There is something behind the throne

Quilyan

greater than the king himself.

His offer is met with a smile and a small display of affection in the words that the steed chooses. To be called her beloved makes his heart swell with glee, and he subconsciously tightens his grip momentarily. Ah, how he has changed from the carefree flirt that he used to be! Now his world revolves around her, and only her, for whom he would do anything and everything. All she need do is ask. Satisfied that his duty has been done, for the time being, he curves his nape to gently massage Resplendence's withers. Later, he would see out the winged knight to make good on the offer of friendship - another surprise, for at home he had been notoriously bad with other stallions, often feeling that he must prove himself superior. Well, he was a prince, after all.

Zarina hums softly to herself, a noise that is almost like a cat's purr in its soothing effect. She has made her way to Resplendence's poll, and she perches there with her hind legs tangled in mange and her tiny hands working quickly but methodically through a few patches of tangles. Once she has separated a small section of banner, she begins to braid it, nimbly working the long, luxurious strands between her fingers. The pair of them seek to calm Resplendence, each in their own way; and they congratulate one another without so many words as the mare begins to speak of herbs. The others do not disturb them, for they have little part in the prince's current goals; though he does not approve of Aaron's treatment of Kahlua, he finds the painted mare to be a bit dimwitted. Neither of them have gained his immediate trust and liking as Kaj has, though he supposes that he must like them well enough, as families must do for distant relatives. Gods knew he was well-versed with that! Royal families branched very far, so much so that he had not been able to name all of his cousins, much less second and third cousins and children tucked away in corners. And he had liked all of them well enough, or had pretended to at his parents' request. This would be no different.

A voice breaks the momentary peace that they have found, and Quilyan is immediately on edge as he feels his Lady jump, begin to quiver uncontrollably, and bury her face against his nape. Again his wings tighten imperceptibly, shifting forward as though to shield her even more from the intruder. His auds have flattened against his skull as he watches the trees, muscles tensed and ready to meet any threat. His first job, however, is to protect Resplendence, and even Kaj's barking order does not irk him as it might have in any other situation. In this, the two stallions are evenly matched, for both care more for the mare's safety than his own. There is a dangerous look in his eye as he waits for whatever may come. "Hush, darling," he murmurs softly. "We won't let her hurt you." We will die to save you.

[W/C | ---]
Walk walk walk.
Talk talk talk.
Think think think.

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