The buckskin gazed out over the land for a few short moments, making sure the herd hadn't moved – not an inch. Although she had been exploring and spending her winter alone, it did not take long for the yearling to check. Why? Because she needed to know that not everything had changed. It might be small and insignificant, but it finally put her mind to ease. She would meet the new mares and chat with the ones she already knew. It was that simple.

The pale mare spoke again, letting out a longer stream of words. Little Bird met the challenge with an eye that focused completely on the other's face and ears that pressed forward in anticipation. It was easier when she was completely focused, and the buckskin was excited to speak more to the mare. All concerns about the herd had vanished; certainly it would be a pleasant conversation. The yearling bobbed her head, "Yes, but what about their leaves? Isn't it so weird?" She prepared to launch herself into an explanation, taking and step closer to the mare and flicking her tail at an imagined fly. Her voice dropped to a lower volume, like it was a secret. "I mean, they grow leaves, but for what purpose? To look pretty? And why would the leaves turn to different colors and just drop off right before winter? Isn't it strange to you?" She stepped back a step and made a pointed look at a grove of trees that sat lower down on the mountain, although they were pine. Wondering if she should mention them too, Little Bird's thoughts were interrupted by the pale mare.

Off the topic of how strange trees are, The buckskin returned to a shyer state again. The pale mare shared her name, a little information, and a smile. Little Bird smiled back. "Sa'hitba?" The attempt to copy the mare's accent didn't go so well, but the yearling hoped she would not be offended. "I'm Little Bird. Just got back from exploring some of the mountain, so I don't know some of the herd either." She fell silent and wondered what to say next. Trees were occupying her mind now, but she was sure the mare would not be as fascinated by them as she was. "Where were you before you came up here?" Her head tilted a bit as though she was going to shake out her mane before going to a more comfortable position. A hind hoof rose to balance on its tip and relax her weight against the other legs. With hopeful eyes, she made sure her ears were perked and attentive.