Nuru took the bay yearling's offer and sprang ahead, trotting leisurely into the thicket. It didn't take long for him to cross through the shrubs and small trees, but he tried to slow down every time he glanced back and saw he had increased his speed. He flicked his tail the first time he noticed that the trees had definitely gotten bigger and the shadows longer. "We're almost there," he whispered excitedly, ears swiveling to catch all the new sounds.

The appaloosa could hear the hoot of an owl every once in a while, and his ears twitched every time. He slowed to a careful walk, stepping lightly over the undergrowth as the trail they walked slowly grew narrower the further they progressed. He glanced up at the trees and grinned. These were the trees he spotted from the ocean. Towering, creaking, flawless trees.

He excitedly looked back at his companions as the pale yearling spoke. "Probably. I don't think anyone would let this forest say unoccupied for long." He smiled at them and turned back to the rapidly-disappearing path. "Come on," he spoke loud enough so they could hear him, "let's keep going! Maybe we'll meet them."

His tail swished as he grinned at the possibilities awaiting him here.