Tropics abounded before the steed's jade pools, with the salty breeze and constant thrum of waves pounding against the sand - it was something that reminded him vaguely of the land he was born to, only, those shores had been much colder, even if the sand and ocean had existed. He stood at the cusp, the edge of where the land was still deemed a forest, mere steps away from the sandy dunes that would lead him to the great Blue below. He had little interest in salt or water, and even less desire to get his great hulk dampened by the sea. So why was he here?

Grimalkin was wandering, taking what one might call, a sabbatical, a soul-search, a journey that would lead to discovery or adventure.

Or, you know, just plain avoidance of responsibility.

He had enjoyed the time he spent north, and somewhere deep down, he knew he wanted to return there. The Basin had been a fine home, with a fine herd to live amongst - though he knew they would not take kindly to his abrupt, unannounced departure and return. No, if he ever wanted to return, he would have to earn his way back in, and even then, he would be back at the bottom. It was a challenge in and of itself, and one the steed probably procrastinated as much as everything else.

Great antlers turned with his crown as he looked over the golden dunes, curiosity gleaming behind his sharp stare. He heard something, not too far away - a splash? - and then the sound of a creature running. Ears pressed forward as he could not identify it - it beared no hooves and so as it entered the forest - the same forest he stood in - it's steps became almost silent. Almost predatory.

Nerves piqued and the stallion decided to move from the treeline and out onto the sand. It was different, hard sort of walking, but his broad hooves aided in keeping him atop the sand - much like they did when he walked across the Steppe, only this surface was liable to stick amongst his feathers where snow simply melted away. He didn't dislike it - it was just different.

Preoccupied as he was, he barely saw the belle who was nearby, though when he did catch her within his sights, he smiled curtly and proffered a nod of his great crown in her direction. "Greetings miss," he called, allowing his step to pause as he feasted upon her form with an openly roguish expression. He was young and proud, and knew what he liked, though courtesy did usually win out. "I heard something amongst the trees before," he added, almost as an afterthought, as if he was clutching for reasons to stop and speak. "Was it you?"

@Essetia

grimalkin