This chapter takes place during Chapter 8 of "Musgrave Blaze," and was inspired by sevenpercent's line: Alfie's ears went back, and there seemed to be something of a disagreement going on... "Disagreements" will make more sense if you read her story first. Otherwise, you miss the backstory; you'll also miss the chance to read her incredible description of Sherlock in formal riding gear putting his mount through his paces.


The magnificent bay was quite pleased with himself as he and his rider came to a halt at the center of the arena after both had been put through their paces. All 17-hands of him stood tall and centered, perfectly calm. His equally tall rider shifted imperceptibly in the saddle and gave the command for Alfie to execute a levade.

Alfie stiffened, incredulous, then tossed his head. You want me to do what?

Don't play ignorant. It doesn't become you. He felt the bay's muscles quiver in rebellion beneath his thighs.

I am not doing a levade.

Yes, you are. Sherlock's thought tone brooked no argument.

The bay's ears went back. I don't do that for anyone. Anyone.

You'll do it for me.

Why should I?

Because I said so.

He turned his head fractionally, unmoved by the rider's arrogant thoughts and unprepared to lose this argument. Highwood Alpha never lost.

That's your reason? That's all you've got?

A fraction of a pause. Alfie sensed a shift in his rider's attitude.

And because no one has ever ridden you as I have. And because no one has understood you as I have. And because I did not use a curb bit, crank noseband or a martingale.

Sherlock felt a quiver run through the bay's muscles as it took a step backwards, calming under this mysterious rider's intimate knowledge of him. The rider gave a subtle pull on the reins, the bit barely moving in Alfie's mouth, and the bay gloriously, gracefully lifted itself up, its back legs bending, forelegs tucking up flawlessly before returning to all fours.

Their disagreement had lasted all of four seconds.

Each of them won.