Indian Hemp has been here and the citizens of the Forest have undoubtedly smelled his presence or seen his shadowed form take flight through the solitary outskirts of this wooded territory. Indian Hemp is no social butterfly and he fears upsetting his generous host by mingling amongst mares that are not his own. It is for this reason that Indian Hemp remains distant, and takes leave whenever another horse is heard nearby.

This morning is no different for Indian Hemp. The thicket remains in shadow, though the sun has begun to rise. The young stallion dozes on his feet, with one hind hoof tilted in relaxation. His winter coat is merely a sprouting of fine, long hairs that do little to block the winter chill. The shelter of the trees does help but they cannot stop Indian Hemp from shivering in his sleep.

The spotted stallion is aroused by movement through the sticks ahead. He stirs and opens his eyes. He is about to turn and flee when he notes the chestnut form of Vercingetorix moving with drowsy intent through the naked brush. Indian Hemp pauses, and makes a sudden decision to follow. He hasn't had a chance to thank the stallion for his kindness.

Moving forward with focus intent on his target, Indian Hemp falls into step beside a mare. As their paths come together, Indian Hemp casts a startled look her way. She is a pretty thing, all silver and white, and the young stallion's heart jumps into his throat. Quickly he moves into a trot, trying to distance himself from the mare. The spotted stallion, so awkward with words, is all grace and artful movement through the trees. His hooves hardly disturb the earth and his narrow body passes with ease around each unexpected obstacle. His mane and tail, being so short and fine, do not snag on grabbing branches. He moves out around, flanking Vercingetorix and reaching the water's edge at nearly the same time, though Indian Hemp stands yards away. He lingers there, at the banks, while Torixs drinks. His head his held aloft and his eyes wild with apprehension.
Another mare emerges after the first and both mares join their lead as he drinks, one remaining hesitant on the banks, and the other stepping fearlessly into the frigid water. Indian Hemp only stands at this distance, eyeing the gathering with his nervous stare. Perhaps now would not be the best time to thank Vercingetorix. It appears he's busy enough without being disturbed by a lowly Hemp.

INDIAN HEMP

five years * stallion * black partial leopard * 16.1 hands * appaloosa x irish thoroughbred * cliff lion x niamh
played by Sabrina