Like hellfire he came upon me; he shoved his nose to mine and I fully understood why. Had I been any healthier (or hell, even in his current position) my reaction would have been similar. I don't take kindly to strangers of any kind, and it would have been foolish of me to expect any different of any other stallion.

Even in my pitiful state, I exude my strength and power as I stomp a foot down assertively and arch my neck. Even with as thin and mangled as I outwardly looked, I had the heart and carried myself like a fallen viking king.

Because that was exactly what I was. A king. A chieftain.

And I would die one.

I make no threatening gestures beyond my initial assertion; this stallion was larger than I was, and had quite a bit more fat and muscle. He needed to know and see my strength, which was why I even asserted myself to begin with. I was letting him know I would fight him if I wanted to, but I chose otherwise. Words were never my strong suit, but I knew in a situation like this, I had no other choice.

“ My name is Urga'rok Bloodmane. “ I introduced myself, not bothering to apologize for my intrusion. I wasn't sorry – and I sure as hell wasn't a liar, either.

“ I've been lost at sea for what feels like years. Grant me shelter, food and the warmth of whatever women I bring, and I will in turn repay you for your kind gesture with additional protection...And your choice of my daughters when I produce them.” It was a more than reasonable trade. Had some strange stallion come to me with such an offer – one that couldn't be refused, even – I'd have been suspicious. I wouldn't blame this fellow chieftain if he felt the same bubbling of doubt. I was determined, though.

Desperate, even, to potentially give this male everything he'd want from me. I could feel my younger self tisk with disgust.

Her, too.

But I didn't care.

I had no other choice.

BLOODMANE

i'll not bow down;
i'll rise through the sun