Meadow

As I am sure that a few of you will not soon forget it either.

“I wouldn’t dream of it,” Gent purrs in reply, his pale eyes twinkling in the moonlight. He can feel his appreciation for Khar’pern growing by the moment. Never before has he met a mare that can match his wit, and it’s invigorating to verbally spar with her, especially in the presence of an oblivious third party. It feels like a secret game that they’re both winning at.

Regretfully, Gent’s attention is quickly pulled away by more callous comments from Raider. The delight dancing in Gent’s eyes hardens to a cold gleam, though his bemused smirk does not budge. “Speak for yourself, brother,” he replies smoothly. “I personally find it rather unimaginative to deign anyone an ‘enemy’, especially when they’re as striking as dear Khar’pern here.” Gent leans a little in the mare’s direction and flashes her a secretive smile.

The next few moments are somewhat awkward, for Gent can see that his presence is having its intended effect on Raider. After mimicking Gent’s insult and casually dropping his title - in what Gent can only imagine is some desperate attempt to save face - Raider makes his excuses and quickly disappears into the night. Gent is silent throughout this, but when Raider is finally out of earshot he looks at Khar’pern and crumbles into wheezy laughter.

“Well, that was fun.”He exhales a heavy sigh, his breath steaming like smoke into the night air. “I suppose I should leave you be as well.” Yet Gent draws nearer, his voice slowing and dropping to a near-whisper. He arches his neck and exhales hot breath onto the curve of Khar’pern’s jaw. “It’s been a pleasure, my dear. If you ever need me, I’m right next door.”

He traces her cheek with his nose, then pulls away and - with a last, lingering smile - leaves the opposite way Raider had gone.