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Africa’s first noteworthy impression of Helovian civilization was that of Midas. The painted stallion had come to her as she wandered incoherently about the Threshold, and he had been awash with both splendour and mystery. He had charmed her simpleton mind, renewing the childhood fantasies that she has come to find for herself, and filled her with hope and wild aspirations. Perhaps the most lasting imprint in her memory from that day was the smouldering bird which had perched quite at home, atop the point of Midas’s withers.
In the neighbouring culture of Nyorm where Africa had been born and raised, Pegasus’ were the supreme society; and while the notion was quite arrogant, each and every other creature fell far to the wayside of their vain existence. The idea of socialising with any but your kin was deemed ludicrous, and thus upon first encounter, the young horse had fallen short of understanding such a bond between companion and horse. Similarly, as the night grew old on this occasion, Africa was both a perplexing blend of all that had been previously ingrained into her, and addictive, curious desire.
Regardless, there was a healthy respect for that which she couldn’t hope to understand, and naught but humility found access to her optimistic expression.
The ocean breeze ruffled the latticework of sleek grey feathers across Africa’s wings, as it burst from the southern exterior of the Throat. Its gentle breath playfully tousled the thick drape of light grey mane across her lifted neck and she shivered, sucking deeply through flaring nostrils the cold, salt-infused offering. It had been evening; as the light was struggling against the onslaught of darkness, when Africa had met Ahi. So many hours had passed them by already, and the dapple grey Pegasus could feel the leeching burden of fatigue as new stiffness through her lean, long legs.
“It's amazing! My greatest thanks to you, m'lady! Both of you!” Ahi exclaimed, and Africa’s eyes beamed with relief. "You are quite welcome, Ahi. I am glad to help." Cirrus’s softened voice assured, and a subtle incomprehensible growl rumbled from the creature where it remained still by her knees.
Although comfort had found Africa as she basked in the liberating sideline, the young horse was flooded with gratitude and tilted her face admiringly towards Cirrus to thank her quickly, without delay. “Thank you so much.” She knew that Ahi longed to commit to his preferred service in the army of the Throat, and Cirrus’s healing meant that there would be no reason, nor barrier preventing them from finding Midas come daybreak, (or Aryel or Levi, given that Africa was still hesitant to bother the important stallion when she presumed him obviously busy).
Then Ahi spoke again, and the innocence of his question reflected Africa’s curiosity well. "If I may ask, how did you do that?" Cirrus began to explain, and the grey listened with intent focus through forward tipped ears. There was a part though which truly snagged her building interest though, ... The magic to heal is lent to me by the very sands we stand upon, blessed by the Sun God to heal those who reside here... The blue eyed horse elucidated calmly. Africa knew nothing of Gods before this very moment, and her eyes sparkled in wonder. All at once the deeply rooted seed of naive desperation began to grow within her, and she only barely managed to withhold her enthusiasm. A masking cough slipped though her easy smile- she could not wipe it from her lips. In the next few days Africa decided that she would seek Cirrus out again, and hopefully divulge her plans and desires upon ears that might understand.
“...Make sure you rest for a few days at least, before trying anything adventurous. " Cirrus warned, and Africa chuckled lightly as she turned to Ahi. “Perhaps we will hold off your enrolment into the army a little longer, Brother.” She soothed, trying to persuade him that there was no reason to rush his recovery. “Perhaps you should sleep now during these late hours of night?” Africa’s tone was caring and gentle and although she might also have favoured such thinking for herself, she would stay by him for the time being and follow his lead regardless.
"Thinking. Speaking. Acting."
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[O] [FINISHED] She Caught a Falling Star [Ahi/Healer/Open]
