Common

Leaving the cool waters behind, Sihtric stepped onto the Harden Sands. He paused, a cool breeze ruffling the ends of his tangled mane, carrying with it a promise that seemed to breathe life back into his weary bones. He had been on the verge of despair, his hope of finding his mother dwindling with each passing day that stretched into weeks, then months. Each day had strangled another piece of that hope. He drew a breath, a mere whisper on his lips, knowing it was time to bury those memories deep within. He needed to push aside the gut-wrenching pain, to silence the thoughts that relentlessly plagued him.

With a final, lingering thought, he turned towards the familiar commons. Perhaps he could find someone to help him, someone to whom he could confide his burdens. The sandy ground gave way to brittle late-summer grasses that brushed against his knees as he crossed the clearing. His glacial blue eyes scanned the scattered horses, singles and pairs, none catching his attention until he spotted a lithe, onyx mare on the outskirts.

He approached her cautiously, his dark-rimmed ears twitching amidst his thick mane. Curiosity sparkled in his eyes as he slowed near the taller, slender mare. He admired the delicate curve of her nose, the untamed fire in her dark eyes. She rested beneath the shade of a large tree, sunlight filtering through the branches to dance across her dark coat.

Clearing his throat, he drew her attention, arching his neck in a proud yet gentle manner, a kind smile tugging at his lips, careful not to frighten the flighty mare.

"I am Sihtric," he introduced, dipping his head, his thick forelock falling over one crystal blue eye as he looked up at her. "Would you mind if I joined you?" Leaving the decision entirely up to her.