The falls had always been a place of great comfort to the golden stallion. It had been the place of his birth. For years his sister and I had played within the falls. Together they had chased spirits and fantasies from sunrise to sunset. The falling water in the green forest was very possibly what had drawn the young man to the forest of Paradise. It was a home that spoke to his very soul. The magic he and his sister had chased so many years ago was alive and well in the calls of the birds, the mists of the trails, and the fall of the rain that was a constant comfort in his home. But here, in the falls, he lingered to enjoy the memories of his sister and the joy they shared. Away from his island he could easily forget the constant pressure of his towering neighbor. His concern for his home still twisted in his stomach, but he was able to set it aside in this meditative place. If only for a day. He leaned easily against the rocks of a quiet cove. It was quiet and secluded, the thunder of the falls in the distance and the view of the clearing obscured by new-growth branches. A light mist seemed to surround the area, the falls not far enough away that water did not carry to glisten on surrounding structures. It was a place of pleasantries. It was a rare moment of restful peace he enjoyed. A single ear swiveled at the snap of branches just at the entrance of his sanctuary. Crystal blue eyes looked through long platinum blond locks and he smiled when a young mare stepped through to the clearing. At first glance he could see nothing that would alert him to who this visitor was. All he noticed was a lonely mare dripping wet from the sea. Even as he stepped forward and the wind blew her scent to him all he could smell was the salty water clinging to her body. Greetings! His voice was kind and smooth. Not too long ago it had lost its youthful shrill notes. Now it was clear as a sunny sky and as dancing as a trickling creek. As he approached he nodded his head down respectfully towards her. Quickly his eyes glanced over her, taking in the sticks clinging to her tail, and her mane plastered to her face and neck. I would welcome you, but it seems as though the sea spirits are not yet ready to release you. His grin grew good naturedly. Not that I would blame them. But the fairies of the falls might wish to have their turn to dance with you. |