Falls

There was a quiet peace between them as Kore seemed to fall in and out of thought. Curious by nature, Ember would watch her with studious, but polite eyes. It was said that some could see into another’s soul just by watching and truly observing them. The truth of the idea was always up for debate. When Ember looked at Kore, she was drawn to the sense there was something deeper far deeper to the mare than simply being in a place that was not her home. Like many who came to this place, she had a deeper calling that she had not been summoned to yet.

Ember’s tail flicked in her own contemplation as she continued to drink in the features of her companion. Hot blooded, her snappy personality clear from the ‘haste’ in which she answered. No, this woman did not belong wondering along this peaceful river. The thunder of the falls may have called her here, but the solitude would possibly swiftly drive her away. Her suspicions were confirmed in the mare’s next words, and Ember smiled encouragingly. You won’t be alone! the gypsy assured. Even if no one is close by for the moment, I don’t think loneliness will be your only company for long.

A single chocolatey red ear flicked at Kore’s continued words and Ember considered it for a moment. Lush forests that changed their coats with the season were as normal to her as breathing. The thought of a land even slightly less ripe than here could very well be unnerving. It was the heat of her own fires that kept the cold at bay and from sinking through her skin. She grinned at her friends suggestion. Indeed! Without another word, she spun on her heels and took off through the trails of the forest.

Branches, sticks, and leaves tangled in her thick locks, attempted to consume the fire as she raced along the earth. Spirits soared with every step and the mare released a call of joy as she reeled around in a small clearing, tossing her head and forehooves into the air with joy before racing along their path again. Used to weaving around dense trees, the larger horse had no problem picking up speed, but always kept her new friend nearby, keeping to the promise of never being alone.

Swiftly they came to the edge of the forests and the mouth of the river from the falls. Ember slide to a halt, stones flying into sand. Sides heaving with exhilaration she looked over the expanse of the ocean before them. To the south, fire and heat radiated from a distant island, just visible over the horizon. To the north... a call of earth and air beckoned over the sea between them. Her heart ached with a desperate need to answer the call. She could not be the one to add more to what already existed in the south, there was a balance so dearly needed to the north.

Regret twisted her features as she looked back at her dark companion. I am sorry, I my path leads to the north. I… don’t believe you will find your place there where the oasis is more cold than hot. Join me if you wish, go if you must, I hope there is nothing but friendship between us… There was a sadness in the mare’s eyes as she began the farewell of her people, truly hoping that one day their paths would twine again on this earth instead of a plane on the other side of the veil.