A strong north wind carried Murdock southbound, gliding smoothly over lands blossoming with renewed life. There was warmth in the air, though it was less the higher you climbed, but the midday sun was warm upon his dark back unshadowed by his steady wings. His path took him toward the floating island, suspended above the ground as if held aloft by invisible string. Rather thick, strong string at that. It was not until he heard his name called by a deep and vaguely familiar voice that he began his descent, curiosity drawing him in a gentle spiral toward the pit of sand where two figures waited.
He carried speed into his approach, settling a few feet above the ground as he lifted his front end away from the earth. He floated smoothly down until his rear hooves dug into the sand, skidding along until he slowed to a halt before the draft who he recognized as his superior. He dipped his head to the Captain, stepping forward away from the deep scars left in the sand until he had to lift his chin to meet the much taller stallion’s gaze. He was accompanied by a dog, undoubtedly his companion, and Murdock eyed her with concealed unease. He had a history of bad experiences with canine companions, and though he knew they were meeting for a friendly training spar, her presence unsettled him nonetheless.
He met Archibald’s gaze again, a lopsided smile accompanying his words. “I feel the odds are already against me,” he hesitated, eyeing the Shire’s solid build, “so let’s just make this between the two of us…” He had a better chance of not making a fool of himself if the playing field was free of fancy extras, at least for now. Besides, Murdock’s only magical ability could not be used for offence and as such was entirely useless to him on the battleground. Though it had been long since he had practiced, too long in fact, one could never completely forget the dance of combat and he had confidence that his gift of flight would keep him out from the beneath the massive hoof of his commander.
“Try to leave me in one piece,” he teased, casual steps bringing him closer to Archibald, his path guiding him toward the stallion’s right side. His strength is of little value to him now. To launch his weight at this behemoth would be to toss a stone at a mountain. However, though this mountain had four fine legs, they would not be so quick to carry him around. Speed and agility were on Murdock’s side, and though they might be his only allies, victory was not so critical now; even if he lost to his Captain, he would walk out of this arena alive.
Without another second’s hesitation, he launched himself forward, rear hooves slipping in the sand and leaving deep gauges in his wake. He reached out with teeth bared for the sensitive skin by Archibald’s right elbow, wings held tightly against his body. Eager to put distance between himself and the Captain before he had a chance to retaliate, Murdock spread his wings and bounded off across the arena, departing in a hopefully distracting flurry of pale feathers. He remained on the ground, however, spinning about to face Archibald and gauge his options before resorting to the safety of the sky. Adrenaline had begun to flood through his body now, electrifying his nerves and reminding him exactly why he loved this game so much.
"talk talk talk talk "
[WC: 586
Attack: 1/3
Summary: Murdock launches himself toward Archibald's right side, reaching out to attempt to bite the sensitive skin at his right elbow. Quickly putting distance between himself and Archi, he bounds away a few paces before turning to face the Captain again.]
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[Murdock | Seasonal] Into orbit
