Lori ripped her hood from her head and glanced around hastily.
Gaia had come to a stop in the middle of what looked to be an orchard. There were no leaves and definitely no fruit, but the dark, snow covered trees that stuck out of the ground were laid out in neat rows.
Before them stood a cloaked figure. A dainty gloved hand was extended towards them, glowing with latent majick.
“Wh-who are you?” Faye raised her head and pulled her hood down with a hand that was shaking like a leaf.
The mysterious figure looked up at them from under their cowl, revealing a beautiful faerie female. Her hair was as dark as night and her face was pale. Her bright violet eyes gazed at them curiously.
“What are you doing here?” the mysterious faerie asked, her voice sounded distorted.
“I asked first!” Faye argued. “What do you want with us?”
“Faye?” Lori tapped her sister, gazing ahead in awe. “I, uh, I don't think she was talking to you.”
The sisters watched in amazement as Gaia nickered softly, shaking her head and pawing at the snow. The faerie's purple eyes softened as she gazed intently at the horse. The dark-haired beauty nodded sympathetically before finally turning her attention back to them.
“I can only apologise ladies. It appears your poor mare has led you on a bit of a merry goose chase.” She smiled.
“No shit!” Lori spat, swiping sweat from her face. “Who are you? What is this all about?”
“My name is Indi, I live here.” She gestured across towards the small stone cottage they had seen on their way through the woods. “I'm afraid I often forget howmy song tends to carry, especially when it's a bit blustery out. Your friend here heard me and thought I was calling for her.”
“...What?!” Faye screeched. “What are you talking about?”
The faerie shook her head with an apologetic smile. “I'm sorry, that's not making much sense – is it? Why don't you dismount. I'll take Gaia to our stables and–”
“H-how do you know my horse's name?” Faye spluttered.
“She told me.” Violet eyes looked up at them, wide with innocence.
“...You can talk to her?” Lori gaped.
“Of course.” Indi smiled happily. “How else would I know her name?”
There was a long, thoughtful pause.
“Okay, good point,” Lori conceded. “What do you think, Faye?”
Her sister cast her a nervous glance over her shoulder, but before they had a chance to decide, Gaia lowered her shoulder and carefully dropped down onto her knees. The faeries squealed in unison and leapt from the horse's back just as she flopped the rest of her body heavily into the snow.
“Gaia!” Faye scolded.
“Please don't be angry with her. It was an honest mistake. Really, if you're going to be mad with anyone, please, be mad with me and my careless singing,” Indi pleaded.
“Well, seeing as my horse has decided we're staying...” Faye adjusted her tunic nervously. “What did you say your name was again?”
“Indi. Pleasure to meet you both.” The female nodded politely.
“I'm Lori and this is Faye,” Lori mumbled, her knees shaking. “B-but you should know we weren't out here alone! Our friends will be looking for us.”
“Of course, please don't be frightened. I mean you no harm.” Indi smiled kindly and gestured for them to follow. “Honestly, I don't think I've ever met anyone who's had cause to be frightened of me before.” She laughed, a delightful tinkling sound.
Lori and Faye stumbled gracelessly behind the faerie, keeping a safe distance away from her. Faye grasped her sister's hand and squeezed it tightly.
“Indi? Are you out here?” another voice called through the snow. A man's voice. Lori's stomach churned.
“Uh, yes!” Indi replied with a sheepish laugh and glanced back over her shoulder.
