As much as the blanketed stallion hated to admit it, winter in Paradise was rather nice. There was little to worry about in terms of food and shelter, and for that he was grateful. Furthermore, as long as he kept up with daily patrols of the borders, he felt free to otherwise do as he pleased. Since bringing Veles back from the common, they had been mostly keeping to themselves. He enjoyed the mare’s company after having been isolated for so long. Eventually, he should introduce her to the rest of herd, but for now he was rather selfishly keeping her companionship for himself.

Gnome and the silver grullo mare were quietly grazing near the south shore of the island when a distant call floated to them on the breeze. The dun lifted his white-splashed face to the wind for a moment, ears pricked and nostrils flaring. There was not another immediate call, so he presumed it was for someone else and went back to take another mouthful of foliage. Just before his lips reached the tender leaves, he heard another call. This time, it was nearer to the grazing pair. Gnome turned to stand between Veles and whatever potential threat this might be. He kept one ear toward the direction off the disturbance while the other flicked around to catch any other sounds.

The colt emerged from around some bushes and Gnome instantly relaxed. He recognized the young horse as one of Rougaru’s children. They hadn’t been formally introduced, but he had seen the boy grazing amongst the rest of the herd. His relaxation was short-lived, however, when he noticed the body language of the silver-maned youngster. A frown wrinkled his lips, and his ears tilted back with worry. ”Is something wrong? Are you in danger?” Gnome would have given his name, but if something was amiss it was not the time to exchange niceties.

Gnome