Ahrie chased the jacked horse.
Through the forest. Branches slapped his face, twigs snapping under his boots.
The damn horse didn't even look tired.
Their chase led them back into the river.
"Wai—wai—wait! Time out!" Ahrie yelled, waving both hands.
The horse skidded to a stop, snorting.
Both of them walked down the riverbank. Cold water washed off dirt and sweat.
Ahrie fished for food, stabbing at the water with his rapier.
The horse joined in, stomping hard, splashing, cutting off the fish so they couldn't slip past Ahrie's reach.
Ahrie built a small fire, skewered the fish, and held them over the flames.
Smoke curled up, skin crackled, juices hissed as they dripped into the fire. The smell spread quickly.
When the food was done, the horse shoved its head closer. Asking without asking.
"The hell? You eat this too?" Ahrie blinked at him.
The horse gave a slow nod. Serious.
Ahrie barked out a laugh. "Figures. No wonder you're jacked as fuck."
