The sound of a sharp whinny from behind made Chuma skid to a halt, neck twisting to look behind her as she pivoted around, pink nostrils flared wide and blue eyes flashing. Her heart was beating fast from the exertion and her barrel heaved with her breath as she turned to face the horse that was quickly approaching.
The thick underbrush rustled, the sound of hoof beats growing steadily nearer, and Chuma felt her body grow tense with anticipation. The wind was not in the lanky mare’s favor and she could not get a proper scent, but if this was the lead stallion… who knew what fate awaited her. Every bone in her body was screaming to turn and run.
A shape broke through the trees and Chuma sank back on her haunches, ready to rise up in a half rear and strike her attacker with hoof and tooth - but it was a mare who faced her. A dainty, pleasant looking mare with friendly eyes.
The breath left Chuma’s muzzle in a gush of air, relief rushing through her wiry body. She stood on legs still shaky with adrenalin, hearing her mother’s voice, unbidden, ringing in her ears. stupid, stupid girl. You were stupid to come here and stupid to be afraid. You knew what you were risking. It was all true, she had known what she was risking, and still she had come… but it was all okay. This mare clearly posed no threat, she was not being attacked…. and she felt so alive. Part of Chuma almost wished there really had been a fight, but she stifled it. She still had to be careful.
”No… well yes. I’m just passing through.” Chuma flicked her tail against white splashed hocks, watching the other mare carefully for some sign of her next move. ”My name is Chuma.” Her voice did not waver when she spoke, although her heart was still beating loudly in her ears, blue eyes daring the other mare to call out for a stallion and drive her off - either that or force her to stay. She could not quite decide which one would be worse, but either way; blood would be spilled.
- CHUMA
This is a battle you cannot fight,
where you only can surrender
Mutt | Chestnut white splash (ee Ata nspl)| 15.3hh | 2 | Rade x Maji | Gecko
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