Indian Hemp, as in previous years, has made no plans for winter. Growing up, his step-father did little to aid the herd. Granted, winters in Hemp's birthplace were mild. The gruff stallion still did not coddle his herd, especially not little Indian Hemp who was nothing more than a bastard child, kept around solely to appease his mother, who was most desriable, if only for her looks. Because of his limited experience in dealing with harsh winters, Indian Hemp lacks both the physical capability, and the knowledge to fair a winter as well as this red dun surely does. Vercingetorix is impressive in his good flesh and thick coat.

Indain Hemp is admiring this, and having second thoughts about what he intended to ask, when Vercingetorix takes Indian Hemp by both pleasant and terrifying surprise. The spotted stallion's already wide eyes widen further and he nearly chokes on his words. "Are-are you sure? I don't want to intrude." There is a pause as Indian Hemp catches his breath. "Though, I think my mares may appreaciate company other than mine..."

For the moment, Indian Hemp has forgotten why he was glad to find Torix here. New worries worm their way into his thoughts, mixed with gratitude and a hint of mistrust. He does want the best for his family. A place closer to the heart of the forest, and the safety of the larger group would benefit them. Though, as much as Indian Hemp wants to form a closer relationship with another stallion, and find a friend that is more like himself and less like a mare, this is a big step forward for him. Hemp can't help but remember the dirty tricks his step-siblings liked to play on him. As much as he tries to forget the past and move on, it is always there, a predator lurking in the shadows of his mind.