It's the Small Things in Life

[Swede]

(ooc: Cobbled this together from the other thread, so we can continue on since mouse is away)



The territory was a safe place, with both Elding and Anteros guarding it. Few predators frequented the area, and as far as other studs were concerned, they were either too respectful of the old and peaceable leader of this place, knowing he was harmless to them, or they were too afraid of his fearsomely large lieutenant to dare risk any cowardly attack on the humble northern stallion. Thus Yrsa felt no need to find the most secret and secluded place possible; as long as she was away from the rowdy youngsters and could have a little peace and quiet, it was good enough. And luckily, peace and quiet was not hard to come by here.

Moreover, Yrsa's kind were raised for their simplicity; good health, good temperaments, anything to make them the most reliable creature a farmer could possess, and that included easy birthing. Just as with her past daughters, the process was quick and no more exhausting than the average. After taking a moment to catch her breath, the mare stood to examine her and Anteros' latest work. It was a colt; Yrsa's first colt, after three fillies. Like the fillies, though, he had a streak of white down his face. This one had a little white foot, too. "Love..." she cooed, nuzzling him affectionately as she cleaned him up, slipping easily into the Swedish dialect while she was alone with the infant.

It was with great patience that Yrsa waited for the newborn colt to find his balance and figure out how to move out. After suckling for a few minutes to regain his strength, she gave him a nudge to get him going in the direction of the others. She loved her little ones, but bringing them into the world was tiring, and she wanted a nap; and though some mares felt safer alone, at least while the foals were still so young, she preferred to be in the company of the others. Yrsa trusted the other mares, not only with her life but also with the lives of her foals, and knew they could keep a watch out for danger better than any secluded corner of the forest could. Emerging from the shadows, she slowly shepherded Love, catching him with her muzzle whenever his hooves tangled and tripped in the lonng grass, as they made their way towards the pair of black mares across from them.

~

Elding turned his head and whickered a warm greeting as Anteros approached. "It's always good to be on the safe side, there's no harm in doublechecking for danger... keeps you busy too, when you're anxious over them," he said, glancing with a small smile towards Mullra and Morphine in the meadows below. He was always eager to see the newborns, and terrified that something bad might happen; the anxiety of foaling season was not kind to an old stallion's heart. "I don't think she minds the smothering; you make her happy, you know. I'm glad of it..." Pausing mid-sentence, he narrowed his eyes, peering down towards the meadows below. "Tell me, Anteros, do we have the pleasure of a new member to the herd?" Though there was still plenty of vigor left in him, one can't deny the effects of aging completely, and the shapes by the river were a bit fuzzy at this distance.

~

This was a disaster. Astrid stood knee-deep in the icy river; she couldn't tear her eyes off the blurred reflection in the water. Spinning around sideways, she tried again; no no nononooooo this couldn't be for real!

Siv stood on the bank of the river, biting her lip nervously as she watched her older sister. "Astrid... are you okay? I'm sorry..."

She received no verbal answer; but after a moment, Astrid strode back up on the muddy bank, desperately staring at the younger filly. "Again," she said firmly.

"B-but it'll just make it worse," Siv stammered, "I don't think we should-"

"Again."

Sighing, Siv stepped forward, and the two young mares stood side by side in the shallows as the water rushed past their legs. "It can't be," Astrid muttered, shaking her head vigorously, "It can't..."

"I'm sorry, Astrid..."

"It's got to be an entire hand!" the older sister burst out. "And you're barely even two years old, it's going to be even more than that! Mom said... she said I'd grow more, but now I'm three and I haven't grown all winter, I'm not going to get any taller than this... How on earth are you that much taller than me already? I mean, ok Phantom's taller, fine. Mask and Sken are bigger than me, but at least they're the same age... but you! You're my little sister! Little! Sister!" A look of horror spread across Astrid's face. "Oh no... what if Älskling and Fortuna are taller than me too? Great, then the only ones who'll be shorter are the twins and Anga, and they're babies. Even... even Tindra... was taller.. and we had the same dad too, she didn't have Anteros' genes as an excuse..."

"I'm sure it isn't so bad, it doesn't matter too much," Siv said in a soothing tone, quickly leading the subject away from their deceased sister, as neither of them enjoyed talking about it. "It's not the outside that counts, it's the inside, right?"

"Easy for you to say," Astrid grumbled, "You don't have to be the family midget."

[Saz]

The large stallion had spent the past hour checking the boundaries of the herd lands, anything to keep his mind off of the growing stomach of his beloved mare, Yrsa. He continued his rounds before beginning to scale the goat paths up to the ridge that the terra was so well known for. Exhaling a sharp puff of air, the draft stallion scaled the last part of one of the goat paths with a large leap and reached part of the summit that made up the famed ridge. "Ah, Elding! There you are!" He called to the handsome black and smiled warmly at the stallion he proudly called a good friend. "Boundary lines are all clear, just like you said. Thank you for humoring me, heh, just makes me feel better about giving Yrsa some time to herself. I know I can be a little, uh, smothering sometimes." He grinned sheepishly at the father of his beloved mare before shaking himself as a slight chill from a northern breeze lashed against him, catching the wild tendrils of his obsidian mane and flinging them out.

He stepped forward and glanced over the beauty that was Rainbow Ridge. "It's so beautiful, once again I can see why you settled here." He murmured, his warm gaze flicking over the mares, to the group of youngsters gathered by the river. He turned at the stallion's question, scanning the riverside before shaking his head. "Not that I can see, Astrid and Siv are in the river, Sken, Mask and Fortuna not to far from them... Grym, Envis and Anga are playing in the clearing. Mullra and Morphine and grazing a little way from them..." He trailed off as another figure caught his gaze and his heart leapt joyously. His face creased into a loving, happy smile as he spotted Yrsa and their offspring. "It seems I was wrong, we do have a new member, Elding. Just not one you were thinking of; Yrsa's given birth." And with those words left hanging in the air, the large stallion turned from his father-in-law and began a quick descent from the ridge.

~*~*~

"Anga, careful there love, that's quite a deep puddle." Morphine nickered softly, raising her head slightly to watch her yearling daughter as she meandered a few steps away and she then nodded her permission to Grym and Envis as they asked eagerly if they and Anga could go play. "Of course, just don't go too close to the river." Mullra added on, smiling warmly at the youngsters as they jogged away from the two mares.

"Well at least that gives us a bit of a break for a while. Mask, Sken and Astrid are all down by the river with the others so they can keep an eye on them if they do venture too close." The swedish mare spoke softly, smiling wryly at her taller, darker friend. Morphine nodded in agreement before lifting her head to gaze around the terra. Lifting her gaze to the top of the ridge she smiled softly as she spotted Elding standing upon one of the higher points of their terra. Oh how he looked so magnificent, so kingly and proud. When in reality he was the kindest, most gentle stallion she had ever met.

The elegant mare let loose a sweet whinny to him, perhaps this spring they would visit the canyon once more, or maybe they should wait until the year after. The dark mare would see, after all, her eldest daughter would soon be leaving the nest too, after Phantom, and then it would be a year before another of her offspring left for their own lives. She turned to Mullra and smiled warmly at the swedish mare, "Say, Mullra, are you thinking of venturing to the canyon this year?" She asked, tone a little off-handed but she thought it would be a good idea to get the elder mare's opinion on the matter. Morphine knew Elding would never in a million years force himself upon a mare, and that was one of many things she loved about him.

The swedish mare glanced up at the dark mare before gazing above her at the kingly stallion standing upon the ridge. She sighed like a love-struck filly and smiled dreamily. Oh how she adored Elding, his kind ways but also his fiercely protective streak. "Yes... I think I shall. It's been a year, a nice break from raising twins. But admittedly I miss it. After all, Sken may decide to leave at some point soon, and next spring Alskling will come of age, so she may leave. But yes, I think I will. Life sometimes needs a bit of stress and tension to make it livable." She smiled softly in return and Morphine nodded, smiling her own small smile. Perhaps she would join Mullra and Elding in their jaunt to the canyon at some point. But for now she would just relish in the silent peace that seemed to cover the herd lands like a spell.

They continued to graze in the peaceful silence that consumed the lands before the soft vibrations of hooves and noise of another approaching, Morphine lifted her head and let out a gentle nicker as she spotted an exhausted Yrsa approaching. "Seems like we've got another new member to our herd, Mullra." The dark mare nickered to her bay companion, who had also lifted her head. "Indeed." The swedish mare answered dryly, flicking her ears forward and curiosity overriding any sense of precaution as she approached Yrsa. "Well you look exhausted, Yrsa. This one a little more feisty?" She grinned teasingly at her niece before looking curiously at the young foal. "Well, well, it seems that Anteros will finally have a son to pass his knowledge to." She grinned, lowering her head slowly and gently touching her muzzle to the young colt's before turning as Anteros approached slowly.

~*~*~

He had descended from the ridge faster than he had thought possible, excitement and joy flowing through him as he raced down the goat paths before he reached the clearing. Speeding up into a lope, his long strides ate up the ground between he and his beloved mare. He slowed down to a walk as he came within ten feet of the group, not wanting to intrude upon the moment between Yrsa and Mullra. It seemed they had either heard him or seen him coming, however, as the bay swedish mare drew away from Yrsa as he came closer, allowing him to greet them. Smiling warmly at Morphine and Mullra, he drew closer to the group, mild anxiety welling up beneath his joy at having a son before Yrsa's scent banished it and he was able to think clearly in the moment.

"Mullra, Morphine." He greeted the mares by name before he turned his gaze to Yrsa and their son. His heart soared at the sight of the two, both healthy, though tired. "Yrsa..." He uttered her name with love and adoration dripping from each syllable and he took a few more strides so he could touch his muzzle to hers and then greet their son. He slowly lowered his muzzle, gently touching it to the colt's poll and to his muzzle before lifting his head and resting it against Yrsa's. Drawing himself away after a few moments, he took a deep breath and expelled all his worry and anxiety, allowing euphoria to flow through him once more. "What did you name him?" He asked her after another moment, a warm smile upon his maw as he watched his beloved mare and their firstborn son.

~*~*~

The trio of yearlings loped off, Envis in front, stubborn and tenacious as she usually was, Anga just behind, keeping an ear out for the change in pace or the change in footing, and Grym bringing up the rear like always, being the good big brother he was. They slid to an unsteady stop, Anga bumping into Envis accidentally but merely passed it off as a cheeky nip to the smaller filly's tail. The two broke out in play fighting as the elder colt stood off to one side, smiling like a fool as his sisters attacked one another rather playfully.

Eventually the play fighting got boring and they stood about grazing for a little while before Grym suggested, albeit rather boredly, that they play hide and seek. The two fillies cheered in excitement before spinning on their heels and sprinting off into the forest to hide from Grym as he counted to 30. "Anga! Over here! I found this awesome cove we can hide in!" Hissed Envis, peering round a broad tree and calling her sister in a hushed whisper. The two got settled in the little hollowed out cove partially beneath a large oak tree when they heard Grym shout out that he was coming to find them.

The duo giggled and bit their lips, almost shaking with their pent up laughter. "Envis... When Grym comes round here we should scare him! Make him jump!" Whispered Anga, grinning mischievously at her sister. After setting out their plan, they then fell silent once more and the tension mounted as his hoofsteps came closer and closer. "BOO!" He shouted, peering round the side of the cove making the two fillies squeal loudly and fall over each other in their attempt to flee from the scare.

The young colt collapsed in laughter and then once Envis and Anga realized that it was him they too laughed and cheekily nipped at Grym's mane in retaliation. "We'll get you back for that!" Envis grumbled hotly, a sour expression on her face as she stared down at the still-grinning Grym. "Yeah, yeah, I know. I just couldn't resist." He answered, brushing her grumbles off like a small fly before he got to his hooves once more and glanced around the forest. "Hey, you wanna go see what the others are up to? Last I know they were all down by the river." He chirped, and Envis visibly brightened up jogging on the spot.

"Yeah! Definitely!" She crowed, happy at last. Anga, unsure about the idea scuffed at the forest floor. "Uh, I'm not so sure guys... Mullra said we shouldn't get too close..." She trailed off, doubt dripping from each word. Envis was about to spout something about her being chicken when Grym cut her off with a glare and replied to Anga's doubts. "It's okay. We'll just go say hello, we won't go too close. I promise." He answered, nudging the filly's muzzle sweetly before moving off at a jog. "Come on then slowpokes!" He called over his shoulder, grinning cheekily. Envis took off at a sprint, overtaking the colt easily and Anga took up a steady jog, hanging just behind Grym as he lead the way out of the forest.

~*~*~

Sken and Mask grazed not too far from the bank of the river where Astrid and Siv stood ankle deep, arguing or debating about something or other. They both lifted their heads as the trio of troublesome yearlings bolted from the forest, directly aiming for them both. Sken rolled his eyes and darted out of the way, allowing Mask to take the brunt of their excitement. The young mare grunted in mild irritation as Envis reared up, tugging her mane and nipping cheekily at her ears. "Gerroff, you monster." Mask snorted, half-rearing to shake off her younger sister before turning a bolting a few steps away, flicking her tail out of Envis' reach as the filly came after her.

Lowering her head a little, Mask glanced at Alskling who currently was ignorant to the ruckus the yearlings were causing. Grinning broadly, she darted toward the two year old, grabbed her tail and yanked it teasingly before hiding behind Envis and Grym who were squabbling. The bay filly squealed in indignation and spun around, spotting the twins who looked rather surprised at her outburst and decided that they were the culprits of the tail-pulling incident. "Mask, I don't suppose you'd enjoy terrorizing the twins would you?" She called to the dark mare, mischief glinting in her brown eyes as she watched the duo freeze in what they were doing and turn to gaze at her.

With Alskling and Mask now chasing the twins near the river, Sken wandered toward Fortuna, a gentle smile on his face as he watched her. "You alright?" He asked her softly, voice a deep baritone that he had inherited from his father. He stepped a little closer to her, he gazed at her with warm eyes. He enjoyed her company dearly, moreso than his sisters, and he also felt something else for her. A need to protect her, a need that he couldn't yet figure out. He liked her, a lot. He was just unsure whether she even began to return his feelings. And if she would ever agree to have a life with him.

Anga had slunk away from the twins, allowing them to be caught up in their play with Mask and Alskling. She ventured carefully along the riverbank, toward where she could hear Siv and Astrid. She ventured into the waters with careful steps until she stood kneedeep in the cool water. Standing there for a few moments, the yearling then took a deep drink from the crystal water before resuming her stance and allowing the peaceful, repetitive motions of the water to bring her into an almost medative state. She inhaled deeply before turning and moving slowly out of the water, she made it onto the bank safely and began grazing on the juicy grasses that grew not far from the water's edge.

[Snappin' Turtle]

The sabino dun two year old stood on the edge of the herd. Her best friend, Siv, was in the water with Astrid, apparently arguing about something. The others were all in a group and she didnt really feel like roughhousing just now. Perhaps later. Fortuna flicked her black tail and took a small step forward, towards a greener patch of clover. Winter would soon be upon them, the chill that was on the air told her that much. She shuddered. Winter was her least favorite season. It brought flashbacks of being buried by snow, abandoned and lone until Elding had rescued her. She didnt actually remember all that, just that she wasnt actually related to all her 'siblings'. Fortuna was actually glad of that, Sken-
She raised her head as the young stallion came over. She realized that she had grass hanging out of her mouth and quickly turned away, eating it swiftly. "Uh, yeah, Sken." the sabino replied, nodding her head so fast it almost seemed it would fall off. "Just.. y'know. Cold." Fortuna added, smiling at the bay. He really was attractive, she ahd to admit. The thought brought a blush to her face and she looked down at her hooves embarassedly. He didnt even think of her like that, but like a sister. "What about you?" she added, bringing her adoring gaze back up to his face.

[Swede]

Yrsa snorted softly as she came within speaking range of the other mares, shaking her head at Mullra's words. "You know how it is; done it before, you think it'll be easy peasy, and then you remember how much work it really is," she said, lipping at Love's fluffy crest gently. "It's worth it though... definitely worth it." She looked up as thunderous hoofbeats announced Anteros' approach. Obviously there was no need to worry about what he'd think of the newborn; his expression showed his every emotion. "Love," she answered, her voice slightly accenting the foreign word, "That's his name." She nudged Anteros' neck fondly as he greeted his son. Then she nodded to Mullra and Morphine, and took a half-step sideways, lowering her head to graze. Love was still right beside her, and with the others present, she didn't need to keep an eagle eye on him for the moment; it was a good opportunity to rest a little and gather her strength again.

The colt gazed with wide eyes at all the giant strangers around him. His mother didn't seem concerned however, and the massive figures all behaved very gently; his opinion quickly shifted from momentary caution into comfort. These must be protectors, not threats. That was very.... yawn... good to know. He blinked sleepily, looking down at his legs. They felt tired. The walk from the woods to the meadow was quite a long way when you had never walked at all before. Carefully folding them together, the colt curled up in a kitten-like ball in the grass, making an occasional soft sound of contentment. Nobody could see him in this grass unless they were super close by, and all the giants would keep him safe. A little ant crawled over his muzzle, tickling him out of his dozing. He wiggled his upper lip, and then suddenly sneezed, sending the startled insect flying off to land harmlessly on a nearby blade of grass. Ahh, much better... back to a perfect level of comfort, Love promptly fell asleep, his velveteen sides gently rising and falling as he slumbered.

Hearing Morphine's whinny, Elding began making his lumbering way down the slopeside, following the paths that he had come to know like the back of his hoof. It took a few minutes, and he felt no need to rush, but eventually he descended to the meadows and had crossed them not long after, coming to stand near the others. He nipped Morphine's shoulder affectionately, before glancing down at the snoozing colt. "He looks just like his parents," the black stallion said with a soft smile. A grandson... his first grandson. Looking up, he glanced towards the riverside where the majority of the youngsters were gathered. No doubt, in time, other grandfoals would be born, or perhaps even great-grandfoals, now that Yrsa's daughters were growing up; Elding hoped he would live long enough to see them. It seemed a plausible prospect, if the way Sken and Fortuna interacted with each other was anything to go by. In the meantime, though, he was happy and proud of each of his sons and daughters, and for every day they grew, he couldn't help but think that settling here on the ridge had been the best thing to happen to him.

Siv looked up as commotion broke out nearby, but it was just the other juveniles squabbling per usual. Instead she turned her attention towards Anga who had wandered down the bank towards them. Exiting the water with sloshing steps, Siv walked up to join the yearling, lowering her head to take a bite of grass. "Hey Anga, what's up," she said, flicking her tail lazily. Her winter coat was already growing in, and though not much to look at now, it wouldn't be long before the tall brown filly resembled a woolly mammoth.

Alone in the river, Astrid glanced down at her reflection again, biting her lip in irritation. Anga was only a yearling, but at this distance, it looked as if she might be close to Astrid's height anyway, and she wasn't so sure she wanted to find out that she truly was the family midget, not just yet anyway. A measly 14.1 hands... thanks to a father she'd only met once and who had acted like a raving lunatic at the time. She was glad she had her grandfather, at least; he always knew what to say. Hauling herself out of the river, Astrid trotted slowly towards the older mares and the pair of stallions in the distance. She was three now, surely she ought to be spending time with the adults anyway, not just messing around with the younger members of the herd.

[Saz]

Sken

The young bay stallion grinned, shaking out his thick mane and taking a few steps to close the distance, "Why didn't you say so earlier then?" He chided her gently, slinging his neck over hers and pulling her close in an embrace. His coat was far thicker than hers, his swedish heritage shining through in both his manner and his physique, his winter coat was always an inch or two thick as was his mane and tail. It was a stark contrast to Fortuna's slender frame. She was also almost a hand taller than he was, but he didn't mind, he was short and stocky and she was tall and thin. Opposites attract. Her question brought him back to the present and he glanced at her with a gentle smile. "Me? I'm fine, just getting a feel for everything I guess. It's different, being older. You have more freedom. Next spring... I have to wonder if I'll always be here, or if I'll wander for a while." He sighed softly, turning his gaze away from her and onto the group of adults further into the center of the meadows.


Anteros, Morphine & Mullra

"Love..." He tested out their son's name, smiling broadly before leaning down and gently lipping at his fluffy forelock and then letting him sleep. He then returned Yrsa's affectionate nudge with one of his own. Smiling proudly, he nuzzled her shoulder before glancing to Elding as he appeared. He grinned, glancing back down at the sleeping colt before nodding proudly, "He will be a strong, stallion. Just like his grandfather." He replied, smiling gently at Elding before taking a small mouthful of the lush grasses that grew in the paradise they resided in.

The black mare raised her head as Elding appeared near them, she nickered sweetly to him, reaching forward and giving him an affectionate nudge as they watched Anteros interact with his first son. She smiled gently and seeing Yrsa and Anteros happy together immediately made up her mind about having another foal. It had been something she had been brooding over for the past six months. But now she had decided, and next spring she would once more take a jaunt to the canyon. "Elding, I've been thinking, perhaps next spring we should visit the canyon again. Foals are always a joy to have." She nickered quietly, turning her mellowed gaze to the dark swedish stallion who now stood beside her.

The bay swedish mare nodded and smiled knowingly, "It's always the way. But they're always worth it." She replied simply, turning her gaze toward the young colt and smiling gently, almost sadly as she remembered the years that had passed. Those she had spent under the abusive spell of Nightshade, who had murdered each foal unless she took their life first. She had named every foal though, and buried them too. It had scarred her for life, and she had thought she would never recover, until she found Elding once more. Her gaze turned away from the sleeping colt and landed on the kind, glorious stallion that held her heart with careful hooves. She moved around her friend and came to stand on the other side of Elding, her muzzle pressed against his neck as she inhaled his comforting scent. She remembered the exact feeling of euphoria when she saw him, the overwhelming relief when he had smote down her captor and ended the terror that had blackened her life. "I love you..." She nickered softly, closing her eyes briefly before opening them once more and vowing that she would give him two more foals and then they would live in peace.

Anga

The blind filly raised her head at the approach of heavy hooves, she tilted her head slightly to the left as her new companion finally spoke. Ah, Siv. She was still getting used to comparing and deciphering who was who from the sound of their hooves. The difference in the terrain nearer the river also impacted in her ability to tell who was approaching. She smiled gently, and shrugged. "Not much, I guess. The twins are occupied for the moment, Mom and Mullra are back up in the meadow. So I guess I'm just chilling, basking in the silence that accompanies a break from the twins." She grinned slightly, meaning nothing harmful toward her siblings, she loved them dearly, but they could be incredibly overbearing at times. "How about you? Anything new?" She asked, grabbing another mouthful of the sweet grass before raising her head at her mother's call. The call wasn't for either of them however, it was for her father, the lead stallion of this land, Elding. "Hey Siv, what's going on up there with the adults?" She asked quietly, ears pricked as she strained to hear any other noises aside from their regular surroundings.


Mask

Laughing brightly as she chased after the two dark twins with the bay two year old filly by her side, the young dark mare tossed her head back and slowed slightly, allowing the slightly younger bay filly to overtake her and continue torturing the two yearlings. With Alskling now occupying the twins and everyone else doing their own thing, Mask moved back toward the treeline. She stood in the shadows for a few moments, surveying her family before turning away and disappearing off into the shadows. She was going to have a wander around Sunshine River, maybe she'd even make some new friends.

[Swede]

Elding chuckled softly. "If strength if what he aspires to, then perhaps it his father he should be modeled after, not his grandfather. But we'll all help to raise him with a good heart, and keep him safe until he is old enough to care for himself." Lifting his head to the air, the black stallion inhaled the myriad of scents interwoven in the cool breeze. These days, flowers and fresh greens did not determine the olfactory flavor of the wind, and it was instead laced with hints from colder climes. "Snows will come soon," he murmured. Many times in the past he had noticed that precise scent, and it never failed to herald winter's arrival, both in his homeland and here on the ridge. Luckily, this territory was a bit milder than the bitter North, and had typically been kinder to his herd than what they might otherwise have been forced to endure. Some might still find it unpleasant the way it was, but those who lived here were a tough lot, and he didn't doubt anyone's ability to deal with the coming season with ease.

Turning his warm eyes to Morphine, he smiled and nuzzled her neck affectionately. "Your wish is my command, my dear," he answered, "If you feel ready for a new foal, then we shall have one." His own clock was ticking steadily onwards, but for a stallion such things aren't too difficult, unless one associates with many females; but Morphine and Mullra, while still younger than him, weren't exactly a pair of spring chickens anymore, and he didn't want to subject them to anything they weren't certain they could still handle. Pregnancy could take quite a toll on the body, after all. Heaving a sigh, he wordlessly leaned his muzzle against Mullra in silent response. These were happy times, and this was a happy herd; he could not ask for better. Still, on occasion force would be necessary to maintain the peace of the territory. Though vigorous for his age, he had never had much prowess as a fighter, and especially lately he could feel his reaction time and senses diminishing; slightly, but still noticeable. He feared that one day he might be perceived as an easy target, be ousted from his position and separated from his herd by a stranger. He would not mind retiring from the life of a leader one day, but he wished to live out his days with those he loved, and die in the place he called home. Anteros was a fine protector of the herd, but he did not seem to have much interest in running things himself. Unbidden, Elding's gaze tracked over to Sken once more. Archer had left a while ago, and not contacted his birth herd since; but Sken was still here, and growing into a fine young stallion. Saxon and Älskling were only a year younger than he was, but did not show quite the same traits as their elder brother. I wonder...

~

Siv shrugged, an action which Anga of course could not see but which was quite natural, and there wasn't really any reason to suppress it just because it wasn't seen. "Nah, not really. Astrid's throwing a fit over being the family midget, but it's mostly just the same old stuff. At least she's irritated, better than being sad like she always was after Tindra died... some progress, I suppose." Looking up, Siv strained her vision to perceive what was going on across the meadow. "Umm... my papa, and yours, are over there, and our mothers..." After a moment of scrutiny, her eyes lit up. "I think my mama's new baby has been born, want to go check it out?"

~

Yrsa grazed watchfully near her sleeping newborn, but it was not long before she was interrupted by a muffled patter of hooves. Looking up, she whickered a greeting as Astrid entered her field of vision. "Hello Astrid. Come to say hello to your new brother?"

Astrid halted and blinked in surprise. New siblings had not been part of her initial reasoning for joining the group of adults, but it certainly made an excellent substitute. "Ooh, yes! What's his name?" she squealed, her prior irritation evaporating instantly as she lowered her head to nose curiously at the dozing colt.

"Love- careful, don't bother him too much," Yrsa warned. "He needs his rest, you'll have plenty of time to play with him later."

[bullseye]

The trip to Mask's homeland had, to any observer, resembled a seesaw. Although Banner had a decent sense of direction, he had occasionally slowed his pace to fall behind Mask, allowing her to lead him through tricky twists and turns. But whenever he was confident in the direction he was headed, he'd playfully nip Mask or bump her gently with his head, encouraging the sleek black mare to chase him down. The dark stallion suspected he'd busted a few of his scabs wide open, but the pain was worth it. Flirting with this beautiful mare and enjoying a refreshing run with her were perhaps the most enjoyable things he'd experienced in oh so long.

As they neared the terra, the constant, raucous noise of water hammering the unrelenting ground touched on his ears. It wasn't until they entered the territory that the source of the steady pounding was confirmed: a large waterfall flowing from the highest point in the lands nearby. The faint winter sun shone just enough to paint the mists flying from the falls the bright colors of the rainbow.

Amongst the strong smells of nature, Banner managed to catch a whiff of equines. Many equines. It seemed this portion of Sunshine River was well populated by his kind.

The dark stallion slowed to a halt, eyes, nose, and ears taking in every detail they could find. This new place was beautiful. Downright gorgeous, in fact. Turning to Mask, a twinkle in his eye, the stud gave her a small smile. "You have a beautiful home. In fact, it's almost as beautiful as you are."

Although he was a stallion prone to taking the initiative, Banner held back this time, allowing the object of his affection room to lead him deeper into her home. It seemed to Banner that a lead stallion would prefer see his daughter first and a random, strange stud last--if ever.

[Saz]

The young dark mare took her usual path as she crossed the border into her sire's terra and her homeland. The handsome stud that she had come across had fallen just behind her, but she kept an ear directed at him as she loped through the trees, just to make sure he didn't fall too far behind. It seemed that they had made it back just in time as the sky began to darken and a few solitary flakes of snow began to fall. She inhaled deeply and came to a halt as they broke through the treeline, Banner pulling up beside her as she observed her homeland. She glanced sideways and shot him a warm smile, "You are a charmer, aren't you?" She laughed softly, teasing him with a gentle smile before she resumed speaking. "Thank you, Banner. Though I was merely born here, the picking fell to my sire, who has managed to keep a hold on this terra ever since he came here."

She paused and shook her forelock out of her eyes before turning her gaze back to the meadows that stretched out before them. She spotted the group of adults easily, but her gaze then turned down toward the river, Alskling was resting in the shade with the twins, Siv and Anga were headed toward the adults, and Sken was on the bank with Fortuna. Giving the dark stallion a gentle nudge, she motioned toward the group of adults and smiled warmly. "C'mon, I'll introduce you to my parents and the others. I'm quite sure they'll like you, and if not then you can just charm them like you charmed me." She winked at him in a slightly flirtatious manner before surging toward the small group at a steady trot.

She reached them before Siv and Anga were even half-way there, giving her time to introduce Banner to the adults of the herdlands before the youngsters. She caught her mother's eye before the dark mare glanced past her daughter at the handsome stud following along behind. Morphine had immediately stiffened and pulled herself upright a little, ready to take charge of whatever situation may arise from meeting a new stallion that looked at her eldest daughter with such a loving expression. The andalusian raised her head slightly, looking every bit as regal as her title would suggest, she was lead mare of these lands and she would most definitely not accept anyone who attempted to take these lands from her beloved Elding.

Mask had realized that Yrsa had given birth and adjusted her course accordingly, placing herself between Banner and Yrsa's foal with a sift sidestep that Anteros picked up on and immediately provided more security for his son and mare by sliding between the young mare and Love. He made no aggressive movements toward the new stallion, but merely observed, it was not his place to decide who stayed and who went, he was merely there for added strength against anyone who attempted to take away Elding's home and herd. But his first priority was Yrsa and their offspring, Astrid included in that family security.

"Mom, Dad, I'd like you to meet Banner. I was out for a wander and I met him in the watering hole, where you guys met..." She paused, glancing between her parents for a moment before continuing. "He was injured, as you can see, so I invited him here to stay for the winter. Safety in numbers and all that." She nickered sweetly, gently pushing her muzzle against Banner's neck once she had finished. "Banner, meet my parents, Elding and Morphine. The others are Mullra, she's like my aunt. Yrsa, who is my half-sister, Anteros, who is Yrsa's mate. Astrid is Yrsa's daughter." She nickered to the handsome mustang who was currently standing next to her.


The elegant mare dipped her head in greeting to the younger stallion as Mask introduced each of them with quick motions of her head as she said their names and what her relation to them was. "Hmm, well I have no problem with him staying here so long as he doesn't overstep the boundaries. After all, anyone in need is always welcome here." The andalusian paused for a moment before glancing sideways at Elding and continuing. "So, Banner, what are your intentions with our daughter?" She spoke boldly, watching the mustang stallion with narrowed eyes. She was almost two hands taller than this new stallion, so there was no doubt in her mind that she probably intimidated him enough for both herself and Elding.

Her eldest daughter had let out an embarrassed snort at her mother's questioning and rolled her eyes before nudging Banner. "Don't worry about her, she's really just a big softy." Mask murmured to her new friend, a stallion that she could most definitely see herself starting a herd with. She winked at him in an almost conspiratorial manner before nickering curiously to her half-sister. "What's his name, Yrsa?" She asked softly, flicking her tail and taking a careful step toward the swedish mare and her colt. Anteros assessed the situation and took a few steps back, lowering his head to graze, but his eyes and ears remained ever watchful just in case any form of violence were to break out, though he doubted it.


The blind filly nodded and smiled warmly, "Sure. You lead the way." She bobbed her head a little as they set off, adjusting to the sloping ground and also to the difference in the terrain once more. She inhaled deeply as an unfamiliar scent joined that of the familiar scent that belonged to Mask. Her ears pricked and she snorted softly, immediately knowing there was a unfamiliar new being within her homeland. She kept close to Siv until she picked up the familiar voice of her mother and father and immediately separated from her companion to be in the security her mother and father's scents and warmth provided. She accidentally brushed against Banner on her way to her mother's side and skittered sideways, ears lying flat and head lowered in a nonthreatening position as she circled away from the unfamiliar stallion to settle between her mother and father. She pressed herself into her mother's shadow like an uncertain foal, unsure of what procedure to follow in such an instance like this. She'd never met a being from outside of her homeland, especially a stallion...


Mask glanced over her shoulder at the sound of hooves and smiled at Siv and Anga as they arrived, her happiness was short-lived however, as Anga's path took her on a direct collision course with Banner. Before the young mare could say anything to her sister or to the dark stallion, Anga brushed against him and then spooked sideways. The young mare sighed softly, shaking her head slightly before taking a careful step forward as their mother soothed the yearling's anxiety. "Anga, I'd like you to meet Banner, he's a friend of mine. He's very friendly and won't hurt you, I promise." She nickered softly to her younger sister who was currently staring at the new stallion with her dark misted eyes. "Banner, this is Anga, she's my younger sister. She's blind, which is why she didn't realize where exactly you were, thus the nervous reaction. She adapts very quickly however, so it's doubtful it will happen again." She smiled, a slightly proud tone coming to her words as she explained her sister's quick learning abilities.


Her mother's familiar and gentle touch soon soothed any worries she held and she relaxed slightly, her ears pricking up as she stared unseeingly at the new stallion. She picked up Mask's quiet sigh and let out a soft nicker of welcome to her sister. She heard her take a step forward, most likely an unconscious decision to make herself less threatening. She listened to her big sister's words silently before nodding slightly and smiling timidly in Banner's general direction, "It's... uh... lovely to meet you, Banner." She spoke shyly, half-hidden in her mother's shadow as she greeted Mask's 'friend'. She severely doubted he was just her sister's friend, she knew that she would most likely be an aunt by the time she was three. Well, really Astrid, Love and Siv didn't count, they were more like siblings than a nephew and nieces. Perhaps she would become more comfortable around Banner with time, after all, he would be spending the winter with them.

[Snappin' Turtle]

The sabino dun mare's eyes widened slightly as Sken promptly laid his neck over her's, in effect both warming her and pulling her closer. Fortuna avoided his gaze, afraid that her face was as red as a cherry and would give her feelings away. And, in all honesty, it was a bit funny how he had to tilt his head up to her. Sken was short, though she supposed there had to be some who were even shorter than him, as there probably were some taller than herself. "Yeah? It'd be terrible to see you go.." the painted filly replied, her voice trailing off slightly. Terrible? No, unbearable. She'd be three next year, too, which, she supposed, was about the time to find out what she wanted to do. Stay here? Leave and make her way in the world? She didn't know anything besides Elding's herd and Rainbow Ridge, where would she go? What would she do? "Next spring I'll be three. sort a coming of age thing, I suppose. I wonder what it'll be like, being grown." Fortuna rambled for the sake of not letting conversation die.
(didn't quite know what to say, so picked up from Saz's first reply)

[Swede]

The contented peace of the ridge was soon disturbed, not so much by sound or motion for those were customary things with so many youngsters milling around, but by the distinct presence of one who did not belong there. Elding turned his head, alert but remaining calm for the time being; generally this territory was fairly safe, and he wasn't the type to lose his composure without due cause. He recognized the approaching figure as his daughter Mask, but was a little surprised to see a less familiar form not far behind her. The young mare didn't appear to be harmed or concerned in any way- quite the contrary, there was a spring in her step that one did not always see otherwise- so he chose to delay his reaction until further information was provided.

Yrsa's strong maternal instincts prompted heavy suspicion of the unknown stallion who approached them, and even though she, like her father, preferred to view others as innocent until proven otherwise, and she knew rationally that Anteros provided more than enough protection, she still stood squarely over her son while keeping a keen eye on the stranger. Mask's introduction and explanation were slightly reassuring, but she was not going to let foreign stallions lurk around her colt so easily. "Love," she answered, distracted momentarily by Mask's question. "It doesn't really mean anything, but it's sweet and soft. Perhaps a bit of a colt's name, but I'm sure he can carry it well when he grows older."

Astrid eyed the stranger warily. Her father had been almost as savagely scarred as this stallion, and he was, well, completely bonkers. The older adults seemed to have a handle on the situation- especially Morphine, bless her, she could be stern at times but it certainly came in handy- and at least he was wounded to the point of probably not being able to cause much damage even if he did go completely psycho. Mask seemed to trust him, and perhaps he was worthy of it, but Astrid didn't know that. Her mother had trusted Rogue, and look what happened to him. Besides, Mask was even younger than she was... goodness knew, she had been foolish at that age. Now was a whole year older, and thus much wiser. Pity she was still a shrimp though, so she was viewed as a baby regardless.

Siv hesitated on her approach when Mask came into view with a stranger. "Anga, wait-" Alas, the warning was too little and too late, as her fellow filly bumped into said stranger and was understandably rather spooked by the experience. Siv carefully stepped around Mask and her apparent new friend to nestle in beside Anga, watching warily. She was not particularly shy, but neither was she bold, and he looked plenty intimidating, that was for sure.

During the discussions, Elding remained silent, allowing Morphine to take charge of interrogating the stranger, this Banner fellow. Instead, he merely watched, observing the dark stallion's appearance and demeanor. Scars like that suggested a more savage nature, of the kind which was generally discouraged on the ridge. But was his past by choice or by circumstance? At this precise moment, there was little Banner could really do to threaten this peaceful territory and its inhabitants, and Elding had never turned away a guest in need of shelter and safety. But as leader and guardian of the land, it was his unpleasant duty to be forced to assess strangers with caution; given a chance to heal and grow strong again, would this stallion turn against them? He pitied one who had clearly suffered, but also feared the selfish savagery which such suffering all too often awakened in the hearts of others.

[bullseye]

It turned out Banner's sense of smell had not lied to him; this place was, indeed, packed with horses. Strangely enough, the majority of the herd claimed the same dark pelt as Mask. In fact, a good number of them possessed the height of the pretty young filly, also. Out of the corner of his eye, Banner watched Mask watch her family, though he kept the majority of his focus on his fellow stallions--particularly the muscular bay. While Banner suspected the sturdy black stud to be Mask's father and thus the lead, the far larger bay was in much closer proximity at the moment, and therefore a far more immediate threat.

Mask's movement between himself and the newborn foal did not escape Banner's notice; it was just one of many gestures that proved this to be a tight-knit herd. They seemed kindly, no doubt, but one hoof out of line and Banner knew his only chance at survival in his current state would be hightailing it out of Rainbow Ridge. Especially with the giant bay stallion's protective nature towards his newborn son.

Out of self preservation, Banner adopted the most submissive attitude he'd shown since his sire's herd had been lost to another stallion.

He bowed his head to each new horse as Mask introduced them, frantically attempting to match names with faces and scents. Many of the horses were related to Mask, that was obvious. Whether by sire or dam was something Banner found was barely discernible in some cases and impossible in others.

Morphine's sudden shift from cordial greeting to interrogation gave Banner a moment of pause--a moment which proved to be just enough time for Mask to once again gain control of the situation and draw attention to the newborn colt. While everyone gazed at the herd's new addition, Banner kept his attention on Mask's dam, suddenly more afraid she'd give him a very present reminder of the whuppings his own mother once gave him than he was even of Anteros.

It was Morphine's very maternal intimidation tactics he was contemplating when the slight form of a dark yearling careened into the dark stud before the young filly danced away from him frantically, fear written across every inch of her features. While Banner was far less startled than the handicapped lass, he took a few steps back, immediately seeking to look as non-threatening to the entire herd as was physically possible for a scarred, weathered stallion like himself.

The dark stud's eyes flicked to Mask as she introduced Anga, the blind filly, and explained her handicap. Understanding that sight would do the little gal no good, he gently extended his muzzle towards hers and blew softly into her nostrils, offering her a chance to become familiar with his scent.

"It's a pleasure to meet you also, Anga," he said when he drew his head back.

"It's good to meet all of you, in fact," stated the black stud, his deep brown eyes sweeping over the entire herd, finally coming to a halt as they rested upon Elding. As the stud locked eyes with his elder, he wondered what he must look like to this herd, battered and worn as he was. They all bore the thick, shaggy coats of horses that had known winter, while his remained thin from exposure to the desert, leaving his skin victim to the biting chill of the lightly falling snow. This place was nothing short of alien to him--he probably stood out like cactus on a sand dune.

"Your daughter's beautiful face was the first to greet me in this unfamiliar territory, and her treatment has been more kindly and genteel than I ever could have earned. I owe her a debt for rescuing me from loneliness and cold, and certainly will owe you just as much for offering me sanctuary, if you'll have me." Banner kept his eyes locked on Elding, but did not neglect to keep track of the other equines as he awaited a response to his and Mask's request.

[Saz]

Sken

The young stallion smiled gently, perhaps she felt something for him after all? Then, suddenly an idea came to him as she spoke again and his face lit up with a bright grin. "It's not much different really. You get a bit more respect though, I guess..." He paused, swallowing roughly and seizing his courage to stop it from escaping him as he spoke once more. "Well... I guess I'd be pretty lonely if I was on my own. And if you get bored, then... You could always come with me?" A faint blush coloured his cheeks and he was glad for the moment she couldn't see his face. "But, like, only if you wanted to of course." He snorted, quickly letting her know that he didn't assume she wanted to accompany him, though he would definitely miss her if she didn't.

He lifted his head from Fortuna's neck to gaze as his sister reappeared with an unfamiliar stallion following along behind her. "Looks like Mask has found herself a friend..." He muttered, narrowing his eyes before pulling away from the painted filly carefully. His heart immediately ached at the loss of her closeness before he gestured to the group of adults. "C'mon, lets go introduce ourselves." He nickered sweetly, giving her a gentle nudge before setting off at a steady walk.

Anga

The blind yearling inhaled softly, bobbing her head a little as she committed the scent to memory, just as she would for each family member she encountered. Her ears flicked forward and she nuzzled Siv as she nestled beside her. She enjoyed being with her family, in fact, she couldn't think of anything better. Snorting softly, she took a tentative step forward and carefully bumped her muzzle against Banner's. After all, that was how you greeted someone, wasn't it? Her head turned toward the sound of more approaching hooves and she nickered instinctively, smiling as her older brother answered kindly. Taking a step or two back to hide between her 'sister' and her mother, the yearling took a small bite of grass, listening to the conversations intently.

Mask

The young mare watched with a gentle smile as Banner introduced himself carefully to Anga. She gently nuzzled his withers and nibbled at the lower strands of his mane before glancing at her parents once more. A sudden flood of anxiety took her off guard as her new friend spoke to her parents, she rested her muzzle against his shoulder but never removed her gaze from her parents. She would be ready to step to his defense, but somehow she doubted that her parents ruling would be severe, especially considering Banner had displayed nothing but submissive behavior since arriving on the ridge. Alas, she had to wait with bated breath for her parents to make a ruling.

Morphine

The lead mare of the terra glared at the stallion with imperious, keen eyes. She raised her head slightly lifting her nose and turning her gaze to her eldest daughter for a brief second before snapping her searching gaze back to Banner. "Hmm... Well, I suppose you may stay here for the winter and in spring we shall see how things go from there. So long as there is no threatening behavior towards the herd, I am happy to have you stay, Banner. As I am sure the others are. Somehow I doubt you will step out of line though, as Mask seems to have attached herself to you. Just a warning, she hits hard, so it's probably a bad idea to cross her, or her siblings." The mare finished and smirked slightly, happy that her warnings had gotten through to the younger stallion she dipped her head to the grass beneath them and took a few bites. It was unspoken that if he hurt Mask then he would be getting a whupping that would rival anything he'd ever gotten before. That had been said silently among the glare and the rule about threatening behavior.

Mask & Sken

The young mare blushed and ducked her head as Morphine glowered at the young couple. "Jeeze Mom, no need to scare off any and all potential mates for Mask." Her brother piped up from behind them, causing the young mare to flatten her ears at him and give him a hard nip. "Shut up, fluff ball." She snapped back, glaring venomously at him for saying such embarrassing things. "Psht, me, Fluff Ball? You can talk, you look like a bear." He snorted back, smirking brightly as he halted beside them, Fortuna following behind him.

"Urgh, whatever." The mare rolled her eyes and glanced at Banner. "Banner, this is my slightly older brother, Sken. And Fortuna, she was adopted, but Sken has a crush on her." She smirked back at her brother, now it was his turn to blush 50 shades of red. He spluttered before lowering his head in defeat. "You're evil." He muttered at her, narrowing his eyes as she grinned brightly and flipped her forelock out of her eyes. "Yup, you tell me that every time I win an argument." She replied, eyes sparkling with mischief before turning to Banner and gesturing toward the river. "Considering you've got my parent's blessing for staying here, I may as well show you around. Leaves these two lovebirds on their own." She grinned, throwing a teasing remark Sken's way before she turned and began to move toward the river.

All playfulness fell from Sken's face as soon as she turned her back and moved away slightly. The young stallion stepped forward and stared squarely at the other stallion. "I'm going to say this once, and I'm going to say this clearly. Hurt my sister, or any of my family and you're gonna wish you never appeared here." He snorted, glaring frostily at the other stallion before taking a step back and lowering his head slightly. "Treat her well, and we'll be on good terms. But know that she has not just me, but other siblings who will hurt you if you ever hurt her." He added, glancing at Mask before nodding to Banner and striding past him to join the other adults.

[Snappin' Turtle]

She nodded slightly as he said that being an adult wasn't much different, just having more respect. But, didn't responsibilities come with respect? Fortuna wasn't sure if she could deal with those, and the thought scared her. She was snapped out of her reverie by Sken's offer, a grin creeping across her face. "Th-that'd be awesome." the sabino dun filly finally sputtered, a rosy color washing across her cheeks. "I'd love to." she added, nodding her head more calmly. She missed his touch as he pulled away and she looked at the new stallion before following after Sken. When they reach Mask and the unfamiliar stallion Fortuna stopped at the bay's shoulder, shifting on her hooves slightly. She dipped her head as she was introduced.
A blush spread across her face at Mask's words. Did he really like her? surely it was too good to be true, it was just siblings teasing each other. Though he had invited her along with him this coming spring, though he could always have just been being nice. The filly looked awkwardly at her hooves, not quite sure what to think at the moment. Why couldn't things just be clear?

[Swede]

Elding snorted softly. "I expect no less of her. Every stranger deserves to be treated well. It is a sad world we live in, that kindness is seen as a debt to be repaid; what then, after that? Back to the usual bitterness and squabbling? I agree with Morphine; stay here and rest your hooves, there is grass enough for guests. Sanctuary is granted to anyone in need of it. After that, it is up to that individual to determine the length and nature of their stay." It was Banner's choice; he could make himself an asset to the herd, appreciated and needed, or he could be troublesome and traitorous. Elding passed no judgements; one's own conscience was the only thing which could do so effectively. Elding intervened only when the well-being of his herd was threatened- with words or silent warnings, or in the worst of cases, the hooves and teeth of himself and Anteros.

The corner of the black stallion's mouth twitched as Sken wandered up and engaged in yet another round of sibling bickering with Mask. "That's enough, you two. Mask, give Banner the grand tour, help him settle in. Mind the river, floating ice chunks are a danger, little ones can cut your legs if you aren't careful and if a big one comes along you could get knocked off your hooves and then it's the waterfall for you. Astrid, let him sleep, you can cuddle him later," he added, and Astrid sheepishly pulled her muzzle away from Love. It seemed that the discussions with the stranger were not enough to distract the adults entirely... but the colt just looked so fluffy and cute, she couldn't help trying to sneak a closer peek at him. Shaking his head, he returned his attention to the other young horses. "Fortuna, you don't mind if I borrow Sken for a few minutes, do you? I'd like to have a little talk with him, I promise I won't keep him away for too long," he said, winking surreptitiously.

[bullseye]

The message had reached Banner loud and clear: hurt Mask in any way and this herd would be fighting one another for the opportunity to kill him. Frankly, harming the beautiful black equine that gazed at him so adoringly hadn't even crossed the dark stud's mind. Mask was unlike any of the mares he'd known back... well, Home. She was nothing short of stunning, in fact. Out of his league, you might say. But here she was, doting upon him, rubbing her muzzle across his shoulder and nibbling lovingly at his mane. He wasn't an idiot--this gal deserved the best and, reasonably, would settle for no less. So the best was exactly what he intended to give her.

Banner bowed first to Elding, then to Morphine, grateful for their hospitality. "Thank you for the sanctuary. I assure you, I will do nothing to make you regret allowing me a place of safety for the winter."

He once more turned to his lovely lady. "I think your father has made an excellent suggestion. Would you do me the honor of showing me around your beautiful home, Mask?" With a gentle nuzzle of her shoulder, the dark stallion awaited her signal of agreement before making a move to leave the group.

[Saz]

Sken

The young bay snorted softly, a cheeky grin tugging at the corners of his lips as he watched his sister move off with the dark stallion. He glanced up as his sire then turned his attention to himself and Fortuna, he dipped his head in silent understanding before turning his warm gaze to the beautiful sabino mare. "I'll be back shortly, Fortuna; Perhaps you could think of where we should go when we leave? I'd like to start our journey before summer begins and we have the sun beating down upon us." He spoke with soft, gentle tones before passing his muzzle down her neck, mostly unfazed by his sister's previous admissions of truth about his love for the beautiful young mare.

He turned on his heels and jogged to where his sire had moved to so they could talk in private. "Is anything wrong dad?" He asked smoothly, coming to a halt a few strides from his ageing sire. He kept a respectful distance just as any other stallion would, he had watched how Anteros had interacted with Elding and was copying the movements he had seen the huge warrior display. After all, he was now fully grown, his body had thickened out, muscles where there hadn't been much before. His coat, though patched with his winter coat, glistened with good health and his mane and tail were slightly waved, shimmering in the spring sunlight.

Mask

The young mare rolled her eyes before nodding her head at her sire's suggestion. "I'll be careful, Dad. Always am." She nickered back, smiling gently at him before turning her attention upon the darkly scarred stallion. A mild blush reached her cheeks as he spoke and she chuckled gently, "You'll soon learn that my father has some excellent suggestions, Banner. But yes, I'll give you the tour." Her eyes twinkled with good natured humor and something akin to adoration as she watched him for a brief moment before she smiled and then moved away from the grouped equines before moving into a slow jog. "C'mon, we'll head down to the lower meadows and the river first." She called over her shoulder at her... well, what was he exactly? She couldn't call him her stallion, they hadn't yet broached that, and she certainly couldn't call him her mate... yet. So she supposed she would settle with calling him her friend. Her very good friend. She internally nodded upon deciding Banner's title before she continued to figure out what path they would take around the terra.

Winter had passed slowly, but now the sun had appeared and the sky was light. The snows had melted quickly, flooding the lower meadow with half a foot of water and somewhat overflowing into the bulging river. With a short huff, the young mare halted on the edge of the flooded meadow, "This meadow isn't usually flooded, it's only if we get heavy snowfall in the winter and then sudden heat from the spring, like we have this year. It never floods for long, so this should soon disappear. The river is incredibly dangerous to cross, however, especially at this time of year. The best time to cross, if ever, is in late summer, when it has shrunken and isn't as deep as usual." She spoke strongly, mentally recounting her previous encounters with the meadow and the river. "We can either go through this and then along the river and into the trees and get up the ridge that way, or we can go round the edge, follow the tree-line and take one of the goat paths up the ridge face." She spoke her thoughts aloud to her equally dark counterpart, lifting her head and gazing around the large terra.

It was then, that the soft calls of familiar voices caught her attention. Her ears pricked and her eyes intently scanned the trees until she caught sight of her siblings. The twins and Alskling were standing among some of the trees on the far side of the lake, beckoning to her with wide grins upon their maws. The mare laughed and whinnied to the trio before turning to Banner and giving him a gentle nudge. "It seems as though our minds have been made, the twins will never leave us be until you are introduced, and Alskling is a formidable creature to have on your bad side, and no doubt she will be mad if you aren't introduced." She chuckled, remembering past times when the fiery filly had given her a sharp nip or a heavy kick if teased relentlessly. Alskling was usually very even tempered, but as her sister, it was Mask's job to know what buttons to push to get a fiery reaction.

With a shake of the head, she gently lipped Banner's mane before setting off across the slightly flooded meadow. "I promise you that the twins and Alskling are far easier to manage than my other relatives. Sken likes to be overprotective, as you've seen; Anga is timid, but she opens up eventually; Siv and Astrid... they tend to be a bit aloof, Siv finds herself mostly with Anga and Fortuna, and Astrid... she's a bit of a loner. Her older sister, Yrsa's eldest, passed a while back from an unknown disease, and then my older brother, Phantom, was ill from the same thing for a long time. It effected everyone differently, but Phantom, Yrsa and Astrid most. Phantom was like her little brother, he was a year younger than her and always used to trail after her, even as they grew older. It was the same with Astrid, she's never really recovered... And... I guess with Yrsa, it's obvious, she was her first foal, and no parent should outlive their child." She sighed deeply, glancing down at the slightly misted water they were walking through. "Phantom left a little while ago, to find his own way in life, I guess. But he said he'd visit, so I hope he does at some point soon, I miss him." She nickered, glancing up at the handsome stallion.

She then realised that she had turned the conversation sour, the subject heavy and sad. She blushed with mild embarrassment before she spoke again. "I... uh... Sorry. I guess I spoke about that because you kind of needed to know... It's still a pretty sore subject, but I guess it'll never really be a conversational subject..." She paused, she was making a complete mess out of this. "Anyway, uhm... Oh yeah! Alskling and the twins... Alskling's mostly a big teddy bear, she doesn't judge much, and is mostly pretty harmless unless you push her buttons. Then she's quick to snap, it's a big but short-lived temper. The twins are as different as fire and ice though. You've got Envis, who's the shorter of the two, she's the one with a really stubborn temper, she can really hold a grudge. She's also pretty ferocious by nature and doesn't hesitate to throw her weight about. But she's evened out by Grym, who's the more patient of the two. He's taller and has white markings on his face. But again, he's got the stubborn temper however it takes far more to set him off than it does with Envis. He's usually more level-headed about things, but he is very protective over Envis and Anga." She spoke with affection as she spoke about her siblings, a small smile pulling at her lips.

"Sken, Alskling, Envis and Grym are all Mullra's foals, so they're only half-siblings to me. Whereas Anga is a full sibling. My other full sibling, Saxon, left a while back, decided to go his own way. Phantom's a half-sibling again, through my mother but another stallion. Elding was gracious enough to raise him like his own. I've got quite a big family, and it's nice, we all look out for each other and keep each other afloat whenever something goes wrong. Thankfully not much goes wrong here, it's peaceful. Everyone really respects Dad, he tends to solve disputes with words rather than with teeth and hooves, and it thus gains him a lot of respect. So far we've not had any trouble from anyone, which is good. Uneventful is good, it just means whenever we get anyone new around here, it's like a huge deal." She smiled, amused by her family's reaction to Banner being here. It was like new foals, but with more caution, this time directed at him. It was strange really, having someone new around who didn't know everything. But it was fun, more than anything, it was amazing fun to have a newbie around, someone to give their opinion on things, someone who wasn't related to her in anyway and who was her friend by choice. Someone who she could, and would, happily spend the rest of her life with.

Morphine & Mullra

The dark andalusian observed the new stallion through narrowed eyes, she smirked a little when Sken blatantly threatened Banner before Mask led her 'friend' away to give him a tour of the terra. Shaking her head she glanced at Mullra and grinned, "This is what you'll have to deal with, both Alskling and Envis." She teased, nudging the swedish mare's shoulder gently. She then glanced down at Anga and Siv, "Why don't you two go keep Astrid company," She suggested, nudging the duo toward one of the younger mares in their ranks.

She then turned to the swedish mare and edged a little closer, "So, are you thinking one last foal with Elding, now that the twins are two?" She asked, a gentle smile upon her face. The elder swedish mare chuckled softly as her gaze lifted from Love to Morphine. "I was thinking about it, I admit. I'm getting on in years but I'd like another foal before I truly decide to relax for the rest of my life. How about you?" She asked, cocking her head to the side as she watched the andalusian.

Morphine nodded, "I agree with you, one last foal before settling down and relaxing for the rest of my life. Time is catching up with me, just as it is with you, and with Elding. I should think I can deal with one last foal." She smiled as her gaze passed over Sken and Elding who were talking near the trees. "Speaking of foals and Elding, it seems as though there is an in-depth talk going on between Elding and Sken. Perhaps a 'passing of the torch' speech is going on." She chuckled, grinning wryly at her friend. The swedish mare barked a short laugh, "Ha, knowing Elding, most likely." She shook her head in mild amusement at the black stallion's actions.

Anteros

The huge bay stallion watched Banner with guarded eyes, he watched how Morphine and Elding handled the situation and didn't speak a word unless it was asked of him. He had no problem with the stallion staying among them until he was healthy or for longer, so long as he didn't show any aggressive behaviour towards his family, or anyone in the herd, he was fine. His muzzle gently ghosted down Yrsa's neck before lowering to nibble at the buds of grass that were growing beneath their hooves. He finished his mouthful of grass just as Anga and Siv made their way towards them. He smiled and nickered gently to both fillies, being careful not to be too loud so they didn't wake Love's sleeping form. He watched the blind filly commit Love's scent to memory before moving around the sleeping colt and toward where Astrid grazed. "You alright, Siv?" He asked quietly as his daughter followed behind, his ears tilted forward with a warm smile as he watched the young filly. She was almost a mare, growing up so fast, she would obviously be a beautiful mare once she was fully grown.

Anga

The blind filly snorted softly and nodded at her mother's suggestion. She moved with careful, measured steps as she approached Astrid, her muzzle lowered at the new scent that belonged to Love. She gently nudged the colt's sleeping body, inhaling his scent and memorising it briefly before stepping around him carefully and nickering to Astrid. "You okay Astrid?" She asked sweetly, halted beside the older mare, ears pricked as she listened intently for her answer.

[Swede]

Elding walked out of hearing distance of the rest of the herd, waiting patiently for Sken to join him. It was clear the young stallion was deeply fond of Fortuna, and though Elding didn't want to be one to distract him away from her presence, it was somewhat necessary to do so. Sken would survive a few minutes, despite young love's impatience. "Everything is perfectly fine," he answered in a low rumble, shaking his head. "Goodness, may I only speak with my son if there is trouble afoot?" The rugged black gazed at his son sternly for a moment, but then smiled, unable to keep the twinkle from his eye; cruel of him, he knew, to tease Sken, but he couldn't resist just this once.

"No, things are well indeed. The herd has suffered its hardships, but compared to many, we've been blessed with good fortune. No intruders threaten us, and the elements have not been unbearably savage. Hopefully, our happiness will continue for a long time to come." He paused, glancing past Sken to the gathered equines which he called his family. "I gather you and Fortuna have been planning to strike out in the world, is that correct? That's good; you will learn a great deal, and experience many new things- some unpleasant, some quite wonderful indeed. It does no youngster good to never peek outside their territory. But remember, you will always have a home here. If you ever tire of travels and wish to settle again, you will be welcomed."

He swallowed the words which had been waiting their turn to be spoken; he wanted Sken to live his life as he chose, without feeling any pressure or expectations to choose a particular future. But the fact remained that, while quite healthy, Elding nonetheless was not growing any younger. Sooner or later, the time would come when the illusion of weakness would tempt even the kindest neighbor to raid the herd. Sooner or later, Elding would not be fit to lead them. And when that time came, he much preferred a peaceful transition of leadership to one who knew and loved the family as much as he did. Though young now, Sken showed the makings of a wise and kind leader; experience would give him the edge he needed to be able to protect and defend a herd. Perhaps he would find another home for himself, and that would be fine. But though he made no direct statement on the matter, Elding would not object should an older and wiser Sken assume the mantle of responsibility over the ridge.

Dismissing his somber thoughts with a snort, the black stallion reached over and nipped at his son's shoulder. "Go on then, a gentleman doesn't keep a lady waiting," he said, his tone once again playfully stern in contrast to his prior solemn sentiments.

~

All the formalities apparently completed and Banner inducted into the herd, Yrsa settled to graze, keeping an eye on those who shuffled close to inspect Love but not waving them off; as long as they were quiet and careful, it was only good for the older members of the herd to develop strong ties with the colt. A closely knit herd was one which could keep each other safe. As the others dispersed back into their social nuclei, Love stirred and lifted his head, one ear flopping lazily to the side. "You missed all the excitement, sleepyhead," Yrsa murmured lovingly, running her muzzle along his neck. The colt yawned, apparently not at all concerned about the events he'd missed out on, and heaved himself up on his feet. Hmm... he was in the mood for some sort of pleasant adventure. What ought he get up to now? Perhaps biting mom's tail was a good idea... nope, she didn't like that. Hmmm....

~

Siv nodded obediently at Morphine's suggestion, and seeing her father already heading that way, fell in step behind him. She was surprised when he spoke, but nodded slowly. "Mhmm... I like spring a lot better than winter," she said. At three years old, the filly had grown significantly taller than her mother, settling around halfway between the height of each parent, and just as stocky. She was sweet-natured and quiet though, for the most part, which occasionally gave the impression of her being smaller than she was. Siv simply did not demand to be paid attention to, though if someone paused long enough to do so, they would no doubt appreciate what they saw. Her dark bay coat shone with good health, and her mane and tail did their best to make her drafty heritage proud.

~

Having been shooed off from bothering Love, Astrid grazed quietly on her own, taking advantage of the tasty spring shoots that were poking up from beneath last year's dead grass. Green grass... the highlight of her life these days. She glanced up at the sound of hoofbeats, but it was just Anga. No need to bother making eye contact or looking like she was paying attention, at least; that was the nice thing about Anga, you could do something else, look at other things while listening to her talk, and she wouldn't assume you weren't paying attention. "Hm?" she said, muffled by a mouthful of grass. She paused to swallow, a decent excuse to postpone her answer for a minute while she thought of what to say. "Eh, I'm fine, same old same old," she said, settling for neutrality. "What about you, you okay Anga?"

[bullseye]

Although Banner felt his introduction had gone smoothly, the relief that washed through him as he followed the lovely black mare away from her family for a few moments of privacy could not be brushed off as a passing feeling. It was a strange situation, this. How many stallions found themselves the newcomer amongst a family herd? This must be how freshly acquired mares felt upon introduction to a new herd, though they were undoubtedly considered less of a threat than a bachelor stallion. The stud's strength returned as time passed, but the only mare he sought to steal away from this herd was the very one that occupied his attention now. And even she would be extracted with the utmost respect and care. Banner recognized he was in a different place now and that he would need to adapt to survive.

The dark stallion watched Mask with a fond smile as she divulged important details about the territory. Although he made somewhat of an attempt to note the facts she shared, he couldn't help being distracted by the beautiful mare. Mask didn't appear to make a single attempt to hide her attraction to him, but Banner was unsure how he appeared to her. He hoped his silence didn't come off as displeasure of any variety--as he saw it, learning was easier when one's mouth remained closed. This place had many lessons to offer and he wasn't keen on missing a single one.

As Mask struck out across the flooded meadow, Banner followed. The dark stallion fought to maintain his focus as the icy water washed up and over his hocks, making his legs unpleasantly cold. The winter weather had done its job of teaching the desert stallion a thing or two about frigid weather, but it hadn't turned him into a fan. Not by a longshot.

Banner listened with interest and patience, but once Mask had reached a pause in the conversation, the dark stallion came to a halt and nudged Mask in an attempt to encourage her to do the same. He knew it was important to meet the final members of the herd and appreciated further briefing on the herd's history. Even the grizzly details of the disease that had so affected them were necessary, but before delving into more introductions, Banner wanted a few moments privacy.

"Mask, I am eager to meet the remainin' members of your family, but I'd like to request a moment without curious ears. I have... Well, Mask, I wanna be straightforward about my intentions.

"You're a striking gal, Mask, and I think it's no secret that you and I have somethin' more in mind than friendship. What we've got goin' is the making of a longlastin' relationship. Two isn't quite a herd, so we will need to find more members before strikin' out on our own, but I do wonder... Once I've healed enough to find some company for the two of us, will you join me in foundin' a herd, Mask? Every stallion needs a lead mare with a level head on her shoulders and I can't think of a better candidate'n you."

[Saz]

Mask

Her graphite gaze turned from the distant figures of Alskling and the twins to her companion as he nudged her. She tilted her head to the side slightly as she halted and smiled gently as he began to speak. It was when he had finished that it fully sank in of what he was asking her. Her cheeks flushed a vibrant cherry red and she gaped at him for a few moments. She replayed his small speech in her mind before blurting out a solid answer. "Yes. Yes! Of course I'll start a herd with you Banner." She burst out, a wide grin accompanying her joyous agreement. She moved forward and gently touched her muzzle to his, eyes full of excitement and adoration as she then nuzzled his shoulder before glancing toward the figures of her siblings. "C'mon, we'll have more time to ourselves later, but for now I figure we should get you introduced to the rest of the herd before they come and find us." She grinned at him, her mood now soaring like never before. With a final nudge to Banner, the mare turned and continued to slog through the flooded meadow.

Sken

The young stallion scowled playfully at his sire before shaking his head and laughing, "You're awful, Dad." He grinned before listening to his father intently, "Yeah, I want to get out there and so does Fortuna, so I guess it's only logical for us to go together." He smiled gently, glancing over his shoulder at the shy mare. He turned his gaze back to his rugged sire and nodded, "I know, Dad. Thanks." He smiled gently at his father, glad to have a sire such as his. He knew from occasionally glancing over the border at the other herds that passed by or occupied the spaces within the overall ridge that most colts were chased out between the ages of 2 and 3.

And he also knew that his bond with Elding was far from the norm within the outside world. It was even quite common for some foals and youngsters to never know their true sire, that was what had happened with Phantom. Though within this herd, and with Elding's kind nature, he was considered a full relative to everyone and not some outsider's foal. Pausing for a moment after his father dismissed him, the young stallion formed his wayward thoughts into a decent sentence before speaking to Elding once more. "Listen, Dad, If you ever need me, then just ask. I won't be hard to find. And I promise to come visit on occasion too." He nickered, returning the affectionate nip before turning away from his sire and jogging back toward Fortuna. "C'mon then, we may as well get going unless there's anyone you want to say goodbye to?" He nickered to her, a gentle smile on his maw.

Envis, Grym & Alskling

The trio of youngsters had ceased their playful antics and settled in at the edge of the flooded meadow by the time Mask arrived with Banner in tow. The eldest, and the only bay, of the trio stepped forward first to greet their sister. Alskling touched her muzzle to Mask's shoulder before glancing toward Banner. "So who's the hottie?" She stage-whispered to the older darker mare earning a snicker from Envis who'd stepped forward to stand beside her older sisters, ears pricked as she stared curiously at Banner. Grym hung back, a suspicious glare on his face as he stared across the back of his twin at the deeply scarred stallion.

Mask rolled her eyes and nipped Alskling before nodding to Envis and Grym. "Zip it, Alskling. I got enough of that from Sken." She shook her head and sighed at the reminder of Sken's earlier ribbing. The bay laughed, "I bet. Now are you gonna introduce your friend to us?" Alskling prodded, raising an eyebrow in a teasing manner. The darker mare scowled playfully before motioning to Banner. "Banner, meet my irritating sister, Alskling and the troublesome twins, Envis and Grym." She nickered, motioning to each individual as she spoke.

"Well, it's lovely to meet you, Banner. I hope you're settling in well here?" The young bay mare asked, her head tilting to the side very slightly as she observed how the new stallion acted. Envis smirked and snorted, greatly amused by how Alskling was acting. "Puh-lease, Alskling. Just 'cause he's new don't mean that you have to be all prissy. It's awesome to meet you, Banner. Glad to have you as part of the family." She bobbed her head up and down as she spoke, grinning broadly as she watched the stallion that she had now included into her family.

The two-year old colt stood behind his sisters in silent contemplation. He watched warily at how Banner and Mask looked at each other and then at how close they stood together. It seemed they had already made up their minds as to what relationship they had, and Banner seemed to be a level-headed, fierce and strong stallion. So Grym couldn't see much to object about with their relationship, so with a mildly begrudging snort, he nodded to Banner and smoothed away his vicious glare. "Welcome, Banner." He spoke softly as he watched the new stallion with wariness lining his body. He understood that his sire wouldn't have let Banner continue on his journey around the terra and nor would he allow Mask to stay in his company if he was a threat to them but it didn't mean that he wasn't going to be wary of this unknown stallion.

"Tch, am I the only one being normal right now? Grym's all quiet, Alskling's all posh. And well... Mask is just fawning over you." She winked conspiratorially at the mustang stallion before shying sideways as Alskling snapped at her. Rolling her eyes, Mask glanced at Banner with a mild grin, "And now you see why I introduce them as the troublesome twins. Grym's shy around those he doesn't really know, but Envis, to make up for being the runt, is obnoxious all the time." She chuckled before squalling and snapping playfully at Envis' shoulder as the younger filly pounced on her. Backpedalling, the black mare spun on her heels and lured her little sister away from her mate and their siblings before unleashing her own attack.

With some smartly placed nips and a few sharp turns, Envis landed on her side in the flooded meadow and was soaked all over. Laughing brightly, Mask fled back to the safety of Banner and the others, her own legs and stomach splashed with water. She tossed her head in high spirits and grinned at Grym who was trying hard to hide a smile from his twin who had emerged from the meadow with her mane sticking up at odd angles and water dripping from everywhere. Mask smirked at her siblings and before anyone could say anything else to set Envis off she motioned over her shoulder back toward the main herd. "You guys may want to head up there soon, Yrsa finally had her foal." She nickered, smiling softly at Envis' jovial reaction.

"Awesome!" She cheered and without anything more said, she sprinted away from the group and galloped across the flooded meadow, water flying in all directions. Grym rolled his eyes before nodding to Banner and following after his twin, but not at such a fast speed. Alskling snorted, rolling her eyes before gently touching her muzzle to Mask's shoulder as she brushed past her older sibling, "I'd best go mediate Envis and save Yrsa from too much aggravation. I'll see you soon. It was nice to meet you, Banner." She nickered sweetly, smiling at her sister's mate before loping after the quickly disappearing twins.

Anga

The blind filly nodded, bobbing her head indecisively as she searched for some decent smelling grass. She snapped at the longer blades and chewed them slowly before smiling gently. "Yeah, I'm fine. A little unnerved by, uhm, Banner. But I'm okay, I guess. Nothing new... Though I heard Sken and Fortuna are thinking of leaving, how about you? Do you ever think of leaving here and exploring places?" She asked innocently, cocking her head to the side, her ears pricked as she stared a few inches to the left of where Astrid was actually stood.

Anteros

The large stallion nodded thoughtfully, "Good, I'm glad. And I can't say I blame you. Though each season bring it's own pros and cons. Personally I favour autumn, when the leaves turn gold and bronze. It also reminds me a bit of your mother." He smirked slightly, glancing at his daughter before nickering to Astrid and Anga. He glanced from the blind filly to Astrid who wasn't truly his daughter but he felt as though she was, even if she didn't return the father-daughter feelings. Sighing softly, he touched his muzzle to Siv's neck and smiled gently before glancing to Astrid once more and then returning to where Yrsa stood grazing with Love stumbling around beside her. He smiled gently and brushed his muzzle against her shoulder before glancing back over to Astrid. "I'm concerned about Astrid, I know she's always been a bit quiet, but she seems to have become even more so recently..." He trailed off, frowning slightly.

Phantom

With a spring in his step, the young stallion loped confidently into his homeland. His head was thrown up, flaxen mane streaming out behind him like a flag in the wind. He wound his way through the trees and followed one of his favourite goat paths down the main ridge. As he began to reach the bottom and could see his family, he whinnied loudly, announcing his return with high spirits. It had been a while since he had last seen his sire and dam, and to say that he hadn't missed his sibling's mischief would be lying. Reaching the bottom, he stretched himself into a ground-eating lope and powered toward the main herd. Once he was within a few metres of the main herd, he slowed and then finally stopped a few strides from his mother who was smiling broadly.

"Phantom," She breathed his name, glad to see him happy and healthy. "Mom." He greeted, eyes lighting up as he stepped forward and nuzzled her affectionately. She nipped his shoulder gently, a mock-stern look on her face as she stared at him, "You've been gone a while!" She spoke, before her face broke into a large grin and she chuckled. "I'm glad to see you again, how long are you staying?" She asked softly, tilting her head to the side as she looked him up and down, making sure he was okay. "I'm not sure, Maybe until autumn. Might leave before then. We'll see." He snorted before glancing around to see where Elding was.

[Snappin' Turtle]

The three year old shifted on her feet, nodding and watching Sken leave before looking around. This was the only home she could remember, and she was going to miss it, but, to go off with Sken? It had to be worth it. A soft snort left her and she look over to where Siv was, the young mare was her best friend her.. sister. Fortuna jumped at the familiar deep voice, having drifted off in her thoughts. "Oh, uh, yeah, let me say goodbye to Siv." she murmured before offering the stud a smile. She turned to stride over, an affectionate nicker leaving her. "I was.. just coming to say.. goodbye. Sken and I are leaving." the sabino dun mare said, leaning down to touch noses with her friend.
(sorry if this sucks, just skimmed the last few posts)

[Swede]

"Eh, don't worry about 'im. He looks a bit scary but he doesn't act like it, and if he turns out to be nasty, Anteros will kick his face in," Astrid shrugged, glancing towards Banner with Mask in the distance. It seemed he was getting introduced to the younger members of the clan. "You'd think she was trying to drive him off, introducing him to those nutters," she said with a mock sigh. She then fell silent, taking a moment to consider Anga's words. Sken and Fortuna were leaving... well, she should have seen that coming, really. Those two were like peas in a pod. "I dunno," she said, a little evasively, "I mean, maybe. But... I dunno. I wasn't actually born here, you know; I barely remember it, I was really little, but we traveled here, me and mom and T-Tindra, when my dad disappeared. It... wasn't fun. Everyone leaves, sooner or later, but... this is my home." She shook her head mutely. "I don't know."


----------------------------

Siv smiled a little at her father's comment; she could never decide if he sounded like a lovestruck young colt or an old post-romantic geezer, but it was still amusing to hear him talk like that. When he turned away, she lowered her head to graze, but looked up almost immediately at Fortuna's impending approach. "Hey Fortuna," she greeted the other young mare cheerfully. They had grown up together, shared the same mother and the same herd; she felt just as close to her as she felt to Astrid.

Fortuna's announcement came as no surprise, but though Siv was happy for her and Sken to have decided to strike out on their own, it wasn't always easy separating from family. "I'll miss you," she said, reaching out to touch Fortuna's muzzle, "But I know you guys will be fine, so take care of yourself, all right?"

----------------------------


Elding snorted softly. "I'll hold you to that promise, son," he said sternly. Then he softened. "Have fun, you two," he called as Sken turned to leave. It wasn't always easy to see them leave, but they had to grow up, sooner or later; such was life. The vast majority of youngsters did just fine on their own, after all- you heard sad stories sometimes, but most who left their herds managed quite well, and many even thrived. Sken had a good head on his shoulders, and Fortuna too; moreover, they had each other, and didn't have to go at it alone. They would be just fine.

Heaving a sigh, the shaggy black stallion yawned and stretched his neck out, then shuddered to shake off the last stubborn clumps of his winter coat. With each passing day, the sun became warmer, the days became longer, and winter once again felt like nothing more than distant memory. He surveyed the herd for a few minutes, taking note of where everyone was and making sure that nothing was amiss- a rare thing in this territory, to be sure, but it was always good to be vigilant just in case- before turning and ambling back towards his mares. No point in a herd if you weren't going to enjoy their company, after all.

It seemed, however, his check had not quite been thorough enough, as a loud call rang among the surrounding mountains. Pricking his ears, Elding halted, head lifted to localize the source. He knew that voice... though it was long since he last heard it. Ah, but there he was, indisputably himself: Phantom, streaking across the earth. His movement was not aggressive in the least, with no suggestion of a stallion attempting a raid, and in any case, Elding thoroughly trusted his adoptive son. Smiling quietly to himself as Phantom came to a halt by Morphine and quickly began reacquainting himself with her, Elding strode forwards again. Yes, they always grew up and had to leave, but that didn't stop them from coming to visit, and it only made their visits all the more pleasurable.

[bullseye]

Despite himself, Banner felt a smile creep across his face the longer he stood in the presence of the three youngsters. Each one positively oozed youth and enthusiasm. In fact, if each had any more personality, he suspected they'd be unable to store it in one body.

The dark stallion nodded politely to each of the three equines and then answered Alskling's question.

"I'm settlin' in quite good," he gave a satisfied nod. "The cold weather is something I'm not used to, but this territory is beautiful and its occupants very welcoming I'm findin'."

Banner resumed his silence as the siblings squabbled back and forth, the only sound he uttered was a chuckle as Mask and Envis romped through the mud, playing like foals. A fond smile stretched across his face as the youngsters galloped off to go investigate the herd's new addition and he and his mate were left alone.

"You have a beautiful family, Mask. The love and care y'all have experienced show in your personalities."

[Saz]

Smiling gently the young stallion watched his beloved say goodbye to their family before he moved forward and gently nudged her. "C'mon, we'd best be going before the sun sets." He whickered deeply, smiling gently to Siv before turning and leading the way toward the trees and out of the terra. They would return eventually, when he was more experienced and they were both older, but for now they would wander, gaining experiences and learning about the world beyond the ridge.

--

The obsidian mare laughed softly and nuzzled her stallion before nodding and gazing after the energetic trio. "My father is to blame for that," She grinned, betraying her love toward her sire. "He's never been one for confrontation or aggression, in my time in this terra, not once have we ever had anyone threaten him. And in his time living here, the only stallion to have ever threatened him was a stallion by the name of Nightshade, who stole Mullra from my father when they were first let into the wild. He didn't survive the attack upon the herd and Mullra has lived with us since. She was skin and bones when she was first here, but five years on she's as happy and healthy as ever and the herd is just as pleasant. My father works hard to keep everyone happy, even our neighbors, and throughout his time here never once has he been involved in an altercation with another local stallion." She spoke proudly, her gaze flicking from the disappeared trio to her beloved's face.

"My mother has also influenced me, I find no fear in speaking my mind nor my feelings on a subject, whereas you have Anga who had inherited our father's quieter nature..." She trailed off and paused as a called rang through the land and her heart leaped, her face splitting into a broad grin. "Oh! Phantom is here! Come, come, you have to meet him!" She trilled, barely containing her excitement as she whirled around and loped back toward the main her, eager to see her older brother once more.

--

The silver black stallion grinned broadly as he gazed past his mother at his adopted sire, "Dad." He greeted Elding with one word, reaching past his mother to touch his muzzle against the black stallion's. "How have you all been?" He asked, his dark eyes glancing around and taking in each member. He had not been back here since the winter after Tindra's passing, and much had changed. It seemed he had a new family member as well as four that he had never truly gotten to know. Anga, his half-sister was speaking with Astrid with Siv not far away, and as he turned to survey the landscape Alskling appeared with the twins in tow. He laughed softly at their excitable nature and glanced at Elding, "The twins keeping you on your toes, dad?" He asked, grinning broadly as the twins beelined for Yrsa whereas Alskling made her way toward him.

"Hey Alskling." He greeted her with a sweet nicker and she smiled gently, sidling past Elding and Morphine to nuzzle the older stallion. "Hey Phantom, how've you been?" She asked as she glanced at the twins who were familiarizing themselves with Love. "Not bad, not bad. Made some good, solid friends and I'm settled in a herd with them at the moment over in the rainforest. And no, before you ask, I don't have a mate." He grumbled, narrowing his eyes playfully at the young mare. She grinned and nipped at his shoulder, "I wasn't going to ask that, dummy." She snorted, flicking her tail at him before flicking her ears forward as Mask appeared, Banner trailing behind her. She grinned broadly and was about to speak up when Mullra interrupted her with a greeting for Phantom.

"Ah, Phantom. It's lovely to see you again, say, Alskling, go and stop Grym and Envis from disturbing Yrsa and Love too much, would you?" She spoke softly, her tone revealing the iron order beneath as she spoke. The young mare sighed softly and narrowed her eyes at her mother before touching her muzzle to Phantom's shoulder once more and then trotting toward the twins. The silver-black stallion began to question Mullra's reasoning behind sending Alskling away when he spotted Mask and an unknown stallion making their way toward him. His eyes narrowed and his chest puffed up, no stallion was gonna become Mask's mate without his input first.

Morphine and Mullra attempted to stifle their sniggers as Phantom trotted toward Mask but the duo were unable to stifle them for too long and ended up laughing aloud. "He's going to get a shock when he speaks to Mask, she's not as agreeable as she used to be. She'll handle him and all the testosterone with ease. She a chip off the old block." She winked at Morphine who just grinned wider and rolled her eyes. "She knows how to handle just about anyone, so she'll be more than fine with Phantom being all 'big brother' toward her. It also gives Banner a clearer image of how close of a family we truly are. Phantom and Mask haven't seen each other in about a year and a half. So if their bond is still strong as it was then it'll say something to him." She spoke wisely, watching the brother and sister converse eagerly. Phantom seemed to have relaxed a little in his sister's presence, but she could see he was still cautious around Banner.

--

The blind filly bobbed her head in silent agreement, "It's understandable, Astrid. I mean, I don't ever know whether I'll be able to leave here and explore. I'd have to have someone with me at all times. And where am I gonna find someone who wants to do that, to watch out for me, considering I can't. I don't exactly want to be stuck with the twins for my entire life or anyone else for that matter. I guess it's hard for both of us, this place is the only home you've properly had that's stable and unchanging, and I'm pretty much stuck here..."

She trailed off and sighed deeply, shaking out her long mane before pausing as a vaguely familiar voice penetrated her dark world. Her head lifted and her ears pricked as she intently attempted to pinpoint the being that the voice belonged to. "Phantom?" She questioned the air quietly, shifting on the spot in a vaguely anxious manner, she hated it when no one explained what was going on. How was she supposed to know who was coming and going? She figured that Sken and Fortuna had left considering their voices had disappeared, but the clamour from across the clearing was distracting and confusing, she couldn't tell one voice from the other.

--

The two north swedish horses pricked their ears as Alskling moved to greet Phantom and gave them both the time to get to Yrsa without her nagging them about manners. "Hey Yrsa, how's the little one doing?" Grym asked as they halted a short distance away. Envis' attention was solely fixed upon the young colt, absolutely itching to greet their newest family member. With a small smirk, Grym glanced at his sister before rolling her eyes, "Considering he's not asleep anymore, would it be okay for us to say hi?" He asked on his sister's behalf who in turn began nodding vigourously. Anteros who had stationed himself beside his beloved mare just chuckled gently and glanced at Yrsa. "Ooh, I don't know, should we let them say hello?" He grinned teasingly at the twins as they waited on Yrsa's answer.

--

The two mares observed the interactions of the herd absent-mindedly as they grazed side-by-side. Over the years of living in the same herd and becoming slowly acquainted with each other, the two had became good friends. And with the introduction of Yrsa into the mix had only strengthened their bond. The exchanged an amused glance as Phantom heatedly argued with his sister before Morphine rolled her eyes and lifted her head, deciding to intervene. "Phantom, leave your sister alone. She's old enough to make her own decisions, Banner isn't a bad stallion either, he's been with us over the winter and hasn't made a false move against any one of us." She spoke sternly to her eldest who in turn bowed his head sheepishly.

"Now, be nice." She finished, narrowing her eyes at the black-silver stallion before conspiritally grinning at Mullra, they had all seen Mask's reaction to her brother's vocal outcry at her choice in mate, but Banner had yet to speak his mind. Sure they were testing him to see whether or not he would react to the antagonism Phantom provided, or whether he would allow Mask to stand on her own two feet against him without a word in defence for himself. Or perhaps he would speak his own mind calmly once the siblings had calmed down, it would be interesting to see. Morphine glanced at Elding and smiled gently, reaching toward him and gently nibbling the ends of his long mane. "Would you do me the pleasure of going to the canyon with me this year, my love?" She asked sweetly, tilting her head to the side very slightly as her inquiry hung in the air.

--

The young mare lead the way up the slightly sloping meadows to where her older brother was reacquainting himself with their parents. She glanced over her shoulder at Banner before grinning broadly when Phantom spotted her. She nickered in delight as he moved toward them and she eagerly snuggled against him like she had done as a foal. "Phantom, it's been far too long. How have you been?" She asked, looking up at him with a loving expression. The silver-black stallion grinned broadly despite himself and pressed his muzzle against her forehead in a silent greeting. "I've been well, I'm currently living in a small herd with a group of friends in the rainforest, you should come visit sometime, it's a beautiful place." He spoke softly, before glancing cautiously at Banner. "Who is your friend?" He asked, voice loudening slightly so the deeply scarred stallion could hear him too.

Oblivious to Phantom's slightly stiff and wary posture toward Banner, she grinned broadly and stepped away from her brother to touch her muzzle against Banner's shoulder. "This is Banner, we... uh..." She paused, what exactly were they? He'd asked her to start a herd with him, so evidently he saw her as something more than a friend, and she would most likely visit the canyon with him once they had a territory and a small group of horses to start a herd with. "He's my mate." She solidly decided, glancing up at Phantom's hard expression.

Although Banner was three years his senior and most likely a better fighter than he, Phantom had height and weight on his side. Standing at a full hand taller than the dark stallion and having recently grown into his muscular form. Thus the younger stallion was pretty sure he could at least chase Banner away from his sister. With narrowed eyes he glared at the older stallion before fixing his gaze on his sister. "A mate? Really. You're too young, Mask. You're what, 4 now? Have you even been around other territories?" He growled, ears tilting back as he stared at her incredulously. "Well, no but-" She attempted to speak but he cut her off once he got her answer. "I thought not, and really? Him? He looks like he's gone ten rounds with a cougar, and come off worse. What happened to exploring and finding your niche in the world? You don't need to settle down so suddenly, Mask. And especially not with Banner." He grunted, glancing at the other stallion dismissively before fixing his gaze back on his sister who was slowly growing more and more agitated.

"Oh will you just shut up!" She cried, ears flattening and eyes narrowing venomously as she stepped in front of Banner as though to deflect her brother's angry speech. "Meeting Banner has been the best experience I've ever had, Phantom. He is a lovely stallion and you shouldn't be so judgmental. Both Mom and Dad approve of him, as does everyone else. Even Mullra." She paused, allowing that to sink into his thick skull, everyone who knew the fierce swedish mare knew that she wasn't easily impressed or easily appeased. "I'll have you know that actually, I'd much rather choose who I spend the rest of my life with rather than be stolen away by a stallion I may not even like. As for what I do with my life, it doesn't matter, it's my choice. And I'm sure that if I choose to, at a later date, I can go exploring where I choose. And anyway, I want to settle down with him..." She trailed off as her mother interrupted, ending the argument with the iron finality that only a mother and lead mare possessed.

Phantom sighed deeply, eyebrows creasing as he stared at his sister and her mate once more. "Fine. Fine..." He relented, tossing his head in mild irritation. "But I have one question, for Banner, do you care for my sister?" He questioned sternly, eyes narrowed at the shorter, stockier stallion. Mask rolled her eyes at Phantom before gently nuzzling her mate, "Ignore him if you want, Banner, it's none of his business." She nickered sweetly, gazing at him with adoring eyes. She knew, deep in her heart, that she adored this stallion, but she wouldn't hold it against him if he didn't feel ready to reveal his feelings for her just yet. It was usually something saved for a more private moment, when there wasn't a grumpy older brother standing over you.

--

[bullseye]

Banner heaved a mental sigh at Phantom's ravings, again noting the blatant unconventionality of this herd. He was not, by any means, ungrateful for their willingness to stray from the norm; they would have been very unlikely to take his wounded, pathetic self in had they adhered to wild horse tradition. Regardless, the determination of Mask's brothers to drive him out with words was growing monotonous. Admittedly, the lack of physical attacks was a blessing--while Banner was mostly healed, he suspected he'd discover a whole new variety of pain if he ever put one of the younger stallions in place. This was a gentle herd, but he knew even in self defense, Elding's family herd would drive him out in the case of any conflict.

Was there an instinctual part of Banner that wanted to give Phantom a couple good kicks for antagonizing Mask like he did? Of course. When Banner and his mare settled down in their own herd, he knew he'd give any stranger that pulled this same move punishment equal to their rudeness. But, as a guest in Rainbow Ridge, he tamped down his temper and looked the younger stallion square in the eye.

"Your skepticism is well-founded, Phantom. We just met--I don't expect ya tuh trust me. But if ya insist on being angry, direct it at me; Mask's a strong mare, but she's under my care now, so I won't be permittin' any stallion to bully her, brother or not.

"I'm not much for expressin' myself with words, lad, but you're not givin' me much time to show Mask how much I care for her. And while you're right, Mask, that this ain't his place, I'll show him the respect he ain't showed me and answer his question."

The dark stallion paused, giving Mask a gentle nuzzle before taking a few steps in front of the beautiful black mare and again meeting Phantom's stern eyes. The older stud reminded himself that Phantom wasn't seeking harm, but rather intended to keep his sister safe. Really, that proved the two very similar in their motivations--even if keeping Mask safe required leaving her in the care of her family and exiting Rainbow Ridge, Banner knew he'd go to whatever length necessary to defend the mare. Phantom was right, she'd been very hasty in falling for Banner and Banner truly didn't understand why. But he at least understood how lucky he was and intended to express that as best he could.

"Mask weren't the first horse I saw in this land, Phantom, but she at least gave me more'n a glance. I weren't a sight for sore eyes, with my bleedin' scabs, but she still bothered to be sure I were okay. I knew from the point she wanted tuh bring me home with her that I'd met the kindest mare ever birthed."

Banner turned his head to look into Mask's eyes, taking in the sight of the mare he didn't deserve. "And I thought to muhself, 'Banner, ya lucky horse. All yer flirtin' and never before did ya catch a beauty like this one.'" The dark stallion winked at Mask.

"Do I care for her, Phantom?" Banner asked, giving Phantom a quick look. "'Course I do. Do ya think any self respectin' stud would take a verbal beatin' like you just gave me layin' down if he had only himself tuh look out fer?"

Turning back to Mask, he fixed her with a fond gaze. "I probably care too much, 'cos I know I'd go tuh lengths for Mask that I never have before. I dunno what it is about her, but in the few months I've known this beauty, I've lost hold of my heart. And I'm darn positive Mask's the thief. I can't think of a better place for it'n in her care, though."

Looking back to Mask's herd, Banner understood what he had to do. Spring neared its end, with summer fast approaching. Before the cold weather rolled back in, Banner needed to find a territory and some semblance of a herd. It was time to prove he was the stallion he claimed to be.

With a respectful bow of his head, the dark stallion addressed the peaceful Elding. "I thank ya for yer kindness and scantu'ry. I've healed enough tuh seek out my own land now, so I think I oughta leave ya for a time to do just that."

Before departing, he nuzzled his mare's neck fondly and spoke quietly enough to prevent others from hearing his words. "I know yer father'll take good care of ya, even if it does kill me to leave ya behind. I dunno what I'll find while explorin' this land, though, and don't intend tuh lead ya intuh danger. I'm in no shape to fight fer two, so I can't promise that I could get us out of a sticky situation. I promise I'll return for ya once I've found our home, Mask."

Resting his neck over Mask's withers, Banner closed his eyes and heaved a sigh. "I'll miss ya, beautiful."

As the black stallion forced himself to pull away, he gave the band one more glance, then trotted for the edge of the territory.

[Swede]

"Phantom, it's good to see you," the shaggy black stallion rumbled affectionately. "Heh, the twins aren't too good for my health, but most of you lot have had your nightmare phases. Theirs just doubles in intensity whenever they're around each other." Elding shook his head in mock resignation, then stepped back to watch with contented satisfaction as Phantom reacquainted himself with the others. It was difficult to imagine Phantom as a grown adult rather than the little colt he had once raised, but there he was, as majestic as any stallion in his prime. It didn't take long before he discovered Mask's new friend, however, and though Elding was a firm practitioner of non-interference, he kept a watchful eye on the proceedings. He trusted Phantom, and he was pretty sure he trusted Banner, but colts could change as they grew and strangers could reveal hidden sides in tense moments. Despite his caution, Elding couldn't resist an amused smile at Mullra and Morphine's commentary on the situation.

Things seemed to remain under control, however, and Morphine seemed to tie up the situation not out of any concern for an altercation, but almost rather because the novelty had simply worn off. As the mare returned to his side, Elding chuckled lightly at her proposition. "I'm flattered you still hold these old bones in such high regard," he teased, "I'll do you the pleasure if you'll do me the honor." Despite his occasional complaint about the rowdy youngsters, it was all in jest, and he was truly fond of the little ones; they kept the herd fresh and alive, and made him feel younger than his age.

Elding was momentarily distracted from Morphine by Banner's surprisingly eloquent rebuttal and subsequent approach. "Who knew there was a poet hiding under all that," he murmured with amusement in the dark mare's ear, before pulling himself up straight and greeting Banner with a nod. "I wish you the best of luck with that. Find something nice for my Mask; while I love my daughters, I can't have all of them giving up on their stallions and coming back to live with me, so don't disappoint her." He watched as the rugged mustang departed, before turning and making his way towards Phantom. "He's not that bad," Elding said quietly as he halted beside his adopted son. "I trust him. Mask is smart, even in love she's got her mother's brains and she'll send him packing if he screws it up. Have some faith in her. Now, I don't suppose you'd like to help Anteros keep an eye on things for a little while til I get back, hmm?"

~

Astrid sighed sympathetically. In her own complaints, she easily forgot that she was quite lucky, all things considered; she had a kind family, was healthy and strong, and the future wasn't completely impossible even though it sometimes felt like it. In her blindness, Anga was extremely vulnerable on her own, entirely dependent on her herd and familiarity with her surroundings. It was difficult to imagine being in such a position.

Turning her head, she pricked her ears towards the approaching figure. Her expression lit up immediately. "It is Phantom!" she exclaimed, but hesitated in her initial desire to approach. "Um, maybe we should wait a sec..." She lowered her voice a fraction, leaning a little closer to Anga (more concerned about avoiding proclaiming her words to everyone in the meadow rather than making sure the filly heard, considering Anga's adept hearing). "He didn't know about Banner, of course... he doesn't look too happy, and- oh geez, Mask is pissed- I think we should let them sort that out first."

Falling silent, her thoughts reverted to the previous topic of conversation. Quite suddenly, an idea struck her; it was probably insane, and certainly poorly planned, but it was an idea nonetheless. "You know, if you really want to get out and see the world, I could come with you... Okay, I know, I'm not exactly the greatest defense ever, a stranger could probably just step over me if they wanted, but what are the chances we'd actually have to get into a fight or anything? Most get along with their lives quite peacefully- at least I think they do... But I'm a good lookout, and you still have sharp hearing and smell, so we'd be able to avoid predators and bad situations, and with me around to keep an eye on things you won't risk walking off a cliff or anything like that. We don't even have to go that far, we could just practice in the surrounding areas... who knows, we could make a great team! I mean, if you trust me enough... I could understand if you didn't, I'm just one horse and a pretty shrimpy one at that, it might feel a bit lame compared to having the whole herd around here... but..." Astrid trailed off awkwardly, not having come any further in her planning than that. But it was silly to plan anyway, when she didn't even know what Anga thought of the proposal.

~

Yrsa eyed the twins up and down, taking in their eagerness with sly impassivity. "I'm not so sure we should, Anteros; such mischievous troublemakers might be a bad influence on him," she said sternly, though unable to hide the twinkle in her eye. With time she had come to be much like her father. "Oh, very well. But be careful, you hear?"

Love peered around his mother curiously. These ones were still bigger than him, but not as huge as all the others, and their energy bounced off each other as though they were two forms but of the same mind. They seemed funny; and though his mother acted defensive, he somehow sensed that she didn't really mean it, so... maybe they were all right?

[Saz]

Morphine & Mullra
-
The dark mare smirked slightly at the swedish stallion's poke at himself, "Ha, perhaps you're right, maybe I'll seek out one of the neighboring stallions instead." She replied cheekily, her eyes glittering with mirth as she watched him. At his consequent reply, she smiled and nudged his cheek gently, "Of course." She replied, moving her muzzle to gently nibble at the longer strands of his shaggy mane. She turned her own gaze upon the severely scarred mate of her daughter and nodded her head in agreement to Elding's proclamation before watching her stallion stride toward her eldest child. She glanced to the side as Mullra stepped forward, finishing her mouthful of summer grass slowly as she gazed over the herd before speaking, "So would an old lady such as I be welcome to the canyon?" Came the swedish mare's teasing question as she watched her friend from the corner of her eye. A snort rippled from Morphine and she nudged her friend with her muzzle, "Please, you're younger than Elding, and you know you're always welcome, it wouldn't be me you should be asking anyway. Besides, I'm sure our old boy wouldn't mind you as well." She winked conspiratorially at Mullra before smiling gently as she watched Phantom nudge his adoptive father affectionately. "Well the twins are yearlings now, so they're beginning to become more independent, it's best to leave them to it, and soon I imagine we shall be having more grand-foals trundling around." The dark swedish mare nickered back to her friend, "Aye, well I think that I'm beginning to reach the end of my foal-having capabilities, after all, no one needs that much stress so often in later life." Morphine agreed before turning her back on the herd and beginning to trek to the canyon with Mullra only a few steps behind.
-
Envis & Grym; Alskling
-
Envis almost vibrated with her attempts to contain her enthusiasm as Yrsa and Anteros teased them, she shifted eagerly from hoof to hoof before stepping gingerly forward as the older mare gave her permission. Lowering her head to the young colt's level, the yearling sniffed him enthusiastically, ears practically quivering in place as she watched him curiously. Grym rolled his eyes at his sister's antics and not-so-gently shoved her to the side and away from the young colt, the filly stumbled slightly, flattening her ears at her brother and nipping his shoulder harshly causing him to scowl at her and for her to scowl back before they both burst into giggles. After all, they could hardly ever stay mad at each other for too long, where was the fun in that?

Momentarily distracted, the twins jerked slightly as Anteros moved away from them toward their father, following his movement with their gazes, they noticed their mother and Morphine moving away from the rest of the herd and their sire speaking to Phantom. Glancing at each other for a brief moment they shrugged simultaneously before returning their attention to Love. "It's nice to meet you, Love, I'm Grym, and this is Envis. We're twins, which means we were born at pretty much the same time, though I'm older." The older colt paused in his speech and puffed out his chest self-importantly before his sister rolled her eyes at him and nipped at his crest. "He may be older, but I'm smarter, and quicker." She grinned conspiratorially, winking at the young colt. "Yeah, but I'm bigger than you!" Grym proclaimed, straightening up to prove his point in his quarrel with his twin. "Whatever doofus." Envis replied, snorting teasingly before both twins froze as their older sister nickered to grab their attention.

They both began to complain in unison, making the young mare roll her eyes and stamp a hoof to gather their attention once more, "Listen, I don't wanna be here any more than you want me here. Mom's orders. Either way, she just wants you to know that you shouldn't bother Yrsa too much, even though I'm sure she's more than capable of telling you two to bugger off. Anyway, now that's over and done with, I'm gonna go have a nap, so don't be too noisy." She grumbled at them, before yawning and striding off into the trees to find a quiet place to nap until her parents got back from the canyon.

The twins waited until Alskling was out of earshot before grinning broadly at each other and then glancing back to Yrsa, and both opening their mouths at the exact same time. Grym began to speak, "Hey Yrsa, could we maybe-" Envis interrupted, "take Love on a tour of the meadow?" It was at this point that Grym caught up with his sister and they managed to speak in unison, "We'll promise to look after him, you can even come along if you want!" They finished in one breath, grinning at each other before staring at Yrsa pleadingly.
-
Anteros
-
The large stallion chuckled at the twins' antics, and reached forward to gently nudge Love more into the open and closer to the twins. After all, the youngster couldn't spend his life hiding behind Yrsa or covered in her tail. He glanced up once the twins were becoming acquainted his son, watching Elding calm the tension that still remained between Phantom and Mask with some simple, kind words. At movement in the corner of his eye, he turned his head slightly and watched Morphine and Mullra head off in a familiar direction and he gently snorted, before pressing his muzzle to Yrsa's side and slowly moving toward Elding. He figured if Morphine and Mullra were on their way to the canyon then it would only be a few moments until their stallion followed. Arriving at Elding's side, he nodded to Phantom with a small smile before glancing to the darker stallion, "Morphine and Mullra just left, We'll keep an eye on things until you get back." He spoke with deep yet quiet voice, motioning to Phantom who merely nodded his head in agreement at the gigantic stud's statement.
-
Phantom
-
The young silver-black stallion watched his sister's mate with a fierce expression, his ears remained tilted back and his gaze stern as he listened to the scarred stallion's eloquent rebuttal. Despite his attempts, his hard exterior began to melt and he sighed, lowering his head slightly as the stallion finished, relaxing his body and uttering a almost silent snort. "Very well... I see that you care for her deeply, no matter the time you've been together. Just do me one favour, Banner. Keep her safe?" He nickered quietly, inhaling deeply before sighing out forcefully. He watched the couple bid each other a goodbye and out the corner of his eye he followed Banner's progress out of the territory before he glanced at his sister who was glowering balefully at him, ears all but flattened into her mane.

He was about to open his mouth to address her but their sire interrupted and he bobbed his head thoughtfully, "I know, I know... It's just that I've not seen her for so long and it's just like, they seem to be moving so quickly. But you guys have known him for almost as long as she has, so I'll trust your judgement and hers. I just still see her as my kid sister, I guess." He snorted, shaking out his flaxen mane as he glanced at his adoptive sire before over his shoulder at his mother & Mullra's disappearing forms. "Sure, old man, I'm sure the giant and I can handle the terra for a little while." He grinned cheekily, nipping at Elding's mane playfully before glancing sideways as Anteros halted beside him, "Alright gigantor?" The young stallion teased, grinning broadly at the slightly taller stallion. He received a deep chuckled and a snort before the chunky bay replied, "You're one to talk, Mr. Lanky. You're only slightly shorter than me." Anteros teased back, eyes glittering with mirth as he gently bumped his shoulder against Phantom playfully. "Pfft, whatever gigantor." The young stallion snorted, winking at the bay before glancing toward Mask who was currently watching the treeline wistfully between aggressively ripping up chunks of grass. "If you'll excuse me..." The silver black stallion nodded to his sire and his friend before wandering toward his sister.
-
Mask
-
The young mare blushed deeply with an adoring smile as she listened to Banner speak with great care and eloquence on her behalf, she watched him handle the situation with class and elegance that took her aback for a few moments. She clamped down on her urge to yell at her brother again for disrespecting her mate and instead focused on the words that Banner uttered. She watched the two stallions have a verbal stand-off and couldn't contain her broad, affectionate smile as Banner met her gaze, blushing again when he winked at her. This stallion had such a hold over her, it was incredible, her heart fluttered whenever he gave her that dashing smile of his, her stomach did backflips when he touched her and her brain all but turned to mush when he gave her compliments as though she was the most beautiful thing in the world.

She curled her face into his neck and nuzzled him deeply as he spoke directly to her, "I know," She murmured, "Just stay safe, I'll miss you." She nickered back, gently lipping the longer strands of his mane before inhaling his scent deeply as he pulled away. She watched him moved away at a swift jog and smiled wistfully as she noted that his limp had disappeared, he was almost healed, she just hoped he didn't get himself in any more trouble. Glancing away, her eyes landed on the form of her older brother, her ears moved backward and her graphite eyes turned to steel as she glowered at him, unbothered by his gaze meeting hers, she waited for him to turn his attention to Elding before she moved away from them both and began to graze angrily. Her tail flicked to and fro as she ripped the grass up by its roots, grumbling to herself silently and occasionally glancing at the treelines as though expecting Banner to reappear almost immediately.
-
Anga
-
The blind filly's ears flicked back and forth as she attempted to keep on ear trained on Astrid's commentary but also follow what was going on around her. She noted the raised voices and ascertained that there was some form of argument going on between Phantom and Mask, which was interrupted by their mother before Banner stepped in, reasoning with Phantom in a pleasant but firm way. Humming quietly, she bobbed her head slightly in an indecisive movement before speaking up, "I agree, they don't sound happy in the slightest. It would be best to let them sort it out otherwise our interference may only inflame the situation. Phantom will come to us eventually anyway, he usually does." She murmured softly, taking a bite of the sweet summer grass as peace fell upon the herd once more. Her ears flicked forward in interest as Astrid spoke again, her head raising from the grass as she listened to the filly she thought of as a close, if not best, friend. Excitement rose up in her at Astrid's speech, a broad grin pulling at the sides of her mouth and she bobbed her head eagerly, stumbled forward slightly so she could nudge her friend eagerly. "Yes! Yes! That sounds so cool! We'd make such a cool team!" She laughed, nudging the smaller filly's shoulder firmly as she all but wiggled with excitement.

[Swede]

Love stared at the twins as they squabbled, barely able to keep up with the competitive discussion. His mind was spinning so quickly he hardly noticed his father bump him forward, stumbling himself into a balanced position with distracted awe. Was he supposed to remember all these details about them? They didn't seem too different to him; on the contrary, a great deal of their appearance and pretty much the entirety of their mannerisms were utterly identical. Their train of argument was quickly interrupted by the older filly standing by, and his attention shifted towards her instead. His wide eyes followed her in stunned silence as she lumbered off. "Wow, mama," he whispered. "She is really grumpy."

Yrsa could barely contain her impulsive snort of laughter. "Not always, Love, not always. Alright; you can show him around the meadow, but I am definitely coming along. You two have a lot of growing up to do before I trust you to babysit on your own." She nudged Love. "Go on, you can trust them, and I'll be right behind you. Go have some fun."



Astrid was quickly warming up to her own idea, however rough and spontaneous it might have been. "I know, right?" she said excitedly. "And if we got bored or if it was too tough and overwhelming, we could always come home again. And now's a perfect time of year to do it, when the weather is nice and we won't have any trouble finding food or water. What do you think, are you really ready for an adventure? We'd have to tell the others first of course, they would worry if we just took off... and maybe they would have some good advice too. I don't think they would stop us, would they? I know they worry sometimes but everyone else leaves at some point or another, I mean look at Phantom, he's been gone for ages and he's fine. Just because you're blind and I'm little doesn't mean we're helpless. Tons of horses have survived despite being blind or deaf, and there are littler horses than me out in the world I bet that are doing just fine."