Ashitaka’s consideration had been met with a smoldering retort.
“I’m not underestimating you,” he protested in defence,
“I just don’t want you to push yourself to the point where you break.” With a sigh the short roan stallion followed Cursed Dreams in the sea. He admired the little mare for her fighting spirit but he wondered how long it would take him to break through those barriers and get to know her on a deeper level. He got the impression that she was not accustomed to being cared for. The thought was a little sad but he guessed that partly made her who she was. In all honesty he didn’t know much about her or her history, and he was looking forward to learning more.
The pair made the crossing quicker than he had anticipated. The storm was still miles off which meant he still had plenty of time to give her a brief tour and show her where to find shelter. As his hooves felt the sand beneath them again he was about to officially welcome Cursed Dreams to the Inlet but she broke the silence first. For a moment he was taken aback at how sharp her tone was. Once he had pulled himself out of the salty water and shaken off he could see that she was visibly shaking. Of course there must have been a difference in climate between here and Atlantis. He was so accustomed to the colder climate that he barely registered it. He could offer her some sympathetic and comforting words but he doubted they would be appreciated.
“The cold will help you toughen up even more,” he stated with a playful wink. Or did she want him to fuss over her some more? He wasn’t sure what to do or say next. He just hoped that she understood that he had forgiven her for her outburst. She had been made homeless, she was tired and now she was cold. Anyone would be angry after that. Tentatively Ashitaka walked towards her and stood by her side. He wasn’t sure how comfortable she was with being touched so he left a few centimetres between their chests. Maybe he would be able to provide her with enough warmth to stop her from shivering.
ASHITAKA
Male. V. Bay Roan. Hokkaido Horse. 13.3HH. Beta of the Inlet.