Horse Play

"He's perfect. Literally, he has an amazing temperament, hardy, strong. The gentlest giant I have ever had the pleasure of being around." Even Misato had to grin, albeit significantly less smugly than her boss. "However, I would like to see him around a few of our horses as well. Surely, he must have some flaw."

"I doubt that you're going to find anything wrong with this handsome boy, Misato. But since we brought some of the other kids...let's have at it."

All too soon, the paddock now also held, in addition to Nimbatus, Parvula (a relative to the large stallion, who was coming into her own as an adult), The Preacher (a stallion who had previously been brought to Knox Farm from Carousel Stables),  and of course Knox Farm's first Nordanner, Odina, along with her daughter Bird-Eye, who was a literal spitting image of her dam. The group of horses frolicked about, playing happily. Nimbatus, at first, was hesitant at the sudden influx of other horses. However, in almost no time, he soon was loping about playing with the other horses as well, particularly taking a keen interest in Parvula. This came as no surprise to Shelby, but was a pleasant surprise to Misato. Never once did the shit-eating grin leave Shelby's face as she watched the equines at play.

"Are you convinced yet, Misato?" Shelby added, turning her attention away from the playing giants and grinning widely at Misato. 

Misato was hesitant. Still. Shelby had a keen sense for horses, particularly those who were in need. But adding another Nordanner to the stable should be a process and not merely a leap at the sight of a magnificent animal who was easy on the eyes. "Not quite yet."

Shelby nearly rolled her eyes, the grin slipping from her expression as she threw her hands up in defeat. "Tell me what more would you like to see, Misato? I trust your judgement....but I think you're being a bit biased here."

Closing her eyes, Misato had to calm herself. Shelby was quick to jump and that was precisely why she had hired Misato in the first place - she was the voice of reason. And that was exactly what she was attempting to do currently. Reopening her eyes, she glanced at the group of horses out of the corner of her eye. "One last test. I would like to see him in action, under the saddle. Then I will be convinced. Is that too much to ask?"

Nodding her head in agreement, Shelby resigned. "No, you are absolutely right. Let's see how he does under saddle."

-----

"You win, Shelby. He's perfect." 

Shelby could not help in the least when the broad grin returned to her features. Motioning to the stallion, now fully adorned in his dragon tack, frolicking about happily amongst the Knox Farm horses, she replied, trying to keep the haughty tone out of her voice, "See. Didn't I tell you?"