While she was still unsure of winged Elsa, it became clear that Coika could be at ease regarding the strange one’s intentions. She was no threat, and had stepped forward as though she might be an ally. The gesture was appreciated, and Coika’s nerves settled a bit when Elsa came nearer. The child in her felt compelled to nestle beneath protective cover of Elsa’s soft wing, but she knew better. At least standing together, the pair’s pseudo-unity might quiet any thought of mischief on the stallion’s part.

I was just helping her to shelter. A lie, as it were, but one the mare would not uncloak. Let the stallion believe it.

You bleed for no reason? The mare hadn’t lied; She was not “hurt,” per se. One benefit of such wicked cold was its numbing effect. The wound she’d sustained had been numbed by bitter wind and a preoccupied mind. Though, without these factors, the pain would still be little compared to what the mare had endured before. It would be laughable. ”Hurt implies pain,” she started, approaching the stallion once more. The longer he stood before her, the less intimidating he became. Of course, she’d not ask for a fight. That was the last thing she wanted, especially with such a competitor. After a pause, she continued, her voice confident. ”Injured, yes, only just.”

Confidence building, she drew close, examining the stallion further. So many scars, she noted. Her visage lifted as she addressed him. ”Surely you’ve suffered a wee scratch in your years.” If she came across as taunting, it was not her intent. What horse would want to taunt another with a spear on his head? This time, though, the mare did not retreat from his space.

A shelter, I bet that’s nice, the stallion’s smooth voice poured. Coika failed to hide her amusement, her body quaking with a chuckle. I bet it is, she considered inwardly. Being nomadic, the mare typically hadn’t the luxury of shelter. Mostly, she just wished for gentle weather so she’d not have to sleep being assaulted by rain.

I’m Nato, the stranger identified himself. He’d not made enough of an impression yet for Coika to commit his name to memory. It was entirely possible, though, for this Nato to change that. At first at his inquiry, Coika considered lying. They didn’t need to know who she really was. But, a stranger in this new world, what did she have to hide? It would be best to not start off with enemies. So, instead of petty lies, truth poured from the mare. ”I am called Coika,” her voice sang as the stallion came closer. She glanced back toward Elsa hoping for reassurance.
Now her childish curiosity was getting the better of her. In her last “herd,” she’d never run across strangers. So, rightly, she hadn’t a clue how to conduct herself. She’d have to forget such notions and learn to behave appropriately if she wanted to survive in this world, but for now she’d humor herself. That blade – what exactly was that thing? The mare rose on her hinds, stretching her neck to allow her investigation. Nostrils flared as they sucked in his scent. Her muzzle went to nudge at the horn as a test of its foundation. She hoped he’d understand her intrigue and not be offended.

@[Elsa] @[Nato]