by Kaie
Written August 2004
Posted October 25, 2004
KaieThief@aol.com
Kaie woke from a restless sleep once again drenched with sweat. From outside her window, she heard a new
sound. Sgath was here to escort her, and tonight she would answer the dream's call. She was nervous and
unsure, but the call couldn't be denied any longer.
Slipping from her pallet on the floor she dressed quietly in the dark. It was not too late judging from the
moon's position in the sky; she slept only a few hours before awakening. She was sure that Caitlin and Killian
were sleeping by now. Caitlin and Chikara were busy on some new project for Morgan. Everyone worked
hard throughout the day. As she made her way through the darkened village area she rounded the corner of a
hut only to jump back with a squeal when she found a tall form waiting for her.
"Caitlin! You scared me half to death geez!" Kaie replaced the knife she was attempting to draw in defense as
she squinted up at the glowering warrior in the moonlight.
"Going somewhere little mare?" Leaning casually against the hut with her arms crossed Caitlin gave Kaie her
best withering look. "Surely you weren't about to disappear somewhere in the middle of the night and not tell
someone now were you?"
Instead of fidgeting nervously as she usually would in this situation, Kaie just smiled in return. Without a word
she handed Caitlin a scroll. After she unrolled it to read the contents Kaie replied, "Actually I was coming to
bring you this. I thought you would be asleep and didn't want to wake Killian since she has been very drained
lately but she knew of my plans."
She waited while Caitlin read her note about the dreams she discussed with Killian earlier and how she was
going to meet Epona with Sgath in order to find some answers about them. She was relieved inside that she
made the decision to let Caitlin and Killian know when she was leaving. Well actually it wasn't much of a
decision, Killian promised to cook her in a huge pot like a rabbit stew if she ran off without letting them know
something first; and that was the nicest of all the tortures she promised to inflict. Morgan for her part smiled
agreeably and even indicated she might help.
Knowing that Killian would have discussed the dreams with Caitlin already, Kaie was confident she was well
on her way until Caitlin announced, "Well I'm not about to let you go anywhere."
Her mouth dropped open as she just stared for a moment. "You...you aren't??"
Reaching down Caitlin lifted her chin and closed the gaping mouth before replying, "Not alone that is. You
think I would just let you wander around through the forest all night? Even with Sgath? You find Sgath and I
will get Kiera and Flame."
Sighing in relief Kaie started back towards the trees before she remembered, "Oh! I think just Kiera will do if
I can ride with you? Epon… my grandmother is meeting us at the Henwen plains near the edge of Mount
Viviane and she said I wouldn't need a mount."
Within a few moments she was mounted behind Caitlin as Sgath led the way through the trees. Kaie was quiet
during the ride, her mind on the events to come and the compelling calls and screams that came to her through
the dreams. Caitlin did not press her to talk; she was content with the fact that Kaie trusted them enough to
bring the scroll explaining her disappearance. At last some of her lessons seemed to be getting through to
the hard headed little imp.
When the thick trees at last gave way to the flowing golden grass of the plains she waited until Sgath
stopped moving and sat patiently among the waving blades. Dismounting from Kiera she glanced around
warily, sensing someone nearby. Kaie dismounted as well with a whispered thank you to Kiera for the ride.
Moving to Sgath's side she pressed a hand into his thick fur and caressed his ears gently.
Caitlin stood ready as a form moved out of the tall grass and stepped forward. She watched the white mare
draw closer and stop before them. When the mare greeted Kaie kindly, she let her muscles relax a little with the
knowledge that this was Epona.
Kaie for her part frowned in disappointment that Caitlin showed no surprise at all with the talking mare. Damn
warriors! What she wouldn't give to see her mouth drop open in surprise just ONCE.
"We must go if we are to have the time needed to prepare you my granddaughter." Epona's eyes looked
favorably on the young woman who reminded her so much of Briane. She was grateful for the time they spent
healing together after Kaie's near death. Behind the veil she at last spoke truthfully with Kaie about her past
and formed a tentative bond with her grandchild.
With a shrug Kaie pulled herself effortlessly onto Epona's back. The mare shook her head as Caitlin turned
to mount Kiera as well. Stepping closer she spoke quietly to the stern faced Warrior.
"This journey you cannot follow on. For the love and teaching you have shown her I will tell you this. Her
quest ride will take us beyond the mists of time and through the plains of the past warriors. She will return to
you in the morning light."
Before Caitlin could protest she continued, "Are you familiar with Odras Canyon near the Sirona Peaks
west of here?" Caitlin nodded her answer curtly, not happy to let Kaie continue without her protection, even
in the company of a Goddess.
"There is a rise just above the Canyon entrance. If you camp there you may watch her final lesson of this
quest, but I will ask you not to interfere in any way. Kaie will be unharmed but she must do this alone. You
have felt the girl's potential for greatness, now it is time to let her develop it."
With those words Epona turned northward and glanced at Sgath, silently telling him to stay behind as well.
Before she could begin moving Kaie slipped from her back and rushed to wrap her arms around Caitlin
tightly. The Warrior gritted her teeth, she knew Kaie had to be allowed to seek out the answer to her dreams,
Killian and Morgan both said it plainly when she voiced her opposition to letting Kaie go, but she did not
have to like it.
"Don't worry about me trader, I'll be back by morning. You'll wait for me right?" Despite the attempt at
bravery, Caitlin understood the quiver of uncertainty in Kaie's voice.
With a squeeze of her own she lightly shoved the girl back towards the mare. "I'll be waiting alright. And if you
aren't back by morning light I'll thrash you good for worrying me you little imp."
With a grin Kaie hopped onto the mare's strong back and held tightly as the mare leapt forward with a strong
gait and rode for the north.
As Caitlin turned Kiera to the west she muttered darkly, "I don't like it. The damn girl will find herself in some
kind of trouble I tell you and I don't like it." She received a snort of approval for her statements and a worried
whine of agreement from Sgath as they made their way toward the canyons.
tbc
Dreams Quest part 2 by Kaie
Kaie entwined her fingers tightly in the mare’s mane as they increased speed. Soon the grass around her
became a golden blur as they moved faster and faster, Epona's hooves no longer striking the ground.
At last they slowed, and Kaie inhaled deeply, enjoying the familiar salty smell of the sea she missed so often.
She slid to the ground and enjoyed the feel of the sand scattered cliff beneath her boots as moonlight
illuminated the snowy white waves that crashed against the shoreline below.
"Why are we here? My dreams weren't about the water, I don't understand." Turning, Kaie found her
grandmother once again in human form, her white hair shimmering with its own light.
"I want to tell you a little history about warriors and horses. While I speak, put these on, they were your
mothers and should fit you well."
Kaie took the offered bundle of clothing, biting her lip to quell the many questions. She touched the bundle
almost reverently, inhaling deeply hoping to catch some small familiar memory of her mother. As she changed,
Epona spoke of the legends of her mother’s people.
The Voconti were a noble clan, loyal and dedicated to their worship of me and their respect for horses which
were their very survival. Long before your mother was born, I rewarded that loyalty with a promise. Each
Warrior of the Voconti tribe who died, whether in battle or not; so long as they died with honor; would have
their soul reborn into a horse. Not just any horse, but one of the Camarguais."
She paused to study Kaie for a moment in the moonlight before continuing her explanation. "I know you
weren't taught many things because your mother was taken from you before her time. The Camarguais are an
ancient breed of white horse often called a sea-horse because they originated in marshy areas near the shores
throughout Gaul proper. For more years then you could count they have been the chosen breed to help me in
my duties to carry souls to the underworld."
"Tonight they will carry you to the plains of the past warriors, a realm between the worlds so to speak. There
you will find one of the Voconti horsewomen waiting to teach you their ways. You are the last of their kind,
and the granddaughter of their Chief, tonight you will gain their knowledge."
Kaie was uncharacteristically quiet as she absorbed this information. She stood, now dressed in the knee
length wrapped leather boots, and the very snug soft leather pants and short top given to her. Epona
stepped behind her to assist with the last item, a bright scarlet red short cloak.
"This cloak is only worn by a horsewoman or man of the clans. It is a symbol of their rank and worn with pride.
This particular cloak was your mothers." It was fastened in place with a gleaming silver horse pendant.
Kaie broke her silence at last as Epona stepped back to admire her new look, "But I am not a horsewoman
truly, so why give it to me?"
"Granddaughter I have made many mistakes by withdrawing from the lives of mortals, especially those who were
my family. I should have interfered with Serrah years ago, and taken you somewhere you would have been
loved and taught rather then ignored and undisciplined. I am here to make some amends for that now. You
found a family on your own that loves you and will guide you with support and honesty. I know you feel
helpless among them although they are all willing to teach you anything you wish to learn."
"In the plains of the warriors you will learn all that the Voconti know of horses, and you will return to your
Tribe with a great knowledge of training, breeding, and healing them. You will become a horsewoman tonight;
never again will you need to resort to thievery for your survival."
Kaie felt a swelling of emotion in her chest when Epona admitted failing her in the past. She often wondered
why her Grandmother never came for her after her parents were dead, or when Serrah and her men hurt her so
badly. They discussed it at length after Kaie left the healing waters and she forgave Epona there for
withdrawing from most mortals after Serrah betrayed her badly. She could not help feeling the pain of what
her life might have been like if a different path was given to her years ago, but then she would have never met
the family and friends she held so dear now. To return to them with some useful knowledge was the greatest
gift she could wish for at this moment.
"Take this. You will learn its use. I think perhaps there are others who will teach you more but this is a good
start for a young warrior." Epona handed her a finely crafted yew bow and helped her strap the leather quiver
adorned with painted horses on her back. The arrows were fletched with bright red feathers that blended
with her new cloak.
"Now at last you are ready. Remember this, the horses will carry you safely through no matter what you see or
feel. There is no more running, your fears can over take you if you try. It may seem as if you stay in the plains
for months, but only a few hours will have passed here, just as your time behind the veil did."
Kaie slung the bow over her shoulder and shifted her weight, adjusting to the feel of the new clothes and the
weapon. She tucked her knives into their sheaths; she would take them as well.
"I am ready, where are the horses that are supposed to carry me?" Kaie could not contain the nervous
impatience rising inside her. Looking into the sea, she noticed the waves were growing larger and rougher,
huge white caps crashing violently against the rocks near the shore.
"They are out there among the waves; I've taken you as far as I can for now. Go to them and return safely to
me Kaie." Epona squeezed the girls shoulder gently, unwilling to allow herself to worry.
When Kaie turned to assure Epona she would, she saw that she was alone on the cliff. She peered down into
the churning water and saw no sign of the Camarguais. Only the white waters called to her, each wave inviting
her down into the depth. With a deep breath she gathered her cloak against her and stepped closer, 'If only
Caitlin could see me now, she'd kill me for sure.'
With that she sprang away from the cliff side and let herself fall, praying there were no rocks directly below her.
The chill of the water hit her as hard as any rocks, threatening to steal her breath as she plunged into the sea.
She pushed herself to the surface as quickly as she could. The sea was rougher then she thought from above.
The currents tossed her around easily as she struggled to tread the water. She saw no sign of the horses
Epona promised would come, and her legs were rapidly growing tired.
She struggled to stay above the surface and watched as a massive wave formed, one that would surely crush
her against the nearby rocks no matter how hard she swam. As the wave rolled forward, Kaie began to notice
a pattern within the white tip of the wave. Slowly as it approached her it formed hooves, then legs, bodies,
and at last as the wave crashed down over her head she made out the faces of the Camarguais. Instead of the
crushing force of the water, she felt the caress of flowing manes around her as one of the white horses rose
under her. She settled herself on his back instinctively, gripping tight with her knees as the wave of horses
turned in one fluid motion and took her away from the shore.
Kaie watched the waters around them churn and grow deeper as they ran, speechless with the wonder of these
horses that ran through the water as if it were grass. Just as she began to relax, she noticed the water
growing higher and higher, until it covered her boots at the knees.
"How far do we have to go? Can you run a little higher? This water is getting too deep!" She screamed her
words out over the thundering sound of the horses. But she received no reply. Still the water grew deeper.
The herd ran almost completely underwater now, and Kaie felt the panic rising inside her as the level reached
her chest. She wasn't sure she could continue.
When at last she found herself submerged in the icy water she felt true fear taking hold. As her lungs began
to burn for air she fought to keep her hold on her mount. Her body screamed for relief and at last she gave in
to her natural instinct to run and let go. Kaie was suddenly floating free, the water pressed against her on all
sides, It’s force prevented her from kicking her way to the surface no matter how hard she tried. She was going
to drown!
The herd stopped its motion the moment she let go, they seemed to be watching her now, waiting for her
decision. She struggled against the water uselessly and fought the urge to open her mouth and draw air. As
her arms flailed against the water she remembered Epona's warning about running in fear.
Her fingers felt the brush of something soft and grasped it out of instinct and desperation more then
anything else. As she felt her body growing weaker from the lack of air she at last heard one of the horses
speak. It was the one she was riding before, whose mane she now gripped desperately.
"Show us your courage niece. Voconti do not run."
'Niece? What or who was this?' With the last of her strength, Kaie pulled herself back onto the broad back of
the horse who spoke. Collapsing against him as the herd surged forward, she lost her battle with her lungs
and opened her mouth to draw in the sea water and let death come.
Instead, she took in a huge gulping lung full of air. She could breath! Sobbing with relief and fatigue she
leaned her head against the powerful neck under her as the water around them faded and became the hard
packed soil of the plains.
As they entered the plains, Kaie lifted her head and watched as they drew near a settlement of large huts and
a wooden structure. The herd thundered to a stop just outside the area and Kaie slid to the ground, resisting
the urge to kiss the soil after her scare in the waters.
"We will return soon to take you back niece. The horsewoman will arrive soon. You showed the bravery of a
Voconti today on a difficult journey, you will make us proud. You will make us live." The Camarguai stepped
back into the herd watching her with proud eyes before rising up on hind legs and letting out a challenging
scream worthy of the noblest stallions. Kaie stepped forward to speak to him but the group turned and
thundered away, dust rising behind them before they disappeared. As they went, Kaie was sure she heard the
crashing of the waves once more.
"The Camarguai don't salute just anyone like that. It is a great honor that he gave you."
Kaie spun around, taken by surprise. The sight that greeted her was even more of a shock and her mouth hung
open. She stared at the form before her, wearing almost exactly the same outfit as hers, down to the clasp
and cloak of a horsewoman. In fact, the wild mane of curls and shapely form were nearly a twin of her own only
slightly older.
Green eyes stared back at her with an expression of amusement, and deep love.
"M..mother?"
"Kaie, daughter I never knew, we haven't much time and there is much to learn. Come to me."
Tears sprang to her eyes as she soaked in the strong voice that spoke so softly. When those arms reached
out to her Kaie rushed forward into their embrace. For years she wanted this, and now at last she could hold
the mother who was lost to her so long ago.
They stood that way for sometime before Brianne at last broke the embrace and turned her towards the
silently waiting lodgings behind them.
"Come with me now and let's begin your journey as a horsewoman Kaie. I have so much I wanted to teach you."
Kaie found herself unwilling to give up the physical connection between them, and settled for clasping a hand
in her own as they walked. Her heart soared and for a moment she forgot why she was here, for now she could
only celebrate being reunited with her mother.
Tbc
Dream Quest Part 2B by Killian
Killian stood on the shore of Latis Lake. The crescent moon climbed high overhead. Tears freely ran down
her cheeks as she looked out to the west, towards Mt. Vivaine, knowing the plains were beyond.
A psychic's mind can see many things. A budding Shamaness of Killian's ability could see much farther, and
fearlessly seek much deeper knowing than most. Killian was allowed to witness Kaie's journey, as long as she
vowed to not intervene or make her presence known in any way. As a courtesy, Killian distanced from mother
and daughter to give some well earned privacy. It was enough for Killian to see Kaie safe and in the arms of
the one person in all time and space Kaie wanted to be with more than anyone.
Killian sent out a tender and fragrant kiss to Caitlin, who she knew wouldn't be sleeping at all this night, or at
all until she saw Kaie safely back in her care once more. The "Dera Marias" would be a changed young woman
when Caitlin set eyes on her again. Killian had faith that Caitlin, of all people, would embrace this change with
deep reverence, as she was first to, regarding Killian's changing self. Caitlin always spoke of expecting great
things of Kaie, so this would be taken in stride by the worldly Trader. A fact that would no doubt annoy the
little mare to no end.
Killian gave a blessing to the night sky, praising Grace for the opportunity to serve. She then turned,
returning to her Hut, knowing she would sleep soundly for the first time since their arrival here, in Morgan's
Tribe.
Killian
Dream's Quest conclusion by Kaie
The wind whistled against her ears, making a fine musical match for the drumming of hooves against the hard
packed soil, and the thundering heart in her chest. Kaie clung to the back of the mare and laughed in delight as
they drew within range.
Drawing an arrow from her quiver she readied the bow, relaxing with the natural rhythm of the horse below her.
Drawing the string she silently reminded herself to breath slowly, concentrate on the target, and then release!
"YESSS!!!!" In her excitement she nearly forgot to draw the horse up before they passed her fallen prey.
Slipping to the ground in a cloud of dust she rushed forward and knelt beside the dying creature, a scarlet
feather bright against the tanned deerskin.
Kaie felt her mother behind her, though her steps were silent in the tall grasses. She watched the light fading
from the deer's eyes as she leaned forward to whisper, "May your spirit forgive me mother deer, but we need
your precious meat to give us life." She was relieved to see understanding glimmering in the dark eyes as the
doe's spirit left her body.
She smiled up into warm eyes that sparkled back as Brianne clapped her on the shoulder. "Excellent shot
Kaie; you are becoming as good as me with that bow. Now let's get her cleaned and back so we can make some
dinner."
Later, they both leaned back against the pillows and cushions inside the main lodge hall, satiated and happy.
Kaie lay with her head in Brianne’s lap and stared at the fire. She smiled with the memory of today's successful
hunt. In the past two months she grew used to long hours on horseback, learning to shoot her bow and strike
almost any target while riding. Brianne also taught her the ways of horses, she helped deliver foals and
perform countless healing techniques for everything from bruised muscles to colic. She knew every detail of
how horses care for their young, their breeding practices, daily habits, and how to train them as war horses.
There was little she didn't know about any horse that existed.
"The Camarguais will return for you in the morning. I think you've learned all I can teach you for now my child."
Brianne felt the instant tension that passed through Kaie as she spoke. Her fingers were gently playing in
the wild mop of curls when Kaie sat up and turned a defiant face to her.
"No. Not yet. I need more time here to learn."
"Is it time to learn that you need, or time with me that you want?" Brianne regretted the tears that glistened in
her daughters eyes, but continued, "Our time here was borrowed, you cannot stay forever but we can be
grateful for the months we have enjoyed."
"It's not enough time! For years I lived without you, why make me return now?" Kaie fought the urge to cry,
instead setting her jaw with stubbornness in a look her mother knew well already.
"Yes, for years you lived without me in the real world and you can do it again. This place is only a shadow of my
memories, my home. None of this is real; a life like yours cannot last here forever in a place meant for spirits and
memories."
Reaching out she gently lifted Kaie's chin to meet her gaze and spoke more softly, "Believe me little spitfire of
a daughter, if I could return to the living world I would, but no amount of stubbornness will persuade me to
keep you here in the place of spirits. There are living souls waiting anxiously for your safe return, people who
love you. I can see the streak of me in you that keeps you in trouble so often, but you will return to them in the
morning."
Kaie found herself unwilling to argue now that little time was left to be with her mother and so she nodded her
understanding and returned her head to its place in Brianne’ s lap. She felt a sigh of relief come from above
her, Brianne did not relish a battle of wills tonight either.
"You've learned so much so fast my spitfire. You will make a great horsewoman for this tribe of yours. I will
enjoy watching you with the horses as I have watched you so many times before."
Kaie turned to look up with those words, "You mean you can see everything that happens to me?"
"Let's just say I have seen enough to know that the people there are good for your stubborn little self."
Brianne laughed softly with the blush that crept across Kaie's features as she turned back towards the fire
with a grumble of embarrassment.
"Sleep for now Kaie, I will hold you until they come for you in mornings light." Stroking the delicate face
below her Brianne began to sing, an ancient Gaelic lullaby her own mother once sang to her. She'd lived just
long enough to sing it to Kaie once or twice as a babe, but tonight she would sing it for as long as she wanted.
Daylight came too soon for both women. They stood at the edge of the buildings waiting for the
Camarguais to arrive. Kaie was torn between wanting to stay here and enjoy more time with the mother she so
desperately missed, and excitement at returning to her tribal family with the new knowledge she gained.
As the cloud of dust that signaled the arrival of the herd drew closer, Brianne pulled Kaie to her and held
tight for one last moment. She whispered encouragingly into her daughter’s ear, passing on every last piece
of advice she could think of. Both women wore the mark of tears on their faces as the herd came to a stop
close by and waited patiently.
"Remember all I taught you and what to do when you return. You will bring a gift of life to the Tribe and take
your place among the greatest horsewomen ever. I am so proud of you my little spitfire."
Kaie was overwhelmed with her emotions as she stumbled towards her waiting ride. She managed to whisper
her love for this mother she grew so close to in her time here before turning away to start her journey home.
Gathering her courage, she shoved the pain of separation deep inside to deal with at another time, she leapt
onto the back of the large stallion that carried her before and lifted her arm in a salute. Simultaneously the
stallion reared and screamed out his own salute to the horsewoman, his sister.
~~~~~~
Caitlin sat in the darkness of predawn watching the canyon entrance closely. She tossed an apple from hand
to hand impatiently, too worried to eat. So far there was no sign of movement and she was growing impatient
with her worry for Kaie. She knew she should have gone with the girl to keep her safe.
When Sgath moved to her side, his ears and eyes alert and watchful, she redoubled her efforts to peer down
into the fading darkness. At last she began to make out the outline of a small form striding forward into the
mouth of the Canyon. As the darkness gave way to the murky half light she saw Kaie standing below them, a
scarlet cloak billowing in the morning breeze behind her. She was relieved to see that the girl was unharmed
and stood to gather Kiera so they could greet her.
She noticed Kaie glancing around the Canyon entrance with a worried look on her young face. Caitlin
stepped to the edge of the rise and whistled loudly before tossing the apple into the air to let Kaie know she
was nearby. She watched, shocked, as Kaie swiftly drew a bow from her back and neatly pinned the apple
against the rock wall as it fell through the air. She heard the girls brief laughter echo through the area as she
stared down in proud amazement at her charge's newfound skill. What Caitlin heard next held her attention.
She paused at the edge of the rise to watch in wonder.
Kaie stood at the Canyon's entrance and waited for the morning light to creep in. Her playfulness was
forgotten now as she drew on the knowledge passed on to her so recently. With her arms outstretched Kaie
closed her eyes and allowed the ancient song to pour from her with its entrancing melody. Her voice rose into
the wind and glanced off the Canyon walls to echo through the mountains. She sang of the first horses and
their calling to the humans; their fury and passion in the wild and in war. She sang with a clear and beautiful
voice, hearing nothing but the ancient call of the horses pouring from her in the Gaelic language of the
Voconti.
At last her song took a new rhythm, formed from the thundering of hooves as they drummed against the
Canyon floor. Still she sang on, until the drumming stopped once more. Only then did she let her song fade
into the silence of the morning. When she opened her eyes she was surrounded by dozens of horses of every
color and size.
A large black Stallion stepped forward to stand before her, his neck and sides scarred with years of battling
to keep his place as leader. He was huge, towering above Kaie easily but she stood her ground fearlessly.
"It is many years since we have heard the ancient call. For what reason do you call us now horsewoman?"
"I am Kaie, last horsewoman of the Voconti Clan, now a member of Morgan's Tribe of Amazons. I have called
because we have need of your kind Elder one."
"Last of the Voconti,” the stallion mused. “They were noble clan worthy of our company. This Tribe you
speak of, the humans that now occupy the valley across the forests?"
"Yes, that is our new home Elder one. I've come to ask your aid respectfully in forming a bond between us
once again."
The black lowered his head for a moment as if he were in deep thought. He ignored the arrival of Caitlin, who
made her way close the edge of the herd in case Kaie should be in danger. When the song first began, Kiera
became excited and anxious, leaving Caitlin no choice but to follow her mount into the Canyon as the ancient
call drew even the tamed war horse. She watched closely, amazed at the difference, the new confidence she
saw radiating in Kaie while the lass spoke with the massive horse.
Kaie made brief eye contact with Caitlin, smiling to herself at the look of amazement on the usually stoic
warrior's face. She felt the rush of warmth that filled her because she saw concern and pride in Caitlin's eyes.
The pain of separating from her mother was still fresh, but she knew that returning to this world was the right
choice. She missed her sisters and was glad to be home. Her attention returned to the Black as he spoke
once more.
"Your heart is pure, we can see that or we would have stomped you into a pulp where you stood. Many
unworthy have attempted to call to us before, others merely come with nets and ropes and attempt to take us
by force."
"We have also watched the others who live in the valley with you. We estimate them to be worthy spirits, some
very ancient like myself. Some of my herd will return with you to live so long as you do not allow them to be
mistreated by any. In exchange you must promise to protect these lands from those who come to raid and take
us by force. Too many young ones have been lost to their foolishness."
"We will do what we can to protect these lands I assure you; this is our home now too. As for mistreatment, no
one will dare to hurt a horse within the Tribe. I will protect them with my life although all who live there have a
great respect and fondness for horses." Kaie gestured towards Kiera who stood tall and proud beside
Caitlin, every inch as much a warrior as her rider. Kiera nodded to affirm the truth behind Kaie's words.
"Very well then, a bargain is struck. You will take part of the herd home with you to become one with your
Tribe. The ancient call will be honored, horsewoman, you have shown the respect and courage of your kind
today."
The Black turned and trotted into the waiting group of horses. He spoke quietly among them. They began
to separate until twenty-five stood waiting behind Kaie. She looked them over. She saw there were two
young stallions among them, and three young mares. The rest were four year old mares, all with foal. They
would make an excellent start for the Tribe. Once trained, the stallions could be traded as war horses for an
excellent price in goods the Tribe needed for the fast approaching winter.
Kaie stepped forward and gave her salute and thanks to the Black. He reared in salute as well and within
moments he and his remaining herd vanished into the hills, leaving only a faint dust trail.
She stood for a moment, looking around her at the large group she would be taking home with them. Kaie
could feel Caitlin moving to stand behind her. The warrior was uncharacteristically quiet considering all that
happened. Somehow the young horsewoman knew Caitlin wondered just how changed she was from her
journey. Kaie turned to give the taller woman a quick hug and reassure her that the old Kaie was still alive and
well.
"Well, I promised to be back by morning, hope you don't mind but I decided to bring a few friends home with
me." Before she could reply, Caitlin was interrupted by the appearance of Epona.
"A fine addition they will make to your Tribe granddaughter. I can't tell you how proud I am of you." Epona
strode forward, a magnificent white horse at her side. She smiled, bursting with pride for her granddaughter’s
success with this quest of knowledge.
"I brought a gift of my own. This mare is one of the ancient lines of Lipizzan horses, with blood as pure and
noble as you will find. She is well versed in the battle moves and jumps used by generations of great warriors
and will make an excellent mount."
Both Caitlin and Kaie admired the perfectly formed snow white body and flowing white mane. This was a
horse of royalty, as fine as any ever born.
"Thank you grandmother, she will make a perfect gift for our Queen Morgan."
Epona furrowed her brow, "I rather thought you might keep her for yourself Kaie."
"A fine horse like that deserves a warrior and leader worthy of her noble blood. The Fianna is that, not me. I
am a horsewoman but not a leader of people. Besides I have made my choice already."
Caitlin gave the Dera Marias a long appraising look. She really showed some improvements in behavior and
maturity. The warrior felt a rush of pride for the girl at turning down such a gift and choosing instead to honor
their leader.
"Made your choice? Very well, which one shall be for you?" Epona shook her head in defeat as even the
Lipizzan stomped her foot in a show of approval for Kaie's words.
"Her," Kaie pointed to a small but finely muscled sleek young bay mare standing at the edge of the herd. Her
brilliant red coat gleamed in the sunlight; sharply contrasted by the jet black that tipped her nose, ears, and
legs. An equally black mane and tail curled just slightly in waves against the red.
"That one is young and undisciplined. See how she nips at the others and will not fall into the herd? She is a
wild spitfire."
The bay trotted forward and pushed her way into the group to stand beside Kaie. Smiling at the use of her
mother’s nickname for her Kaie nodded, "Yes she is a wild spitfire and she is perfect."
Caitlin smiled slightly at the Horse Goddess, amused to see her plans thwarted. She still chaffed at being
denied the chance to follow Kaie and protect her through her mysterious journey. For once, she was enjoying
Kaie's stubborn side.
"She is rude and without manners, that much is clear." Kiera snorted in irritation as the younger mare bared her
teeth and nipped at Caitlin when she drew too close to Kaie. Kiera responded with a stinging blow of her tail
across the sensitive nose, causing the younger horse to squeal in surprise and step back.
Stroking the sleek neck softly Kaie whispered, "Careful Wildfire, those Warriors have a mighty sting to them
sometimes but this one is a friend and means me no harm." The mare calmed with those words and was content
to merely watch, keeping well out of striking distance of the stern Kiera’ s tail.
Kaie hugged Epona warmly and whispered her gratitude for the time alone with her mother. The Goddess
returned her embrace and reminded her she would be nearby if she was needed again. With a nod to the
Warrior she turned and was gone, fading into the sunlight that surrounded them.
Kaie paused to run her fingers through Swath's thick fur, thanking him for his help and for waiting for her
return. She knew he would go back to the forests soon, to run with the pack, but he would come to watch over
her from time to time.
She hoped Caitlin's sharp eyes didn't catch the tremble of fatigue in her arms as she pulled herself astride
Wildfire. The young mare pranced in circles, anxious for a morning run. She turned to let her gaze fall on the
horses behind them. They were ready to follow willingly. Even the Lipizzan stood regally waiting for them to
lead.
Although she was far beyond tired, both physically and mentally, Kaie felt a bursting pride at all that she
learned, and what she was bringing back to the Tribe. She was anxious now to return and make her gift to
Morgan, and to see her sisters again. For the first time in years, she held herself with a new pride, the old thief
gone forever. She would always be the mischievous imp, in trouble at every turn, but never again would she be
ashamed of who she was. She was a horsewoman now, the thief and runaway in her would plague her no more.
Looking over at Caitlin she smiled tiredly, "Ready to go home? Maybe they'll have some nutbread waiting for
us, I'm starved."
End
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