Winter had settled over the land in full force, Ruger noted, as he pulled himself up onto the shores of the Crossing. The cold wind was biting against his wet hide, the salt water rushing off his thick coat in rivulets. The stallion did not even bother to shake it away, hoping this trip would be quick and that he would be back into the sea before it could even freeze dry upon his flesh. But even still, his heart was heavy, not leaving much room for hope as he strode off to the Falls in search of his lost love for the second time.
But again, she was not there.
At first, Ruger did not know what to do. Had the winds taken her once more, back to the main lands or where ever it was she had gone before? He stood there long enough that the salt water upon his winter thickened coat began to turn to ice, and his mane and tail stiff. But when he finally ventured away, he had not gone far when he picked up her stale scent and old tracks among the snow. Taking the chance, Ruger began to follow them, still not daring to hope.
When Ruger arrived to the Commons, he was extremely confused. Zimri knew better than to come here. When they were young, he had often told her of the horrors that lurked here. Why would she come to such a place, when he had always come back to her at the Falls? Briefly, Ruger thought of letting her be. Perhaps she wished to start over completely here on the Islands, and he could not deny her that. Not when he had Evanescence hidden away safely in the Prairie. Ears pinning as he contemplated, the painted beast finally decided he would lay claim to her. If only to keep her from the Lagoon. Then later, if she wished for a different home, Ruger would grant her that.
Picking up a lofty trot, Ruger moved along her much fresher tracks among the snow. The fresh powder still kicked up against his belly and flanks, drifting along behind him like crystals. When he finally spotted the blue roan digging around the snow for food, he did not waste any time. Only pulling up as he reached her, Ruger reached out and bumped his nose against her shoulder. “You have picked quite the dangerous place to visit.” he said, trying to keep the accusing tone from his voice. “Hurry, we must leave this place for Luthien.” ,