As much as he might think it was, Mesec’s nature was not to be alone. He often forgot how in this world of ice and rock he stood out - a living drop of night in the snow-blinded world of the Steppe, especially while the sun shone. He stood out, he was noticeable, and that often meant any solitude was temporary. He thought that he needed it, needed to be caged off and made separate from the entirety of Helovia, but he did not want it. Which was why, despite the fact that he very well should scramble away from the antlered mare he stayed his wandering hooves instead.

His silver eyes were scanning the contents of a cave formed by the rocks when he heard the soft greeting. Immediately there was a rush, of joy and relief because he immediately assumed it was the star-sky mare that he was seeking - but as he turned toward the sound he found something else entirely. Not another creature of the night like himself - one crafted by sunlight and warmth. For although her coat was white similar to the snow that surrounded them, it was still different - contrasted against the icy crystals and truly making her seem warm.

The moment that it took him to respond to her question stretched out just a little too long, the battle within him on whether he should linger or leave.

But the monster felt so far away on this cold, Frostfall morning. Surely he could take a moment?

Lucius sent a rush of encouragement through their bond - thinking that company would be the best for Mesec’s mind - and he circled back from the mountains and began to make his way toward the group.

“Yes, I suppose it can be.” Mesec couldn’t help but smile, a shallow version of his usual bright grin but it was a smile and it had been far too long since it had come so easily to his face. The Steppe could  be a lonely place, she was right about that, but every time he came here he had found someone. And that last meeting with Ki’irha was still fresh enough in his mind - whispers about how they were no longer alone - that there was some humour to be found in another mare speaking similar words. It didn’t seem very likely that this encounter would end in a similar fashion but he was still thankful for the company.

It was startling to find out just how thankful he was. He had been avoiding everyone.

As his silver eyes regarded her gold ones, Mesec felt a tug on his memory. “This might sound odd but... have we met before?” As he spoke, Lucius came upon the group and descended - finding a rocky ledge to perch on where he could keep an eye on the mare and her… well, he wasn’t entirely sure what the thing that was sitting beside her was. “A griffin.” Mesec helpfully supplied, though the zephyr remained skeptical. Still, he trilled a low greeting toward the other companion, turning his head slightly to keep watch.

I’m trying to find my direction home, ______________
A question of space, a matter of time, _______
I follow the stars until the first light.