𝗟𝗨𝗡𝗔'𝗦 𝗟𝗨𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗕𝗬 ── Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron

Chapter 4: Liberation's Triumph

The event that roused you from slumber the following morning was the resonating grunt and the resounding call of "Colonel!" Spirit gently whispered into your auditory receptacle in a hushed tone, compelling you to bestir yourself. Subsequently, you emitted a weary exhale before dutifully hoisting yourself onto your equine extremities.

You redirected your azure gaze toward the site of unrest, where an indigenous individual found himself being forcefully escorted by two military personnel. Aesthetically pleasing in appearance, he possessed cascading obsidian locks, which he elegantly fastened into twin braids adorned with crimson ribbons. His complexion boasted a beguiling sun-kissed hue, while his profound irises exuded a lustrous shade of mahogany. His attire consisted of supple beige leggings, complemented by a matching tan loincloth gracefully draped over them. Additionally, he adorned his feet with moccasins of identical hue.

He bore a distinct fragrance, diverging from that of his accompanying comrades, which piqued your olfactory senses. Tilting your head inquisitively, your horn emitted a faint shimmer as you attuned to the essence of his being. There was an undeniable uniqueness about him, signified by the concurrent revelation conveyed by the revered Great Spirit. Intriguingly, vivid glimpses intertwined within a tapestry of evanescent imagery materialized before your discerning gaze—an ability imparted to you by your maternal figure, for it was the most formidable prowess bestowed upon a unicorn: the faculty to perceive forthcoming occurrences.

"What is amiss?" inquired Spirit, their warm breath gently caressing your dappled cheek. You responded with a discerning gaze yet refrained from averting your gaze from the distressing scene unfolding before you—that of the Lakota individual forced onto his knees in the presence of the Colonel. Your lips betrayed a subtle contortion while an undeniable heat resonated within the depths of your very being.

"Luna, you must reveal the truth to me," nickered Spirit, his movements restricted by the tautness of the rope encircling his muzzle. Observing his predicament, you swiftly flicked your elegant tail, inadvertently striking his countenance, thereby inducing silence. The intricate intricacies of the unfolding events would necessitate a thorough explanation at a more opportune moment.

The Lakota individual was escorted toward a sturdy pole adjacent to your corral. Ever vigilant, you remained steadfast in your unwavering attention towards him, refusing to divert your gaze from the fence line. Amidst this firm determination, the demeaning remark of a soldier reached your ears, provoking disdain. "Are you intrigued, fair mare? If so, comply with our commands, and perchance this gentleman could someday harness the fortitude necessary to ride upon your back, should he ever submit to the army's will."

You locked gazes with the man, piercing him with an intensified glare that conveyed the intensity of your displeasure. In response, he averted his gaze while muttering inaudible complaints under his breath, belittling the female gender. However, you chose to redirect your attention, retracing your steps towards Spirit, playfully nipping at his abbreviated mane. "Do not fret," you reassured in a deep, rumbling tone, leading him towards a nearby water source for cleansing purposes, seeking to dispel any suspicion or dubious intent. Acutely aware of the Lakota's persistent gaze fixed upon you, you allowed him to observe your sleek coat, for you deemed his scrutiny far preferable to the unsettling scrutiny of the army.

"Do you possess familiarity with the bipedal beings?" Spirit inquired, prompting you to lick at his ears delicately. Shaking your head cautiously, mindful of the sharpness of your horn near his neck, you replied, "Nay, I lack personal acquaintance. Yet, there exists within me a profound sense that his essence surpasses the trifling worth attributed to these bothersome two-legged creatures." Your hooves shifted restlessly as a man entered the enclosure, causing Spirit's body to tense, but you redirected your gaze elsewhere, casting a stern glare at the audacious intruder. He extended a rope harness, but you emitted a low, menacing growl, baring your fangs while leveling your horn towards his chest, adamantly commanding him to "Refrain! Maintain your distance!"