Time has transformed Conquistador beyond recognition. Little remains of the frail colt who had been delivered into Xina's care; the angular planes of his once-malnourished body have long since filled out. Though he is still lean, the ribs that had rippled like dunes in the golden sand of his coat are now invisible to all but the most discerning gaze. Even his lungs have developed to meet his growing body's demands; Conquistador is still short-winded after a sprint, but he no longer struggles to draw breath unless he is straining to his utmost.

The growth of his character is more subtle, but no less spectacular. Where once he had clung to the comfort of Xina's side, the colt has gained confidence and even developed a sort of quiet courage. At an early age, he had lost everything - the woman who had been the center of his world, the father who had been its foundation, and had even come close to losing his own life. But he had emerged from the ashes of his former existence, and started anew on Atlantis. He had survived, and found a new family for himself - a family that was formed from bonds that transcended those born of shared blood.

It would be easy to forget that he did not truly belong here, if it wasn't for the vow that threatened to tear him from his new home. Though countless days have passed since his brother had made his vow, the seasons of security and serenity have not eased Conquistador's anxiety. Soon, he is certain, Rade will return for him. Soon, he will be forced to leave his new family behind him.

For that reason, there is little to be gained in allowing himself to grow closer to those who shared Paradise with him. Until today, Sahin had kept his distance from Xina's young charge, and the colt had made no efforts to encourage the man to interact with him. So when the spotted stallion approaches him, Conquistador is surprised by the sudden change, and by the comfortable familiarity that somehow exists between them. Just to hear Sahin speak his name sends a shiver of warmth down his spine, and the younger stallion realizes in that moment that this man has replaced in his heart the father that he had barely known.

"Of course, Sahin," he responds, brown eyes alight with both curiosity and contentment as he falls into step beside the older stallion.