Serena jumped when a twig snapped to the left of her, and she turned to look for the source of the noise. Her eyes grew wide as a white stag with silver antlers stepped forth from the nearby trees. He stood a head taller, with bright blue eyes that looked deep into her soul. Serena took a deep breath, her heart racing as the stag came near. Intelligence shone back at her from behind his eyes. He is so magnificent.

​

“You aren’t bad yourself,” echoed a male voice inside her head.

​

Serena’s mouth dropped open in surprise. She knew the creatures within the forest were magical beasts. It was just hard to believe they were capable of human interaction, or in his case, mind speech. Her hand reached out to his snout and stroked his delicate flesh. He tipped his head forward. “Don’t be afraid, I won’t hurt you.”

​

“I’m not afraid, just stunned. You are such a gorgeous creature.”

​

“Thank you. I’ll try not to let it go to my head.”

​

Serena giggled as her hand pressed firmly against his snout. His coat was silky to the touch and felt like butter as her fingers slipped up towards his mane. She walked alongside him, her hands trailing along his muscular neck and onto his shoulders. His back had an arch that would allow someone to ride him if the need arose. Her eyes went to his short tail which he flicked about. It had golden spots on it.

​

“You are so unique. I have never seen a creature like you before.”

​

“I highly doubt you would, miss. My kind only lives within the Forest of Ferrês. We don’t like the outside world.”