Ears twisted attentively when another set of hoofbeats started to approach. The splashed mare’s pale face shifted a moment to study the new arrival. She also stood tall and clearly belonged in this territory. Adelheid, though her eyes narrowed slightly, could not help but feel a sense of respect for the other mare and the way she carried herself. She was clearly another in these lands one would not want to aggravate. Adelheid made a note to find this mare later, after their current pest problem had been eradicated.

Ears flattened again and Adelheid had to fight to keep her teeth from gritting. Sapphires narrowed as she looked between Coda and Solomon. Though she appeared to be a brick wall, she took in everything the mare had to say and watched her body as closely as the mist would allow. She also shifted to hear Solomon’s response to her questions and study him as well. Coda, the stallion named her, did not seem to have any obvious wounds other than what would have come from swimming to Crossing during the season. Though she seemed on the brink of flight at the thought of an ill-intended breath. The stallion, however, held as much tension in his body as she did. Either, he was ready for a fight, or he might not have been as honest with them as he was playing off. She shook her head in irritation and stomped her foot, her displeasure painting itself on her features.

The Peak will not give up its Trinkets. Honestly, she did not know who was currently keeping a captive, under what circumstances, or if the stallions would even want to leave. Nor did she have any authority to make such a bargain - even if she wanted to. Her long tail swished and face snaked forward. Your claim might have been valid, but it is you who have broken our codes of coming into the Peak. Mares come here for sanctuary and you have trespassed. If this mare was running from you, there was a reason. You can either leave her with us to rest, willingly. Or fight us for her freedom. She glanced over at the other mare who had joined her in the defense of the Peak. It was not hard to believe the other called this place home, whereas Adelheid and only just returned from her travels. It was a relief to see that someone still did stand at the ready in this place. Her gaze locked back at the offending stallion. Leave Coda here, let her be free. Or fight me. If I win, her freedom is assured. If you win, she still goes free and you have me as your captive for a season. Adelheid snorted out at him, her glare sharp and pointed. Take your pick, stallion. And get out.