Hidden doors to the unknown

They’d been tethered unceremoniously to the earth many times in recent weeks, bound like common-walkers, caged with water-shackled wings—the irony disturbed the great, brawny sea-bird, riddled his valorous soul with a sour strain of contempt. Never through his many island years, or even the countless beaches, rivers and rain discovered beyond, had Noah been so hindered by the very element he loved so dearly, devoted his desires into studying; mastering and manipulating. For the moment though, the gift of respite—heavy cloud cover, black and domineering, had lifted—lightened the pessimistic, ominous pound of his heart and the eagle’s dripping chin even dimpled beneath a small smile. Flight. It’s beloved sensation was wonderfully elevating—no pun intended. The potential of their view, mostly, was quite hampered by the suspension of thick grey fog (or the fine veil of drizzle which dribbled from their well oiled feathers, it could also easily have been), so the mighty eagle took pleasure in the murky, muddied earth which rolled on beneath him; less marvelling at the queer colours and varied contours, more wondering what further grievances awaited their return. Thus far, this strange new world they’d been unexpectedly borne into, was making little sense and brought still less comfort to his ravaged nerves— At least until… “The ocean!” his voice startled to life, thoughts roused from rumination by the appearance of beloved black sea churning below. So taken was he, that the distant sway of cyclonic extremes escaped his awareness at first. The sullen rhythm of his pulse had quickly strengthened and his resolve began to turn for the better; both heart and mind sang out to the brackish, deep blue water, relieved by the prospect of that available acquaintance. The dove did not slow though (Noah surely did), and his eyes carved a swift path to find her, shoulders focused forward with unspoken intent. The stallion’s golden ears sliced forward also, guiding his attention to the view spanning beyond her. Oh no… his iron gut sank in one repulsive action. The lithe, fine-boned creature’s determination, he felt (and knew), would be impossible to interrupt now. To his surprise, however, those sleekly feathered arms, stroking their breathy host with gentle grace and intelligence slowed their hearty movement. With ease—and utter relief spreading swiftly through his core—the eagle resumed lead of their journey. It was as he overtook that he first glimpsed sight of the island, brighter than the land they’d covered up until now; even at a distance. His bold eyes returned to survey the note of curiosity (perhaps too hope and longing), glistening within Nora’s own. “…but there are cyclones!” his voice boomed warningly; he was unsure whether either word or tone would find her ears as the wind rising off the ocean bothered their pause.

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