Falls

It was rare that Adelheid actually left the Peak, especially with her...growing...condition. A condition she refused to acknowledge even to this day. Over the winter she had grown a thick coat and layer of fat to keep her warm on the higher cliffs. As the winter turned to spring the thick clumps of fur started to fall off, leaving behind a sleek black coat. The layers of fat seemed to remain. On days she was aware of it, her lips curled back into a scowl. She would just have to run through the mountains more to bring back her warrior body. It was simply the snow and the cold that had lulled her into a sense of calm to allow this to happen. Sometimes she put it in the back of her mind. Other times she refused to even allow it into her mind.

On a particularly good beautiful spring day she decided to leave the Peak for a day. With a glance at the herd milling about, she let out a word that invited any who wished to follow. She had gotten better about being ‘friendly’, but still assumed few would want to follow her and put up with attitude that came with association. Still, it might allow for a few to come and explore the rest of the island in the company and safety of their sister.

The mare moved with confidence through the more common lands of Crossing. For a brief moment she thought about stepping into the Common, just to see what was brewing. With the flick of an ear and the swish of her tail she decided against it. There were more things she needed to concern herself with than her own sense of safety. Instead she turned down a trail to follow the rumbling sounds of the Falls. It was a favorite gathering spot for many equines. It was obvious why. Along the river the soft sounds of rippled soothed even the wildest of soul. The closer they came to the thundering falls the faster her heart raced with exhilaration.

The sun shined through the mists, casting fractals of rainbow light on the moist stones and mosses. Spring had turned the frozen fortress into and enchantment draped in emerald green and flowering jewels. It was beautiful. Gazing around her, Adelheid could feel herself almost believe in magic.