He chuckled at the other’s words. First or second time? It was a struggle to believe one would leave, return, and repeat, but the wanderlust was different for everyone. So far, he could not even consider leaving, with his coat still wet from his arrival. Ailill’s head flew back in surprise at Bjorn’s claim. The Ridge?! That stony wall that had blocked him from the love of his life, and the stallion who had been his greatest rival. Crystalline eyes widened with a deep desire to feel those sands under his hooves again. To look upon his old shores, even from afar. His nostrils flared in and out with heavy breaths as he regained himself and reminded himself he was supposed to be a noble stallion interacting with another noble. Though at this point it was the illusion had shattered and the man revealed that he had no such thing as a rough exterior. He shifted and tossed his hair from his eyes, casting his companion a smooth smile. Why, paradise, of course! he said jokingly before dropping his facade a little. Handsome face became serious and he stood at a little more attention than moments before. Honestly, the chance to see my home and what has become of those I loved. Bjorn, if I could walk on the sands of Atlantis, just for a day, I promise I will not betray your trust. It was a lot to ask from a strange stallion. To allow someone access to your home and your mares was risky business. Once upon a time Ailill had been the one to sneak into territories and seduce women to his home, though never against their will. For this chance he would respect the man who stood before him and would not dare charm his women. He would do anything to breath that particular salty air again and follow his heart to the ones he had loved. |