†
Temblor plunges into the ocean, his conversation with Anne held to his chest like a buoy as he submerges himself once again in the ravenous sea. His hooves find purchase on the shores of that green-gilt island which first drew his eye. It is a massive place. The smell of horse is thick and varied, and he spends a little timer acquainting himself with all it has to offer while maintaining a reflective solitude. More than one season turns on the Crossing and, when spring coaxes life from the earth again, Temblor believes he has finally made peace with himself.
It is time.
Miles away from the shores of the ruins, on a sun-warmed beach well-traveled by other equine, Temblor finds himself hock-deep in saltwater and staring at the island on the horizon. If this island had looked thick with life when he first saw it, the one in the distance is fair choked with greenery. His memories of winter are still fresh. It had been cold, and lonely, and his body hungers still. Temblor's appetites drive him into the tide—
—and he emerges on the shores of of Atlantis as if newly baptized, unencumbered by the sins of his past, to stride up the shores of a jungle teeming with life. He flicks a hind hoof distractedly as he pauses in the shade of a palm. The air here hangs heavier than snow and sweat collects on his already wet coat. It is uncomfortable. Looking around, he wonders if all these wide, luscious fronds are edible, or if he will have to root out his meals near the ground like some sort of truffle-seeking boar.
He shudders water off his coat and draws in a deep breath: scents, varied, but far fainter than those on the Crossing isle. Inconsistent, and separate. This land may be occupied, but there is no coherent herd that he can identify. Temblor gives his coat another shake and lifts his head, announcing his arrival with a loud whinny for the benefit of whoever might remain. If there is a band stallion, he'll find out soon enough. Temblor strides into the jungle to see who in Paradise remains to be seen.
TEMBLOR
& swallows you whole
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