Was I left behind?
Tell me, tell me I survived.
While most of the sweat that had coated my body had dried into hard hard, curled tufts of fur, I could still feel a slight dampness against my chest and shoulders. I was thankful for the reprieve of Orhan's oasis, and now that Nova had excused herself I had an excuse to take a better look around. The widespread, long fingers of the palm fronds rustled above us in the passing breeze, making long, skinny shadows dance delicately against the orange sand. It was peaceful here. Orhan had found something unique in this harsh terrain and made it his own. I breathed a heavy sigh of relief, a slight dizziness washing over me, as all the pieces seemingly fell into place. I knew in my heart Vita Nova would be well cared for here. That meant I had one less family member to worry about now.
When Orhan dismisses my apology I bob my heavy cranium in response, the matted and wet strands of my thick forelock coming to rest gently over one eye. I smile thankfully to the buckskin stallion.
I let my gaze drift out over the sand mounds in the distance, my vision hazy as the heat out there plays tricks on my eyes. I'm not looking forward to the trek back to the Prairie. Just getting here had been enough hard work for one day. So when Orhan suggests I stick around, I consider it seriously. One copper-colored ear lobe flicks back against my poll as I think of my own family back home on Luthien. Samhain was around to keep an eye on our family. And even Paradiso, who was quickly growing into a young stallion, was vigilant enough to assist with patrolling duties.
I look to Orhan once more and bob my head again. "Maybe I will stick around." I say, watching the buckskin stallion. If only to enjoy the company of friend for a little while longer.
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