Winter storms shook Atlantis most days, but occasionally there was a moment or two a day where the sun shined down on the tropics to warm the earth and create rolling fog in the trees. Ailill walked through the forests, growing more and more perfectly at home here. Though he had not been officially accepted into the ranks of the Ridge, he knew Bjorn trusted him enough to let him stay. Some would state that he had even already proven himself by listening to the tail of one of Bjorn’s mares and learning about the horses in this herd. He had committed himself to the task of getting to know the others in this place, but for now he figured he would enjoy the moments while the rain had stopped.

The pale gold stallion moved onto the sand, stretching his body to take in the shining sun. For a moment he eyed the calm waves, contemplating another swim to Crossing just for the fun of it. In the distance another storm was brewing and he knew the winter still blanketed Crossing with its so lovingly cold snow. He had made this mistake twice this season already. He was not eager to repeat his mistakes. With a shake of his head, he decided to stretch his legs instead and urged himself into a canter along the shoreline, mind wandering while his hooves did not.

Ears twitched at the sound of a call and he altered his course, his heart skipping a beat when he realized the sound was coming from the direction of Paradise. He gave out his own whinney, alerting the visitor and others of the herd that he was addressing this one. Picking up his pace, he nearly ran flat out through the sand, enjoying the power it took to make it fly from around his hooves. Once he saw the mare he slowed to a walk as he approached and bowed his head respectfully towards her. Soft nose flaring he knew at once she was from his beloved Paradise. Good day, what bring such a creature as yourself from Paradise to walk among us at the Ridge? Though his words did not say it, his voice was a teasing dance and his smile glittering on his lips. Her fine features were not lost on him, but his mother taught him not to stare and his baby blue eyes remained politely focused on her face.