Midas reassured Africa that her understanding of Helovia would grow (like a seed planted in her mind- or so, that is how she followed), and she was soothed like the thick downy fur between skin and a brutal winter night. Perhaps it was simply fear of the unknown which simmered the undertone of her softly spoken, credulous voice- she was afraid and excited; thoroughly energized by their conversation and the unexpected security which the stallion seemed to radiate. She listened willingly, with erect, pointed ears and now, her light curious eyes did not part from him. As the seconds peeled past them, Africa grew more confident in her ambition; more at peace with her decision to leave home and find this brave new world.

Still the hot sun glowed unremittingly, and without interruption. The two horses had been standing there immersed in Tallsun’s intensity, chatting for some time and sweat began to seep through Africa’s sleek thinned coat in long blackened streaks. She flicked her tail twice heedlessly, more or less unmoved by the festering warmth of the day; she was engrossed in the conversation at hand- a stepping stone maybe into the future of her dreams.

Midas reached out to Africa, and his lips brushed along the crest line of her neck. Although his mild gesture wasn’t sudden and did not upset her, the mare automatically lowered her face, inadvertently portraying to him that she was both humble and well natured- deep down the modest horse hoped that she would be the right candidate for his family, living in a Dragon’s Throat (such a name was not forgotten by the gullible heart so fast- imagine the adventures!). And then, Midas offered to Africa his home; and a simple taste of true family.

The young mare’s eyes beamed at the proposition, she did manage however to hold her composure (practice makes perfect, and Midas seemed to eliminate her clumsiness; or it found no place in his shadow), and offered an enthusiastic smile to unmistakably accept his invitation. “Thank you.” Her voice was still tinged with light apprehension; it seemed unavoidable because Africa was not a brave soul. So many questions seemed to rise and swarm through her thoughts at that moment, but the young grey did not dither, instead dutifully addressing Midas’s next question. That was easy, and she answered too quickly and freely- “I am interested in most everything Helovian...” (But that was not what the stallion asked and Africa blushed at her mistake) “...In particular magic, I think.” Even if it wasn’t exactly what the stallion had meant, to the young mare, nothing held more mystery or attraction than magic itself. There were so many elements in her mother’s wonderful stories though, and nothing seemed dull.