The Growing of Healers

The white stallion’s mane draped majestically over his neck and his sleek form stood still in front of the startled healer. After regaining her composure from the fright, Hebeny opened her mouth to speak, “o graceful steed, thou hast given me quite a fright… forgive me my weakness.” The stallion stood, motionless, studying the girl. “Can… can I do something for you?” the girl asked softly, making her voice gentle and kind. The stallion seemed not to notice this and lowered his head and began to casually nibble on the grass at its feet. “Okay, alright,” Hebeny sighed, “well, I better keep going or I won’t get to the gate in time to meet the others”. With that, the girl lifted herself up and began to walk down the hill toward the horizon.
She began to whistle to herself and ponder things deep in her mind as she walked at a steady pace when all of a sudden something dawned on her. She stopped. A soft rustle in the grass behind her. The sound of hooves in the dirt. “You’re following me,” Hebeny realized aloud. Another snort arose. “I see.” Suddenly, she felt his hot breath on her cheek, and she turned to look it in the eyes. “Where did you come from?” she murmured softly, her tone hinting affection. The horse stomped its foot in response. Hebeny had no idea what the animal meant by it. “Alright,” Hebeny announced, raising her voice a little, “if you’re going to come with me, that’s under one condition.” With that, the young healer turned to the snow-colored animal before her, took hold of his mane, and with one swift leap, hoisted herself up onto his back.