled and turned his gaze back to center stage.

The would-be rider was fuming so fiercely you could practically see the steam streaming off his head and shoulders. He never fell; not even off of wild horses. And he especially didn't let insolent Elan walk all over him. "What else do yeh think yer 'ere ta do?" he jabbed. "I'm here to take care of and tame them - and she's tamer than anyone could expect from such a wild and independant horse," he defended with a neutral tone. "Prove it, 'less I find somethin' else fer yeh t'do with yer time." This was not a hollow threat; Elan knew it and heeded it well.

For a moment, she'd forgotten Kestal was there. His whinny pulled her thoughts back to reality, and she turned to look to him. "I'm fine." Kali had been saying that a lot lately. "I think it looks a lot worse than it is." She tried to approach and comfort him, but a tug on her halter said otherwise. And it was Elan, so she gave the stallion a regretful, apologetic smile and walked back to their caretaker, obediant as the tamest steeds.

"I'm sorry, Tahki," he whispered to her. "I shouldn't have let him do that - but I did, and now I have to show him I can ride you. I won't be able to watch over you if I can't." There was a gentle pleading in his tone; not begging, but a most sincere request for her permission. "I asked yeh t'show she's broke', not remind us yeh like t' talk with horses," he goaded, fully aware it was an impossible feat. 'Breaking,' as he called it, took weeks, sometimes months to accomplish; not a single day. "Will you let me?" Elan questioned, ignoring the man rambling behind him.

It was a lot to absorb; Kali wasn't sure she understood the entirety of the situation. He wanted to... sit on her back, like the loud man had? What for? Whatever the reasoning, he made it sound like something he had to do; for some reason, she didn't want to let him down any more than she wanted one of those other men to take his place. So she nodded at him, bobbing her slender head and nosing at his hands. "I don't mind." It wasn't so bad.

Elan's approach was much gentler, and his form was much lighter. He landed on her back like a feather, just sort of settling into his seat and wrapping his legs around her barrel. He actually expected her to start, at least a little, and had braced for it... And was taken by surprise when she didn't. The mare stood there like a statue, save for the idle flick of her gradiant tail. "I'm failing to see a problem here..." He couldn't help but goad; victory was delicious, and securing his lifestyle with the horses meant the world to him.

Twiddle

As the men laughed at the apparent leaders goads and jokes, Kes watched with ears perked. That is what the men who had taken his herd members had done. He rememberd them trying to ride atop the ones he had grown to love and think of as family. As he was lost in this memory, he didn't want it to happen to Kali too, and he forgot it was Elan who sat upon her now.

A large booming noise could be heard as Kes slammed his hooves against the stall, trying desperately to get to Kali. He whinnied loudly, snorting and stomping. Elan watched him with wide eyes, as the other men did, not sure what set this stallion off to rampaging. One of the men tried to grab his lead, and he snapped at the man's hand, who quickly backed away from the crazy paint.

The leader of the group suddenly hit him on the rump hard with a folded up strap of rope. Kestal let out a loud whinny of pain, and glared at the man, ears flat against his skull. But it drove him out of his memory and into reality again. He blinked, looking at the marks in the wood he had made, then looked over at Kali and Elan. He shook his head and looked down, almost looking as though he was ashamed.

The men eyed him warily, and were still in shock as to the fact Elan was sitting atop the mare with no problem, the horse standing there as if everything were normal. The leader huffed and left, saying he needed to get chores done, and the men followed him out.