they all need something to hold on to; open

[Nao and Ikaro]

they all need something to hold on to, they all mean well pay your respects to society giving me hell Nao’s smile is all haze and silk, her mouth curving at the corners as three strangers approach in turn. The winged stallion is first to greet them, and upon him her almond gaze lingers longest, bold and unabashed. “Hello, Magnus,” she returns smoothly – his name almost a caress. Beside her, Ikaro clears his throat as a golden mare descends from the sky and tucks her wings with an elegant sweep. Nao’s eyes flash beneath thick lashes at Yael’s words, though her demure smile never falters. “I don’t believe we’ve had the pleasure,” she remarks in liquid tones, though by then a dark figure advances from the shadows to draw her focus. “Rhonan of the Valley.” Her brow quirks teasingly at him. “Welcome to the field.” Like she owns the damn place, indeed. “I’m Nao,” she says, flaxen tail swishing about her hocks. She gestures to her counterpart. “My brother, Ikaro.” The dappled stallion inclines his head to the newcomers, though he remains quiet at her side – his gaze mild, not unkind. “We’ve come to be impressed,” she says (craftfully effortless) as a light laugh slips from her lips. She tilts her shapely head in Magnus’ direction again, her eyes on him. “I hope you’re up to the challenge.” Ikaro steps forward then, intervening. “I’m sure we’re all here for a reason,” he says, “Perhaps it’s best if we heard yours.” Whereas his sister had purposefully sidestepped Yael’s awareness, Ikaro had immediately taken interest in it – though for Nao’s sake he is careful not show it. Instead, he holds Yael’s gaze for a beat. It is what she knows, and not how she knows it, that matters to him. Having paused to cast a sidelong glance after her brother and the golden mare, the chestnut’s almond eyes flit from Magnus, with years of experience etched in his scars, to Rhonan; young, his coat smooth and deeper than black. A silky smirk comes to her lips then – almost a dare – a knowing smile that says quite clearly, impress me. nao § ikaro you could never feel my story, it's all you know i will not fold, she's in control of everyone and everything