FSE

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The sun was a little bright in the sky, during this nice but chilly day. A small bit of chilled air came and blew against my frame, but it didn't affect me thanks to my coat of fur. All four of my hooves continued to carry me through the greenless forest thanks to the season of winter. They made loud crashing sounds against the snow covered ground.

I ducked my huge antlers low beneath a branch and kept marching. I always hated when they'd get accidentally stuck. I didn't want a tree stopping me from where I'm going. I was looking forward to seeing somebody again today after missing out all morning...And haven't seen them since two days ago. Thinking about it has my heart pumping wildly away in my chest.

And even when I tromped over the snow...I felt like I was flying across the sky...Towards the most prettiest thing I've ever seen in my life. And it was staring at me...With a cute smile on its pretty face.

She looks like an angel...

A voice rang out from out of nowhere, "Hey Tak! TAK!"

I froze in my tracks, snapping myself back to reality. Then I smirked and rolled up my eyes. Ah, boy.

It called once again, getting impatient, "Up here, big nose! Are you deaf, or those gigantor tree limbs on your head clogging your ears?!"

I glanced up at a tree, finding that a squirrel had his arms crossed and his foot tapping on the branch. I finally greeted him, "Nah, Link, I can hear just fine!"

Link smiled and replied, "Well good. Hate to have to yank them off. They're probably stuck GOOD and TIGHT."

I said, "Eh, I was looking forward to you cleaning them for me with your tail! I can't reach my ears with my hooves!"

Link glared, "Hmph!" He looked away, chin up high, and waved me dismissively, "You can get someone else to do your dirty work! My tail will stay spic and span!" I giggled. Some friend you are.

Geez...Link...He was always my best friend. Actually he used to be a friend of my father's before I was born...And before he passed. He was probably the only friend that looked out for me. Sure I do have plenty of friends out here, but he was probably the only one that literally looks out for me. He was sorta like the father figure that I still have. At least I was in good hands.

Heck, he can be funny with his jokes, we throw them at each other when we have the chance, but when it comes to dirty work, except when it came to nuts, and another simple little thing, he always let someone else do it.

I threw my question at him, "So, you wanna come with me, pal, or you wanna stay and keep your nuts warm?"

He formed a grin and gestured to the big hole in the tree beside him that was his home, "I think they'll be fine while I'm gone."

I cracked, "I was talking about those nuts that are hiding between your-"

"Yeah, yeah, they'll be fine too! Sheesh!" The little fellow jumped off the branch and screamed, "GERONIMOOOOOOO!" He landed softly on my back. I twisted my neck to look over my shoulder with a smirk. Link cheered, raising his hands in the air, "Ha ha! Made it!"

I mildly praised, "Nice. Least you didn't land in the snow this time."

Link shrugged with his hands that time, "Yeah, what happened yesterday was a miscalculation. I thought I'd make it but I was too far to the left."

"Lucky you didn't break your nuts that day. Snow is especially soft for landings."

He shrieked, "WILL YOU CUT IT OUT WITH THE NUTS JAB! I GET IT! I LOVE NUTS!"

I frowned playfully, "I thought you liked ladies."

"You know what I mean! Don't go there!"

I laughed a bit, then said, "And why should I stop? You're a squirrel. I love trampling that joke to the ground."

"Well it's getting old...Like Grandpa Nutz." I snickered, but he caught me with a jab to my big nose, "Don't you EVEN joke about that too, WISE GUY. I've already told you a thousand times...It was his parents fault for giving him that name." I rolled my eyes, then moved along between several trees. I felt him hop onto one of my big antlers and sat on it. He continued with this statement, "Be glad your folks didn't name you 'Big Nose'."

I rolled up an eye to see him kicking back and relax on the antler. I remarked, "I'm glad you're not my dad then...Cause you just called me that."

"It's because your head is usually in the clouds. I'm only trying to pull you down with it." Link yelped when I swung up my head and had him flying upward a bit. He landed shortly back on my antler. He gave me another glare, "Hey! What'd you do that for?! You trying to kill me?!"

I hummed, "...Maybe."

He exclaimed, "What?!"

I let out another laugh and then playfully apologized, "I'm sorry...I thought you were one of those birds that just now landed on my antler. I hate when they leave their crap on it. Seriously...If that happens, I'll really need your help cleaning it."

I heard him make a mild threat, "I'll get you for this, you big, ballsy bastard." Link sighed then asked, "Anyway, where are we off to? I haven't seen you one bit this morning."

I said, "I know. I was busy trying to find a good spot to feed on."

Link commented, "Winter sure is hell...Just like every other season. I'm always glad I'm loaded."

Then I answered his earlier question, "I'm going to see Fancy by the way."

"Ah...I figured..." He called me out, "No wonder you acted like you were stuck in the clouds again."

"Heh..." I confessed, "You got me, Link."

"Oh, Tak..." I saw him laying his stomach on my antler to look me in the eye, "You're still having the hots for her even though it's kinda cold right now."

I tried to say with a chuckle, "What do you expect? She's-"

"I know, she's freakin gorgeous! Probably has the sexiest buttocks in all of Alaska!" I giggled. Pretty sure she has more than that. Then he went on, a bit more cautiously, "But seriously, I keep on telling you that she is way out of your league. She's on one end of the fence and so are we. You can't break through that barrier if you know what I mean."

The image of Fancy running across the lands flowed through my head like a calm river. I replied to that statement, "I know that. She's a horse...And I'm a moose. No need to remind me."

He exclaimed, "Exactly! I mean, don't you think that you'd find a better candidate in another moose? You know...One that's exactly like you, but prettier and no tree limbs on their head."

I argued, "Come on, Link, we've been over that already. You know I can't look at any of those girls the same way I look at her. They don't seem to be like her. She's special. I really think she is the one for me."

He warned, "Yes, but...What if she doesn't think the same way? Besides, she's owned by a human and you're one of those WILD types. Think about it, kid. She's probably been talking to you because she doesn't have another horse to chat. We both know she lives alone in that fence and that lone shed within the fence."

I agreed in a sure tone, "That's true."

He added, "And she's probably being polite cause she doesn't want to hurt your feelings."

I told him, "Fancy's not like that. You know that. She greatly enjoys my company."

Link went back to just sitting on my antler. Shortly, he gave in and admitted, "Okay, yeah, you're right, she isn't like that. Sure likes my ass. I like her too, not gonna lie." Then he devilishly chuckled, "I like her so very much, that I bet I can woo her into letting me pound her big round ass. Be a world record compared to my past sex life."

Nuts and ladies...What a guy he is, right? I told him in a joking manner, "You're a real Romeo, shorty."

Then the squirrel shot back, "And you're just a weird moose, falling hard for a damn mare. One of a kind. But let's get back to the topic. She can't possibly commit to you. You got a bigger nose than her! You don't exactly have the most handsome of faces!"

I rolled my eyes, "Gee thanks."

"I mean, how can she fall for a guy with a-"

"I know, I know..." I admitted this, like usual, "I get what you're always saying to me about her, but...I like her, Link."

Link stated factly, "Yeah, obviously. I can see the steam coming off you. I'm surprised I'm not cooked yet. I swear if you keep this up and if you stand around long enough when you see her, all the snow around us is gonna melt from under you. Wouldn't recommend standing on an ice bridge if I were you."

I stated in sarcasm, "I'll keep that in mind."

"And I also don't want to drown in all your love, big guy."

I recalled, "Right. I know how much you don't like to swim." Trust me, I know. You complained about it one time all day long. I sighed then went on with some hint of hope, "I can't help it. Ever since I've known her...I can't get her out of my head. Since I know she isn't just talking to me because she doesn't have anyone else to talk to with her, then I must still have a chance."

Link sighed as well, his tone showing concern again "Look, I'm just telling you...I always tell you...She probably only sees you as a friend. A lovable friend. Not a lovable hubby. You're gonna be disappointed in the end...I know it." I had a nervous look on my face after he fell silent. He does have a point...As always...

Maybe she doesn't see me the same way as I see her at all...

I mentally shook off the thought. But maybe he's wrong...Don't worry too much about it. You don't know that yet.

After all...You still haven't told her how you felt.

I took a deep breath and let it out as I walked through the white forest still for our destination. Yeah...That's right. I'll live with that...Just like always.

Until then.

*****

I wandered through the forest a little bit more till I can see Fancy's home. I stopped short from atop a hill to see the mare from afar, within that large fenced area of hers that was about several feet away from a two story house. She's a painted mare with several big spots of brown and white, complete with a yellow mane and tail. Even though she wasn't looking at me, but I can imagine her beautiful blue eyes staring back at mine from where she stands.

I smiled brightly at the thought. I remember the first time meeting her. Obviously she wasn't born in the wild. I never met her before while I grew up around here. Frankly I never met a horse before. She was the first for me.

It was maybe sometime last year when I actually first met her, but honestly it feels like I've known her my whole life. I was wandering around this part of the wilderness, minding my own business, till I heard a voice that came from right there. I have seen this place before Fancy ever shown up, but I never have stood around long enough to stare at it, nor even walk up close to it. And I hadn't heard that voice in all my life, especially right around there. I know lots of animals living around here and I'd never forget a voice. Like Link's.

From what I found, it was her owner, John, who looked less young and had a big brown beard, hollering at her as he fed her with hay and horse feed. I watched them for a while, curious about who they are since they were new in my eyes. I probably shouldn't have stood and spied on them, considering my big head would be at risk of being mounted on a wall if I didn't leave when I had the chance. But I couldn't help myself. I can recall seeing her owner up close at the edge of the fence when I showed up, and fondly caressing her face and chin. Then I continued to watch her as they both pulled away and she went off to eat.

I couldn't help taking my eyes off of Fancy. It was love at first sight in my case. And I wanted to meet her...Talk to her...See what she was like.

I waited around all day long till dusk came, when I did see the light at John's house was out. When it did, I did walk up and meet Fancy for the first time, up close and personal.

Well...SORTA up close and personal, thanks to the fence blocking me from further meeting her, but I still met her regardless.

Fancy was still in the middle of her fence when she first laid eyes on my gullible self. At first she was surprised to see me, like she never expected to have company in the forest. That turned out she never lived in the forest her whole life. Basically she said that she only started living here since a couple days before. John had lived alone here for much of his life, which is strange cause I never laid eyes on him. Probably for the best back then.

Oh, and just to make something clear, I later found out down the road from Fancy that John doesn't hunt animals. So I wasn't at risk of my head being mounted over a fireplace after all. Which that's a relief. I can see Link's face now. He doesn't want his skin hanging on the wall either. But I still never met the human up close and personal. Again, probably for the best. Why would he want to talk to somebody with a big nose?

Anyways, Fancy was telling me that she used to live in this place where a bunch of horses live, but not anymore cause John bought her and brought her here in the middle of nowhere. She recalled having to ride in that trailer for a very long time. She never kept track for how long exactly. Riding for a long time can make you drone out, based on her experience. I never knew that. And obviously I was a little late for the 'welcome to the forest' party.

And she also told me that she hasn't got used to living away from her former home with no other horses. She was definitely new around here. She did feel nervous living here like that, but she did confess that she liked John so far at the time. Good for her.

And then I can tell she was a bit at ease when we chatted some more, till I became tired and wanted to get home. But that wasn't the end of things. Whenever the coast was clear of John, I snuck up to her fence and talked to her. And rather quickly, pretty much thanks to my personality, she considered me a friend. Frankly I wasn't the only animal friend she has. She has met a few others, and now and then I have heard they have visited her.

But I was her favorite. Her words.

She's my favorite as well...If only she knew how much of a favorite she actually was...

Link's voice rang against my eardrum, "Hey! Big nose!" I uttered a cry since I was daydreaming. I eyed the squirrel on my antler that had given me a glare. He shouted, "We gettin a move on to see your girlfriend or not?"

I blinked a few times, then gave him an embarrassing smile, "Sorry...Just reminiscing."

He furrowed his brow in a knowing way, "Yeah...Reminiscing the fake intimate parts." Then he ordered, pointing at Fancy's home, "Now get going!"

"All right, all right." I did as he told, heading down the hill. I moved myself further and further till I was very close to the fence, standing near the gate.

Fancy had her back turned while she was eating some hay off a hay feeder. Her yellow tail swung behind her. I just stared at her butt, thinking of this certain action. My heart was pounding fiercely, and I thought I felt my member growing out of me. I wonder if she would support my-

"Hey! Gorgeous!" Link cupped his hands around his mouth to holler, "You got company!" My eyes narrowed up at him. Thanks a lot. You ruined the moment.

Fancy's ears perked up. She turned her body a bit to see us. I changed my expression to a happy one, pretending I wasn't thinking of anything with her. I was kinda glad that Link hollered at her. If I stared at her for too long, Fancy would've saw something dangling beneath me.

Not exactly the most appropriate thing for a girl you totally freakin like to see.

Fancy, after swallowing down a few straws, smiled at us. She greeted, "Well hello, Link. Hi, Tak."

I finally built a couple polite words, "Hi, Fancy."

Link acted a bit flirtatious, "Hello there yourself, sweet cheeks."

Part of me wanted to knock him out with my hoof. Give me a break...She's MY girl, Link!

Fancy trampled over till she was at the fence like I was. She stated from the other side, "I thought I heard something a second ago."

The squirrel responded, "Sounds like your hearing is finally adapting here. Everyone always notices I'm around."

Fancy smirked at him sitting on my antler, "You're not so hard to miss, Link."

He took it with grace, "Dang right I ain't." He was winking at her with a cheeky grin still on his face.

Shortly, she gestured with her head towards outside the fence, "I think there's some nuts up in that tree if you want any. I think they've grown recently."

"Do I!" Link screamed excitedly, "I would love to!" He patted the top of my skull, "Be back in a bit, okay, bud?" Then he hopped off me and on to the fence, then ran along the line till he climbed down, went for a tree and began climbing up.

As soon as he was gone, Fancy turned her attention back to me. She mildly said in amusement, "There we go."

I chuckled then spoke, "Didn't take him long at all."

Fancy added, "Least I can spend some time alone with you without a womanizing squirrel butting into every bit of our conversation."

I attempted to deflect the fact, "Hey, I told you before, don't take him the wrong way...He mostly prefers girls of his size. He just plays around."

"Sure." She leaned in with a playful whisper, "But I can tell you, just to make sure...He's not my type. Too short."

I teased, "Well what is your type?"

Fancy just stared at me with her blue eyes for a long time with a smirk. Then she changed the subject, "So how have you been doing? Been eating good? Staying warm?"

I answered modestly, "Trying to. Gotta love the taste of bark. I hate when I have to eat that during the winter."

The mare said with pity shone in her eyes as a little wind blew against her mane, "Makes me wish you have it good as me. There's no way I'd survive out there like you can."

I said with a shrug, "You never know till you try."

Fancy shot up her head, "No thank you."

I told her, "But otherwise, I'm doing just fine. Can't say that I'm TOO happy, but happy enough to be fine."

Fancy said fondly, "Good. I don't want to lose you in a fierce blizzard."

I shot back with smug, "Ah, I'll be alright. This ain't my first winter I had to deal with." She giggled at me. Then I cocked my head, "Speaking of that, how has your second winter here been going so far?"

She replied, "As if you have to ask. John takes great care of me like always. I have no reason to fear being cold. He always makes sure I'm good and comfortable."

I tried to make a joke about it, "What a great guy. I don't have to look out for you after all. He's doing all the work for me."

"Oh, you..." Fancy suggested, "You know, it would be nice if you just met him while you were talking to me. I think he might take some pity on you and see that you're a real friend to my sheltered self, and maybe can help you out through this winter."

I politely declined, "Much as I like the idea, Fance...You know I have to decline."

"C'mon, Tak, John wouldn't hurt you. I never seen him pick up a gun once. Have you?"

"...Nope." I shrugged with a grin, "Listen, don't blame me, it's my wild instincts warning me not to do it. I just...Follow them."

The mare gave me a knowing face, "Is that your excuse? You already pulled that one out of your butt the other day, you dork."

"I did?" I cursed, "Ah, crap." Fancy's cute giggle was evident in her throat. I gazed at her kinda lengthy shed that she can run into for shelter at the far side of her pen, then shortly made another excuse, "Well truth be told...I don't think I could fit well here anyway. There always seem to be room for only one. I mean, why else are you living alone? It's not like you ever had someone live alongside you ever since you came here."

"Tell me something I don't know." Fancy then said with her eyes narrowed up, "And don't give me that excuse either....I seriously doubt it. There's plenty of room for two. Besides...John probably hasn't found the right horse to be good with me yet."

Well...That's good to know. Hope he doesn't find a STALLION anytime soon.

Or else, I'd lose you.

I just smiled at her a bit before I said in appreciation, "I do appreciate it, Fancy, but...I just don't wanna take any chances. And it'd be too out of place for me, you know..." But I wouldn't have minded...

Fancy said, "Suit yourself. But let me assure you...You won't have to worry about my precious owner catching you with me for a little while."

I asked, "Why? Is he off somewhere at the moment?"

"More or less." She explained, "He left not too long ago. And he told me before he said goodbye that he was gonna be gone till sometime tomorrow morning."

I wrinkled my brow and said in a surprised tone, "Really? That's the first time he's gone that long. Did he say to you why?"

The horse shook her head, "No. But I guess it's probably important." She gestured to the hay and her water trough with her head, "But I got nothing to worry about. I've got plenty of food and water...Least until it freezes up tonight. Still, I wouldn't worry about it. I can always count on him."

I believe that. He really does seem like a great guy. I asked just to make sure, "So, you're saying that you have this place all to yourself, huh?"

Fancy nodded, "Pretty much."

"Well that's perfect." I made a suggestion, "That means you can do whatever you want! Like maybe come hang out with me away from home."

Her eyes went wide, "You mean out of the fence?" She was shaking her head a few times with a worried look on her face as she backed up a bit, "No way! I can't go out there!"

"Why not?" I reminded her, "When you do leave this place it's because John has you going with him for a small trip around the forest. And a couple times you did say that you wouldn't mind going around the place without someone riding on your back."

"I know..." She nervously said, "...But remember I told you about those wolves that tried to make a snack out of me that one time? I had to chase them out of the fence so they'd get away. I'm not really in the mood to get eaten."

I shrugged in smug, "Neither am I, but I always put up with it."

Fancy formed a tiny smirk, "Tak..."

"Besides, I'll protect you, no problem. It's pretty easy." I shot a glance at a tree, then back at her and declared, "Here, I'll show you! Watch this!" I charged at that tree with a defiant cry, "HEYAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!"

I crashed HEADFIRST into the bark. I fell on my stomach, my skull feeling dizzy. My ears were even ringing from the impact. Ohhhhhh....That hurt.

Why did I do that...JUST TO IMPRESS A GIRL!?

I can hear someone's voice through all the noise in my ears, "Tak! Tak!" It took a short second for the ringing in my ears and the dizziness to go away. The voice called out again, "Tak, you ok?" Turned out it was Link hollering at me from that other nearby tree.

I lifted my head to look up at him from down below. I can see him with his hands on his hips, awaiting my answer. I finally replied with a pained grin, "I'm okay!"

Fancy hollered from within the fence, "Are you sure? It looked like it might hurt!"

It definitely did... But I bluffed, grinning at her now, "No, I'm okay! Really! Oof..." My legs struggled to stand, since they were a bit wobbly. But it didn't take long to stand up to full height.

"Great, now that you're all right." Link demanded, "Come below this branch, I'm ready to come down!" I did make my way toward him without trouble. Then he jumped right off the limb and landed on my back again. I glanced behind my shoulder and saw he had found an acorn after all. He proudly proclaimed, holding it up with his two hands, "Finally found one! There were hardly any up there. Am I a lucky guy or what?"

So I guess there was a nut on that tree after all. I mumbled, turning around to meet back with Fancy, "Yes, you are." I stopped at the edge of the fence again and just smiled at her, "Were you convinced?"

Fancy replied with a small giggle, "I think you convinced me enough."

Link, obviously confused, asked while on my antler and holding his nut, "What you two going on about? What did I miss?"

But Fancy ignored him and continued with our conversation, "Look, Tak...I don't think your idea will work out anyway." She eyed the gate, "That gate is locked tight with that padlock and we don't have the key. Remember? And we wouldn't be able to get it open anyways if we did."

Link concurred, "She's got a point, buddy. Though I have NO IDEA what you guys are talking about!"

Ignoring him myself, I looked at the gate with the padlock holding it in place. She is right...Why did I just forget about that? Then I said to her, "Well still...I think you oughta at least have some fun without your owner. Be totally free for once, explore on your own. I don't think you ever had that moment in your life. I kinda don't like seeing you cooped up in that fence."

Fancy smiled me assuringly, "I'll be fine. I'm always used to being stuck in such amount of space. You could just stay here...I won't mind the company."

I eyed at the gate once more. Then I was feeling this little swath of sadness. I really don't like that thing...Because it was keeping us apart.

...And when I look at it, all that does is remind me that I can never have that closeness with her.

Heck...Even if I did tell her how I feel, that is IF she'll reciprocate...I can't get REAL close to her. No matter how hard I would try.

Damn it...

Since I couldn't bear the thought of it, I gazed back at her and told her, "Uh...Actually I think we're gonna head home."

Fancy looked surprised by that statement. Link appeared the same when he pressed, "We are? But we just got here."

I made up an excuse, "I...I think I need to eat something. Maybe I'll come back here tonight...Alright?"

Fancy finally spoke, "Um...Sure." She put on a smile for me, "Come by later."

I nodded with a smile too, then I turned around and left with Link still on my antler. As soon as my hooves climbed up on the hill and when we were out of range of the mare, Link finally broke the silence, "So what's up? Thought you'd be staying with her more longer than that."

I confessed to him in a rush, "I just wanted to get away from there...That's all."

Then the squirrel demanded in a confusing tone, "By the way, what was up with you ramming into that tree? Did you find some more nuts and trying to knock them off there for little old me?" He chuckled, "How charming."

"No, it's not you." I sighed then explained, "I was demonstrating to Fancy that I can protect her."

"From that tree? Last time I checked, they don't do anything...Unless they want to timber right on top of you."

"No!" I groaned, "Protect her from ANYTHING! Wolves...Bears...You get the drill." I eyed upward at the little creature as I went on, "Look, she said that her owner had left her and won't be back till tomorrow morning, and I thought...All right, maybe she can come out of that fence and hang out with me, you know? But I forgot the stupid gate won't open, and-"

"Yeah, yeah, say no more." Link sighed in pity for me, "Sheesh, that might be the dumbest thing you probably did. If you keep on self-harming yourself for a girl like her, you're crap out of luck. I told you she's out of your league."

I moaned, eyes up toward ahead, "Thanks for reminding me..." I wish I could ram my head into that tree several times till I'm dead. That'll probably stop me from thinking about her so much. I was grumbling, "I just wish there was some way to be close to her. Not just talk to each other through the fence."

Link said, "Well what do you want me to do about it? Not like I can call upon the spirits living up in the sky to grant your wish to set her free. I don't think it works that way." Then he eyed happily at the acorn in his hands, "But I'll say...I'm glad your girlfriend knows my tastes. I got another free nut! Yippee!"

Great...Least you got something out of this. Before I could even make another step, my eyes popped wide open and that made me stop. I actually had an idea.

The smartest idea I ever had.

An idea that may work...

Link demanded, "What's the problem now? You change your mind already? Can't give her up, can you?"

I rolled my eyes up at Link, mostly directly at that nut he had. I finally said, "Link...I think I have an idea. You up for it?"

"An idea?" He gave me a nod, curiously frowning down at me, "Uh, sure...What is it?"

*****

I demanded, "How's it going, Link?"

Link groaned with full concentration, "I'm still working on it, Tak. Don't rush me."

Fancy nervously spoke behind the gate, "Tak, I really don't think this is a good idea."

I was standing near the gate at Fancy's fence, watching Link intently as he worked with the padlock on the gate. You're probably wondering why me and Link are back with Fancy. Well, it was because I came up with a plan to break Fancy out of her pen. And we were now springing it into action.

At first, after I told my friend my entire plan, Link thought it was a little nuts, no pun intended, and that maybe it wouldn't work. Probably mostly due to the fact that me and Fancy are totally different. But I practically begged him on all four knees just to give it a shot. I wanted it to work. I didn't want to give it up.

The plan was for Link to actually pick that lock on that gate...With the stem from that acorn. I kinda figured that if something small as a key could get that thing open, then maybe something as little as a stem could do the job the same way. And then...Me and Fancy would be off in the woods together, all alone...And then we'd go from there.

I haven't really thought that far ahead. I'm still kinda thinking as I go.

But poor Link went at it with the padlock for a long time. Which is understandable. He never did something like this before. All he ever did was be friends with my dad, pick up lady friends and eat nuts, not pull off a breakout. But I did have a lot of faith in him. I couldn't do it even if I tried. He's the one with the fingers. He's the only one that can pull this off.

If he can't do it, who can?

Course when I relayed the plan to Fancy when we got back here, after she was confused of why me and Link got back so soon, she was kinda astonished, but mostly nervous. She did bring up that if the lock is opened then how were we supposed to get it back on. John would've been suspicious. But I did tell her that Link would be able to put it back on there once we were done with each other.

Just hopefully he'd still be up, cause it'll be a long time before we're actually done with each other.

The mare said with a freaked out look on her face, "I don't think I can do this..."

I reassured her, "Don't be nervous. You just stay close to me and do as I tell you. Pure and simple. I won't let you get hurt."

But Fancy flat out stated, "But what if John finds out about this somehow? If he does, I'm gonna be in SO much trouble."

"Nonsense! He's not gonna find out! As long as you're home before morning and the gate's closed and locked...Should be a pretty breeze."

Link complained, "Yeah, if I could get this fucking thing unlocked!"

I smiled at him, "I believe in you, good buddy."

"Screw you! This is a MAN'S job!"

I ignored him and said to Fancy, "Fancy...You need this. You deserve to be wild and free...Just this once. You can't let fear keep you inside this thing forever. And it should be easy for you. You walked out here with John. It shouldn't be too hard...Right?" Fancy's eyes trailed away from mine. I went on, "I will look after you, Fancy. And I will make sure you won't get in trouble. You know I will. You have my word, I promise."

Fancy looked back at me, then finally smiled a tiny smile. She said, "...I trust you." I smiled in return.

Link groaned in frustration as he moved that stem around inside that padlock, "Come on, bitch, talk to me. Argh. Don't you ignore me, I'm pretty smooth. I can treat you however you please. Just let me stick this thing DEEPER in that hole of yours and I can treat you to a nice dinner date up at my tree...And let me stick it in there again. Ugh. But you have to be OPEN with other people, especially the smooth ones. Please don't ignore people when they want to talk to you. Just let the nice lady out and we'll all be happy. Just....Freakin...Open...Up!"

The padlock snapped.

I gasped happily. It's unlocked! Fancy gasped too. Link sucked in a breath. He eyed at the lock at first, then at me, then back to the lock. When he looked back at me one more time, he declared happily, "I DID IT!"

"Woohoo!" I giddied on my hooves, "You did!"

Fancy just stood there in shock, like she never thought that would actually work. Neither did I, honestly. I didn't want to give up the plan, but a part of me thought that it'd never work.

Both of us were wrong.

The squirrel moved the lock out of that hole in the gate, tossing it down to the snowy ground with a plop. He huffed as he stood on the gate, "God damn...That lady was a little heavy! She needs to lose some pounds!" I rolled my eyes. Oh, Link. I don't think the lock was your type anyway. Then he climbed to the top of the gate, and hopped towards Fancy, grabbing ahold of her mane and swinging himself on her back. He hollered, "Okay, bud! We're good to go! Jailbreak!"

I used my antlers to push the gate open as far and wide as I could manage. When it opened all the way, I gazed towards Fancy happily, who was still standing there speechless. I gestured the opening with my antlers, "Well go on. You're free."

Fancy stood still, her eyes and attention towards the outskirts of her fence. I grew concerned for her. She must still be nervous...

Link ordered, stamping on her form, "Well what are you waiting for, girl? Giddy up already, will YAAAAAAAAA!!!!"

The horse took off, speeding right into the forest away. I laughed, following her tracks. I chased after her through the barren trees of the forest, my heart thundering in my chest as our hooves thundered on the ground. I watched Fancy still running from behind, hearing her let off a thrilling whinny. I can tell now she was enjoying this bit of freedom she now has. Link on the other hand, wasn't having fun one bit. He was screaming in horror, flying in the air as he was holding onto her yellow mane for dear life cause she ran so fast. I can hear his voice screaming at her loudly, "Hey, whoa! Slow down! Slow down horsey! Take it down a notch! Pump the brakes! Stop it already! Stop it!! WHOAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!"

Then she finally did stop, skidding a bit across the snow. That kind of momentum had Link snap forward and fly past her head. He shrieked till he was cut off with his head buried at the base of a small mound of snow. I was laughing non-stop as soon as I caught up to Fancy and stood beside her. I asked her breathlessly, "You had fun?"

Then Fancy started to laugh now. She turned her neck to see me as she was taking deep breaths. She replied happily, "Oh my gosh, yes! I haven't had this much fun in a long time!"

I laughed a bit more, "Neither have I!"

She was getting giddy on her excitable hooves, "This is amazing! Why does John never let me run loose? I can't believe how good this feels!"

I was down to giggles now. Then my ears heard some muffling. I focused on the spot where Link crashed. He finally pulled his head out of the mound, his entire face covered in white. He shook the snow off and glared immediately right at Fancy. He yelled, "Fancy! You could've got me killed! This isn't a rodeo! What is WRONG with you?!!"

Fancy laughed in response. Her hooves moved her to where Link was and so did mine. I would've defended her, but I guess I didn't have to. I was just smirking at my little, furry best friend. Hey it was your fault that you decided to ride on her. Could've gone back to riding me, but noooo, you just had to ride on the chick.

I think that'll teach him a lesson on trying to pick up chicks that're BIGGER than him.

The mare's head lowered down to the squirrel's level as she apologized with that glint of happiness in her eyes, "Oh I'm so sorry, Link...I couldn't help myself. When I saw that gate open right in front of my eyes...Call it...Natural instinct, I guess."

Link grumbled, brushing a bit of flakes off his arm, "Whatever...Mission accomplished." He stared up at me and ordered, "C'mon, tall, dark, and dumb, take me home."

I lowered my big nose down to him. Then he jumped and grabbed an antler. I raised my head off the ground and looked at Fancy as she did the same. Then I went for the direction of his home as Fancy followed me. It didn't take forever for us to find Link's tree. Link hopped to a nearby low branch of his tree and turned around to face us.

Fancy apologized once more, "I'm so really sorry again about that, Link. I promise I'll slow down the next time I give you a ride. Heh heh."

Link shook his head adamantly, "I think I'll just stick to my usual wheels, thanks."

Then to his surprise, Fancy stretched out her neck to nuzzle against his tiny form, probably just to thank him, and as another way of apologizing to him. She pulled back and said to me, "Alright...What do we do now?"

I shrugged my shoulders, "Well...I can take you to see our other friends of the wilderness, and then...We can do whatever."

Fancy nodded then turned her whole body to a different direction, "All right. Let's go."

I urged her to go on with my nose, "You go on ahead. I need to talk to Link for a second. I'll catch up." Fancy didn't seem nervous about that, she still trusted me. She nodded again, then moved away from the tree. I looked directly at Link and said, "Thank you so much, pal. I owe you one."

Link eyed me knowingly, "You certainly do...After your girlfriend pulled that stunt."

"I'll make it up to you later. I swear."

"I know..." Then his eyes gave me warning, his voice lowering down to a whisper, "Are you sure you want to go through with this, kid?"

I surely nodded, whispering back, "Definitely. I'll just try to woo her and then tell her how I feel. I'll come back for you when we're done, ok?"

"Ok then...Just don't say I never warned you about her. She's a horse, and you're-"

I cut him off sharply, "I got it, I got it!"

Then he advised with a knowing grin, "And remember...Take it slow. Don't ever rush it. Women don't like it when you go in so fast. Got that?"

I smiled then nodded, "Got it. See you tonight."

Before I could turn and leave, that's when he stopped me with a finger up, "Just one more thing!"

I eyed him intently, listening closely.

"If you do succeed, tell me EVERYTHING. Every sexy, intimate part. You hear?"

I rolled my eyes, then turned around and jogged to find Fancy. Always the father figure, that silly squirrel. I found the painted mare shortly as she had waited for me a little bit away from the tree. Then, Fancy reared up on her hind legs, and took off running, her hooves thundering on the ground. I grinned, knowing she must still have some of that exciting energy left. I ran after her, hearing her whinny once again. I think our forest friends can wait a bit longer.

While thundering behind her, watching her nice hindquarters facing me as she ran, my chest was twisting up between happiness and nervousness, while my head was thinking up scenarios of what could happen ahead.

I still can't believe my idea worked...

I hope I can do this...

*****

With the quietness of the night, the shimmering of the northern lights was ongoing, the colors waving in the sky like they were ripples. I stole a brief glance at Fancy, who is laying beside me, all her attention towards this beautiful light show. I immediately put my gaze back on the lights, letting out a pleasant sigh, forming a smile on my big lips that were underneath my big nose, feeling so happy that I'm sitting with the mare I love at this very moment. This is a dream come true.

It's been more than a few hours since me and Link staged that jailbreak and succeeded. To say the least, all this time, I've been having fun with Fancy, and she herself with me. Even when she got tired of running off more of that excitement earlier, she still was happy. I even think all that fear of running into predators didn't bother her anymore.

I did take her to meet some of my other forest friends. Upon meeting other moose that I do live with and the like, they were all basically surprised that I've managed to bring my horsey friend to them. I figured everyone has heard of the mare that lives within that fence beyond that house of her human companion. But we all had a good time chatting with anyone we met. Course I was also still nervous inside, trying to think of ideas on how to woo the female horse without coming off as weird. But I knew I still had time to think it.

And all that time went by pretty fast, and the sun was coming down towards the horizon. By the time the sky was about to darken, I still didn't have any idea how to express how I feel about her. All that planning of setting her free for just this one day and I still haven't managed to tell her my feelings. It was kinda annoying, but, despite that, I didn't show it in front of Fancy.

Then, something amazing began to happen. When me and Fancy were walking along the banks of this frozen lake, came the unexpected arrival of the northern lights.

And the timing of them appearing couldn't be any more beautiful. I figured this was the perfect moment for the two of us...And probably the great time and place for me to tell her how I feel about her. Since then, we both laid near the lake on our stomachs, watching the glowing lights in the sky. Course I still haven't told her anything yet, both of us have been silent ever since, while I was still trying to think up of the right moment. But nonetheless, I was still relishing to be sitting here with her, our bodies barely close to touching each others. For now, I figured that's all I can ask for, without coming on too strongly.

I just wish I wasn't so nervous about her.

A small gust of wind blew through the lands, through our hides. Then, something weird was in the air. My big nostrils quietly took in a whiff. I caught that odd scent more than once earlier, like maybe four times. In fact, even before today, it was no stranger to me. It was that spicy scent of someone in heat. I know I was a guy, but I do know what it can do to me, and especially to a girl. Some moose ladies can go a little bonkers when they're under the mercy of their heat, and I do know that every different sort of female creature in the forest can go nutty too thanks to that. I even had a few encounters with a female in need because of that in the past.

I admit when a lady does come on to me and I can smell something like that in the air, it does get to me, but I always collected myself and managed to get away from them before things got REALLY heated. My heart always belonged to Fancy, not to anyone else's. You can imagine I never mated before, and I'd rather have my first time with her.

Anyways, the first time I caught that odd scent earlier today, I think was when I was running around with Fancy after I left Link at his tree, but I thought it was just my nose acting weird for some reason so I didn't pay much attention. Then the second time came while me and Fancy were chatting with the other moose I lived with. I thought it was one of the female moose, but then when the third time came around, I came to the conclusion that the scent was coming off Fancy. The fourth time, which is now, simply reinforced it.

If Fancy's currently in season, she wasn't exactly showing it. Come to think of it, she didn't show that neediness one bit, not even before and after I broke her out of that pen. I've never seen her act that way before, but I guess she was good at keeping her composure. I'm certain she didn't want to show it now since she probably thinks it is a VERY private matter. After all she wasn't Link. Maybe some other critters can control their urges too like her and I just didn't know it.

Not gonna lie, smelling her heat kinda stirred my loins a bit. But I kept myself collected and not show I was horny for her. Since she wasn't showing she was in need for someone to mount her, there was NO WAY I was going to SHOW I was interested in her...In that way.

Well...Other than telling her how I feel.

If my little friend came into our moment like Link would with his dirty talk, then I might as well have John the human hang my big head over his fireplace for being an utter dumbass.

I stole another glance at the painted mare, then quickly planted my eyes back on the northern lights once again. Come on, Tak...Now's your chance. Literally break the ice and tell her.

Before I could look at her and open my mouth, Fancy spoke first after this long silence, "This is so magical." I looked at her as she went on with a fascinating smile on her face without looking away from the lights, "I always wanted to watch them from where my home was at, but I never got a good look cause there were always things blocking the view. But now..." She leaned to nuzzle against me, "It's so beautiful." I smiled at her. They are beautiful...Just like you are. She then gazed directly into my eyes, "Thank you very much for this, Tak. I love it."

I chuckled, "Well, it's not like I paid the northern lights to show up on this very night. I'd say it's always a matter of timing." Yeah, like the right timing to tell you that I love you.

Fancy said in appreciation, "True. But if you did, I still appreciate it." Then her eyes wandered around the frozen lake, all the way to the landscape on the other side, "Breaking me out of that pen, just so I can enjoy all this open space...How can I ever thank you for all this?"

I responded fondly, "Ah, nothing really. It was the least I could do."

Then she said, "Still, having a squirrel open that padlock instead of having you smash the thing with your hoof, it's got to be amazing."

"Hey, sometimes Link tells me that the reason why my antlers grew this big is because they're sucking away my brain till it's tiny." Then I raised my chin, closing my eyes, boasting, "But he has no idea. I may look dumb and act dumb sometimes, but I still come up with great ideas."

Then she quipped, having me look at her, "Or maybe yours is still big despite what your antlers did while other moose heads have that problem."

Heh...I'd totally stand out among them. I smirked, "So you're saying I'm smarter than all the other guy mooses?"

Fancy nodded at me in amusement, "I think you're a genius. Seriously, no way anyone would come up with it...Not even me."

I refused to believe that, "I think you'd be surprised with what you can come up with. Just hasn't occurred to you before. I wouldn't call yourself dumb."

Fancy smiled for a moment before she brought up, "Least you don't think I'm a dumb horse like your little squirrel friend."

While she giggled to herself, that time out of mere embarrassment, I dismissed that with a shake of my head, "Ah, don't worry about it, I'm sure he's happy for you to be away from home as much as I am. Besides, even if he was mad, he'll get over it. Can't really stay mad at a pretty lady like you." Can't stay mad at your big round ass either.

She rolled her eyes, her tail moving a bit on the ground, "OBVIOUSLY not." We both shared a giggle.

Then we stared up at the colorful sky again. Then I got to thinking about this story my mother and father told me when I was little. About how the spirits of your loved ones always show up whenever the northern lights are around. Like getting a bit of a glimpse into the heavens. Sometimes you can even hear their voices in a very eerie way. I always thought that story was strange, strangely beautiful honestly, but now I kinda wished that my father could've met Fancy. I know my mother has earlier, and I suppose that's enough for me, but I wish he could've met her too.

I smiled a little bit before I started when a thought came to me, "You know, Fancy..." She gazed at me before I continued, "I know I told you about my father, and I am glad you finally got to meet my mom...We both know how she feels about getting close to human homes...But I realized something."

Fancy hummed in curiosity, tilting her head to the side a bit, "Hmmm?"

I said, "You never actually talked about your family. You know, YOUR mom and dad." I looked towards her finally, "All the times we talked you haven't mentioned them. What are they like?"

Fancy's eyes went wide a bit, looking a bit taken aback by the question. She stumbled a bit, "Oh, um..." Then she looked towards ahead with a thoughtful face, "To be honest...The reason I never told you about my family...I don't really know that much about them."

I frowned, "Why? How come?"

"....How life at where I used to live works." I was totally confused by the statement, I really showed it on my face. She must've knew I was going to ask so she went on, "I know my mom was there for me when I was little, but it wasn't forever. The humans that took care of us took her away from me when I didn't need to rely on her for milk anymore. She was pretty nice, while it lasted. And as for my dad...I never met him, don't know what he looks like. Mother hasn't really talked about him. Actually...I think multiple stallions were with her."

Holy moly. I said, surprised by all the words she said, "Multiple guys? How is that possible? Was she some kind of-"

Fancy fiercely shook her head, the look in her eyes telling me differently, "No, Tak, no...She wasn't a slut, it's just that the humans that we were living under put her through it."

I asked, quirking a brow, "I don't get it. Care to explain...Why?"

"Well..." She went on to explain further, eyeing downward towards the snow and ice on the ground, "It's...The place we lived in, the place I came from. It is the kind of home where horses live, but it isn't too much of a homely place. Me and other horses are kept at my former home for the purpose of breeding, mostly. And...It's weird. There are a multitude of reasons why everyone there does it. Someone there once said that a mare was brought there, cause they were getting old, and the owner of that horse wanted them to have a baby just so that they can have their offspring live on in their place after the mother dies. Another time I heard it was just to bring a new colt into the world so some human can take it for a new home for their family, or something. Like I said, the place is for breeding...Whether you kinda want it or not."

She lived in that kind of place? Gosh...I never knew about that. I commented, "I didn't think some place like that existed."

Fancy replied with a shrug, "You're a wild animal, there was no way you would've known. Anyways, I don't think even my mother knew who my father was. And when they took her away from me...I never saw her again after that. I kinda think those people took her away from that place to god knows where...Maybe to another place like that one cause there wasn't enough room for her. That's just a theory."

I put on a pity look for her, "Wow...I'm sorry."

She shook her snout without looking at me, "It's alright. It's the life I lived in...Before now...Before John."

I hesitantly pressed, "Did...Did you have to go through any of the...Breeding?"

The mare replied, her ears pinned backwards as she shut her eyes, "Close, a few times. Those humans that owned me tried to have me set up with a stallion or two. But each time I turned them down. They weren't exactly charming guys. They were so egotistical, always thinking they were the best studs ever. When it came to the kind of place I lived at, these guys were always looking for quality time with the mares. One time one of them bragged that they could break me so hard with their powerful hips and powerful legs that I wouldn't be able to walk again."

I was starting to steam that I was worried the snow might melt because of me. I commented, "They said THAT? They sound more inappropriate than Link!"

She glanced at me, "Yeah. Makes me wish they were more like you. But like I said, I always turned them down. One time I kicked one of them in the jaw to get em away from me."

I laughed a bit despite myself, "Damn, Fance." Didn't think she had THAT MUCH of a bad side. Good thing you didn't show that you were horny, Tak.

She grinned a bit, before she instantly melted it away, "And besides, what would be the point? Even if I did try to get together with them, they'd just leave me alone, never cuddle with me, never say they love me, and then I'd be pregnant months down the line, and sooner rather than later they'd take my little one away from me..." Her eyes went downward, "Just like what happened with me and mother."

I started, pitiness shone in my face and tone, "Aw, Fancy..."

Fancy went on, turning her head away from me, "...I never had any real friends...Never had a REAL relationship. Except my mother, but we both know it didn't last long. I was happy in my little years, but then when I started to grow up...I felt so miserable. I felt like I never had a life of my own." Sympathy was held in my heart for her. I can't believe what I was hearing. No one should be separated from their family. Hell, no one should treat a woman like that. Not ever. If I was there when Fancy was being pursued relentlessly by a stud stallion...I'd ram him off a cliff.

No one treats my girl that way!

I immediately calmed myself, then leaned in to rub my cheek against her neck. Then I could hear her giving me a slight chuckle. She said, "I was miserable...That was until John came. I was nervous living in a new environment, in this forest, but at the end, I was glad John bought me off my old owners and took me away from that place. I really love John for that." When I pulled away, smiling a bit at her, she looked at me once more with that smile of hers on her face, "And then I met you, and a few other critters, and I began to realize what REAL friendship is like. How different everything around here is. Today though...It made me feel more...ALIVE."

I chuckled, "I guess I helped you more than I realized."

She admitted, slowly nodding, "You did...You're a good friend, Tak...More than you really know..."

Right when she said that, I think it was time to tell her the truth now. This is THAT moment. I took a deep breath, my heart beating away in my chest, then began, "Fancy...Um." I glanced away a second before laying my attention back on her, "Since you told me something that I never knew at all...There's something that I...Really...It's something I haven't told you for a long time too."

Fancy tilted her head to the side, "Yeah? I'm listening."

Okay, here goes...

I started, "Fancy...Since we first met...I-"

But then something cut through our conversation. Something out in the woods near us. Me and Fancy stared plainly at them. We were hearing a bunch of wolves howling in the night. I frowned in annoyance. Oh damn it. Why did they have to do that NOW? I was SO close!!! The female horse, understandably, appeared frightened and her frame shook in fear. I looked to the mare to reassure her as the intrusive noise still happened, "It's ok, they're not real close. They sound like they're too far away to be nearby."

Fancy confessed, "I won't lie...That really scared me."

I told her, "Don't be. I think we're safe." Then, kinda deflecting to her on how I was really feeling inside, I moaned, rolling my eyes as I can still hear the stupid, distant chorus, "But I ain't gonna lie, I do hate that they howl sometimes during night when everyone's sleeping. I mean really, what are they, carolers? This isn't even Christmas yet! I know there's snow and all, but come on! Least do it under a full moon, and there's no moon at all. Buncha hooligans."

Fancy laughed, easing up her tension. Then she remarked, "You're a dork." I put on a big, toothy grin. Then she craned her head back and let out a yawn. She started getting up off the ground, "...I've had enough breaking the rules for one day. I think I'm ready to go back home."

I shortly nodded in agreement, beginning to stand up on all fours as well, "Yeah...I think I'm done too."

Then she cautioned, nervously turning to the treeline along with me with the wolf chorus still ongoing, "Let's try to make it back quick before any wolves finds us." When she was eyeing around the area for one second, she turned her eyes towards me, "I...Don't have a good sense of direction. Would you be so kind...?"

I took up her offer, "Sure. I know where we are. Follow me." I began to pace forward, leading the way.

One of my hooves was about to take another step when Fancy's voice made me freeze, "Oh, Tak." I twisted my neck to look at her behind me. She pressed with a curious frown on her face, "Wasn't there something you wanted to tell me? I'm still listening."

I desperately wanted to try saying it again...But I couldn't get the words out. It's like they were trapped within my throat and I was choking them to get out. I finally denied it, "No....It wasn't that important."

"Oh..." I wasn't too sure she was buying it, but she did nod her head, "Okay...Lead the way." I started moving and then she followed behind me as the wolves finally finished singing their blues.

My heart crumbled at this situation. Come on, Tak, you can do it! You're so damn close. Just tell her how you freakin feel, don't let this moment go to waste!

But the moment was ruined...And so was the end of my plan. Right when the wolves howled, and when Fancy yawned and suggested I take her home, it was already gone.

That was probably a lame excuse, but...I just can't bring myself to tell her now. My stupid fear of coming off as weird and her rejecting me was getting to me.

Guess I won't have much to tell Link after this. Maybe I can tell her how I feel about her...Some other time.

Shit...I hope there is another time.

There probably won't be another great time like this...

*****

After our hooves spent so much time crunching snow, the only sound that's currently made during this quiet night, me and Fancy finally made it back to her homestead without ever running into a single predator. Walking past John's house, we saw Fancy's pen standing exactly where we left it, with the gate still left open. Fancy's painted form went on through the open gate. She slowly turned around in the pen to face me as I stood at the other side. She declared with a relieved smile upon her face, "Made it. Safe and sound."

I acknowledged that with a proud nod, "Yep. I told you you'd be fine."

Then she frowned and stated, "You know, we should've went to Link's tree along the way. Probably would've made saying goodnight a lot quicker."

I don't really want to say goodnight to you sooner. I said, "Well, with the path we were on, I knew it'd take us longer to get to him and get here. Figures we'd end up here first."

She demanded, "Then how are we supposed to lock the gate? I think I can close it, but-"

I suggested, tossing back my head, "You can close it and go to bed. I'll go grab Link, come right back, and then he'll lock it. Simple. Don't worry, your owner won't know what happened."

Fancy stated concerningly, "It's not John I'm worried about. What if Link's asleep by now? I don't want you to ruin his beauty sleep just for this."

I brushed that off, "Nah, he's a good sport. He'll be fine." Then I formed a grin, "Besides, if you're so worried for him, you can have him SLEEP WITH YOU instead."

Her eyes went wide when she asked incredulously, "WHAT?!"

I let out a laugh, "I'm kidding, I'm kidding. I'm only joking."

She narrowed her eyes, "Don't joke like that. He'll pester me to death if I let him stay at the shed for one night. And I told you he ain't my type."

A chuckle welled up deep in my throat before I said, "I know...Too short."

The mare softened her face after taking a deep breath. Then she formed another smile and said, "Well...Thanks again."

"You're welcome." The night was so close to ending...But I don't want it to end. I still thought of doing what I'd wanted all this time. Still thought of going through with the last part of my plan. I think there was still some time left to salvage whatever's left of it. I then started, looking nervous, clearing my throat, "Um, hey, Fancy?"

Fancy said as her tail swished behind her, her ears pricked up, her attention piqued, "Yes?"

But with her staring at me like that...My lips froze again as my confidence waned. Damn it...Not again! I slowly shook my antlered head, "Nothing...Never mind." I turned towards the direction of Link's own homestead, "Go ahead and close the gate. I'll be back with Link." I started a few crunching steps as I promised, "I promise we won't make too much noise. Sweet dreams!" Despair grew within my chest like it did earlier today, the same kind I felt before I broke her out of that pen, and I tried not to show it on my face. Guess the night's ending now after all...

But her voice erupted from her chest, "Hey, Tak! Wait!"

I stopped in my tracks, startled with my ears perked up. Huh? I turned a bit to look at her, wrinkling my brow with interest. She appeared to have some kind of...Panicked expression in her eyes. I stated curiously, "Yeah?"

"Ummm..." Fancy said, "Don't leave yet. I...I actually have something to show you."

I prompted, turning fully to face her, "Err, what? Show me what now?" I didn't understand why, but with the way she talked...Now she seemed...Nervous about something. Wonder what that is about? Can't be the wolves...Or John. What's going on?

Fancy shook her head immediately, seeming to correct herself, "I mean...I uh...Have something...You know, to give you. For...Being such a good friend."

My face lit up, "A present for me? Hey, that's thoughtful. I didn't know you were planning to give me one."

Fancy slowly nodded, with a...Odd smile on her face, "Why not? It's...It's the least I could do for YOU."

Why does she look so weird? I never seen her act that way before. But I pushed that thought aside, and lightly demanded, "Well where is it?"

The painted horse turned around, her yellow tail swishing behind her, strolling across her pen, "Come with me." I shrugged my shoulders, then carried myself forward to the wide open gateway. I was kinda hesitant to take the first step through the gate though. In the back of my mind I was sorta afraid the thing would shut behind me, and then somehow by some kind of magic, the padlock would come to life and lock me up along with her, and I'd be trapped in here forever.

I wouldn't call it necessary a bad thing, I wouldn't mind being stuck in the pen with her, just to make this night last more longer, but I'd rather not be trapped in this place for a long time. Being stuck in a closed space for too long would probably be too much for me. And I don't think John the owner would like that too much.

But I shoved that stupid thought down, and took the first step through the gate, then the second hoof, then the last two behind me. Now for the very first time, I entered the fenced in area. Fancy called out to me at the other side, standing near the lengthy shed near that rectangular opening at one end of the structure, "Come on, hurry up."

I plodded till I reached her. I gazed directly at the shed, "Is it in there?"

"Yeah." She told me, swinging her head at the opening, "In the back."

I slowly entered the shed, considering I was a bit bigger than the horse since I am a moose. The inside of the shed was nothing FANCY, no pun intended. It was just as I figured. It was the perfect place for someone like her to sleep in, to keep her kinda warm from the winter elements outside since the inside of the place was mostly enclosed. Pretty much like a cave. At the other end of the shed, there was only some hay and a big blanket to also add in to the comfort of things, as a makeshift bed for a kind mare, thanks to the courtesy of John.

And the place was big enough for the two of us, just as Fancy claimed. Sure I was bigger than her, but there was still some room left for us to move around in.

When I wandered in the middle of the shed, I heard Fancy come in too. I turned my head around, seeing her look a bit shifty, with I can tell...A blank stare on her face. I frowned, getting a bit suspicious now, "What are you doing, Fancy?"

Fancy motioned her nose towards the back of the shed, "It's over there. Under the big blanket John gave me. It's a beautiful thing I found in the pen a while ago. Go on, take a look."

Is she alright? Something weird is going on here. No matter how much I wanted to voice it, I didn't want to outright dismiss her. I cared for her that much not to. I focused on the large blanket, lowering my head down to it. I twisted my neck and had my antler under the fabric and moved it aside a bit. When I tried to see what's under it, there was nothing special...Only hay.

Huh. Not here. I said with a confused frown, "Um, Fancy, I don't see your present."

She didn't say anything.

I tried again, "Fance?"

Again, no response. Like she just disappeared.

I lifted my head off the floor and turned quickly around, "Hey, are you o- Whoa!"

I reared back my head in shock and surprise...Seeing that the mare I'm in love with has suddenly turned fully around so her big, round flanks faced me...And pressing against my chest. I was in stunned silence, my legs wobbled a bit from how STEAMY this was turning. What the hell? Is she pressing her butt against me? Even my face turned HOT. I did see her lifting her yellow tail, to show me her winking, moist pussy, REALLY inviting me. And that wasn't the only thing that surprised me. That smell of her heat was pretty evident now that her butt was THIS close to my face. If I haven't smelled it before, well I do now.

And boy was it starting to get my loins going.

The mare in question had twisted to look back at me, her eyes filled with plea. Fancy said, "I-....I'm sorry, Tak. I'm so so sorry!"

I stuttered, "F-F-F-Fance? What's going on here, girl?"

She apologized profusely again, "I'm sorry, Tak. It's just...I think I'm in heat. I had it since yesterday, I think." My eyes went wide at that, my cheeks blushing more furiously. Yesterday? Holy crap, I missed out on it yesterday! She went on, "It's been bothering me all day long. I know it's not the first time, and I try to ignore it as much as possible. But this time...It seems to be A LOT more worse than before. I...URGH, CAN'T YOU SEE I CAN'T FUCKING TAKE IT ANYMORE?!"

Woah, this is first time I've seen her going nutty, and she's acting like one of those moose ladies! I gulped, "...What are you saying?"

"I'M SAYING..." She clarified, trying to steady her nerves, "Tak...I know you're my friend, and I can understand how wrong this looks in your eyes, we're too different, species wise...But...I want you to make it go away."

I blinked a few times in response.

Fancy begged, her rear end pushed against my chest again, "Please, Tak, I'm begging you. I can't take much more of this. I never had sex before, I think that's why it keeps feeling worse and worse each time it begins, and I just want to lose myself just this once. And I'd rather lose myself to you than anyone else. Especially not to a ego-centric jerk. Ok? I'm sorry, Tak, if this is scaring you, but please for crying out loud...HELP ME."

I just gaped at her, pretty stunned, my mind still trying to register what she is proposing for me.

"Ohhh..." She dipped her head a bit, apparently feeling guilty, "Oh, god...I'm sorry, Tak. I shouldn't have asked you to do it. I'm really going crazy. I'll get out of the way for- OH!"

I was starting to climb on her back before she could finish that sentence. I almost surprised myself that I didn't warn her, but I mostly didn't care. This was that moment I was waiting for...Even when the tables have unexpectedly turned. Her eyes widened with that emotion though, but she never objected. She was letting me do my thing, a relieved grin on her lips.

I finally mounted on top of her, my huge frame overshadowing her smaller form. Fancy was trying to hold her legs firm under all my weight. My 'little friend' has already grown between my legs, during when Fancy was begging me to mount her, since the fact the painted mare's big, sexy butt pressed against me and her heat really stirred me up. I was prodding it against her, till it touched that moisty cave entrance. I heard her whimpering in need. Trying not to keep the lady waiting and suffering any longer, I began.

My soon-to-be lover let out a shocked gasp when I penetrated her. I groaned when I can feel her walls trying to grasp so tightly around me as I pushed more further. I wasn't exactly sure how big a stallion's shaft would be, but seeing how small she is, I imagine it'd be smaller compared to mine. Then again I didn't care whose is bigger. I wasn't comparing. But I was still kinda surprised I'd be able to fit in her. But Fancy didn't tell me to stop. She was lifting up her head, her throat welling up in pleasure with her eyes closed. I wasn't planning to stop myself anyways. I never had sex myself, let alone had sex with anyone in their cycle, but this was the most AMAZING feeling I ever felt. It even feels more WARMER inside her than the Alaskan wilderness outside. I can see why Link likes doing his thing with the ladies so much.

My entire girth went inside her without a problem. I stopped a bit with a grunted snort to let her get used to it. My head reached beside hers, the beautiful mare looked back at me with her pretty blue eyes. She smiled at me, those eyes of hers showing me thanks, then she licked across my nose. I returned that smile too, in a bit of a goofy way. Not wanting to have her beg for me, I immediately began pulling away. Well...Giddy up, horsey. And then I shoved right back in.

The mare cried out, not in pain, but in pleasure I can sense. I continued bucking against her form, hearing her moan each time while she tried to stand firm against my movements. I was feeling so elated that I was making her happy. At least she wasn't hurt or upset. It definitely shows when her walls try grabbing me every time I try pulling away, before pushing myself back in the same time as the last. Her eyes closed, moaning a bit as she enjoyed this little rodeo. I wondered if she pictured me as an ordinary stallion, that I was THAT type that she wanted in a man.

I even wondered if she actually LOVED me, all this time. I wondered if she ever thought of me as her boyfriend, instead of just a 'friend' currently helping her in need.

But I pushed those thoughts aside. This wasn't the time to think those things. I figured we can talk about it AFTER. I tried angling a bit with my hips, trying to hit at some pleasing spot within the horse. Link has given me some advice in the past when it came to banging someone. There is always this spot inside a girl that he always tries to hit. I was following that bit of advice. Fancy tossed her head to scream out her eupohria, "OH! GOD! TAK YES! RIGHT THERE!" I mentally chuckled other than feeling the warm pleasure. Gotcha.

While my hips continued slamming against hers, I tossed up my head when a moan was rising in my throat. But I accidentally banged my huge antlers against the ceiling, groaning from the dizziness that just now appeared, caught off guard by how tall I was when I was on top of the horse. I think Fancy felt I had stopped for a second, and heard the odd commotion as well, and glanced back. She giggled in a cute way, not acting a bit impatient about it at all. I shook the dizziness out of my head, smirking right back. Then I was back in action, speeding back my movements once more, trying not to bang my head again, earning more cries of bliss from Fancy.

I leaned my head forward to nuzzle against her cheek as I still banged her hard and fast, her moaning still music to my ears. My bucks rocked her form. Beneath me I can feel her legs were a bit wobbly, but she still held on. I was thinking she would keel over from all this smacking from a big boy like me but she was tougher than I figured. My tongue lolled out of my big lips as this was feeling so much HOTTER than it was before.

Then, I can soon feel something else besides the pleasure building up. Oh man, it's coming. I knew right away what it was. This was another thing that Link also told me when he was teaching me about sex. It was the point where you'd give life...AND feel so totally happy at the end. I was nearing that point now, and I was giving it to her more faster than before as my eyes shut tightly. Her walls clamped more tightly around my shaft than usual. Fancy tossed up her head, and neighed. It rang against my eardrums, but I didn't stop one bit. I groaned, feeling I was about to explode. Here it comes!

I drove in one final time, burying myself deep within her, my head rearing up, not caring if it struck the ceiling the second time, and roared like a real moose. It reverberated off the walls, and like Fancy's neigh I can imagine it'd be heard outside for any wandering ears. My little friend between my legs pulsed, finally giving the mare what she absolutely wanted. I collapsed on her back as my form quivered and still fired, while the mare's head dropped down as she still held on from my heavy weight. I can imagine her womb being coated by my life giving essence as I gave her shot after shot...Till finally I was running on empty.

I breathed in and out, letting out a snort. Then with enough strength, I finally pushed myself off Fancy's back. My legs were trembling a bit, my penis shrinking back from the outside world, feeling a little worn out from this experience. At the corner of my eye, I can see my seed escaping her still winking pussy and dripping down to the floor. The corners of my lips smiled a bit at that. Filled her up good. I was mentally surprised at the thought. Dang, I'm starting to sound like Link now.

As she was huffing relentlessly, Fancy's legs were wobbling faster as if she couldn't stand anymore. She took that sign, and whirled around and headed for the blanket at the end of the shed. She flopped down on her stomach, moaning a bit from both pleasure, and tiredness.

Whew. Must've worn her slick. Fancy saw me looking at her after taking a deep breath. She formed a smile of gratitude, "Thank you so much, Tak...I feel so much better. It was so amazing, I never thought-" Then she looked guilty, as she suddenly realized what we did, "Oh...Tak...I'm sorry if this...Became awkward...Between us, I mean. I can imagine my heat made you do this, but...Um-"

"I love you."

Her eyes went wide at the words, "...What did you say?"

I repeated, "I love you, Fancy." I formed a smile, finally feeling the weight coming off my shoulders, "I always loved you. I always thought you were the most beautiful thing I ever laid my eyes on, and...I love you so much."

Fancy stared at me for a second, before she reformed hers with a quirked brow, "I always knew my type."

I laughed a bit in disbelief, "Hang on...You trying to tell me that you loved me the same way?"

The mare shortly admitted, "...I do." A giggle welled up in her throat, "Guess it really took this special night for our feelings to really come out."

My heart fluttered in my chest from that. I can't believe it...She really did LOVE me. I am more than a friend to her.

God...This night is going so much better than planned.

I asked, taking a step towards her as she laid where she was, "Why didn't you tell me that sooner? I wouldn't have minded."

She lowered her gaze, "I was afraid I'd scare you away with how weird that'd be."

I giggled a bit, shaking my antlered head, "Nothing about you could scare me away."

Her eyes raised to meet mine, "I should've figured that. But even when I feared that, I wasn't afraid of my feelings either. I didn't care who the man I liked was. I didn't care that he wasn't a horse like me. And I most certainly didn't care if there would be problems being with someone like you. Whether you were a horse or not, you don't have an ego and you care about me so much. You did so much for me for a long time, including today...And tonight. Quite honestly...You definitely fit my type."

I pulled off a cheeky grin, "Even when this type has a big nose and grows tree limbs on his head?"

Fancy snickered, nodding, "Yes...Even when he has those things." Then shortly, she added, "Besides...You look pretty cute with your big nose." She winked.

"Dawww, you really are a sweet angel." I leaned my big nose in and nuzzled her face. She returned the loving gesture. We nuzzled together for a long time, finally basking each other our love we felt for each other. Finally we pulled away, looking into each other's eyes. I told her, "Well...I better go now."

Fancy looked disappointed, "You don't want to stay here?"

I shook my head, "I can't, darlin, you know why. Link is still waiting for me to come get him. It's getting late enough already."

"But my owner won't come back till tomorrow morning. There's still time. Come on, Tak...You can go get Link in the morning and you'll be able to lock the gate before John shows up. And besides...I did want you to stay in the shed during the cold anyway." She fluttered her eyelids cutely at me, "Pretty please?"

Gosh, she's awfully tempting tonight. I let out a sigh, giving her a tiny nod, "Okay. Scoot over." She beamed, shifting a bit to the side as I came to join her on my stomach. She leaned in to nuzzle me as my body touched hers. After a moment passed, I broke the silence, "You know...We don't have to sneak behind John's back while he is off somewhere. I think we can also do this while he's sleeping at night too."

Fancy remarked in amusement, "Still got some bright ideas in your head."

"Got that right." Then I frowned, my thoughts on the future, "Although, I do kinda worry how long this will last."

Fancy yanked away, wrinkling her brow in concern with ears perked up, "Why?"

I brought up, "Well, John is planning on getting another horse for you to have for company, right? What if he brings a stallion here and he'd be my competition? Be pretty darn awkward you know."

She snorted with a roll of her eyes, "Who fucking cares? If he has a big boner for me, then I'll kick him in the mouth like I did to that stallion that one time. I do get my kicks after all."

I snickered, "I know."

"And if he has a problem with a moose mounting me, then I'll kick his balls."

I then added, "And I'm sure if he doesn't let up his fiery passion, then I'll be sure to break down the gate and rescue my lady. Nobody messes with her."

Fancy smiled in appreciation, nuzzling me again, "That's my type of guy. And by the way...It wouldn't have to be a stallion. It can be just another mare too for all we know."

Heh...That's right. I keep forgetting that. There is a chance for another mare to join the pen. As my smile melted away, I replied, "Like your new girlfriend won't mind sharing. Might be a little weird to have another girl watching us do our thing."

She assured with a giggle, "Don't worry so much, Tak. I'm sure we'll both think of something...Especially you. You always think of everything."

I corrected her, still nervous about the future, "Not EVERYTHING..."

"Oh, hush, I don't care. Everything will be ok. Nothing is ever going to change between us, even when I have someone staying with me in the pen. I love you, Tak...And that's all that matters."

Shortly, I smiled again, "Oh, alrighty." She is right...I should quit worrying about things. Everything will be alright.

"Good." She laid her head down on the blanket, closing her eyes as I can imagine our rodeo has really worn her out, "Now...Let's just enjoy this night together a little longer..."

I nodded to that. I can live with that...It's what I always dreamed of. I lowered my head too till the bottom of my chin rested on the fabric. My big nose drew in a lot of air, and then I let it out with my lips. I mumbled after a moment, "I really owe Link for this..."

The painted horse cracked an eye open, "By the way, please don't mention ANY of this to Link...Not the sexy bits anyway. I swear he will not live it down if he hears about it."

I snorted, rolling my eyes with a big grin on my face, eliciting a giggle from my new girlfriend's mouth. Like I was going to tell Link about THIS. I know he wants me to tell him the sexy, intimate parts...But I don't have to tell him that. I fondly told her, "Night, Fance...I love you."

And she returned those words fondly, "I love you too, Tak. Sweet dreams." And with that, she fell into slumber. I closed my eyes too, enjoying laying this close with her...Like my father would with my mother when they probably conceived me together.

I can imagine Link's face when I tell him how successfully everything went tomorrow morning...While leaving out the sex. I can imagine him saying 'that's my boy!', and proclaiming how proud he is of me for growing a pair. But I can also imagine my father, who is up in the heavens, probably roaming around within the northern lights this very night, being proud of his boy for finally being brave and finally having his girl of his dreams.

Besides Link, I'm not even sure if I should tell my own mother that I have a girlfriend, and it's the horse that she has heard about, and the one I introduced her to today, but...Time will tell.

I let out a satisfied, content breath while I slept. This first time enjoying this closeness with the mare that I love so much is something that I'll never forget.

I'm really happy that I went through with my plan...Against the moments of despair, against all odds, I'm happy at how everything happened at the end. And it's all thanks to Link that it happened.

I certainly do owe him one for this.

Link may not have thought it, but, learning from this experience...When a moose meets a mare...ANYTHING is possible.