Phase 3 Bonus - 10 Years Together

“Mist!” The call was followed by a familiar clicking sound, the mare raising her head with a soft whinny as her tail swished behind her, breaking into a canter as she darted towards the gate.

Alene smiled, the human’s features lighting up. “Hey, sweet girl. Look what I brought for you.” She held out one of the homemade horse cookies she liked to make on special occasions, Mist letting out another excited noise as she dipped her head to take it, ears perking forward in surprise as she was greeted with the taste of peppermint mixed into the usual treat. “Do you know what day it is, Mist?”

The mare shook her head, bowing her head when Alene held up the soft rope halter in her hands, slipping it over the Loshenka’s face and securing it.

“Well, ten years ago today, I met you for the first time.” Alene beamed. “Happy Homecoming Day, Mist!”

Ten years?

The mare blinked, stilling for a moment. Had it really been that long? Two thirds of her life?

“I was thinking we could go on a nice trail ride, hm? Stretch those legs of yours?”

Mist shook herself from thought, whinnying her agreement and letting Alene hook the lead rope to her halter before being led out. The short walk to the stables was familiar, even as her gaze darted from place to place as she took in the activities around her. She stood still as Alene tied her and fetched the brushes, giving her a thorough brush before putting the supplies back and returning with the soft bridle Mist adored.

It was gently slipped on in place of the halter, Alene leading the mare over to one of the mounting blocks and climbing on swiftly.

Even after so long, Mist hated saddles. Luckily, her favorite human didn’t mind going without.

“C’mon, sweet girl, let’s go. Where do you feel like heading today, hm?”

Mist nickered, tail flagging behind her as she set off, gentle hands on her reins as the duo took to the trails around the stables and the life she’d been brought into so long ago continued day by day.