As he grew a bit older he ventured farther from his mother's side. Starting to navigate the endless forest was getting a bit easier. Scents were easily followed now. Even trees were becoming recognizable. Though he never traveled alone. His constant companion kept a watchful eye on him when mother was absent. The Raven was a welcome sight to him. He envied his flying abilities. One day he would be able to soar above the canopy as the Raven did...
Today he choose a new path. A familiar scent of the black stallion that had watched him when his mother had business to attend to. Stillwater. Muzzle to the dirt he plodded along. Rock here, tree there... Not much varied in Sylva... Terrain wise. An occasional clearing in the dense foilage was rare so when his gaze fell upon light he stopped. Crown lifted abruptly as he stared at the near alien sighting. He smiled happily, stepping forward lightly as he pranced. Wings flapping with excitement that he may attempt to use them with more purpose this time. He had been practicing. Strengthing them more and more each time. As he neared the clearing he took note of the lake and a cave much similar to his own home. Lobes flickered curiously as hazel eyes scanned for anyone near. Seeing nothing immediately he stepped from the shadows and into the morning light. Caw! The sudden call coming from within the shadows made him jump as his head turned violently in its direction. Crazy bird. He turned his attention back to the pond which strangely had a shadowed figure hovering over it. Head cocked in confusion as it grew... Bigger. Hesitant step was taken forward to the bank of the pond. Muzzle lowered to sniff for a scent of any kind.
Suddenly a strong breeze drafted from above and his gaze rotated upwards. Frozen for a moment, then panicking to find his footing as he scampered back into the shadows. Ducked behind some thick brush he watched. The painted lady landed with much grace onto the pond surface. Liquid conformed around her as she settled into it then moved forward to the bank. She was much like him but bigger. Pied wings held comfortably to her side as she rose from the waters. Almost magically they turned from a wet mess to dry fluff. His didn't do that. He watched as she stood there... Waiting. What was she waiting for? He glanced about as if someone else should be appearing. As moments passed without more activity he ventured out of behind his hiding spot. Silently approaching the edge of the shadows in curiousity. His gaze never shifting from the mare. She didn't seem too scary...
Watching for another moment nothing new came so he bounced out of the darkness. Inky hued coat shined in the morning light. He pranced rather daintily up to her. Flapping his wings as he offered a greeting...
Hi. I'm Klaudius. I love your feathers! He looked upon them with envy. I wish I could fly like that... His words trailed off with a hint of saddness as did his stare.
