seb attempt 2

She wasn't exactly waiting, but she was watching and she's been for a while now. Not the type to turn the head but eyes to follow. She's quiet, sharp and calm like she already figured out what kind of person is approaching her before their boots even hit the grass. But she didn't look unimpressed, just unreadable, like she had expectations and most people didn't meet them

The being that was now approaching her pasture had seen her picture before in fact, but the mismatches color of eyes caught them of guard, they'd had forgotten that look, though it was different in person. Almost like it looked through things, but there wasn't any magic to it, just a gaze that made you rethink what you were planning to do

They didn't bring much with them, just their old same backpack they had from a few visits back. Inside they had a few treats, worn down brush and some folded notes they wouldn't end up needing but had just in case. They didn't exactly come to sell themselves or impress her, just to see her and maybe they'd be lucky enough

The farm was still peaceful as ever, not too loud or too empty. Truly a place to loose track of time without feeling like you lost anything, it was just perfect to take your time

They walked to the pasture where they saw Seb standing near the middle of it, not pressed up any wood or showing herself off. She didn't move either when they walked closer, beside shifting the weight on the other leg. He mane flowing across her face with the gentle breeze, you could see she was clean and neatly brushed. Her tail slightly curled and feathers neatly trimmed, she really was well taken care off and i couldn't blame whoever was taking care of her in the current, she was truly one majestic mare

The being slowed their steps and they got closer to the fence, but not because of nervousness, but because it didn't feel right to rush. She didn't exactly act like a dog happy to see you, they were nothing but a stranger to eachother and she was deciding if they were worth her time. 
They didn't try to call her, just as always, leaned against the fence post, hands in the pocket of the jacket and letting the air settle between them, the morning was still so early the sun haven't risen yet to start drying the damp grass. They birds were only just waking up in the trees nearby and the sky was soft grey-blue, making the place looking even quieter than it already was

Looking at her she still wasn't moving, she didn't even blink, just watched. It took maybe 20 minutes before they decided to finally move, reaching out for their backpack and pulling out some treats. Something small and nothing sweet, just something simple like shredded beet, a little grain and mint.Hoping this may just get her soften up a bit, they had to be careful for it to not blow away in the wind, only for it to ruin the moment. Now instead of offering it straight out they walked a few steps along the fence and placed the treat on the lower rail, something not too close or too far, then they backed away just enough

The mare didn't move at first, but then slowly lifted her head in curiosity and and slowly stepped, and again but she didn't trot like a puppy who smelled food, no, she walked like she had all the time in the world
When she finally reached the post she lowered her head and took the treat gently, brushing against it once to test before committing. TThen she took one crunch, and then two. She still didn't look at them, but they smiled anyway, happy that she was willing to come over

By the time spent by the pasture it was nearing midday, by now they've moved to the stable yard. Shade has already casted over the pasture and they thought if Seb wanted to follow she would, and she did. Maybe not exactly close behind, but enough to show that she wasn't finished yet

Her stall door was open, just a little, eough for her to go through. She didn't do that right away though, she lingered outside with the head low and eyes occasionally side eyeing the being who already taken a seat on a overturned bucket across from the open door
They held a brush now. Not raised or held out though, it was just on their lap as they played with the thumb along the wooden handle. They didn't speak much this time, only a little here and there and mumbling. Not directly at her, they were just thinking out loud. Eventually she decided to step closer, and she knew she was willing to give them a chance to prove they could handle it

They saw her and gently stood up with a smile they couldn't hide. They let her give a good look, and when she came close enough they reached out with the brush. But not to touch, more like and offer and let her smell it. Which she did, then bumped it lightly with her nose as if she approved

Happily they started to brush slowly,with long strokes down the curve of her shoulder through her beautiful sleek coat. It was so smooth like silk. But she clearly was strong with the highlights of the muscles from the shining light. Meantime, she looked and watched, and waited. Secretly she did like it though, the brush and the quiet.  
Once done she eventually stepped away, tail flicked that the moment was over and they let her go satisfied. They honestly got more than they expected, which was more than enough

Later in the day they stable yard was quiet again, most of the visitors long gone with only a few soft clinks and snorts from the horses in their stalls. The being aready brought out the tack, cleaned it and laid it nearly on the fence hook nearby. The halter was simple soft lined. Now putting these on would take a bit longer time.. she was smart, she didn't fight the halter but tested the movement, lifting her head just out of reach at first then stepping towards them like she'll allow it, but also to see if they deserve it
And they did! They were patient, with calm and no sudden moves, and a few more mint and beet treats sealed the deal

The saddle was accepted and once everything was secure they stepped back to look at her, and she was clearly very looking ready!
The ride started slow, but there was still spark, Seb wanted to move and didn't wait to be told. She wanted wanted to explore, down the pasture trail. The being didn't try or need to steer, only giving soft guidance when needed. She followed when she wanted, and when she didn't she paused, flicked her ear and chose her own way anyway

Though there was a moment halfway through the trail where she stopped completly. They almost though she'd bolt, but she didn't, she just stopped to listen to a hawk that flied above that caught her attention. With her head lifted up and ear sharp, she lowered again and walked like she used to, being the one in control

The path turned and led them into a place that felt untouched, a pretty scene of moss on rocks, little white flowers spread here and there and a light shining down through the leaves making the place looks so special, there she stopped again.
They slid off, slowly and quietly. Didn't drop the reins though, just loosened them in their hands and gave her space as they appreciated and admired the area. Seb sniffed the air before she lowered her head to graze, but just for a minute

The being stood beside her, hand resting on her neck, she didn't move away. A moment pass and they think this will be enough for today, they returned to the farm just before the sky dipped to orange. The ride back was definitely more smoother, she even followed their lead a little more, still not all the time but enough to show she was thinking about it.. considering.. choosing..

At the stable she walked into her stall, no looking back, just steadily and gracefully
No brushing, didn't push. Just did the usual routine of the gear off and putting it aside. Without words, they took their hand into the jacket for a last treat. A mash of grains and apple slices they went to bring. She blinked slowly when they held it out flat open. Then stepped slowly forwards like she knew it was the last they had.She brushed her lips against the palm, lingering before she took and backed away, chewing slowly.

Happily looking for just a bit longer, before she walked back into her stall, they said goodbye
Maybe she'll still be deciding, but if she doesn't there's always tomorrow