Chapter 50

"Farewell & Goodbye"

"You will always be in my heart."

Little Creek was very surprised to find his favourite mare in such a bad-tempered mood that morning. Not only was she glum, but she was extremely cranky at everything. Of course, he did acknowledge that every living being had an emotion, and they wouldn't always be wired to stay happy and cheerful. Mares were generally known to get slightly hormonal around certain seasons, yet that never stopped Rain from eagerly greeting her beloved human and showing affection to him. In fact, she was a sassy filly from birth, with a certain amount of grit, spunk, and cleverness, who despite her rather playful sense of humour, always knew when to be solemn if the situation called for it. If there were ever a time she felt gloomy or needed to be by herself, she'd visit her favourite area by the apple trees to seek some peace. Little Creek did not mind that for a bit...on the contrary, he welcomed and encouraged it. He wanted his loyal horse to have the freedom to go where she pleased. After all, he did not doubt for a second that Rain would ever abandon him or get lost. She was way too dedicated, loyal, loving and smart for such a foolish action.

That particular morning, however, the young native had noticed things about his mare that were very strange and very unlike her. She was in a foul mood: her ears were almost always constantly pinned against her skull, she looked angry at everyone. If any other horse got too close to her, she turned around with a squeal and threw furious kicks at their direction. Little Creek had never seen Rain behave in such an uncivil, temperamental manner before. He figured he'd leave her alone and let her cool off, hoping that whatever seemed to ail her would soon fade away.

Besides, his mind was partly focused on the night's unexpected event. A mysterious stallion had creeped upon the camp and had stolen their four prized mares. And for some odd reason, Little Creek had his suspicions on Spirit-Who-Could-Not-Be-Broken, even though it made absolutely no sense to him. In fact, none of this made any sense to him. Why had Rain come back to him without Spirit? Why had she brought an unknown, injured wild stallion with her? Why was that young stallion under her influence? Every time she was by his side, he became calmer and more accepting of humans.

Also, how could he explain that bizarre disappearance of the four mares and the colt? Why hadn't Spirit come to reclaim his beloved Rain back? He had always been such a strong, resilient stallion. It seemed incredibly strange to Little Creek that he had not yet showed up to see him and Rain. Or perhaps he did and Little Creek had missed it? A flashback of the Sun Dance raced back to the young man's mind when he remembered the golden horse he had spotted in the distance. If it truly was Spirit...then, why had he come to steal horses from the village? Surely, there should be a logical explanation for all this mystery. The more Little Creek thought about it, the more confused he grew. Before completely driving himself to insanity with these thoughts, he decided to busy himself with daily chores and prayed to Great Spirit to show him the way, and make him see things a lot more clearly.

As the early hours elapsed, and as the morning sun began to turn into a hot, bright afternoon one, Rain's unexplainable rage seemed to slowly dissolve as the spring sun melts the white frosty snow around the lands. She had managed to pull herself together, thanks to the private getaway. Her mind was now at better ease, as she gently grazed in the shades of the lovely apple trees. Swishing her long, creamy tail to shoo away the flies, Rain sighed in sadness. She was extremely disappointed at herself for letting Spirit get under her skin like that. She should not have turned against everyone, just because few treacherous individuals broke her heart. It was strange. Rain could not recognize herself in that moment. Why had she been so hateful? So short-tempered, and so furious? It was unlike her. And the mood swings...those insane mood swings. She couldn't explain the crazy, raging thoughts that surged through her that morning. It was a disaster. She was a disaster. She knew that she had behaved rather disgracefully. And every time the young mare replayed her actions, she felt more and more ashamed. But there was no use standing there and feeling sorry for herself. She needed to fix her mistakes!

Drawing breath in full confidence and determination, Rain lifted her chin and plodded over to the corral, where lonesome Bolder was confined in. He had been feeling particularly down that day, and Rain was not surprised. After all, she had treated him like dirt when he had been nothing but chivalrous, sweet, trusting and caring towards her. The kind horse did not deserve such reception from her at all. Even though, he had been frightened, confused and wary of the new surroundings, he still somehow managed to find it in his heart to listen to Rain and trust her words. And how did she repay him? By being an ill-mannered, impolite, rude mare! Shame...what a shame.

Bolder was silently brooding in his solitary enclosure: his head hung low, his body felt stiff everywhere, his shoulder was still hurting, his heart was utterly torn, his mind was in turmoil. He couldn't understand anything that was happening around him. The night had been incredibly baffling...he had so many questions. He had hoped that perhaps, the pretty paint would be able to explain at least some fractions of it. But Rain had woken up quite upset that morning, and had ignored him as though he did not exist at all. That fact alone, sunk his heart in defeat. The only thing that made his new life somewhat durable was the lovely presence of the beautiful paint filly. It pained him to think that she no longer cared for him. If that were the case, then, he did not know what he was doing in the village. There was no point in staying with the humans and the domesticated horses anymore. He had to leave. He needed to find a way somehow and escape back into his comforting little forest. As the blood-bay stallion was beginning to devise a plan on how to execute his scheme, he heard delicate hoofbeats approaching the round pen.

"Bolder" A soft, nickering made the stallion turn around and meet the eyes of the dejected Rain.

"Rain, you've come." He murmured in disbelief, completely taken aback at the unexpected visit.

She looked so downcast, regretful, so depressed. Bolder's heart instantly went out to her in sympathy and compassion.

"I'm so sorry for this morning." She sniffed sadly, trying not to tear up. "I've treated you wrongly and I ask for your forgiveness."

"Why, Rain," He began kindly, walking over to the fence to near her. "You have nothing to apologize for. Granted, I was slightly confused with everything that's been happening...I'm confused still. But I don't hold that against you at all." He told her with an assuring smile. How he wished in that second for that stupid barrier to disappear, so that he could get even closer to her. He hated how the wooden bars separated the two of them. "Cheer up, darlin'. Don't assume for an instant that you've wronged me."

"Oh, but I have. I have!" Rain insisted, shocked at the young stallion's kindness. "You've been incredibly courteous towards me. So trusting, understanding...you don't deserve such treatment. I am so sorry...I uh... I don't know what got into me this morning. I wasn't myself, and- " Rain couldn't find the right words to express herself, because even she could not explain why she had behaved so temperamentally.

"Now, now, none of that nonsense." Bolder interrupted, gently reaching out to nuzzle her sweetly. "It's all forgotten." He flashed her a bright grin. "Let's put this all behind us and start fresh, shall we?"

He could see a wave of relief wash over the lovely mare as he said this. Her blue eyes dazzled in happiness, and a vivid smile broke out on her lips.

"I think you're wonderful, Bolder," she said, making his heart soar even more rapidly than before. "and yes, let's forget all about those unpleasant events."

Even though, the young stallion was still curious and eager to know what had happened in the middle of the night, he decided to not question Rain about it. At least not for the moment. He knew that the son of Strider and Esperanza had made an unpredictable entrance, but instead of reclaiming his prized paint, he had swooped in to carry off four other mares, including Midnight, who had been rather friendly to Bolder.

"As for last night's events," Rain started quietly, as if reading the blood-bay's thoughts. "I'm sure you know that Spirit was here. He um...is my former band stallion." As she said this, Rain couldn't help but cringe in irritation at her own words. Spirit had been so much more than just a band stallion to her. Not that it mattered anymore.

"He seems like he's quite the stud, if you know what I mean." Sarcastically remarked Bolder, the tone of his voice had a bitter edge to it. In truth, Flint's son had been rather unamused, and vexed even, when the proud stallion had swaggered in with a gaudy performance and enticed Midnight almost instantly.

"He's an arrogant peacock!" The mare spat angrily. "And I no longer wish to speak of him."

As Rain was saying this to the young stallion, she noticed from the corner of her eye, Aranda passing by the Lakota camp and into the fields where the other horses grazed. In that moment, Rain remembered something rather odd, and secretive about her. She had a sudden urge to speak with her.

"Bolder," she turned back to him politely. "please, excuse me, I just remembered that I have to do something important. I'll be back soon, don't go anywhere." She told him quickly.

"Go ahead, it's not like I can." The stallion remarked with a chuckle, motioning his head to the high fenced confinement he was stuck in. He couldn't get out of the pen, even if he wanted to.

Rain smiled at that. "I won't be long." She promised gently, twirling around and gliding away.

Bolder watched the departing, beautiful figure of the dainty Rain with a blissful sigh. His previous thoughts about 'escaping' were instantly forgotten and replaced by the excitement of seeing her again.

Since joining Rain's little village, Aranda had been warmly welcomed and loved by many, especially the Lakota children. Her sweet, motherly nature was impossible to ignore. She was instantly taken in by a caring family with four children, who doted over her as the most special creature on earth. Aranda was gentle, kind, and very protective of children, so she made a perfect first mount for the youngsters that were not as experienced as the mature villagers. And because she was already well advanced in years, the family that owned her mostly had her as a dear companion rather than a riding partner, war horse, or a hunting horse. She did give occasional rides to the young ones, and everyone absolutely adored her. In general, her position in the village was to care for the children, and everyone trusted her with it.

She had just finished bonding with the children, as they brushed her, painted her with significant symbols, braided her mane and gave her lots of delicious treats. And now, she was once again released in the fields to interact with her own kind, for the Lakota firmly believed in socializing the horses with their own species. It was an essential asset of their growth, development, inner peace, harmony and fulfilling life.

Aranda, was not particularly eager to join the excited group of horses, who were still going off about Spirit's mysterious appearance in the middle of the night, that had resulted into a theft of four prized mares and one promising colt. Instead, she had chosen a quiet, sort of withdrawn spot in the meadows to graze by herself. She was enjoying the tranquility in a bright, hot summer's sun, until the young pinto mare came up to her, interrupting her serenity.

"Aranda," she nickered softly. "do you have a moment for me?"

The gentle, older mare lifted her head, greeting Rain by softly blowing into her nostrils.. "Of course, my dear. What is it?"

"I wanted to ask you something..." the young mare began in slight timidness

Aranda raised her brows in surprise, part of her already guessing what Rain was going to ask, and part of her still wondering as to what it could be.

"You see," the filly continued, her voice quivering in unsureness. "Yesterday, when you spoke to me about Spirit. You mentioned something that struck me as - I don't know...bit strange."

"How so?" Even though, Aranda predicted what Rain was referring to, she still found it necessary to question her about it.

"You said that everything is not what it seems," The paint mare said rather firmly, a little annoyed with Aranda's persistency to make her talk. After all, she could tell that the elderly mare knew quite well to what she was alluding to. "what did you mean by that? Is there something I need to know about yesterday's events?"

"My child," Aranda whispered wisely. "I only told you that because I didn't want you getting upset over assumptions. If there's something you need to know, you'll surely find out from the direct source, not from me."

That statement only caused confusion and intrigue in Rain... both at the same time. "Yes, but-" she whinnied desperately.

"I don't think it's right for me to speak on behalf of others." Aranda cut her off quickly. "Just know this, my dear, that you'll find out sooner or later. For now, be patient." And with that, Aranda left Rain to join the others and to allow the young curious mare a chance to contemplate on everything on her own.

When Rain returned back to the corral, where Bolder patiently waited for her, she was really surprised to find Great Conquest, Blaze, Wind, Red and River hanging around the fence with him. She watched the males interacting with one another for a moment, puzzled that none of them were behaving aggressively towards the young mustang. Instead, it actually seemed like they were having some amusement, Bolder included. Great Conquest was boisterously loud, River was still in good humour, and even Red looked as if he was enjoying himself.

She perked her ears forward to hear what the rather exciting conversation was about, but didn't really get the chance to understand anything from it, because a sharp whistle caught her attention. Snapping her head round, she noticed Little Creek marching towards her with a bright smile animating his features. That caused the young paint to nicker cheerfully and trotted over to meet him.

"Feeling a lot better, girl?" He asked, stroking her nose with his gentle touch.

Rain nibbled at his braids playfully, extremely glad and relieved that her human had not been repelled by her rather temper-mental behaviour earlier.

"I missed you too." He chuckled, scratching her withers lovingly. "Come, let me brush you a little bit." He said, leading her towards his tipi tent. Rain eagerly strutted after him, sensation of happiness and joy finally filling her heart. Little Creek never failed to put her mind at ease. Never.

Meanwhile, as Little Creek and Rain were at last spending some quality time together, the fierce war horses of the Lakota tribe, were getting to know Bolder. At first they were a bit aggressive in their approach, but it was nothing Bolder hadn't seen or experienced before. After all, the wild bachelor stallions were worse than they had ever been to him. But then slowly, they seemed to soften up and were more than happy to answer his questions about their way of life as well as their duties. In fact, they were very proud to tell him all about their traditions. Apparently, they were warrior horses that fearlessly charged into battle along with their riders to take down the enemies that threatened their village. To Bolder's astonishment, these horses also chased after the large herds of bison whenever their humans decided to hunt. He found it all rather strange, but also incredibly fascinating.

"And what about those queer-looking paintings around your bodies, and feathers and beads in your manes?" Bolder continued to ask with interest, eager to know more. "What do they signify? I noticed the two-legged are adorned with similar things."

"Well, you see, these paintings aren't just for aesthetic." Began Great Conquest with a proud air. "These are very important symbols and each power symbol has its own specific meaning and the purpose for which it is used is determined by the nature of the dangerous job which we, the war horses, will be asked to do."

"The human warrior will decorate his horse with carefully chosen war symbols or power symbols which might be intended to give him protection, to indicate the troubles which lay ahead, or which speaks of the courageous heart of the war horse." Wind added, explaining it more thoroughly and in detail. "Some symbols tell of the horse's affection for the warrior. Just like Rain's with her owner, Little Creek. Granted, neither one of them are much war heroes, but they have an extremely tight bond and the two of them posess a huge amount of bravery." He shifted his eyes at the two in the distance, as Little Creek brushed his beautiful paint sweetly. "When Rain used to belong to Little Creek, she too wore a feather on her mane. It symbolized her connection to this tribe and to her human. There bond is unlike any in this village. There's something very special about them both."

Bolder couldn't help but gaze at the distant figures of the pretty mare and her owner, completely entranced at what he was hearing.

"A circle around my eye, for example, and on River's nostrils mean alert vision and a keen sense of smell." Wind continued to explain further. "Arrow points painted in a line around Red's flank and Great Conquest's chest represents victory."

"And what about those two crossing bars on Blaze's shoulder?" Curiously questioned Bolder.

"That means that the horse and his rider have escaped death at some point." Blaze answered. "Yes," he nodded, upon noticing Bolder's horrified expression. "Yes, we risk our lives every time we had to battle."

"Right/left hand prints, just like the ones on Red's chest are outlined to show that he'll knock down an enemy." Wind carried on with his descriptions. "Hoofprints drawn on the left shoulder of Great Conquest stands for the number of horses captured in raids."

"You capture horses?" Bolder said in distaste.

"How else are we supposed to grow our village?" Great Conquest responded gruffly, unable to hide the irritation from his voice. "The lives of our humans depend mostly on our kind."

"Yes, and it's not like they treat us poorly." River added with a simple head toss. "They value and love us."

"I see..." Murmured Bolder, slowly realizing why Rain had been so determined to return back to her human.

"After the last attack on our village, we have been a little short-handed when it comes to horses." Wind said. "Even though, I no longer live in this particular settlement and have only come for a visit, both of the Lakota Sioux villages struggle to find new horses. But we always stay positive."

"I'm sure you'll get lucky." Bolder nickered with a smile, which caused Great Conquest to raise his brows in interest.

"Do you mean to offer yourself, mustang?" He teased with a smirk.

"No," Bolder shook his head almost instantly. "I don't think I'm suited for such a life either."

"What do you mean?" The grey war horse was now overcome with curiosity. "Are you saying the typical wild life of your kind isn't for you either?"

"It seems we got off the main topic." Bolder replied modestly, feeling slightly uncomfortable, embarrassed even to speak about himself. "Please do continue, I'm very eager to know more."

"Yeah, sure." Wind cut in, before Great Conquest could insist on an answer.

"Fire Arrows on my right shoulder will cause trouble for the enemy, which in turn will add strength to the warrior." Red joined in, proud to show off his special symbols.

"These thunder stripes on River and Great Conquest's front legs is to please the tribe's god of war." Blaze added as well. "And do you see these bluish hail stones painted on my neck? Well, they are a prayer for hail to fall on our enemy's head."

"Arrowheads painted on all of our four hooves makes us swift and nimble-footed." Wind continued to describe calmly, part of him also feeling extremely proud of it all.

"There are also other types of symbols that are used, but we do not have them painted on us now." Great Conquest took over. "You see, the war horse's battle scars are always painted red and the pat hand print, especially the left hand drawn on the horse's right hip are the highest honors. The pat hand print is always reserved exclusively for the horse who has brought his master back home from a dangerous mission unharmed. And while preparing himself for battle, the human warrior will apply his personal honors on his war horse. They also weave a Medicine Bag into the bridle and coup feathers are braided into the war horse's forelock and tail. For the men who go on a do-or-die mission, the upside-down handprint will be used. It is the most prized symbol a warrior can place on his horse. Since the death of the courageous Storm and his master, no one has earned that great honor yet. You'd be surprised, but not even me." He added with a slight smirk on his muzzle.

"Storm?" Bolder knitted his brows. "Who was he?"

"He was a magnificent black and white pinto stallion, the bravest horse of our village. He belonged to the chief of this tribe." Answered Great Conquest, his voice ringing out in high admiration. "And also, he is the sire of Rain, and by coincidence his owner was the father of Little Creek, Rain's beloved human."

"Too bad he did not sire any other foals." Blaze remarked in disappointment. "His colt would've turned out incredible."

"No, I'm glad he didn't have any sons, or otherwise, we'd have serious competitions." Great Conquest joked with a laugh.

"I see his bravery highlighted in Rain though. She's quite daring for a mare." Wind commented casually, sounding impressed.

"What good does that do? She's still noting but a filly." Red rolled his eyes. "And if I'm not mistaken, no longer part of this tribe."

Bolder couldn't help but feel quite outraged at Red's harsh statements directed at the lovely paint. He was about to sternly rebuke him, when all of a sudden, the small group overheard loud sounds of whooping, cheering, and rowdy hurrahs swamping the entire camp. Turning their attention to where the continuous hollering of the villagers was coming from, Great Conquest, Red, Wind, River, Blaze and Bolder were astounded to see the amazing scene unfold before them.

In fact, the entire village had seen it, including Little Creek who had dropped his comb and ran forward towards the crowd of the cheering spectators. Rain's mouth hang open, as she blinked in utter disbelief, unable to move from her spot. She froze there, completely immobile.

It was none other than Silver Moon in the lead, followed by her little Takoda, then the sweet Blossom, feisty Midnight and lovely Snowflake, as they galloped rapidly back to the camp, neighing, whinnying in delight upon bursting the village. But that wasn't the part that completely shocked and dumbfounded everyone, it were the fifteen other horses closely thundering behind the four mares and a colt. That was the most unforeseen thing they had all witnessed in quite a while.

The humans kept frantically asking each other for some kind of explanation but none came. No one knew what was happening. And no one knew where these strange horses had come from. The four mares led the fifteen geldings in the camp and then each one of them greeted their owners with extreme happiness.

All fifteen steeds were swiftly rounded up by the tribesmen, who were still extremely puzzled as well as confused, but none of them were planning on letting go of such a wonderful opportunity to gain new animals. Great Conquest, Red, River, Wind, and Blaze had urgently left the anxious Bolder in his pen and galloped forward to meet the returning mares and Takoda, hoping for some kind of clarification on their part.

"What did you do, Spirit?" Rain mumbled in a daze, her blue eyes scanning the surroundings in order to catch a glimpse of the wild stallion's golden hide, but she couldn't see anything of that sort. He was simply not among them.

Similar thoughts raced through the young Lakota, as he tried to make sense of it all. "Spirit...what mischief are you up to now?" He whispered, shaking his head with an amused astonishment. That horse never failed to surprise and fascinate him. Never.

The light from the new moon was not bright, but it showed up the golden stallion, as he climbed the cliff on to the high plateau. Sometimes he looked like a formless moonbeam, and then slowly he would turn across the cliff-face on to another shelf, and take shape, cast in glittering gold. He blended with the moonlight, his frame glowing in a magical night, and only his dark mane and tail were entirely invisible. The weather was changing, he could feel the warmth in the wind, and knew that clouds were beginning to roll over the sky. When the ground permitted, he cantered. Sometimes, when there was soft grass underfoot, he galloped, touched thrillingly by the night, and filled with a great excitement. His ears were pricked. His jet-black mane and tail, although invisible at night, were lifted by the wind and by his own speed through the air...Powerful golden horse thrillingly possessing his own world, galloping back to the tribe of Lakota. Up and up he climbed over the plateaus and great hills, closer to the moonlight and starlight.

On he went though the thrilling night, half-startled sometimes by the call of an owl or rattle of a snake in the grass, and the stars shone through the tracery willow tree's leaves high, high above him - leaf and branch making a net across the sky, but a net through which the moving stars slid as the hours passed by.

A lonely coyote howled, Spirit neighed an answer, for what did he care if he were heard? In a few minutes he would be somewhere else. And eagerly he went on, feeling invincible.

Once reaching his destination, the beautiful horse stopped by the edge of the hill, that overlooked the entire Lakota settlement that presently had fallen very silent once more in the dead of night. Spirit's eyes wandered over and he was glad to find the fifteen geldings resting quite happily with the other Lakota horses, as though they were already part of the herd. He was so impressed with those four, clever mares. Without them, this mission would not have succeeded. And it was probably their doing too that the new horses were so relaxed in the new environment. His blazing gaze continued scanning the rest of the village until suddenly, he stopped...noticing something rather distinctive.

There, in the round pen, where he used to stay while in the village, he spotted Little Creek tranquilly sleeping in the corral next to the equally calm Bolder, who also had his head hanging low in a submissive, resting posture. To Spirit's surprise, the wild horse did not appear at all phased that a human was dozing off close to him. Rain was also there, not inside the corral, but by the fence where Little Creek had his head rested. It looked like she too was peacefully snoozing in the presence of the individuals she trusted.

Spirit felt as though his beating heart was roughly ripped right out of his chest in that very second. Two of his most beloved beings were claimed by Azogar's lone nephew. And what made the whole thing even more devastating was that both Little Creek and Rain looked so blissful to be by his side. Spirit sighed in defeat, all of the day's excitement, happiness, thrill and pride faded away as if they had never existed once he saw that gut-wrenching sight. The stallion that only mere minutes ago galloped in triumph and victory, owning the whole world, now looked empty and utterly conquered, as if the whole world had suddenly turned against him.

Spirit couldn't abate his anger. That was supposed to be his place! Little Creek was his friend! They had won their freedom together. They had both been through so much together...that stallion knew nothing of how respectable and loyal Little Creek was. And Rain...she was his love! She belonged with him!

But then came the whisper of a gentle breeze, as it blew Spirit's long mane and tail like a banner, lifting the forelock softly from his eyes as it told him that he was the one to be blamed for these unpleasant circumstances. He had behaved carelessly and had lost his love as well as his friendship. It was over. Obviously, a better stallion had won them both and had taken his place.

There, on the high hill, illuminated sharply against the moonlight, the young stallion rose slowly on his hind legs, his head thrown up and let out a defeated mournful cry, lamenting his vanquishment to the wind and sky. Despite his courage, swiftness, and cunning he had lost to someone who was as invisible and mysterious as the dark shadows of the forest.

And no matter how painful and shattering all this was to him, Spirit decided that he would accept defeat with dignity. There wasn't much he could do anymore and he realized that moping about it would be utterly pointless. He needed to get back to his herd, where he was still very much loved and wanted. His mother, his family and friends depended on him. And in a way, he depended on them. He needed their comfort now more than ever.

Taking a final look of anguish at the three peaceful individuals, Spirit turned back, ready to start his journey back home - to where he belonged. The young horse was just about to dissolve into the bushes again, when an unexpected call froze him in his steps right then and there.

"Spirit!" The voice called desperately.

He could recognize that lovely tone anywhere. It was the sweet sound of his beloved mare!

"Rain?" The stallion asked, slowly whirling around only to meet the beautiful form of the young paint. Her flaxen mane shone brightly, highlighted in the moonbeams, her eyes were glistening as deep blue crystals. She looked so breathtaking in the lovely hour of the summer's night.

"W-what are you doing her?" He questioned in stunned confusion. Spirit thought she was asleep all this time. How could she appear so suddenly out of nowhere? Or was she a gorgeous vision, that would soon fade away from his sight?

"You were leaving without a goodbye." She spoke at last, proving that it was indeed she and not a phantom from Spirit's illusion. Then she paused, color rising to her cheeks. "Although, I suppose, that's what I deserve for leaving you without a farewell."

"No, I simply realized that it wasn't necessary." The stallion responded finally, clearing his throat, his gaze fixed on her.

His blazing eyes always managed to intimidate her somehow, as Rain spoke softly again, feeling rather embarrassed.

"Silver Moon told me all about what happened."

There was a short silence, as Spirit gazed at her with his caring, warm, brown pools, not saying anything in response. Not that there was much to say. Only the sounds of the chirping crickets filled up the air.

"Why didn't you tell me all along? I could've helped."

"You made it quite clear that you didn't wish to come with me." Spirit nickered sadly.

"Yes, only because I wasn't aware of your plan. I would've gladly helped my friends and you given the chance." Rain explained, feeling a little offended that Spirit had not chosen her for the mission. "You don't believe I'm capable of preforming such tasks?"

"No, of course not." Spirit sighed, hating that now all he and Rain did was argue. "It's not that... I just didn't want to obligate you to join us after you refused to come back to me. Don't you think it would sound rather manipulative? You had made your choice and it didn't seem right to lure you back to me because of a mission, which we executed quite well even without you. Also, if you had come, I'd be worried for your safety every step of the way. I can't help it ...I don't want you risking so much for me. And besides, you'd be a great distraction...I wouldn't be able to concentrate." He added the last part quietly.

Spirit's honest words seemed to make a lot of sense to Rain, as she nodded in agreement.

"I suppose you are right." She nickered gently. "I'm glad that you all made it out safe." She locked eyes with him. "Thank you for thinking of the village. Our humans needed those horses and I'm sure they needed the kind humans to care for them."

"Don't thank me Rain. Any other horse would've acted the same as I, if they were in my place." Spirit explained humbly.

Rain looked down at her hooves again, feeling ashamed of her previous furious feelings and anger for him. If only she had listened to Aranda sooner and did not jump into conclusions. She was debating in her head on how to apologize without sounding silly, when Spirit's soothing voice cut her train of thought.

"Look Rain, I am really sorry for causing you so much pain." Spirit started, seizing the opportunity to somehow make things at least a little bit better. "I hurt you more than once...and I let my jealousy and rage guide me. For the life of me, I could not reign in my temper, and I said things I didn't mean." He admitted, completely, and utterly guilt-ridden. "I hope you'll find it in your heart to forgive me. Last thing I want to do is cause you pain and to think that I have done just that, is extremely torturous. I want you to be happy, Rain. That's the only thing that matters to me the most. I've been selfish...so selfish." He hung his head, his eyes downcast, his heart heavy, almost looking as though he'd cry.

"My actions were reckless, careless and mostly done in the heat of the moment. And these are all retributions of my mistakes. I am the one to be blamed for this...I ruined us." Exhaling sorrowfully, Spirit continued, tears filling his dark pools. "Which is why I think that it'll be better if we go our separate ways. But please, Rain... don't wound me with your sharp words. I mean, did you actually enjoy my ridiculously boisterous performance with the mares?" Spirit asked, grimacing from all the emotional pain that raged through him. "Is that really who you want me to be? A chump! A colourful peacock, who measures his worth by the size of his harem?"

"No." Rain let out a quivering sound, unable to stop herself from weeping. "Of course, not." She shook her head, trying to stop tears from falling from her blue eyes.

"Then why would you demand me to be just that?" Spirit asked in anguish, hating the mere thought of his love wanting him to change the personality that made him different and unique in the first place. "Why do you want me to be something I'm not?... something I'll never be? Do you realize that behaving like the so-called 'band stallion' is everything that I am not? Do you really want me to become a swaggering idiot that puts outwardly appearances over everything? Do you seriously want me to transform myself into that?" Every question that escaped him, was stated in desolation and utter agony.

"No, no, I don't." Rain shook her head fiercely, powerless to stop herself from sobbing "I'm afraid, I spoke out of pure ignorance... Afterwards, I was angry at you. I hated you for it. I was naive to demand that from you and then to get so furious over it. I'm sorry, Spirit." She whispered weakly.

"Well, it seems we both said things we didn't mean." Spirit said, his voice sounded very dejected, unhappy, miserable even.

"Yes," Rain agreed with a sad sniff, tears still continuously rolling down her cheeks. "and that's exactly why I think we should stop hurting one another. It's not fair to either one of us. In order to stay somewhat sane, we must stay apart."

Spirit closed his eyes for a moment, hoping to soothe his inner anguish, but without producing much of an effect. If it were a different day, he might've challenged and argued his point against Rain's statement. That night, however, all he felt was pain and hurt, and he was tired...he wished for it to go away. All of it.

"Part of me agrees with you, Rain. Yet another part of me relentlessly, and stubbornly continues to believe that we belong together in the Cimarron herd, wild and free."

"But we both know better." Rain sniffed despairingly.

Spirit nodded slowly, feeling extremely devastated and heartbroken, but still forcing a faint smile on the corners of his lips. "Be happy, my flaxen beauty. I want you to be supremely happy in the life you've chosen...with whoever you've chosen it." His eyes travelled towards the corral in the distance, where the Lone Stallion was staying.

Realizing what Spirit meant by his words, Rain spoke up. "Listen, there are too many misconceptions about Bolder. He is simply a-"

"You don't have to explain, Rain." Spirit interjected quickly. "The mere fact that Little Creek is so accepting of him is enough for me to know that he has a good heart. I've learned to trust your human's intuition and judgement. And whether that stallion is your acquaintance, a friend or even a..." He stopped himself there.

Ugh, this was so damn hard. Taking a deep, heavy breath, he still forced himself to continue, ignoring the sharp pain that filled up his entire core.

"...even a mate...my only wish is for you to be happy. You are my heart, Rain, and I love you. You will always be my one and only." Spirit admitted with a soft murmur.

And just like that, fresh tears leaked through Rain's eyes once more, as she fought hard against her great desire to run back with him again.

"Farewell, my flaxen beauty." Spirit breathed, slowly turning around to depart from her presence.

"Wait!" Rain urgently trotted up to him, as though her life entirely depended on it. Spirit halted almost right away, his warm gaze again lovingly fixed on her.

"Yes?"

"No matter what," Rain began, shuffling her legs towards him, nearing closer and closer to him. "I will always love you, my Spirit-Who-Could-Not-Be-Broken." Stretching her lithe neck forward, she softly, and cautiously brushed her nose against his, and as soon as their muzzles came in to contact, Spirit suddenly pulled her into a tight embrace, caressing her for - what they both knew to be - the very last time. He rested his cheek against her, and Rain nuzzled his neck affectionately.

And for a brief moment, they were happy again. It felt so right to be this close...to be in each other's loving embrace just like the old, beautiful times.

If only they could remain like that forever.

Spirit was the first to break off their intimate closeness, fearing that if they continued this way, he wouldn't be able to resist himself from doing something he'd regret later on.

Rain, although, disappointed that he had detached himself from her, knew that it was for the best.

"Let's not make this even more hard." Spirit begged. "I'm already having second thoughts as it is."

Sighing sadly, Rain nodded in agreement. "Goodbye, Spirit." She let out a feeble nicker.

"Goodbye, Rain." His voice coming off still tender and caring, despite the heartbreak. "Please, you be the first to leave me."

The young paint decided to do as he asked and she twirled round, slowly moving away from his presence and headed back towards the Lakota camp.

Spirit watched her go longingly with a very heavy heart, and then, he too, turned towards the cover of the bushes and glided off, disappearing in the night as a mystical wraith.

Both Spirit and Rain wondered as they departed from one another, whether they had made a right decision in choosing to go their separate ways. And even though it was unknown to the young horses in that moment, there was something quite significant that connected them to each other now more than ever.

There was another detail that both Spirit and Rain had missed, too engrossed in their own distress, they had failed to notice Little Creek observing them from a far. He had witnessed only but a small fraction of the horses' farewell exchange, and instantly everything began to make sense to him. It all became clear. Rain had left Spirit because she could not get used to the wild life, and chose the comfort of her human instead. Devastated Spirit seemed to understand and respect her decision, which made Little Creek's heart go out to him in sadness. He could tell that this was hard for them both and he wished he could be of help somehow. He wished he could solve their conflict. He loved both Spirit and Rain equally and wanted nothing more than for them to run free together in happiness. What made him even more upset was the fact that he no longer had a chance to see the fiery stallion. He would not be able to comfort his anguished heart. It truly looked as though, they had all gone their separate ways. He would miss his friend dearly...his true brother under the sun. No matter where that golden horse travelled, Little Creek's thoughts and prayers would always be with him.

He was a remarkable spirit. So unlike any living creature he had met.

Even that afternoon, Little Creek had been very astounded to see the four mares return, leading the horses of the white men to the village. Little Creek was positively sure that it was all the wild Mustang's doing. It gave him real joy to know that Spirit had learned to trust the people of Lakota, and fully believed that they would take great care of the escaped geldings, that could not live on their own in the wild.

If only there was a way for him to reunite with his beloved stallion...if only there was a way for Rain to find her way back to Spirit. If only there was a way to make the melancholy of his two loyal friends go away somehow. If only...

Little Creek decided that he would trust his fate, as well as the fate of Spirit and Rain to the future. He had true faith in whatever was meant to happen, would still happen, despite the momentary troubles and obstacles.

Slowly, through the dark and clouded hours, Rain found her way back to Lakota camp, she was so overcome with affliction and heartache of having to let Spirit go, that was unable to perceive that a handsome, blood-bay stallion was no longer confined in a corral, but instead stood right beside the opened gate of the the wooden pen.

"Rain," he called her sweetly, once realizing that the young mare was far too absorbed in her deep thoughts to take notice of him...or anything, for that matter.

The paint jumped violently, jerking her head in surprise. "Oh, Bolder! Forgive me, I didn't see you there." She paused, her blue eyes wide, as she observed the curious scene before her. "Why, how is it that you are no longer in the -"

"In that suffocating enclosure?" The young stallion interposed, sounding relieved, smiling from head to toe. "Your human was kind enough to release me. He put a thick substance on my shoulder and then opened the gate, gesturing me that I could go. That is, if I choose to." He added, his eyes now searching her lovely gaze, that was dispirited. "You were right, Rain...not every two-legged is as bad as I originally thought."

The young mare couldn't help but smile, very pleased that Bolder had such an open-mind, and kind-hearted soul.

"I suppose, I should be happy for you. If Little Creek decided to let you go, that means that you are healthy enough to live on your own."

"I feel so much better." Agreed Bolder, forcing an assuring grin on his face "These were interesting couple of days, but now...I uh...I think I'm ready to return home." There was a certain level of gloominess lacing through his voice as he spoke. It didn't appear as if he was quite as happy to leave, as he hoped to make it seem.

Rain gave him a faint smile. "Thank you for everything. It was a pleasure to know you, Bolder."

The Lone Stallion nodded, his soft, liquid eyes were glued on the ground briefly, as he debated in his head whether to admit the truth. "Listen," he began, incapable of leaving things so unresolved with the mare he had loved since the moment he had seen her. "there's something you need to know, and I cannot go away without getting it off my chest."

Rain let out a squeaky sound that she always did when she was nervous. That caused a small smile on Bolder's face, but didn't stop him from continuing.

"I know, you probably don't want to hear this right now...but... I love you."

Rain gasped, her eyes wide in shock. She was not expecting to hear that from him again. Sure, he had confessed the same thing to her once - when they first met - but she just assumed that he was simply smitten and the feeling would soon go away.

"And I want you to come with me." There was confidence and tenderness echoing in his gentle tone, as he gazed at her lovingly.

Rain coughed, clearing her throat, so he wouldn't have to hear her voice crack from how anxious she was.

"Bolder, I...I just don't know what to say." She murmured in stunned confusion. "I am not suited for a wild herd society."

"I am not suited for a herd society either, my beauty." The young blood-bay explained passionately. "You're just gonna be with me. Simply you and I...in a peaceful, forest entity, where no one will disturb us."

"You mean to say that you don't want a herd?" Rain asked questionably, still doubting his words.

"I only want you."

Rain blushed, averting her blue gaze from him and focused on the ground once more. She really didn't know what to make of him or his proposition...and she didn't feel like speaking about this topic, especially that night. Granted, it was quite refreshing to meet a wild stallion, who desired not a herd but rather a mate, as the birds of the feather often do. However, it simply was not an option for her in that moment. Her heart was still with someone else. The wounds of losing him were raw.

"I'm not asking you to make this decision right away." Bolder spoke up, once noting that the young mare was at loss of words. "I only ask that you consider my offer. I will visit you again in few months, and perhaps, you'll be able to give me an answer then."

He shifted his weight, his regal head turned towards the open spaces of the wild landscapes that seemed to lay outstretched before them.

"Please, think about it, will you?" He implored with a quiet nicker.

The beautiful paint nodded slowly, without giving him an appropriate answer.

"I'll be seeing you, Rain." The young stallion promised, bowing courteously to her and then broke into a fast canter, as he headed towards his forest home.

The air was fresh and clear, renewed by the night. If things had been different, Spirit would've felt his old urge to leap on to the top of a crag and trumpet out his joy in being alive and free. He saw little curls of mist rise up from the river and puff away into nothingness in the breeze; he heard birds calling in the thickets round a creek, and his heart seemed to stop for a second when one of them sounded like an eagle in the sky. Was his mighty companion near? He decided not to pay heed to any of it... he was far too depressed and anguished to rejoice in the beauty of the summer's night. He journeyed back to his homeland rather silently, every wild creature that saw him pass through the night, could tell that there was great sorrow tugging at the magnificent stallion's heart.

At last dawn broke and as the light came Spirit was standing, hidden by trees, on a little knoll not far from the lands where the mustangs roamed free. A strange mixture of watery blue and pink appeared in the grey sky. Suddenly Spirit became sure he heard a faint, call of the Bald Eagle again. He threw up his noble head, neighing in response. A cry of his mighty companion grew louder, as Spirit noticed the majestic bird flapping his enormous wings, flying right towards him. Happy to see his friend again, the stallion danced in place, unable to control his excitement. Finally, he was back in the comfort of his beloved friends and family.

"Why, my spirited friend, you've made it out here at last!" A shriek of the mighty bird echoed around the territory.

The ecstatic Spirit broke into a bouncing, bucking canter, and the sunlight blazed in his hair, as the Eagle followed after him. "I'm so glad to see you!"

He came to an abrupt stop, however, when he spotted something unexpected. There, in a tiny clearing Spirit could just make out an elegant silhouette, shimmering in the fine hours of sunrise. Unbelievable. Once he felt sure that it was indeed Nova's scent that came to him on the light breeze, he called her gently. The filly stood shyly at first, looking unsure and whinnied softly at him in reply.

"It's alright, Nova, you can come." The Eagle assured her soothingly.

Only then, did the lovely filly allow herself to shift from her place and walk up to the stallion. In truth, she too, was rather surprised to find the golden horse there. The nignt before, the King of the Sky had insisted her to follow him and she had obediently complied without knowing where she was being led. Now to encounter Spirit again was somewhat nerve-wracking for the shy filly.

"Nova?" Spirit asked, half taken aback and half delighted to see the daughter of Raven once more. "I thought after my outburst, you'd never want to see me again."

"Oh, no Spirit. On the contrary, I am so glad to see you unharmed." The pretty mare spoke up earnestly, and then paused, a fear rising in her eyes. Would she dare to ask him? Her stomach dropped, anxiety taking over her.

"I did not hurt that nephew of Azgoar" Spirit blurted right away, as soon as he comprehended why the filly looked so worried. "We didn't even have any sort of confrontation, because I decided against it. I hope that'll put your mind at ease."

Nova had been nervously holding in her breath, feeling incredibly terrified to hear that something dreadful might've happened to Bolder. But as soon as Spirit assured her that there weren't any kind of challenges between them, she almost exploded with exuberance, and pleasure of relief. It was too good to be true!

"Oh!" She exclaimed joyfully, as she instantly threw herself in Spirit's embrace. "I love you!"

And then everything seemed to freeze.

Only after she had declared her feelings, and had acted out so forwardly, did she realize the foolishness of her entire behaviour. Quickly stepping away from the young stallion, she blushed crimson in utter embarrassment. "Uh...I mean, I uh...thank you." She bit her bottom lip hard, it almost drew blood, and from the shocked look on Spirit's face, she wished it did.

Ugh, her stupid, uncontrollable tongue! She felt so awkward, embarrassed and so extremely uncomfortable, that the only thing she desired in that torturous second was to disappear somewhere.

Spirit was at first very surprised at her unanticipated gesture as well as her exclamation, but then, seeing her flushed expressions, he couldn't help but smile in amusement. "You're welcome." He smirked, pretending he didn't hear her declaration at all.

She nodded quickly, praying for the subject to be changed. "So...um...wh-what exactly happened? How is it that you are...alone. I mean, without your mare?" Nova silently cursed herself, hating how she couldn't say anything right to this stallion. He probably thought she was very odd.

Spirit's previous amused smirk instantly faded, as his eyes darkened in sadness. "We simply decided to go our separate ways."

"I'm sorry." Nova whispered.

"I am too."

There was a moment of silence, the gentle wind moved the swaying leaves of the nearby trees, the grass rustled in the soft breeze, and all was quiet until Nova suddenly spoke up.

"I don't understand her," the filly blurted, hoping to somehow ease Spirit's heartache, because she couldn't stand to see him so downcast. "what kind of a crazy mare wouldn't want to be with you? If I were her, I'd be -" She stopped suddenly, flushing red in embarrassment once more. Blushing scarlet yet again, she mentally kicked herself for thinking out loud. Oh, for the life of her, she was such a disaster! Now she had probably done it and scared him off for good. She sounded insane!

But Spirit didn't look frightened, nor annoyed for that matter, he had an entertained smile plastered all over his face.

"You'd be...what?" He demanded, raising his brows with interest.

"Oh, nothing. F-forget it." Nova stammered timidly. "I tend to speak nonsense."

That made Spirit chuckle. She was really something! "You know what I think, Nova?" He drew near to the filly.

"What?"

"I think we'll get along just fine." The stallion grinned, chuckling lightly again and shuffled his legs forward. He was about to walk off, when he realized that the young mare was still rooted in the ground. "Are you coming?" Spirit asked, beckoning her to follow him.

"You mean back to your herd?" The filly gasped in surprise.

"Didn't you say you wanted to join the Cimarron band?" Spirit knitted his brows.

"I...uh, I wanted to join you." Nova admitted, for the first time sounding confident, her gaze intensified and no longer did she look as embarrassed as before.

"Then, what are you waiting for?"

A dazzling smile broke out on the pretty mare's lips, as her eyes beamed with vivid light, her blonde mane shinning in the lovely sunrise. Spirit noticed in that moment just how beautiful she actually was.

"Race you back home?" She suggested, mischief animating her fair expressions.

"You're on!" Winked Spirit, and the two horses immediately burst into an exhilarated gallop, while the Eagle let out a cry of approval and followed the two wild hearts, smiling to himself.

This is the end of the first instalment of "This Is Where We Belong". Part 2 of the story will be coming soon on my page, so anyone interested in continuation please, follow me and check back on my profile often. New chapters will not be posted here, they will be posted on a new story titled as This Is Where We Belong Part 2.

The info about the Lakota war horses and their paintings was written after I did my research. I try to stay as accurate as possible.

Also, I want to take a moment and thank everyone who has followed, reviewed and favourited this story. I always welcome and appreciate those that put in few words and share their opinions. It keeps me motivated. A special shout out to a mysterious Guest reviewer (who is as mysterious as Bolder the Lone Stallion lol), who always and on every single chapter posts reviews. That means SO MUCH to me! Thanks a billion! You are the main reason why this story has evolved into this saga. Anyways, I hope you all enjoyed the last chapter of part 1 and as usual, share your opinions. As mentioned, they truly motivate me.

P.S this is probably my biggest chapter yet...phew!