The vermilion stallion flicked his lobes in uncertainty as he spectated her hesitation in collecting her bearings before barreling past him. it concerned him, but she seemed to be alright, and it wasn't a subject he wanted to bring up, so he filed it away until she was ready to discuss it.
Catching up with her as they reached the last of the tree line, he could smell the salt. they were near the shore, something he was not to particular about, as far as spending time getting home, instead of having fun. he would have very much liked to have started a game on the way home, but these waters, having become accustom to their nasty tricks, it was a safer bet to take ones time and return home, with avasha, in one piece.
As he observed her closely, he could see and feel the happiness radiate off her, which put a smile on his maw. it always made him feel good when he could give to those who desired. he made sure to let avasha go in front of him, directing her path from her flank. he would rather be beside her, able to help in anyway he could. instead of being blindsided by leading the charge. though kieron, still being the gentleman and the king he was brought up to be, stayed to the inside of the water, allowing avasha to stick close to the shore as she pleased. if he was going to take the water route, he was going to skim each island to get to the forest.
The sun was warm on his back, and the cool water made for a great combination. it wasn't until mid-afternoon that the two companions reached luthien island. it would take about another half hour to reach the forest. but with avasha by his side, it wouldn't seem like a long hike. it would be pleasurable.
When he climbed onto the bank of the isle, he shook himself of any loose droplets and waited for the black raven to do the same. beaming, he gently nudged her this time, towards the front entrance, as he thought that was the more scenic route and a better introduction to the Forest.
The shared trail, between the territories, was well worn from use, as the grass on either side had been well enjoyed. the birds kept to themselves, though every so often they would start some commotion.
Not soon enough, kieron came to a halt, on top of the main hill that looked down a river tunnel. it streamed under the main entrance of a rock wall, leading into the forest. smiling, he nickered to avasha to go ahead of him, as it was safe, and on the other side, he could sense his herd grazing peacefully.
He followed her quietly, not wanting to spoil any surprises. but when she stopped to survey her new home, he smiled beside her, looking over his growing herd, and said,
"Welcome home, avasha. this is the forest."
Inside the forest, was a relatively medium sized meadow, with a nice inland pool, filled with fresh spring water from a massive mountain shaped rock in the middle of the crystal blue liquid. the waterfall sprouted almost like a fountain of sorts from the rock. but besides this little haven in the woods, the forest was dense and made for good security.
|