Xira had heard tell of a contest that was not of strength, but of cunning and skill. The very thought of such a thing intrigued her, but not enough to draw her into it entirely. No, it was the promise of prestige and the satisfaction of winning that convinced her she was to participate in the games. For most, she held no interest. There was something about the concept of playing with another's mind, however, and manipulating her magic to turn another on their back, that brought her into the clearing that day.

She saw her company and recognized him instantly as the general Azzuen. Inwardly she scoffed. It would be a pleasant experience to boggle the simple mind of the herd's grandest warrior. She kept her distance and watched him from afar before taking wing and allowing her body to disappear from sight. Her feathers flared up and out, and she displayed with pride the chestnut beneath her emerald green feathers. Her coat, curly and thick even now, long before frostfall, caught the wind, and her short mane twirled playfully in the rush of air suddenly surging about her solid figure. As she was blended in with the sky above her, it would take a careful ear to pinpoint her location. Even as she landed behind him, it was with careful hooves and a light step. No vibrations could have been felt as, with outstretched wings that caught the air, she touched upon the earth. The trees were seen through her undisturbed. Were it not for the faint breathing, she may have not existed at all.

She watched him with eyes that would have been the tone of a peacock's chest were they not hidden, and pictured him bowing at her hooves. His ear tips would grace her chest, and he would declare her the rightful winner of the duel. Surely this sort of treatment was what she deserved- certainly the outcome could be no other. Her breath was held as she waited and allowed the time to move by, but it seemed to pass on forever. From the several paces away from Azzuen where she stood, she felt safe. But if he were to find her now, if she were to let loose the much needed gasp for air, or to shift even the slightest, he could discover her. She refused sacrifice the win simply because Azzuen was skilled at hide and seek.


[[WC: 405 || PC: 1/2 || Xira takes flight, turns invisible, and then lands as quietly as possible behind him.]]