Before he had realized it, summer had nearly passed him by. Unlike in previous years, in which his springs and summers were filled with almost frantic mare-gathering and cross-island visits, Solomon had rarely left the Cove. He'd spent his time relishing in the familiar companionship of the mares and children that he loved dearly, and had kept (mostly) to himself.

He should have spent that time (and mild weather) going to see the distant members of his family. Finch and Ashteroth and Asmodeus. Kolfinna and Kalanthia and their newest child, if one had been conceived. Evren… and their spur of the moment child. He should have spent the time reaffirming his old alliances and inquiring after new ones with herds and families that made sense, like the Forest. There was a war coming, and he had done precious little to prepare for it.

Still, he knew that he should start here, first. Not only was the Peak the closest, but they were arguably the strongest potential ally that he could think of, not that his intention was to seek alliance today. Even with the visits made by Oswin and Nekharat and Kolfinna, his earlier distrust had not yet disappeared. In his estimation, they were largely no better than any other herd except that they wielded their 'diplomacy' like maces and pretended as though their actions did not have dark and toxic motives. It was possible that they had changed in the days since Wasp's rule, but he had not held his breath in the meantime.

Even being here now was uncomfortable, and he could feel the looming heights of the Peaks staring down at him in judgement.

Solomon did not encroach far, just enough so that when the noonday sun dried his summer coat he could move into the shade of a few scraggly trees at the base of the mountain nearest the Cove. Only then did he lift his aristocratic head and call out for Kolfinna and Kalanthia. It was time for him to meet his child and grandchild.

OOC: Sorry it's so garbage and short <3 Will edit to closed if Kolfinna/Kalanthia appear.

Solomon