User Image - Blocked by "Display Image" Settings. Click to show.

The Kawani lands before him were glistening white. It was a beautiful sight, especially around the clan's land. The trees were bare, but something about the snow lying on each branch was comforting. As Makoto stood on the hill looking over the lands, many thoughts ran through his head. He had a wonderful mate who shares the same craft as him; she made beautiful headpieces that draped across their manes. Masami was a wonderful and caring mare; he suited her so well. The thought of kids passed his mind. He was wonderful with kids, but the thought of his own gave a small little flutter in his stomach. He wasn't scared of having his own; it would be his first time. You know as a first-time father that would be a big change, especially being the first brother to have any children.

He started to move forwards. His branch-like legs crunched through the snow. It started to snow some more as he took a small walk. Makoto noticed that the snow was gathering on his branches and wings. It made him smile. As he continued to walk, Makoto thought about his brothers. He wondered how they were doing; it had been so long since they had gotten together. Maybe this year would be the year they managed to be together again? Growing apart is normal, but being without them for so long made it quite lonely.

Makoto made it back within the clan. He smiled watching the villagers enjoying the snow, kids playing and throwing snow around, and their parents getting together to enjoy each other's company. Makoto was caught off guard when a filly ran up to him, laughing and trying to play with him. He smiled and playfully played with the filly for a little bit. It was nice to feel young again, much younger than he was. The filly gave him a huge nuzzle and went on her way. Makoto watched her run away back to her family.

Even though he missed his brothers, he had Masami and the other Soquili within the clan's grounds. The little filly reminded him of that; he has a lot of love around him. Passing a shop, he noticed some beautiful jewels that reminded him of Masami. He gave it a few minutes to decide which one. The one he decided on would match the other jewels and feathers she had as accessories. Beautiful greens and pinks, like the ones she wears. Paying the merchant, he moved along. He looked at what their clan has become.

It was cold and snowy along the lands, but he couldn't imagine being in a different place on earth. Many thoughts ran through his head as he walked through the snow. Too many to list, but one thing he knew as that this new year would be his. Hopefully have children, see his bothers, and spend more time with Masami.

Letting out a big breath of air, Makoto made his way to his post outside the clan's lands to watch over them. He would give Masami her present later when he was finished with his post. His eyes continued to watch the snow drop from the sky. He longed for spring; the green leaves and fresh fruits. The more supplies they had at home the better, and that meant spring coming along.

Finally making his way up the hill, he made it to his post. It was near the tree lines with a few colored flags hanging in the trees for winter time. It made the area discreet while making it obvious to the warriors to find their post. It was a cozy little spot that Makoto could look fully across the clan's lands. He could almost see the other posts as well in the distance, knowing everyone was safe if there was any danger. If there were any issues, they could support each other quickly.

As the night started to drift across the land, the snow lightened up. It was getting chilly, but Makoto was a hefty guy and didn't need to worry so much. Makoto was proud of the life he has, there was so much more room for adventure to come his way. Masami and him meeting was such a life boost for him, she made life exciting.

The clan, Masami, and himself made it through another year. That is all that mattered to him. In almost a whisper, Makoto spoke. "Thank you, I look forward to all the years to come."