A soon as the call dies on his lips it is answered by the audible approach of another. Mixed feelings wage war inside him. He is both pleased and panicked in the moment. There is safety in numbers, and Hannah will be better off among a whole herd as opposed to just Tarek alone. As good as his intentions are, he has no experience with pregnant mares or raising young foals. They really could use the help. But what if whoever approaches isn't friendly? Is he prepared to handle that?

Tarek's heart beats an increasing tempo in his chest until a horse emerges from the among the trees. Then it seems to stop altogether. Tarek visibly flinches and moves to block Hannah with his body.

As his eyes adjust and he wraps his head around what he sees, Tarek too begins to relax. The muscles in his shoulders unwind, though his ears continue to swivel, alert, but no longer on the edge on panic. It's a mare. Just because the stranger is female doesn't mean she won't be hostile, but the odds do improve.

Tarek inclines his head in polite greeting. "Hello, I'm Tarek, and this is Hannah." he says, gesturing towards his companion. "We're not looking for someone, so much as somewhere." he explains. "Are you the lead mare? If not, might you direct us towards a lead? We need a place to stay. I was wondering if we might stay here."

Tarek gets right to the point. It's clear by Hannah's appearance alone that she she doesn't have much time. They need a place to settle, and fast.