The feelings twisting and conflicting within Ailill were powerful and overwhelming for the young stallion. He had followed her to the ridge, protective of those who resided in Paradise. Ever since Macabre had wandered away and fallen into the hands of Vodnik, Ailill had increased his protectiveness of his boarders. With relations between the two stallions as explosively volitile as they were, and the island in an eery calm state of anarchy he was not taking any chances with his young friend. So when she showed such extreme interest in climbing to the top of the Ridge he had gone with her. On high alert in the realm of another he had made sure to feed both of their senses of adventure. Choosing trails less traveled and steeper than some would have dared they had seen the crest of the stones in such a way their smaller size would have given the explorers an advantage over the giant draft that ruled. Shararat’s joy had washed away his concern and misgivings when her face lit up at the view. There had been so much glee and happiness he had vowed in that moment to protect such aspect of the world. Whether he knew it or not he had become a guilded knight, but with an unchecked determination. Bringing his attention back to the filly he grinned down at her. You could not see the other islands. From the Peak you can see the outlines of all of them.

A single ear flicked to her and he tilted his head. There were stories and lore about the heavens and earth. His mother had told him many different horses believed in many different things. He and his sister had run recklessly down paths of belief and imagination that gave light to their souls and flames in their hearts. Born of the earth and walkers upon it, they both still held close the personas and dreams there was something greater, that they could be something greater. Taika, a daughter of the moon, and Ailill a son of forest and fantasy. Some say when a star falls it kisses a newborn foal. When they grow they run and dance with the heavens and bring the shimmering light with them wherever they go. Their bodies are painted as the night sky so their brothers, sisters, and lovers can recognize them. Of all the tales and stories he knew those of love and play had been his favorite. Taytim had warned him many believed in war and bitterness among the stars and the earth they shined on. The man refused to allow such things be the sources of his belief. Why would gods and heavens create themselves and others only to watch it all die before their eyes. Everyone was born with an instant of innocence before their lives began, it as those around them who twisted and tainted them, leading them down the paths of life. Who was he to extinguish a light when he had the chance to let it shine brighter.

To his immense relief the filly learned the basics of swimming quickly. Faster, be believed, than he had. Her calm and her instincts served her well and his smile held more than a modest amount of pride in her. As she works for herself and puts effort into learning to turn and manuver he merely stands beside her, only to intervene if she were in danger or truly struggling. He had no intention of stepping over her when she was perfectly capable of learning and growing on her own. Those who were helped too much could truly have been hindered instead. Shararat was a power onto herself and she had the will to take control and use it for whatever she dreamed fit! He chuckled softly and could not resist stepping beside her and lipping gently at her tufty mane. Yes it is! Luckily you have been running a lot, so your legs are strong! He grinned at her, eyes lighting almost mischievously. When you are used to the water, would you like to swim and explore? There are many islands, and if you visit while claiming to be a part of Paradise they may let you visit as you please. In fact, I may have a task for you, if you wish to accept it. Or so he hoped. He sighed to himself and muddled over this conundrum.