Gabbar
stallion . arabian . bay . 14.3hh . 6
“I see,” Gabbar says. “That knowledge should return easily to you then, I think.” He is glad Evaline seems agreeable to his suggestion that they travel together. Gabbar has been acquiescing to strong-willed mares his entire life and, on a hot day such as this, prefers not to butt heads. The palomino is not here by choice and he would not blame her for being contentious, had she chosen to dispute him, but he is glad all the same it appears the two of them will be able to coexist together. He tips fully over on his side and stretches out his neck with a deep sigh. Knowing full well from his own experiences as a breeder of no significance how demoralizing having no control over one’s own life can be, he will do all he can to ensure Evaline’s unhappiness is no fault of his own.
Still, there is only so much Gabbar will be able to do for her. He acknowledges this as his eyelids droop. The shade is almost cool and he is tired from his overnight trek. As his lids come together Evaline speaks again and her voice jolts him quickly back to wakefulness. He lifts his head, then rolls back up on his belly. “Yes,” he says simply. “Nereid and I had just arrived home before—” he stops, chooses his words carefully. “Before she was relocated. I have not had a chance to find others. Although,” he says with a sudden perk of his ears. “One other has found me. Avangeline. She’s sweet,” Gabbar continues with a small smile. He doesn’t know the Akhal-Teke well enough yet to expand on his opinion of her, but it is obvious she is a kind-hearted individual. Vulnerable, but in a way that conveys strength— a way that condemns those who would take advantage of someone so expressive.
“I hope to gather a herd organically, with all members driven toward the benefit of us all.” His eyes shift to the short grass in front of his knees. “It is not my desire that any member of the Dunes be here against their will. I am sorry for the circumstances that have brought you here —it is not fair to you,” he clarifies, looking up at her face, lest she think he refers to his loss of Nereid. “But I am glad to have you here, Evaline. Your staunch support of your son and quick interception of myself in the Prairie are both admirable examples of your dedication to your herd. I understand he is family.” His voice is level and he maintains eye contact with Evaline to emphasize the sincerity of his words as he continues, “But I do hope that this herd, too, will benefit from your loyalty.”
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