A long silence followed Orhan’s question – too long for comfort. As the seconds ticked by, the stallion’s gut tensed and a creeping sensation began to crawl along his spine. Sweat trickled uncomfortably down the insides of his loins, and his honey-brown eyes bore into the other’s with intensity. Though the tall young stranger before him did not strike him as a threat, Orhan sensed that he was not entirely being forthcoming about his reasons for being here, and when he finally responded to his question without actually answering it, Orhan’s suspicions – already firmly rooted – began to grow like a weed.
He lifted his chin and frowned slightly as another breeze reached them, carrying with it the scents of the ocean. Just as this happened, something broke within the stranger and his words tumbled out, as much plaintive as they were honest. It was a confession. Orhan watched him hang his head as though with shame, and for a split second his stern expression softened, then creased again with confusion. The Lagoon? The stranger had announced this as though it was important, as if it would tell Orhan all he needed to know, but in truth, Orhan had no idea what he was talking about. Best play it safe, though. You have the advantage right now.
Dipping his chin to his head, he resumed a careful mask of solemnity. “Relax. If you mean me and my herd no harm, that is all that matters. Tell me, what is your name?”
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