Common

He stands idly at the edge of the sea, the surf bubbles and froths at his hooves. A soft breeze ruffles his unkempt ebony mane as his dark chocolate eyes focus on the distant green smeer of land. He has not left the Dunes for some time, considering all of the events that have unfolded. With the bursting of spring comes new responsibilities, new life blooms in the searing sands.

The sultan steps into the sea; the cool waters embrace him. He strikes out with powerful strokes, his focus on the commons. His dished head is held above the waves, delicate nostrils flaring with every breath.

It is not long before the surf crashes against the sandy shores of the commons, he strides forth from the sea's embrace. Water runs in rivulets down his speckled sides, returning to the surf below. His waterlogged mane clings to the delicate curve of his neck, his tail slaps against his speckled side with a resounding smack. He only slows to let his dark gaze flick up the beach, and they focus on a distant figure. She is alabaster in hue, and her pose is one of uncertainty. He steps through the surf with lithe steps, prancing on light hooves.

Her words fade on the breeze, inaudible on the sea breeze. His ears flick atop his crown, trying to catch the words that leave her lips.

"You seem uncertain if this is the path that is meant for you," he says as he eyes the alabaster woman before him. He halts within the surf as it pulls at his ankles with every ebb of the sea.