"Dal!" she exclaimed, running to the horse. Dal's black coat shimmered like obsidian in the pleasant summer sun. A loose rope kept him tied to a greeting pine. He whinnied upon seeing her approaching, tossing his head in a welcoming manner.
She threw her arms around his neck, burying her face in his mane. It smelled sweet, like jasmine. The hairs tickled her nostrils, drawing a delighted laugh out of her, and then a violent sneeze, which she rubbed away and then immediately buried her face in his mane again. What an amazing disregard for her own health!
"Dal!" she repeated, drawing back to stroke his beautiful muzzle. The horse whinnied in delight. "You're the only one that isn't freaky and weird here! Hey — have you seen that weirdo lady or her annoying sparrow anywhere?"
Dal puffed a puzzled breath out of his nostrils in response.
