Clear As Black & White

[Captain Stumpy]

A odd little group of horses made there pilgrimage towards the island in the lake. Jeopardy had been there once and was not looking forward to seeing it again. Leading the band was a dark mare, hidden by the shadows of the tree's she blended well for crossing border territories and staying out of trouble, even with a chestnut yearling behind her stride the dark mare seemed consistently able to blend in when a twig snapped or the birds shrieked. The white mare following her on the other hand...

Peril walked defeated the whole way, lost without Hero. the rumours of him being a devil stallion, and being over-due to die had hurt her heart. Smoke had always been a steady source of negative, but Peril still found comfort in the old black mare. So now in a world without Hero in it. It was Smoke she came to for comfort, and it was Smoke to reminded her Dagger would be on a war-path when he reached Hero's territory once more. Peril didn't give a long good-bye to the rolling grasslands, or the other mares and foals Hero had claimed on his travels. The quicker they left the safer they'd be.

Jeopardy Followed behind the little group, he was the eldest colt and wanting more and more to be looked at like the grand stallion he wanted to be. The battle that took place on Fire's borders where short, Hero's mind failed him at the last minute, without organisation Hero's sons and alliances were quickly forced back. By the time they'd fallen back enough to re-group Hero had already done his runner. followed by the strath's tracker stallion. Jeop was convinced Hero had gone back to run away with Peril, and was grateful Straths vengeful actions ruined that plan, and if the rumours where correct ended the life of his sire once and for all. Returning to the herd he'd aided in attacking, seemed like a irrational idea for him, he'd have to ask for forgiveness. Peril had made it sound so easy for him. But it was like a kick between the legs every time Jeopardy thought about it.
It was news to him that Smoke was Fire's Dam, though when he was told he thought he should have worked that out himself, the names just fitted together. It made sense for Smoke to want to return to her Son's herd, however his Dam has never met Fire. He couldn't understand why she'd follow Smoke so willingly. In his heart of hearts he hoped Fire would reject them, he was perfectly capable of protected his-own mother and sister without the need for a herd. Even with his Dam expecting the last sporn of Hero in the very near future.

Risk couldn't be happier on this little 'adventure' she'd never left Hero's territory, the rest of the world had her in owe. Her eyes popped out of her head when the passed a large waterfall. the sun glinting though the tree's causing rainbows to skip over the water, the mist and sunbeams made it look like the water actually glowed.


"Are we nearly there yet?" Risk's voice cut threw the silence. Jeopardy's ears flattened and Peril's head rose from his depressed stance. The white mare glanced at Smoke for a answer, but didn't get one she looked back to Jeopardy. "Uh nearly you'll see the water in a minute when the tree's break" He replied with a exhausted sigh, he would have happily ignored his siblings question, it was nice walking in silence left to his own thoughts.

Sure enough the smell of fresh water drifted though the tree's, when they passed the last of the forests shadows the world looked brighter. (but that could have just been the sun reflecting off the ripples of the lake) "Woah" Risk said, never seeing such a large expanse of water before. The White mare walked beside the Black "Do you think we should cross? or wait."

[Swede]

His herd was scattered; missing, dead, he could not say for sure. Hero might have lost the battle, but to Fire, he might as well have won the war. What was there left to defend? He had lost everything. He still occupied this land, but he would happily have abandoned it and moved to the desert rather than lose his family.

Flame was still with him; the poor young stallion had not been cut out for war, and always been a little frightened by the idea, but fought bravely nonetheless when Hero attacked without warning. He was alive, but a deep wound festered on his shoulder, and a deeper shock festered in his mind; Flame had been forced to fight Sketch, a colt he had grown up with and seen Hero steal away, now turned into a savage stallion out for his blood. He could not understand what had turned his friend into his enemy, and equally distraught over losing the rest of the herd as Fire was, had taken to brooding on the far side of the island. Fire left him alone; perhaps they were safer if they stuck together, but was there really any point?

Trace had survived as well. The grizzled stallion was accustomed to war, and having already spat death in the face once, had grown numb to its effects. However, he had not been able to find Payton’s body among the dead, nor had he been able to track her down anywhere, despite vanishing for several days to search for her. Not until his return had Flame told him that Sketch, the son he had never met, was the dark stranger among Hero’s forces. Trace’s voice was too damaged from his last battle all those years ago, and he never spoke anyway; but now his silence seemed heavier than ever.

Fire stood in the shade of the trees that grew in a nook below the hilltop of the island, shaking his head occasionally in irritation at the insects that swarmed the cut across the ridge of his nose. A large chunk of his mane had been pulled out, leaving it tattered and uneven, and useless at protecting the bites on his neck from the buzzing flies. Trace lay flat on his side nearby, merely grateful to be out of the sun; he had vague memories of bleeding out in a desert, and the blazing heat had been worse than the sand that had stung his wounds. Fire didn’t know where Flame had gone; he supposed he could ask Trace, but he doubted the roan knew either. He’d come back when he decided to come back. One day, Fire would set out in search of his family; but today he just tried to appreciate being alive.

~

Home. Smoke savored the word. She’d been a Strath prisoner in her youth, a fugitive for most of Fire’s childhood, a prisoner of Hero for several years. Fire no longer lived in the aspens where she had last seen him, but she didn’t care; according to Jeopardy, the island was where Hero had sought and found his nemesis, and where he’d battled and been defeated by him. This was where she would find her son, and the only place where she might even find happiness; she was not going to waste any time in getting there.

Sparks tagged along behind his mother, somewhat bewildered by this turn of events. Neither he nor his dam had been told about any sort of war; Hero had purposely kept it hidden from Smoke, knowing that she would raise hell if she knew. She was more manageable if she just grumbled in a corner. This was something that Smoke was furious about, and while in the past she might have been indifferent to Hero’s rumored death, now she was very nearly gleeful about it- as gleeful as Smoke ever got about anything, anyway. Sparks, on the other hand, just shrugged and tagged along; his sire had mostly ignored him, so it was difficult to muster much grief.

Because of the threat of the Strath survivors, Smoke had been in a hurry to leave the territory; she had no idea what the other mares would do, nor did she honestly care that much. Aleta had been nowhere in sight when it was time to go, but she and Smoke had never had much in common, and she was old enough to take care of herself; Smoke wasn’t about to get sentimental over Hero’s daughter. She hadn’t been able to find Kuma either, which was unfortunate, but it couldn’t be helped; she would simply have to find her way back to Fire’s herd on her own, if she wanted to return. Sketch hadn’t been seen since the battle, and Smoke doubted he would be welcomed back with open arms anyway. He’d been easy prey to Hero’s brainwashing and no doubt still viewed Fire as an enemy.

Coming into view of the lake, Smoke paused, examining the surroundings. Cross via sandbar, they said; unfortunately the lake was swollen with winter’s melted snow still, but she thought she could see a patch which seemed a bit shallower. Perhaps that was where the nearest sandbar lay, then; they could cross there without getting too wet. “I didn’t walk all this way to do nothing,” she said firmly in reply to Peril’s question, “Fire knows me, he knows you, and he’s not a complete idiot. We’ll be fine. Jeopardy might want to be a couple steps behind, and try not to look like you’re about to attack him again. Fake a limp or something if you think it’ll make you look less threatening. I don’t care.” Striding forward resolutely, Smoke tested the footing and found that indeed the water only reached just below her knees if she stuck to a certain path across the lake.

~

Flame knew he should return to his father; the three stallions only had each other left, and it was best if they stuck together. But it was difficult to face him in their shared grief. They had won, right? So why did it feel like they had lost? He had failed to protect his siblings or the mares. He had gotten into the habit of patrolling the borders while alone with his thoughts; it was pointless, with nothing left to guard, but it kept him busy at least. He was used to the throbbing pain in his shoulder by now, and sometimes it was a welcome break to think about that instead of reliving the horrors of the battle in his mind.

Shuffling slowly down the shoreline, it took him a moment to realize that the figures ahead of him were not just figments of his memory, but actual living equines. This worried him, mostly because he didn’t know what to do about it. Run and get his dad? Interrogate them or try to drive them off? Or just ignore them, and stay out of sight? Was he still supposed to protect this empty territory, or was it better to adopt the egocentric habits of a loner?

As if in a daze, his hooves continued moving him forward while he pondered what course of action to take, and before he could really make a decision, the hazy figures had solidified into semi-recognizable forms. Too late to turn back now, he supposed; might as well go investigate. If they were bad, he could always… turn and run, or something. Admittedly his shoulder didn’t permit much running, but oh well. “Hello?” he called cautiously.

“Flame?”

He blinked. The dark figure at the front of the line knew his name. How did she… No, he knew her too. He had only been a foal when he last saw her, but he would never forget that day, the day when Hero had first tried to kill him and then stolen her away. But it was so surreal to actually see her here now. “Smoke..? Grandma?” His eyes traveled past her, to the chestnut yearling he didn’t recognize, onwards to the white mare beyond that. He knew that one too. He’d… he’d helped her, when she’d been attacked by a cougar. Befriended her when she stayed in their herd. “Peril?” She had a foal too, but he didn’t recognize that one either. And behind her… Flame blanched at the sight of the young stallion. “You.”

[Captain Stumpy]

Jeopardy felt a pang as Smoke told him to fake a lameness or something. He looked away from her gritting his teeth. He was feeling more and more unwelcome. He sighed letting the feeling pass, he needed to clear his head. He was about to meet the herd he'd very recently attacked. And even with that little voice in his head telling him this was a terrible idea, he was following his Sister's tail as they crossed the rather deep sand-bar.

He jolted at the sense of water slowing his legs, that smell of cold water. He fought the urge to think back to the battle, and lost. his eyes glazing over as he thought about Hero's instructions to him. "Clear the mares, take your brother with you, I don't care what you do with them, kill them, r*pe them, drown them I don't care just make sure they never some back" Damn that, playing back Hero's words in Hero's voice. He shook his head but it didn't loosen the memory's grip. He remembered biting into the flank of a bay mare, Sid by his side. One of the older mares fought back, Jeopardy had tried to take her on, or play as a distraction as Sid chased younger mares towards the lake. That was the last he saw of Sid, That mare was more than a match for the younger, shorter stallion. Jeopardy hastened his retreat. That's not before knocking into another of Fire's herd. Jeopardy didn't pay much attention to who. At the speed of collision he was grateful to still be on his hooves. He got to Hero's group at much the same time as the Strath realised Hero had left, Jeopardy heard the Strath King bark orders to the eldest stallion to hunt Hero. Jeopardy never saw Dagger's Son after the battle, Which to him was a good thing, he never liked that bully of a colt. The death of his youngest sister was a reminder those Strath could never be trusted. Even if Hero never believed it was them.

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


Peril walked close to Smoke as they crossed, she wasn't as confident as the dark mare in the water. Peril didn't like the idea of Hero's baby getting cold because her belly was getting splashed. Risk must have also inherited a dislike of water as she splashed her way threw with a ridiculous amount of high knee action. Risk's head shot up over her mothers rump at the sight of another horse. She just stared at him as he started to speak. Until he said 'You'

Jeopardy's head rose from his thoughts, His eyes widened at first he thought it was Fire. Then he realised it was the younger one. He had neglected to learn his name. Jeopardy stared back at him speechless. he glanced quick enough to see Risk and Peril giving him the same shameful and disgusted eyes the red colt was giving him. He was just about to open his mouth and hope some words would fall out when Peril spoke. "Oh Flame look how big you've gotten, your the spit of your father now" She said forcing the first smile since Hero's passing. Now Jeopardy's jaw just hung open. How the hell did his dam know Fire's son? let alone his name. Jeopardy's mind was in no way ready to put anymore pieces into place.

Peril put on her best sweet and innocent face, She loved all her children. and couldn't bare to leave Jeopardy to get himself out of the hole Hero had dug him. It wasn't Jeop's fault Hero and Fire didn't get on. "Flame can you remember when I was with you before? I said I had a son about your age, well this is him, Jeopardy" She said smiling. Jeopardy could feel the colour running out of his face, even with his overloaded mind he just realised the biggest mystery in his life. "And this is Risk, she's your half sister" Jeopardy now felt physically sick, Colic would be painless in comparison to what he felt now. "I need to get out of the water" He murmured under his heavy breath. Risk was the only one to hear him as he made a pitiful dash to the bank, making sure Smoke was well between him and Flame as he glared at the sand between his shaking front legs. His eyes watered in pain, but it wasn't the kind of physical pain, it was all emotional and manly self inflicted. His emotions conflicting it was giving him a head-ache, chest-ache. It was like the guilt was trying to rip out his heart shred his lungs and kick him between the legs simultaneously. If a horse could be sick Jeopardy would be doing it right about now.

Risk came up to Flame first, investigating the red stranger. Her mouth was open. "Mum why didn't you ever tell me who my dad was?" She said turning her head to Peril. Peril looked at Smoke, "We thought it better you didn't know, encase to mistakenly told someone else and Hero found out" Peril said her heart dropped as she said Hero's name out loud. Risk was growing wiser, she didn't need to ask what Hero would have done to her being a daughter of Fire. "Your shoulder looks really bad" Risk said looking closer. "Risk Mind your manors" Peril barked walking towards Flame, putting herself between Jeopardy and Flame's gaze. "Is your father okay?" She asked.

Jeopardy took a moment to catch his breath. Jesus what was wrong with him? He'd never felt guilt that painful before. and it wasn't his fault, it wasn't! he was just following orders. He shook his head, tuning into the conversation going on with Flame, His head felt heavy. he tested his legs, they'd stopped shaking. He didn't go over, not because that stallion the others were so eager to great hates him with a vengeance. But he didn't want the wounded young stallion to have his greeting tainted by 'Hero's Son'
"My God this Island could be the death of me" He said to himself, taking a few sidewards steps away from the group to lower his head on some beach-grass. keeping his dark eyes on the group for when it might be a more appropriate time to go over.

[Swede]

For a moment, Flame could do nothing but stare in shock. Hero had stolen Smoke away when he was just a colt, and it made sense that she had been living in his herd all this time; Peril, however, had just been a random visitor, staying with Fire’s herd until her injury healed. She had never mentioned Hero. And if they were here now, did that mean Hero was gone? Surely he would never have let them leave for Fire’s territory if he had known about it. And that stallion, the one who not long ago had been running rampant on this island aiding in the slaughter of Flame’s family… he was Peril’s son. Basic defensive instincts would have driven Flame to attack him, were it not for his confusion and weariness. It made no sense to see him standing there like any normal horse. It made no sense that he could be sweet Peril’s son, and at the same time a terrible enemy.

“I… it’s nice to see you again, Peril,” he said in bewilderment as the white mare introduced her offspring. The enemy soldier had a name, not just a blank slate for causing destruction. Jeopardy. Flame shook his head, deciding to ignore that for a moment before his conflicting emotions gave him a complete mental breakdown. Instead he looked down at the filly in front of him, whom Peril introduced as Risk. He knew his father had taken a fancy to the white mare while she was staying with them, so it wasn’t surprising that a foal had come about in the process. But it meant that she must have been raised in Hero’s herd… how would that have affected her? Peril had been part of Hero’s herd apparently, yet still seemed to be decent enough; but could he really trust her then? Sighing, he shook his head; he had to trust her. His gut instinct told him she was reliable, and he was tired of being bitter and scared. He just wanted the world to go back to normal.

That was easier said than done though, and he flinched when Jeopardy scrambled out of the water. He didn’t appear to be acting in a threatening manner though, and Flame forced himself to ignore him again, at least until he was able to wrap his head around the situation. “Nah, it’s fine,” he said, shifting his shoulder out of view. “It’s nice to finally meet you, Risk… guess I’m your big brother, huh.” He paused, glancing behind him towards the interior of the island. “Dad is… okay, I guess. He wasn’t really ever the same after Hero took Mom- I guess you guys would know about that, if he brought her back to the herd- and then after the fight…”

Flame paused, swallowing as he looked down at the ground. “It’s just us left. Me and him and Trace. Those two mares, they were traitors, Hero’s spies… And my sisters and brothers, Hero’s lot ran them off, we couldn’t find them. Just tracks of blood that faded into nothing, the trail became too faint. Dad said we’d keep searching, but he hasn’t. I’m pretty sure he thinks they’re… well, you know. And he’s probably right.” He closed his eyes, fighting back the tears that threatened to spill on his face. Lona, Fury, Flint, the twins… Payton and her foal… all gone. Exhaling slowly, he looked up at Smoke beseechingly. “Is Mom okay? Have you talked to her?”


Smoke shook her head helplessly. “I don’t know, Flame. Hero did take her back to the herd, I talked to her there, but after the battle everything fell apart. Dagger’s lot took over, supposedly they killed Hero. His other sons are missing, Jeopardy’s the only one we could find. We had to leave in a hurry, Dagger was scouring the territory for survivors and it would have been bad if he caught us.” She noticed him flinch at Jeopardy’s name, and added sternly, “I know you and Jeopardy have been forced to fight on opposite sides. But he’s as much of a victim as you are right now; he doesn’t have a home anymore, and you saw what Hero did to Sketch. Colts are impressionable. This war was between your fathers, not you.” She sighed, studying her grandson quietly. Despite his stature and his battle scars, in his expression she could still see the baby colt she’d left behind. Though he had the air of a warrior now, she could still see how scared he really was, and how he struggled with distrust. Clearly the mention of Sketch touched a sore point; those two had been best friends as foals, until Hero kidnapped the dark colt and brainwashed him into his faithful lieutenant.

Judging by his words, her daughter Lona was gone too; her last trace of Sterling, the only stallion she’d ever really cared for. With Aleta missing as well, Smoke was for once grateful that she had such a steely cold-hearted nature. The grief of two lost daughters and a son destroyed by war would have been overwhelming otherwise. As it was, she still had mixed feelings about Sparks; he was Hero’s son by blood, though certainly not in attitude, and the stallion had mostly ignored him. He was nothing like his mother, either. Just a colt she had been forced to birth in order to make sure Risk wasn’t killed off. If anyone, perhaps it was Flame she cared for the most, her first grandchild who had symbolized the hope of a new life after the great battle that all but destroyed the Dalt and Strath completely.

Sparks peeked from behind his mother cautiously. He wasn’t sure what to make of all this; neither of his parents had ever really paid much attention to him, and the war had been completely unknown to him until they were suddenly forced to leave the territory. Risk was apparently as fearless as ever, while Jeopardy, usually so bold like all the older colts had been back home, had retreated to his own little corner. And this chestnut stallion, he seemed to be friends with Peril and his mother, but he looked scary, and he didn’t seem to like Jeopardy much. Sparks figured it was best to just stay out of the way, like he always did. That seemed to be his perpetual job in life- get out of everyone’s way so they didn’t trip on him or have to notice him.

[Captain Stumpy]

Peril looked away when Flame and Smoke spoke to one another, it was painful even to her to think of all the family they had lost in battle. It wasn't fair on either of them. She couldn't help but notice Jeopardy going pale, she worried he was getting ill. But she drew herself away from those sorts of thoughts, this was a far healthier place than the rolling hills. Once they where settled they would all be okay. She watched as the youngest of the group, Sparks eye everyone while remaining silent, Peril often wondered if he'd ever find the courage and boldness you'd expect from a growing colt. She just wanted to pick him up and show him all these amazing things he could be doing or games he could be playing instead of hiding out of sight and remaining so quiet.

Peril winced, bet quickly regained herself. She checked round nobody noticed, she tensed a little bit. Risk's face sullied as Flame and Smoke spoke about those lost. Like her dam it was something she didn't want to think about. But She'd just found her family, today wasn't a day to reminisce for her, it was exiting. "Can we go see Fire now?" She butted in she didn't want to listen to any more sadness from her 'new' brother and hmm, didn't that make Smoke her grandmother? "Smoke" She asked curiously, "does that mean I can call you Nanny? and Sparks Uncle?", "Risk don't be so rude!" Peril said loudly, and in a more serious tone, one she rarely used even when scolding her children. Risk noticed her face, she looked angrier than normal as well, She turned away from her dam and blew her cheeks out in childish temper, She walked away towards Jeopardy.

Jeopardy raised his head, he'd heard his mother yell, but wasn't drawn to the attention. Risk's cheeks were still puffed as she walked over. "Your face will get stuck like that" He said in all seriousness. Risk stuck her tongue out, but gave a half arse smile afterwards. "Your looking a little green, whats wrong?" she asked, though looked back towards the group. "Exited about meeting your father?" Jeopardy asked, dodging the question. "Yeah, I think so" Risk answered, though still not looking at him. Jeopardy had stopped grazing when Risk came over, he was just about to return to the job when he saw Peril look there way. "whats wrong with mum?" he asked, Risk's temper flared. "I don't bloody know, if Smoke is my grandmother its a perfectly civil question to ask if she'd like me to call her by it" Jeopardy just rolled his eyes and tutted.

Peril looked back from Smoke to Flame, "Im sorry, I'm just a little tired, perhaps we should head towards the others?" She said trying hard to pull a smile. She was desperate to see Fire before he saw Jeopardy, but at this rate, she was going to have to leave the group before they made it to Fire and Trace. Another twinge, another wince. This baby really didn't like cold water.
Jeopardy came to stand beside his dam, his face was a little pale, but he stood proud regardless. By instinct he couldn't help but eye over Flame, he was a taller but thinner young stallion, a pretty even match for Jeopardy's shorter but stockier physic. Stiffly he lowered his head, trying to be more passive, or at least pass for a little respectful. Risk came to stand by Jeopardy, she still had a bounce in her gait, everyone else's misery and pain bounced off her excitement, she couldn't wait to see her sire for the first time.

[Swede]

Flame was startled by Risk’s sudden interruption and glanced her way, but he was unable to say anything as the older mares were quick to admonish her. Smoke snorted dismissively. “You can call me Smoke and nothing else,” she said in typical blunt fashion; she was accustomed to Risk’s impulsive and occasionally childish behavior and was not remarkably aggravated by this particular incident, but the thought of being given some foolish nickname felt demeaning.

Sparks didn’t bother piping up even though his name was mentioned, and instead simply watched Risk curiously as she sauntered off towards Jeopardy. He supposed that all the technicalities did make him her uncle, but still, it felt weird. She was older than he was…. “uncle” felt like something you’d call a middle-aged stallion, not a yearling colt like himself. Even Sketch and Jeopardy and all the others didn’t feel old enough to be called uncles. She was an odd filly sometimes, that Risk. But Sparks didn’t mind.

At Peril’s suggestion to see the others, Flame felt an unreasonable flash of panic. He couldn’t explain why; perhaps he’d just gotten over-sensitive to new situations where he couldn’t predict the outcome or have full control over them. His gaze drifted briefly towards Jeopardy; did he dare lead Hero’s soldier straight into the heart of the territory? What if he was a spy, or an assassin who would wait to catch them off-guard and then finish off his father’s work? The young chestnut struggled to repel the thoughts from his mind; Peril and Smoke trusted him, and Flame trusted their judgement. Besides, Jeopardy was just one stallion. If he tried anything, surely Fire, Trace, and Flame himself would be able to take him down before he could do any serious damage.

“Right…” he said slowly, uncomfortably aware of Smoke’s eyes boring into him, “Um, they’re over this way… but I should probably go first, so I can let them know you’re coming. It would probably be bad if you caught them off guard.”

“I’ll go with you too,” Smoke interrupted. “I know my son well enough to know he’s a hothead even at the best- or worst- of times, and it won’t be easy to convince him to let Jeopardy stay here. He’s more likely to listen to me than to you, Flame, you know that. We’ll go meet him, the rest of you wait here a minute before you start coming along.”

Flame shrugged, turning away slightly; it prodded his ego a little to have Smoke bossing over him so easily, but he knew it was childish to argue about it. From what he remembered of her from his foalhood, she generally got her way. “Right, well, this way then,” he muttered, motioning towards the southeast and the copse of trees that nestled against the hillside around the bend in the shoreline. He stumbled slightly as he broke into a trot, his wounded shoulder hitching his stride, but he wanted to be sure his father had plenty of forewarning before he encountered the others and thus made sure to cover ground relatively quickly. Smoke moved after him at a brisk pace, not being one to waste any time.

As they came out of sight of the others and neared the trees, Flame slowed to a walk, breathing heavily as Smoke watched him silently, settling a couple paces behind her grandson. He lifted his head and whinnied softly, announcing his approach before ducking into the shade. Trace, resting flat on the ground, did not react at all; unless they were in immediate danger, he seemed to see little point in pretending to be interested. Fire lifted his head, and deep in his weariness he was glad to see his son back; Flame had been distant after the battle, often wandering on his own, and it worried Fire. “It’s good to see you again, you’ve been absent an awful lot lately,” he said, stepping forward to bump his son’s muzzle, before his attention was caught by the wound on Flame’s shoulder. “Oh, don’t tell me it’s gotten worse… you need to be careful, and rest it up properly, not trekking up and down every rock on this island.”

“It’s fine, Dad,” Flame said defensively and taking a step backward. “Look, don’t freak out, but we’ve got visitors.”

Fire jerked his head back, and his gaze traveled past his son to Smoke just as the mare quietly walked towards them. “Well you’ve been through the mill, haven’t you,” she said, halting as she looked him up and down. At the sound of her voice, even Trace finally stirred, lifting his head and rolling up onto his knees, watching the proceedings keenly.

“Mother…?” Fire said slowly, staring at her in disbelief, “Wha… what are you doing here..?”

Smoke huffed. “No need to sound disappointed, I can leave if you want me to.”

Fire shook his head quickly. “No, no, I’m glad to see you… I really am. I just… I was not expecting it.”

The black mare’s attitude softened slightly; she knew she was being a bit too harsh on him. Deep down, she did care for him, and she knew she couldn’t have expected any other sort of reaction, and considering what he’d been through lately, he didn’t really deserve her difficult nature. “Hero’s herd is disbanded, Fire. Dagger betrayed him- no surprise there- and everyone is… I don’t really know to be honest. Dead or lost. For me it was obvious to come back here, when I finally had the chance to escape Hero; besides, Dagger would’ve probably killed me if I stuck around.”

“Well, I’m glad you’re back,” Fire said, looking rather dazed. “I was… everyone else is gone, Mother. Hero took everything from me.” For a brief moment, hope sparked in his eyes as he looked up at Smoke again, but she could not give him the news he was hoping for.

“I don’t know where Page is,” she said gently. “Like I said, everyone scattered in the mutiny. I’m sure she’s alive out there, somewhere… but listen to me, that doesn’t mean I came alone. There were others who needed sanctuary as well. I know you’re acquainted with Peril, she told me about her stay here. She is here too, we will go meet her in a minute. Her daughter- your daughter- is here as well. Her name is Risk, and you’re damned lucky Hero didn’t kill her, and you can thank me for it. Or thank Sparks, rather; he’s the price I had to pay to make sure Risk was left alone. But he is nothing like Hero. I won’t demand that you treat him like a brother, at least not right away, but you’ll at least grant him some respect.”

It took a moment for this information to sink in; Fire hadn’t known Peril was with Hero before. And she had a daughter; despite losing nearly his entire family in the battle, he was about to meet one of his daughters for the first time, it seemed. And a brother, too… his initial reaction was distaste, knowing the colt was one of Hero’s spawn, but he also realized what a sacrifice it must have been for Smoke, what a blow she had taken to her stubborn pride in order to ensure Risk survived.

Before he could say anything, however, Smoke took another step forward, her tone taking on an almost threatening edge. “And one more thing. Peril’s eldest son is with them too. His name is Jeopardy. You will recognize him; he is Hero’s son and he fought for him in the battle here. You have to grant him sanctuary as well.”

Fire blanched and glanced towards Flame, who nodded morosely in confirmation. “No,” he said flatly. “If he comes near me I will kill him, like he did my family. Your family. Those were your grandchildren he helped slaughter.”

“And what of Sketch? If he comes back, will you kill him as well?” Smoke snapped, causing Trace to abruptly heave himself up and take a wary step forward. Fire paused, taken aback, and Smoke took the opportunity to forge ahead in her argument. “Jeopardy is a victim of circumstance, same as Sketch, same as anyone else. This was Hero’s war, and he forced his sons to fight in it. I’ve known him since he was a colt; he’s not a bloodthirsty demon. He just wants some peace and quiet, just like the rest of us.”

The chestnut stallion was silent for a moment, his pain and bitterness fueling his anger and immediate impulse to hunt down and kill the enemy intruder. “Flame,” he said abruptly, eyes still fixed on Smoke. “What do you think?”

Flame was startled by the question, but after a few seconds of thought, muttered, “I… I don’t like it. But I trust Peril. And also- no offense- Smoke isn’t exactly the type to give someone the benefit of the doubt. If she thought he’d be a problem, she wouldn’t have brought him here. So I trust her judgement too.”

Fire didn’t answer, clearly debating the issue with himself. “Fine,” he said, flattening his ears. “Let’s go meet them. Then we’ll see.”

Trace stepped forward, silent as ever and reminiscent of a grizzled old bear. Though he did not say anything, the message was clear: he was coming too. Though Flame was grateful for it, as the sight of the stallion tended to be a deterrent for any trouble, he was also slightly nervous; neither of the older stallions had positive feelings towards Hero or his sons, and if either attacked Jeopardy, it would cause a mess of things. At the same time, Smoke’s comment about Sketch seemed to have struck a chord in Trace, and Flame was not entirely sure Trace would back Fire up if he became aggressive towards Jeopardy. Fire nodded once at his comrade, before motioning to Smoke. She wordlessly turned and began leading the way back, hopefully meeting the others halfway in a more open environment.



(OOC: Honestly I could probably keep going, but this is ridiculously long already, so here you go)

[Captain Stumpy]

When Jeopardy's body finely relaxed after Flame had disappeared with Smoke. It took him by surprise he didn't feel that tense, but now more relaxed he was feeling a little better too. "Sparks you okay?" Jeopardy said looking behind him and noticing the littler colt. The quicker he forgot about Flame and the impending Fire the better he'd feel, Sparks would be a nice distraction. He was still scrawny looking, and hardly a look-alike for Flame and Fire.

"Mum what's wrong?" Risk said franticly jolting Jeopardy attention. Peril was dripping with sweat, and breathing heavily she couldn't stay ignorant of her condition any longer. "I'm fine risk its normal when your close to foaling" Peril answered. "Mum?" Jeopardy said looking just as worried as Risk. "I have to be alone for a little while, Oh I hoped this could have waited till after we saw Fire" Peril said wobbling her way down the sands. "Wait mum, Fire's coming what am I meant to say to him?" 'and stop him wanting to kill me on sight?' Jeopardy said. worried for his own life, this was a serious time and his mum was just leaving him to it? couldn't she just have the brat here? what's different about the sand over there to the sand already at her hooves? "Damn it" Jeop said gritting his teeth. This wasn't the first time he'd felt abandoned by Peril, but this was certainly the most important time. "Don't worry Jeop, Fire's my dad so I won't let him hurt you, got it?"  Risk said smiling. Jeopardy narrowed his eyes, was Risk trying to sound that stupid or was it a innocent mistake he couldn't be sure, so just ignored it. He was just about to start pacing when he looked at Sparks again. The runty little chestnut was also one of Hero's sons, would he need protecting too? he was also Fire's brother. Jeopardy shook his head. Damn his mind couldn't it be any clearer for him.

Risk could see her brother was in a little turmoil again, she couldn't understand why he got like that. All his thinking would boil down to nothing it always did. She looked out to where Peril was walking away, no longer able to see the white mare but her tracks in the undisturbed sand remained clear. "I hope our sibling will be okay" Risk said in quite a thoughtful mannor. Enough for Jeopardy to know she was being serious. He looked up from his first lap of pacing. "I'll be fine, i'm sure of it" He said confidently. The flash image of his beaten up lemon and white sister only lasted in his mind the moment, but brought a small tear to his eye. One he soon hid on his second lap of pacing. Risk felt some relief from Jeopardy's words. She too looked at Sparks. "It'll be okay Sparks the adults won't be away long" Her words giving her a boost of confidence as well. But it was still a little worrying, new territory and no mum. Staring absently for a moment listening to Jeopardy's pacing Risk had enough time to realise she was quiet hungry, and there wasn't much grass on the beach. She gave a nudge to Sparks to follow her as she walked inland to find a spot of grazing. "Hey" Jeop called after realising they'd moved "where are you going? we can't wonder around willy-nilly" He called, trotting to catch up. "I'm hungry, Sparks is too" She said, voicing what she wanted to hear Sparks say, but never expecting him to say it.

Risk didn't lead the band far, just to a sandy clearing, they could see the shoreline but the sands here also grew dry grasses and bare looking spikey bushes. She didn't waist time looking around and just started grazing peacefully. Jeopardy wasn't nearly as calm as his younger sibling. The bushes made it feel more enclosed, now he was paranoid about being watched, but he was sure it was just paranoia. Jeopardy took a deep breath in, holding it for a moment then releasing. He felt his muscles relax once again, but the buzzing in his head was no better. He lowered his head for a bite to eat, but paused eyes closed. Memories again flooding back to him from the fight. Staring at the sand he recalled how the sand looked with blood. He squeezed his eyes together trying to forget. He aggressively took a bite of grass, blinking away what threatened to be a tear as he watched over his younger comrades.   

(My attempt at the scene: i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee185/CaptainStumpy/DSCN4639_zps6dbf9ec2.jpg )  
 


Peril did feel bad about not being there to see Fire again, she was exited about seeing him again. The thought that he wouldn't accept Jeopardy hadn't even crossed her mind, not properly anyway. Peril had always been a little blind towards the concept of war or suffering, despite her own upbringing. She didn't get too far before diverting quickly into the sand grass and laying down. She didn't even bother to look around to check safety. She was already sweating heavily from every pore in her body. Laying in the straw like shore grass didn't save her from the sand sticking. Breathing heavily for some time started to make her back hurt, as well as the more common foaling strains.
It was another quick foaling, much like the last. But Perils mind didn't even flutter to the thoughts of her pervious palomino and white foal she'd lost last year. Instead she started in awe at the white foal laying with her. It took her a minute to take it in, in truth she'd hoped for another son like Jeopardy, cooperating her sire's colour like Jeop did. But this foal was just like her. Pale as the moon with pink skin and, Peril watched as the foal took in its first sights. His eyes were brown. She smiled to herself, "Well at least I can say you've got your fathers eyes" She said warmly, the colt responded with a knicker of approval.
Peril got to her hooves, she could feel the cool breeze coming in off the water, sighing she walked up to the waters edge, her foal struggled quickly to his hooves, and failing. "I won't be a minute" She called back, test splashing the water for depth before giving it a good roll around. She stood up with a smile, grateful the smell of sweat had left her, replaced by a fresher water sent. She shook the loosest water off before trotting over to her still struggling to stand son. "Don't rush you'll soon get the hang of it" she cooed. "I suppose its time to think of a name for you" She mused staring into his baby brown eyes. "You know your going to be the youngest of Hero's children, the last one" She said almost shedding another tear, she was never going to hear Hero's sweet voice again, never going to feel his protection, never going to hear his prowd and powerful voice. She couldn't ask for his advise about nameing his last son. "Your father was named Hero, and I believe he died like one. Live like your namesake I'll call you Valiant" She said with her chest puffed prowdly. 

It was now the waiting game, Valiant was still stumbling about, she couldn't lead a foal back until he was on his legs, and at the very least had his first drink. With any luck maybe Fire would be delayed, She was still naively hopeing Her and Valiant would get back to the kids before Smoke and fire. She couldn't wait to see the look on Risk's face to see her little brother. Jeopardy was hardly a supportive big brother to Risk, maybe a younger brother would help him see the world less harshly. Valient was begining to get his own feet now, he looked on at the world in wide eyed wonder. But already sure he didn't like sand, flicking his tiny tuft of a tail in a attempt to knock some off. Peril watched him smileing then came to help clean him up abit. A little grit in the mouth wasnt going to sully this moment. She wanted him pristene to see his older siblings and to present him to Fire like she used to Hero.  

[Swede]

"Y-Yeah, I'm... fine," Sparks said mutedly, bewildered by anyone actually paying him any attention. His gaze followed Peril's departure warily; it didn't feel safe to split up like this. He'd gathered that Jeopardy was probably more likely to get them attacked than welcomed, and Risk, well... she was always cheerful and confident, but Sparks wasn't sure that he trusted her judgement. She might have been older than him, yes, but she still acted very young, and seemed kind of clueless and naive a lot of the time. He blinked as Risk moved off, using him as an excuse to go look for grass. He didn't feel very hungry, but... then again, they had been traveling for quite a while, and it was natural for horses to graze frequently, so he supposed he couldn't really argue against her. It felt dangerous to wander off though, and Sparks would've preferred to wait on the beach. However, with both Peril and Smoke gone, the chestnut yearling felt vulnerable no matter where they were, so he obediently trailed after Risk, sniffing at the grass quietly. For a minute he nibbled at the plants, some familiar whereas others he had never tasted before, but he didn't feel comfortable enough to stay focused on it. Instead his attention flickered towards Jeopardy, who seemed to be having a miserable time of it. "Are... are you alright, Jeopardy? You don't look so good," Sparks asked, observing his older half-brother with a slight frown.


(ooc: Completely missed this, so sorry x.x that drawing is super cute! I figured Fire and co could wait a post or two before they return, if you want Peril to have time to come back. Or I can bring them in quickly, whatever you prefer)

[Captain Stumpy]

Jeopardy looked almost startled when Sparks spoke, but hid it quickly. "Y-yeah Sparks" He said pushing a smile. "I'm fine, i'm sure mum will be back soon" He stared at the yearling a little longer. His voice wasn't as weasley as he was expecting, even with a nervous stammer Sparks spoke quiet well.  Risk listened but her guts were more important at the moment, she was scoffing the sandy grasses with gusto.

"C'mon my little Valiant" Peril cooed to the new greatest thing in her life. Valiant was keeping up with ease after his feed. "Your a little star aren't you?" She smiled. She was heading up the beach, and was starting to get a little worried when no horses could be seen, she hadn't gone that far. "Jeopardy?!"  She Whinnied, a little nervously. 
"Did you hear something?" Jeopardy asked, "Huh? I didn't *munch munch* hear anything"  Risk replied. not even raising her head. Jeopardy gave a glance at Sparks, before walking back towards the beach a little. "Hey!?" Risk yelled, "I'm not going far" Jeop replied. "Keep a eye on Sparks, I won't be long" Jeopardy answered.

Jeopardy trotted away, his ears twitching nervously, maybe he was hearing things, but he had to be sure. He kept his pace quick and his ears alert. Peril and Valiant continued walking the beach, maybe she had walked farther than she thought? She was too happy to worry. "Mum!" Jeopardy called out spotting the glow of his dam, down the sands. Peril ears pricked as did Valiant. "Jeopardy! I'm so glad to see you" Peril whinnied so happily. "Look, This is your little brother Valiant, isn't he just perfect" Jeopardy cantered the short distance between them, and was surprised to see a white foal beside his mum. "Wow" He said, "He's bright white, just like you mum" Jeopardy said smiling, He didn't need to see another buckskin, its bad enough to see Hero in his reflection, he didn't want to see it in his sibling.  
Peril almost glowed with pride, "His names Valiant, after his father" Jeopardy felt a little sting, "Our father" He mused. Peril didn't pick up on Jeopardy's sourness. Jeopardy lowered his nose to the colt, "He hasn't got your eyes" He commented. Valiant wasn't as happy to see his big brother up close, the little man lunged forward ears pinned grabbing some of Jeop's forlock before the stallion withdrew. "Haha! aww Jeopardy I think your little brothers telling you not to stare so close"  Peril said still chuckling, "Heh" Jeopardy chuffed, watching a little more wearily as Valiant walked back to stand beside Peril, who nuzzled his forelock.   




(thought i'd make more little groups, your welcome to move Risk with Sparks if you want him to go looking for everyone, or find them first )         

[Swede]

Sparks shot Risk a troubled glance as Jeopardy wandered away from them. "I don't think it's a good idea for us to be splitting up so much," he said carefully. Most of the time he kept his opinions to himself, as many of the older horses in the old herd were cranky and could become quite aggressive if you got in the way or spoke up too much, but the situation was getting out of hand. And Risk... Risk was too silly to be quite as dangerous as the others. The chestnut yearling shifted his hooves and glanced up the hillside. "Even if my mother can make sure we won't be attacked... other herds must live on this island too, it's so big. What if they encroach on Fire's land, now that he's been weakened from the battle..? We don't know anyone here, we don't know who belongs to Fire's herd or who is an intruder. Or if someone in Fire's herd doesn't realize who we are and attacks us anyway. It's just not... safe."

He frowned, unsure of whether it was even an important point or if he was just being a coward. Growing up in Hero's herd was never safe, traveling from there to this island hadn't been safe. They were used to the threat of attack, of danger, of war. But Sparks was tired of all that. He just wanted to be a normal colt with a normal life- whatever "normal" even was- and not have to look over his shoulder all the time. "We shouldn't be by ourselves like this," he said, firm in his conviction but unsure of how to express it, or whether he even should. "I don't know if... if we should try to find the others though, if my mother is still working things out she won't want to be interrupted... or if we should go after Jeopardy, but... I don't know. Nevermind..." Starting to feel rather deflated and insignificant, he lowered his head, trying to be interested in the grass, but he was too tense and wary to really pay it much attention.


Smoke moved at the head of the little group, directing the way back to where she had left her companions. Fire strode closely beside her, glad to see his mother alive and well and eager to be close to her, even though she had never been one for affection. He was still wary though, knowing that he was about to come face to face with a group of horses most of whom he'd never met before, and one who was a bitter enemy. However, even though Flame was wounded, having both him and Trace along made for a fearsome force if it came to blows. Three on one was very good odds if this Jeopardy fellow was a danger, and especially since he was such a young stallion, whereas Fire and especially Trace were seasoned fighters. Trace followed behind them, silent as ever, and Flame limped along still further back, his shoulder growing agonizingly painful after moving so much.

It was not long before the black mare caught sight of Risk and Sparks up ahead. Breaking into a jog, she approached the pair with a stern look. "Why are you two alone, where are the others?" she asked. Flame took a step backward, deferring the question to Risk; he had no part in this. His gaze flicked past Smoke to the trio of stallions walking towards them in her wake. The chestnut in front could only have been Fire, as he looked just like Flame but clearly older, with no trace of Flame's coltish looks. So this... this was his brother then. Despite knowing they were related, Flame couldn't help but feel intimidated; Fire had always been treated as "the enemy side" in Hero's herd, and he certainly looked the part with his fresh battle scars. The other stallion, a rugged-looking roan, was even more frightening. Either of them could no doubt easily tear Flame to pieces if he made a wrong move. Thus he chose to stay quiet, an anonymous figure in the background, as he always had done.

[Mouse]

It was like a bay marching band everyone of them but one looked like their mother in the front was Fury and followed close behind her was her second oldest brother Flint. Both were covered in scars they had to protect their siblings well Fury did most of the leading away well Flint kept the others away from them. They stopped looking back "what are we going to do?" Fury asked her brother quietly. Flint sighed letting the breath out quickly "I can still smell dad and it's getting stronger. We just need to keep moving" Fury looked at her brother "I don't think she will make it if we keep going like this." Flint looked back at their youngest sister Fajra he knew Fury was right on either side of the light bay filly was her ear old twin sibling the filly was limping from a badly infected leg wound that ran from her ankle and up her leg. Dried blood still covered it has it often broke open and flies pestered it. Farja fell to the ground letting out a whimper.

The cremello stallion who walked far behind them looking each way for danger stopped once he had caught up with the five siblings Farja had fallen unconscious "Fury you go on a head see if you can find the herd; Farja needs to rest" Sterling stood over the three younger foals who had collapsed onto the ground all in exhaustion. He would not admit that he himself could barely keep up and was feeling the pain in his legs from walking, new battle scars covered his already scar covered body. He had not found what he had been looking for in the herd... Smoke where was she? His heart longed for the most beautiful black mare he had ever seen in his life. Sterling shook his head ignoring the one small silent tear that fell from the corner of his eye. He was old stallion and not many things effected him anymore not that he knew this his whole mess was his it was his own kin to start is war that had destroyed so many lives. Sterling felt like his entire body was giving up on him has he felt dizzy again he fell to the earth. He had seen his son Hero the open wound on his his side and legs were where his son had tried to kill him many times.

Sterling closed his eyes for only moment the image of the war coming back to him in a flash-every time he closed his eyes he could see his son standing there horses fighting around them and Hero looking closer to him and he remember his sons teeth tearing at his flesh has he whispered in ear " you should have died all those years ago dad in that rock slide" Sterling flinched awake. He would not be alive if it wasn't for these kids... "Are you okay Sterling?" Flint stood nervously over him "yes I'm fine just keep watch" Flint nodded turning away.

Fury galloped only stopping when her legs hit the water she stumbled splashing water over herself. She came to sudden stop when she three horses ahead of her breathing harshly. Her eyes went wide and nostrils flared when she saw the stallion "You!" He had been fighting in Hero's herd.

********

"Hurry up!" Sindhi flicked in half ear in still felt weird blasted Flame had sure done a number on his beautiful ear shaking his head he continued circling around his two prisoner. The black mare flung herself forward but was quickly put back into her place weak from starvation and little water "Payton stop fighting him-if not for your own good them for your foals" Kumasaka whispered softly to the mare. Sid laughed rubbing his body against the mare he had taken quiet a liking to the mare too bad he couldn't keep her. Kuma was in worst shape then her companion covered in fresh blood from so many nips she should be dead.

Sid was full of so much energy he was on a high being so close to Fire's herd he could almost feel the stallion breathing down his neck. He stopped once he stood in a week open space and let out challenging scream that echoed off the land has he continued to circle around Payton and Kumasaka.

[Captain Stumpy]

"You worry to much Sparks" Risk said with a smile to Sparks, daring to nuzzle the clearly deflated and conflicted colts mane, he was starting to look like Jeopardy. That must be a Hero trait. Even Risk tucked her tail in a little when the black mare charged towards them. "Ehh" Risk attempted "I mean, Mum was sweating and close to foaling and wanted to be alone" Risk said staring at the older red stallion Smoke had by her side. He was muscular and scared, kind of scary looking. She had all these questions to ask her sire in her head, but she was now to frightened to ask any of them. Sparks had moved back, and after a pause it was clear He'd lost the ability to talk. "Jeopardy thought he heard something, so he went to check it out" Risk twisted her neck back to look at Sparks, if he wanted to be included in conversation now would be a good time, however best not to mention she'd lead the expedition to find something to eat. 

 
_'You'  A shiver ran up Jeopardy's spine, Peril unaware turned to see the bay filly standing in the lake, she smiled warmly and was just about to say hi when Jeopardy jumped between her and the bay. Knocking into Peril's chest and bumping her back. Valiant didn't look pleased he wanted to see the stranger too. Jeopardy lowered his head defensively standing between Peril and Fury, his eyes white with fear. He new that filly was one of Fire's, and she wasn't with Smoke. His nature made him protective towards his dam. "Where's Smoke?" He called though gritted teeth. "And Fire?"  He yelled again. Peril looked a little bewildered, She brought herself closer to Valiant. "Jeopardy what's wrong?" Peril asked quietly. "We didn't come here to fight calm down she's no threat" she continued. Jeopardy didn't listen however, The bay filly took him by surprise, he may have over reacted slightly. But he still has good reason for it.

[Swede]

Smoke sighed, irritated that the group could fall apart so quickly the moment she stepped away. She hated playing babysitter but it sometimes felt like that was all she ever did. "Well, we'll deal with that in a minute. Risk, this is Fire- my son, your father- and that's Trace. Fire, Risk is Peril's daughter, and Sparks is your brother," she explained briskly.

Fire stared at the two young horses in front of him, ears flicking distractedly for a moment with the knowledge that the son of his enemy was loose in his territory right now. Then he exhaled slowly, trying to brush off his tension. These two were his daughter and his younger brother; this should be a pleasant meeting, not an aggressive one. "It's good to meet you both," he said, reaching out his muzzle in greeting.

Trace, per usual, had nothing to say, and kept an ear fixed to the wind in constant vigilance. He took it upon himself to watch for danger while Fire got acquainted with his relatives. Flame, on the other hand, was already quite tuckered out, standing quietly behind the group without bothering to get involved in the proceedings.

[Mouse]

Fury flicked her ears back and bared her teeth her light bay coat shimmering off the water. " watch yourself stallion! If my father hears you speaking to me like this he will tear you a new one and then some." Her voice was low and threatening. She wasn't sure what she would do if he actually attacked. She caught a view of the mare behind him and became worried " Peril!" She gasped "is this Hero spawn hurting you?" She asked ready to tear out his throat.

Sid paced around the two mares; nervous his enemies could be anywhere. He stuck close to Kuma and Payton if Fire and any of his followers attempted anything he would bring up something that was very important something that would hopefully keep him alive. He wished he hadn't have had to come alone but quite frankly the herd had fallen apart leaving nothing but enemies. Sid had to do this if he was to survive plus there was something Fire had that was his. Sid closed his eyes "nervous stallion? You should be once Fire sees you your dead" Payton laughed "shut up-you know if anything happens to me your friend is dead." Kuma fell to her knees exhausted from the journey out here and afraid for her life and the young foals- even if the foal she carried was Sindhi she would love it and care for it.

[Captain Stumpy]

And it came back again, That sickly feeling. Like a wave of sickness and wrong, why did feelings hurt physically? He closed his eyes, of course his mother would know her, she spend his childhood in this herd while he was with Hero. His defensive stance crumbled, The Bay fillies words stabbed him like daggers. She believed he was a threat to Peril, and she had every right to believe it. "Don't worry Fury honey" Peril called with a side smile walking forwards to the edge of the water, Valiant close behind. "This is my Son, I was telling everyone about him while I was here" She Continued, "This is Jeopardy" Her smile may have been warm and welcoming, But Jeopardy just felt humiliated and wrong.
"Wait" Jeopardy said raising his head, but his defensive and threatening stance had all washed away.
"Flame said You'd been lost" He'd watched his brothers chase off the group, it would only be a matter of time before someone faltered and got caught, Peril looked round to him, and remembered Flame had said that. "Are your brothers and sisters with you?" She called out "Have you seen Pageant?" She continued. Valiant was no bored, other than the shouting the new horse was as disinteresting as his older brother. The Water at his hooves however far more interesting. He could see his mother and himself in reflection. After a little pause He stomped his own reflection, The evil water splashing up and blinding him, he squeaked and withdrew backwards so fast he fell on hi rump. Peril turned to see he was okay, but watched Fury for her response, Jeop walked over to check out his angry little brother, Val's face was dripping wet, he shook but that just made him more unsteady. his ears stayed pinned angrily, Jeopardy Licked his face to try and get some off.



Risk was a little to excited for a first meeting, rushing to touch her father and bumping noses instead of something more gentle, "Sorry" She squeaked. taking a step back rather embarrassed. She looked at smoke  "I'm sure Jeop and Mum can't be far away"  She said, feeling a little bit responsible for Smoke's current grumpy looking demeanour.
Risk flicked a ear in the moments silence, "I Think I hear Jeopardy now" She said looking towards the treeline, okay it wasn't the direction Jeopardy left in but maybe he got lost? or their new little brother or sister didn't like walking on the sand.
to excited to wait for them to come her, she wanted to see her newest sibling she raced into the scrub. "Mum!" She called as she ran, it wasn't far before she came to a smallish clearing and stood in shock. "...Sid..." She uttered, Her eyes however finished on Kuma, "Kuma get up your alright, Sid what have you done?!" Risk Screamed. The sight of Sid was still terrifying, Her own brother 'gave' her to him. "When My dad gets here your in big trouble!" she threatened, though she was half ready to bolt away when the next twig snapped.

[Swede]

Fire nodded once, a little dazed by this unexpected meeting and thus simply allowing the filly to lead on in the interaction. If they were to stay here, then there was plenty of time to get to know each other properly. He lifted his head alertly as she ran off, and broke into a trot, following after. If she knew where the rest were, then of course it was best to follow her. Ever the steadfast second-in-command, Trace moved after Fire. Flame watched them go wearily, and after a moment's hesitation, grudgingly began limping after them.

"Flame, perhaps you should stay here," Smoke said, eyeing him sternly. Not knowing what to do, Sparks was once again quietly standing beside his dam, choosing to follow her lead in this matter.

Flame shook his head. "I'm fine. I don't want to fall behind," he muttered, stepping away to follow the other stallions. Smoke sighed and trailed after as well, knowing her presence would probably be useful if Fire ran into Jeopardy and things didn't go well.

However, when the trio of stragglers caught up to Risk and the older stallions, it was not Jeopardy at all they saw, but Sid, Kuma, and Payton. Upon spotting the intruders, Trace and Fire had stopped still in their tracks; Trace was quivering at the sight of his beloved mare, ears pinned and teeth bared, ready to tear apart whoever had put her in such condition. He could not even pause his fury to feel delight over seeing her alive still, after believing her to be dead. Later he could feel joy. Now, the important thing was to kill his enemies and get Payton back.

"Easy, Trace," Fire said under his breath as the scarred roan took a step forward, "Let's find out what we're dealing with first." His first instinct was to kill this other stallion immediately, recognizing him from the battle as one of Hero's sons, but if Smoke's group were supposedly peaceful, then who knew, perhaps this one had had a change of heart as well? Stepping closer to the three, he flattened his ears briefly at Risk to warn her out of the way- if this came to blows, anyone who got too close risked getting hurt. "You! You have thirty seconds to explain what you're doing here and why I should not kill you where you stand. But if a fight is what you're after, you don't need to wait that long. I wouldn't mind tearing you apart immediately," he snarled at the perlino stallion.

Smoke's gaze hardened at the sight of Sid; she seriously doubted he was here to make amends. Flame trembled beside her, but then ground his teeth together and strode forwards to stand beside Trace, hiding his limp as much as he could. It was his duty to protect this herd and his family, or at least what was left of it, and this was not a time to let weakness get to him.

[Mouse]

Sid moved behind the mares has the three stallions came upon them. He stared at Risk for a moment glad 'his' mare was still alive he was about to say something to her but turned to the stallions attention. He nudged Payton if she was as smart as she acted she would do the right thing. Payton bared her teeth but turned her attention back to the others mostly Trace. Her eyes scanned over the beloved roan stallion it has been a long time since she had seen the stallion. " Fire..." Her voice cracked and she closed her eyes trying to remember what Sid had told her to say " Fire. You can't hurt Sid.. He has Page.." The black mare looked defeated has she looked away.

Sid smiled "Fire it's great to see you again" it was taking everything out of Sid to keep his voice level; he was nervous as hell. " Look stallion I don't like you very much and were not going to sit here and pretend that we do. I have your bay mare and if you want her back- alive. Then I will bring her back here in a weeks time with the promise you will not hurt or kill me and will listen to what I have to say." Sid stepped forward as long as he had Pageant he was pretty sure he was safe.

Kumasaka heaved herself to her hooves again-she was feeling dizzy still and unable to focus on anything but the one thing she had wanted to see the most for the last three years was standing just hoof beats away. Kuma blinked has she looked at Flame taking in ragged breath she had since glimpse of him at the battle but he probably didn't remember the pathetic little filly she had been and was now. Every instinct in her entire body cried out to call out his name but she didn't she kept silent.

*****

Fury still eyed the stallion but if this was Peril's son she would keep her temper. She looked back at Jeopardy looking him over once more " I'm sorry in my herd we hate your father" she turned away from Jep turning her attention onto Peril " Yes they are not far from here our brother Flint protected us during the battle but our youngest sister Fajra's leg is severely hurt. She needed rest and I think so did Sterling-" she paused looking back at Jep "Sterling I guess would be your grandpa" Fury looked down at the ground "Hero tried to kill Sterling and almost did if me and my sibling did come along when we did-he's pretty messed up right now about the whole thing."

[Captain Stumpy]

Peril looked honestly upset that Hero had hurt Fury's Family, Her self-denial making her believe Hero couldn't have done such a thing, or at least not meant such a thing. Valiant walked away from Jeopardy, his face at least not dripping wet now, he brought himself under his dam for a drink. "Jeopardy go with Fury and help her get the rest of the Herd back to the Island" Peril said with some force, "But" was all Jeopardy could utter, but considering the stern face his mother was pulling arguing wasn't going to work.

The young stallion rolled his eyes at his mother and looked over the water again at Fury, if she was telling the truth about the state of the other horses, he could be sure they'd be no threat to him. "I'll be good for you to meet your grandfather" Peril with a smile. "I never got to meet mine you should feel happy" She continued. Jeopardy took his first step into the water, If Fury already new his dam she'd know it was pretty futile to argue as well, they could discuss whether she really wanted help on the other shore, out of sight of his dam. It would be interesting to meet his Dad's dad. Maybe he could shed some light on why his sire's crazy.

Jeopardy didn't walk straight towards Fury, in fact he gave the light bay mare a pretty respectable wide birth. He stopped a moment when they were parallel to one another "Sterling can lean on me to walk, Sooner we get them home sooner we can all find out if Fire's going to kill me or not" He uttered, not even looking Fury in the face when he spoke, instead he just stared at the buckskin reflected in the rippling water, he was the same colour as his sire, same markingless features, He sighed into the water closing his eyes. at least the tone of cream was different. He was brighter, but when someone's tried to kill you, was it his features or the tone of his hair you concentrated on?

Peril smiled quite proudly seeing Jeopardy and Fury close to one another, Jeopardy never really had a chance at a girl-friend in Hero's herd. She let out a little giggle thinking of those too together when she tapped the little white rump of Val. "C'mon little man we need to find Fire" She said, Valiant wasn't done yet and lashed his tail, "C'mon" She giggled "Your going to be a funny little lad" She cooed walking on so Val slipped off. His ears flat again at the deprivation of milk Val bunny-hopped in temper rather than walked beside his dam. "Fire's going to be so happy to hear his sons and daughters are okay"   

-----------


Risk felt quite proud when her father took a stance that clearly wobbled Sid's confidence. She didn't understand the importance of Page, but was sure this would be the last time dear Sid would dare come to Fire's land again. Risk walked behind the wall of testosterone and stopped behind Fire and Flame. a confident grin on her face, for once in her life she didn't have to really on Jeopardy to be the 'big brother' he was terrible at the role anyway. She has a real dad to protect her now, and a cooler big brother.    

[Swede]

Fire grew very still at Payton's words, radiating cold fury. This scum had Page. Perhaps Fire couldn't kill him now, but he resolved to himself that one day, he would make Hero's spawn pay for all the hurt they had caused, and personally tear each survivor limb from limb. Taking Page was a mistake they would come to regret. But, for now... he had no choice but to listen and wait for the right opportunity. "Well?" he spat through gritted teeth, "If you've got something to say, then say it." He could sense Trace straining to control himself beside him; in the past the roan stallion had been quite level-headed, but these days he preferred to kill first and ask questions later, particularly where Payton was concerned. He'd dealt with enough trouble from the Strath, and having to take further conflict with those who were supposed to be Dalt allies was infuriating.

[Mouse]

Fury eyed Jeopardy but didnt say anything until they got out of Peril's view. She was curious about the stallion but he was enemy or that was what she had viewed him as for a long time. Anyone who was related or helping Hero was an enemy and should be killed. Every muscle in her entire body strained but she knew her father would be angry if she started something now. Everyone was hurt and nobody would have the strength to do anything for while. She had not seen her father and other brother and was not sure who was alive or not anymore but she knew the small group she was with right now it was just her and Flint able to protect them. Sterling looked like he was on his last legs who knew if he would survive this time. The stallion was lucky from the last battle would he be just as lucky this time?

Fury continued to keep her focus on Jep "So you just plan to stay in our herd and pertend like you didnt do anything? My father will be crazy if he allows you to stay." Her words were hot just the way she wanted them. She was forced to grow up fast and she blamed it on Jeopardy,his father and anyone else she felt deserved it. Shaking her forlock out of her face she changed into a gallop eager to get back to her siblings. She didnt care what Jeopardy did as long as he stayed out of her way.

Flint stood guard. He was nervous and jumped at every sound. His eyes darted from side to side and the one moment he took his eyes off to look at Sterling and his siblings seemed like the one moment Fury decided to show up and scare the living daylight out of him. "How are they?" she asked. Flint was to busy eyeing Jeopardy "what's he doing here?" Fury looked back at Jeopardy "Dont ask" she had calmed down a bit maybe she wasnt being fair but didnt mean she had to like him. " Fajra is doing terrible" He said slowly. Fury turned to her youngest sister and watched her shallow breathing her chest rose and shuddered and then back down again. "lets get her to the water-its not too far ahead. Maybe we can clean the cut"

Sterling had been woken and was standing alert now his ice blue eyes we looking at Jeopardy in bewilderment "Hero...?" he whispered. Fury looked from Sterling to Jeopardy "It's his son" she said coldly. Sterling seemed to be processing the thought as he sagged back to the ground defeated. He defiently did not exspect to see this.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sindhi took a step back "Soon" he growled looking from Fire,Flame and then Trace. "However Fire if you think the return of Page will mean you can kill me- ehh I'll let Payton tell you the rest." He wanted out of there now he wasnt sure Fire could hold the ugly roan off any longer and Sid didnt want to end up wetting himself in front of all these stallions. He finally looked at Fire before he turned to leave running his tail down Kumasaka side "seya sweetheart try not to miss me too much." Sid wasnt stupid he would zig-zag and turn around serveral times to jumble his scent if Fire and the others thought of fallowing him.

Payton stood cold in her tracks. One part of her longed to run up and nuzzle Trace but the other part of her was trying hard to remember how to get back to Sid and the others. She felt disgusted with herself, Sid had been smart he had taken them in circles every which way everything was so messed up in her mind but the one thing she knew was she was home. Her eyes traveled to the ground.

Kuma turned away from the others in the herd. They had been beaten and bred and worst of all it seemed they would never rid themselves of Hero if not by himself then by his children. She was so confused her heart begged to see Flame but would he even remember her? She wanted to scream and to cry out. Kuma looked over at Payton if she wasnt going to speak then she should probably say something...

Payton could feel the weight of Kuma's eyes on her she looked over at the younger mare and nodded Fire would have to know. Payton turned towards Fire once more "Fire we have to talk... it's about Pageant"

[Captain Stumpy]

Risk didn't know what to do or where too look. Though she found some solace in watching Sid leave, she new he'd be coming back, with what ever mare Fire thought too much of to hurt Sid over. She new Kuma from Hero's herd, but she didn't know her well enough to call her a friend, she also didn't seem to want anyone coming near her. Looking at Fire and Trace only made her hair prick, she could feel the anger and hatred resonating from them both. This group may have been family, but she really wanted a grumpy, procrastinating buckskin shoulder to lean on right now. All this and she'd still not found her mother or Jeop.

"Whats going on here?" Peril said quietly, but compared to the silence of the group of horses she was unnaturally loud. Risk grinned from ear to ear, "Mum" She squealed, feeling like she belonged again. "Who's this handsome boy" Risk asked looking down at the young white colt with a smile. Valiant smiled back, he liked being called handsome, that sounded good. "This is Valiant" Peril said with a huge amount of pride. Valiant greeted Risk with a loving nuzzle to her chest, which she returned with a smile. "So what did happen here" Peril asked, The air was think with negative emotions, Payton and Kuma both looked pretty beat up. "Sid was here mum, he brought these 2 back but Fire couldn't do anything he still has Page" Risk responded, not even sure who Page was. Peril sighed, this was terrible news for Fire. 

"Mum Jeopardy came looking for you, have you seen him?" Risk asked, Peril Nodded "Jeop found me on the beach, and so did Fury" "Fury?" Risk interrupted. "Yes she's a daughter of Fire and Page" Peril continued, sighing a little Fire was going to be disappointed Page isn't going to he here. "She was in a band that got run off, some of them are hurt so Jeopardy's going to help them get back to the island quicker" This should have been good news, but Risk only felt a little more nervous, she couldn't pin-point her anxiety, something just felt off.

Peril gave Risk a little nuzzle before walking on to get Fire's attention. "Fire" She said as she got closer, not sure if he'd listened to what she'd said to Risk. "Fury's coming back shortly" She continued sensitively. "Fury's fine but some of her group aren't well, they'll be arriving back on the beach Smoke and I arrived on" She neglected to mention Jeopardy at this moment, he needed to see Jeopardy in a different light to his brother Sid. Valiant milled around his mothers hooves, he was beginning to tire but there was too much going on for him to rest now.

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

Fury's words stung a little, he wasn't going to lie, but he was more than capable of hiding the feeling. "I'm not leaving my mother" He said quickly and soullessly. The gallop woke him up a little, however he still maintained a more than fair distance between himself and Fury. When he looked at the group they were pretty banged up. The old blue eyed stallion reminded him of Sid, he didn't even look at Flint as he walked past and turned himself around beside Sterling. "Get up old man" Jeopardy growled, the sooner he got these home the sooner he'll find out how tight the noose was around his neck. "Get up and lean on me, we're not far from the beaches now" he continued to growl. waiting for Fury to get their smallest sibling up to lead the way.

[Swede]

The moment Sid moved off, Trace stepped forward, hurrying to Payton's side. Though he was still quaking with anger, his touch was light as a feather as he ran his muzzle across her body, inspecting her wounds and breathing in that long-lost scent of the love he thought he would never see again. Fire waited for a moment, itching to go after Sid but knowing it would be senseless; most of all he just wanted Page back, and though Trace being reunited with his mare was a joyful sight, it also brought a fresh wave of sadness. He nodded as Payton spoke to him; the sooner he learned what was going on, the better. Just then, however, Peril approached him, delivering heart-stopping news. "Fury's alive?" he whispered. And she had a group with her... were there other survivors as well? For a moment, he was torn, unwilling to drop the issue with Page. But there was no real dilemma here. His daughter was alive, and possibly other loved ones too. He couldn't do anything about Page this moment, but he was not going to ignore his foals for a second longer than was necessary.

He glanced towards Smoke pleadingly. "Can you take over here for the time being? I'm sorry but... I have to go," he sighed. The black mare nodded, and he immediately wheeled around and set off at a brisk canter towards the shore. As he passed he noted that Peril had foaled, but that too would have to wait until later; many important things were happening all at once, and unfortunately he had to prioritize- after all, he couldn't take care of everything at once.

Once Fire was gone, Smoke turned towards the other mares. "Rest, Kuma," she said softly as she stepped closer, "You're safe here. Payton, explain all of this to me please, what has happened since the battle?"

Flame blinked and looked up in confusion. Kuma..? He hadn't seen her since they were foals, and now she was a grown mare, battered and defeated. But... yes, he could see it now. A white coat like that was a rare sight, and there was still something in her face that reminded him of the little filly he and Sketch used to play with. He glanced towards the older horses, but both Trace and Smoke seemed occupied with Payton, who had taken the role of leading the discussion, leaving Kuma quietly on the sidelines. Limping forward, Flame reached his muzzle out towards her tentatively. "Kuma? Is that really you?" he said with a concerned frown. "It's been so long... what... what happened during all this time?" He stopped himself and quickly added, "Or if you don't want to talk about it, that's okay too. You should... you should rest. Don't wear yourself out." Whatever she had been through, it looked like it had been hell; who knew what traumatic memories she was hiding? He had no right to dig through them. And in her weakened state, even talking seemed to be exhausting.

Having no part in the proceedings, Sparks lingered quietly in the background for a few moments. Then with a mental shrug he approached Peril carefully, eyeing the new foal. "He's cute," he commented, wary of coming too close to a mare with a newborn foal, but undeniably curious about the new herdmate.

[Mouse]

Sterling scowled at Jeopardy "Hey kid watch yourself we may be kin but that won’t stop me from ripping you tongue out." Sterling had grown up in the old valley. He had fought for everything he had but after the betraying of his own son he was not sure if he could handle trusting another of his own blood. The stallion knew he would not make it on his own not in this state. He looked helplessly at Fury who nodded. He had no choice hauling himself to his hooves he leaned himself against the younger stallion nervous and stiff as any horse could be. The only thought in his mind was to find Smoke…

Fury watched Jeopardy shaking her head as she turned away to deal with her three younger siblings who all lay in a heap of tangled legs and tails. She nudged the twins awake exhausted from the journey here other than a few scratches both Flammable and Fiery were in good shape. She and Flint carefully lifted Fajra to her hooves and with both on either side they began to walk closer to the remaining herd members the pace was slow with bother Fajra and Sterling.

Flint was the first to spot his father "Look Fury its dad!" He called trying to speed up the reach the chestnut stallion. Fury looked up from watching their younger sister "Dad!" She called giving out a happy whinny. Flammable and Fiery raced towards their father and ran circles around him. Fury could not help but look curiously over at Jeopardy; this was the moment she was sure he would be dreading.

*****

Payton shivered at the stallion’s touch it felt so amazing her senses were on high and she couldn’t help but turn to look into his gorgeous eyes. She gave him a nudge and quick lick. She turned her attention to Smoke collecting her thoughts but her mind was still on the stallion beside her every time they were separate it felt like another eternity had passed by. “Smoke..." she trailed off looking back at Kuma who was still looking at the ground "Pageant isn't with Sindhi... She's dead... Kuma found her body after Hero had run off... He killed her before he died from blood lost" Payton felt exhausted but also relived that Smoke had been the one to know first, it would be better coming from his mother then from her.

Kumasaka completely exhausted was happy to let Payton take over. Her blue eyes traveled up the stallion and looked deeply into his eyes “I didn't think you would remember me" she tried to smile but even the thought of her being happy made her want to cry. She slightly flinched at his next words. What happened? Where was she supposed to start? Maybe that Hero had tried to use her as killing machine? Or ruined her best friend? Better yet had her best friend breed with her? What about the fact Sid had stolen her filly and bred with her? Oh yes such good times.. Kuma shrugged "Oh you know.. Well... uhhh" She looked at him helplessly "Sid took my daughter.." The last time she had seen the father of her daughter; Sketch was when he had been battling with Flame. She was curious if he had seen her during the battle she had pulled Sid off him when the stallion had decided to gang up on the chestnut stallion. She looked Flame over the nasty wound on his shoulder made her cringe. She reached forward touching the stallion for the first time in an extremely long time. "I'm happy to see you Flame..Truly... I thought about you a lot...” her mind went back to Sketch-was it possible to be in love with two stallions? Yes. But she knew from the moment she had joined the herd who she would choose. She took in Flame's scent has she recoiled back. How could a stallion she had not seen for so long feel anything towards her?

[Captain Stumpy]

Jeopardy rolled his eyes at the cripples 'threats' at this moment Valiant could probably beat him in battle. but Jeopardy said nothing to antagonise the delicate matter. He counter-balanced his 'grand-sires' weight as best he could, avoiding any hoof-placement conflicts and trip hazards as they shuffled along. As they walked along Jep would glance at the beat up old stallion, trying to spot any similarities between him and Hero, But all he could really see was a height similarity. Jeopardy was a shrimp compared to his sire, and the majority of his siblings. A full hand shorter than Hero, he'd made up his lack of height with a thicker set appearance, something he didn't appear to inherit from his elegant dam or sporty sire.

Distracted by his thoughts he didn't see or smell the water again till Flint shrieked. Jolted by the realisation Fire was standing on the opposing back, he gave Sterling a nervous glance. Then regretted it, he didn't want to appear weak now. He stared off at the opposing bank, what happened to Peril? a little more franticly he looked up and down the shorelines... nothing, no one. Damnit he couldn't have been in a more venerable position, the temptation to 'drop' granddad and run was almost unbearable. His heart quickened, There was no way he would beat Fire if it came down to blows, He had maturity and experience. as well as the added motivation of hatred.

Jeopardy gulped, despite a bone dry throat. He splashed into the water, his movement more robotic now than ever before. He watched the water at his legs, to nervous to stare at anything or anyone else, He was ashamed at what he'd done, ashamed to have not been strong enough to say no to his sire, strong enough to try and sabotage his own brothers and help prevent the bloodshed. He just went along with it. Saying sorry now would be worthless, pointless it would be meaningless.
He deserved this, he deserved punishment he new that. But it didn't make the walk to the gallows any less freighting.
Glancing Up, a few more steps and he'd be on the opposing shore.
A few more steps and he'll be closer to Fire.

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-


Peril couldn't believe her eyes, or her ears, Page was dead... and Hero had done it. She shook her head refusing to believe it was that simple. It must have been Shindi or those other rebellious boys Jeopardy used to hang out with. She was proud of her eldest not to turn out thugs like them. Those quiet mares made terrible mothers.

Risk walked up to her mother, the whole situation was feeling very awkward. How did Flame know Kuma? and the older horses seemed to be talking about things that are both important and something that maybe she shouldn't know. Peril could see her worry, She didn't like the youngsters listening to talks of death and unpleasantness, at just about the same time quiet little Sparks wondered over. "Thankyou Sparks dear" She smiled warmly to the young lad. "Smoke if you don't mine I'll take Sparks with me and my two away to graze" She said rather quietly to the black mare. "You can talk in peace then" she continued.

Valiant eyed Sparks wearily, he was tired and all these new faces were beginning to blur into one. He walked round to the other side of Peril before collapsing. Peril heard him go down and sighed a little "Come on Valiant, you have to get up you can sleep in a minute" Valiant flattened his ears to his mother, but Peril insisted. And the white colt got up. "C'mon Risk and Sparks we'll go get some fresh grass" He said smiling at the youngsters, and walked off like a mother duck.


She didn't walk too far, she could see the clearing that the others where in, but were well out of ear-short. The grass was pretty green, and sweet. Valiant pretty much crashed down when his Dam stopped walking. Peril grazed beside her sleeping son. Risk came beside Sparks. "I can't believe Sid could do that all on his own" She whispered. "Do you think the other boys are alive and well to?" she continued.

[Swede]

They came into view around the bend of the shoreline like a mirage upon the lake. His family, his children, his beloved little ones... the relief and joy flooded him all at once. They are alive. All of them. His pace increased, hooves thrumming against the sand in a rapid gallop, only to slide to a halt as he reached the twins and they danced around him. The chestnut stallion reared halfway in sheer delight, only to come down to earth again and lower his head, nuzzling Fiery lovingly before giving Flammable a playful nip on the shoulder. "I thought I'd lost you all, I'm so sorry all this had to happen," he said regretfully.

Looking up, Fire shivered in happiness as he saw Fury, Flint, and Fajra approaching as well, though it was tainted with concern at their weakened states, Fajra in particular. However, his mood crashed completely when noticed a face among the group which he recognized only vaguely yet knew too well already for his own liking. He nudged Fiery again before breaking into a brisk trot, tail flagging and ears pinned. "You," he spat at the pale young stallion beside Sterling, "How dare you come anywhere near my family? My mother has requested that I don't kill you, but I'm not so certain it's wise to leave you alive."

~~~~~~~

Smoke grew very quiet upon hearing Payton's tragic news. She nodded briefly to Peril, barely listening. Page... Smoke had never been a loving mare, but still, she had raised Page as an orphan, and watched her son fall in love with the beautiful bay filly. Page had borne nearly all of Smoke's grandfoals, and was the rock Fire relied upon. "He'll be devastated," she murmured finally. For a moment she was quiet again, lost in thought. "It could destroy him... we shouldn't tell him. It's better he has hope. He has a herd to lead. He doesn't have time for more grief."

Trace rested his muzzle against Payton's neck, though his eyes were troubled. Fire was his closest living friend these days; Trace knew all too well the feeling of losing the one you loved, and though he had been lucky enough to get Payton back by some miracle, there was no returning from the grave.

~~~~~~~

Flame paid no attention to the older horses, ignoring their conversation as he focused on Kuma. "You have a daughter?" he echoed blankly, startled by the news. He wasn't sure why; it shouldn't have been a surprise, she was after all a grown mare now. But for some reason, it made him feel bitter. "I'm... happy to see you too... when Hero took you and Sketch I guess I thought I'd never see either of you again. Kind of wish I hadn't seen Sketch again, that was... not great," he muttered, immediately annoyed with himself for bringing up memories of that awful battle again. "But nevermind that. You need to rest and heal. Don't worry, dad and Trace are keeping the place safe, they won't let anyone hurt us again."

~~~~~~~

Sparks followed Peril obediently. At her question, he shrugged. "Maybe? I don't know, I wasn't at the battle so I didn't see what happened, and nobody came back to the herd... I sort of wonder a little bit what happened to Aleta and Azra too," he said quietly. The older colts had mostly ignored him, just like everyone else in the herd, but sometimes he had been allowed to tag along with Aleta and Azra. Aleta, being his older sister, had occasionally felt the obligation to watch over him, despite being a rather self-absorbed and haughty filly. Still, it was the only family he really had. It was either that, or spend every day with his mother, who was hardly overjoyed about his existence.