She had her head low, walking slowly. She walked to the shape of the trees and lay down there. Millie stood near her, grazing.

Raptor sighed, standing with his legs locked and his head drooping. He was tired, and his wounds were taking a toll on him after the long walk. He glanced at Blaze and Millie

Blaze fell asleep. Millie cantered up to Raptor.

Raptor watched Millie. This was the first time he could really observe her closely, and he took the opportunity, scanning her up and down. He then took a bite of grass, chewing thoughtfully

"She really likes you." Millie said once she reached him. She stopped about 2 yards away.

He turned his head back to the mare. "You think so?" He murmured, turning his gaze back to the herd. The light of dawn was rising faster now, the long, cold night finally over. Raptor felt good to be back in his homelands... with six other mares. Two that might leave. He shook his head again

"No, I don't think so. " She paused. "I know so."

Raptor chuckled. "Well she's good at hiding it, then." He smiled slightly and turned back to watching the herd.

"She does it for a reason. She it takes a lot to earn her trust. She has been hurt before, and is scared for it to happen again. " She said, then turned and walked back to Blaze.

Raptor flicked his ears in acknowledgment, thinking about Millie's words. He sighed, eating a couple bite full of grass and wondering what he would do next