Went up the cry, resonating with a hateful presence across the plain. A large black stallion appeared, as if out of nowhere. He thundered across the open terra with gigantic ground-eating strides. Heels flew up into the air as he showed off his beautiful, strong frame. Coming close to the mares, he slowed his pace to a trot, cooling off a little. Finally coming down to a walk, he paced up to them, and stopped moving. His pelt was covered with a slight sweat from the heat of the sun and the amount of energy he had to expend. His breathing was hard, but he was getting it under control quickly.

Present.

He said, his voice deeply handsome and rolling. Banner twitched, heart beat slowing back to normal.

Amanecer returned the nuzzle tenderly, flaring her nostrils to reacquaint herself with the white mare’s scent. “The thought was mutual.” She responded in kind with her vibrant tones. “But oh it is good to see you” She told Sundance the timbre of her voice deepening a notch with affection.

But then as she felt her long tensed muscles relax in the presence of one she trusted she heard the unmistakable tread of a large four-legged, hoofed animal. Her head whipped around on her neck, rich brandy colored eyes flaring with fear as she observed him thunder towards them. Damn he’s big, not good. she thought with apprehension shimmering down her spine. Not good, not good. Not. Good.

She balked a little as Sundance pushed past her and actually approached the male. For a moment she was frozen with awe at her courage but then shaking the feeling she cautiously approached behind her good friend, keeping the bulk of Sundance between herself and the lead stud. Sun shimmered over her sleek body, built for speed and grace rather than strength. Her lithe muscles, long and sturdy like a dancers, moved fluently beneath her dappled hide despite her nervous step. She stopped as Sundance did, careful to keep her between them. Her petite ears flickered restlessly and her tail swished with the slightest susurration across her hocks with its movement. The delicate skin around her muzzle tightened slightly as Sundance demanded his name, a mare’s challenge to a stallion ringing in her vocals. Please keep us safe. She pleaded to no particular deity, figuring that whomever –if there was anything at all- was listening would catch the message. Her slender form shivered as the eagles piercing cry cracked through the valley, bringing with it all the freedom and sadness of a solitary existence.