As Alcander and Aderes trudged through the ever deepening snow towards a stand of snow laden trees, a soft voice blowing on the wind said to them “Use him well, he is wise in the ways of the snow. He will leave you at snows end. He is known as Syam” Not knowing what to think of this, and a little afraid, they hastily continued on to the tree line thinking that they would spend the night under the sheltering branches of the huge trees. Night was falling swiftly as it is wont to do in these chilly northern climes. As they reached the trees, there standing in the clearing, looking as if fashioned from the very snow it stood upon was a horse, a horse the likes Alcander had never seen before. Its coat shone like the icicles hanging from the trees, the mane was long and silken, the tail was like a frozen waterfall. As Alcander stood there as if turned to stone this wonderful creature came towards him, its cloven hooves leaving no mark upon the untouched glistening snow. As it drew closer it whickered softly and tossed its mane, snow flew in all directions sparkling in the moonlight. Aderes growled softly, the hackles rising on his back, Syam turned his magnificent head and when Aderes saw the wisdom in those deep dark eyes he know that there was nothing to fear from the horse. Syam turned and looked Alcander in the eye. The message was loud and clear “ I am Syam, Winter’s gift to you. I serve no mortal, treat me badly and you will feel my wrath, treat me as an equal and I will protect you from what lies ahead of you in this snowy land”. Alcander reached out and stroked his silken muzzle and assured him that he would always treat him with respect and love. At that moment a bond was formed between man and horse that could never be broken by time or distance. Alcander sent a silent thank you to the Gods and to Winter for sending this magnificent creature into their lives. ‘Winter’s Keeper’ was pleased that she could do something to help the handsome young man and his noble companion. She watched them sleep through the long cold night, keeping the snow from falling until the morn, then she silently wished them ‘Gods Speed’ and disappeared into the falling snow!!! A big thank you to Maike (capelito)for the gift of some gorgeous winter background, I hope you like what I have done with one of them (((Hug))) Thanks for taking a peek and if you are kind enough to leave a comment and BIG THANX for that too:-) Hugs Sylvia