Chapter 2

The Lakota Tribe Horse

As my relationship grew and developed with my human friend, the connection we built up was so strong by the time I was two years of age that, he only needed to whistle for me and I'd arrive on the scene no matter where he was and aid him with whatever he needed. Little Creek was a charismatic adventurer and naturally, we often spent our time exploring and trail riding in the open ranges. My life was peaceful, fun, comforting and happy. Despite the fact that I lost both of my parents really young, I had found my friend and guardian. I loved him to death and my loyalty utterly belonged to Little Creek. He in turn, adored me and spoiled me with much affection and kindness. Sometimes, other humans would often call out my owner for being way too much 'in love' with me. They'd say that no wife would come close to his prized mare. The other horses that lived in the village also joked that my relationship with Little Creek was sometimes way too strange and unnatural. But then again, most of them were always bit wary of humans and would never allow themselves to be that close to their own two-legged friends. They didn't know how much Little Creek had done for me. Without him, I would've withered and joined my dying mother. I trusted him fully.

As much as I cared and cherished my owner, I also very much loved my surroundings. The Lakota Village was my homeland. I got along with the bubbly and energetic humans there especially, the little ones. The other domestic horses that lived amongst us had become my good friends. There were couple of stallions who fancied me and tried their best to impress me. But I was never interested in what they had to offer. I believed that I was still far too young to even consider their advances, as flattering it may was.

On the fourth year since my birth, I had just returned from the very relaxing walk and joined the other Lakota ponies and began to graze in a lush grass. The horses greeted me with gentle nickers and I returned a smile in appreciation. They were always happy to see me...mostly the stallions.

I was said to be the prettiest horse in the village and even though, I was never vain of my looks...I was still quite aware of them. I had inherited my mother's beautiful paint coat and my father's blue crystal eyes which was a rarity in a horse. In short, I was extremely good-looking and that served as a great weapon for a mare. On top of that, I was greatly respected by every horse in this village. I was at home, at ease, and happy. In particular, I was close with a dark grey stallion named Great Conquest, and a lovely chestnut mare named Dawn. The two were almost the same age as me, and we grew up together.

Great Conquest was mainly used as a warhorse for our tribe, he had joined us as a small colt from a wild mustang herd, but Dawn was born in the village as I had been. And yes, she was named Dawn because her mother gave birth to her at early dawn.

I was really good friends with them both. Dawn was always so outgoing and curious, while Great Conquest although responsible and strong, had a very goofy and fun-loving side to him.

Life in the village was wonderful for me. I loved it and never envied the feral Mustangs that ran free in the wilderness. To me, freedom and happiness was here with Little Creek, with his friends, Conquest, Dawn, and the whole tribe.

Everything was usually the same around the camp-peaceful, enjoyable, lighthearted and safe. However, sometimes there were attempted attacks on us from cavalry men or other tribes and that's when the warhorses together with their rider warriors, marched out to defeat their enemies. I usually stayed behind because of my young age and inexperience and so did my owner Little Creek. But that didn't mean that we weren't determined to participate in these affairs and defend our homeland. We just never had a chance to show off our courage,...our strength, skill, passion, and honor.

Little did I know that soon my owner and I would be assigned on a mission. A mission that could prove fateful.

I continued to graze together with my friends, as the early Summer breeze blew past me and the scent of newly blossomed flowers overtook me. It was indeed a pleasant day...even though, Little Creek and I didn't get to spend much time together. I looked up to see him...he was currently busy helping the neighbors in making of new tents and other supplies for the season.

I was content either way and felt at ease...things couldn't get better for me. I smiled to myself and lowered my head again.

Completely unaware that my life was about to change in a very conflicting manner.

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