It should have come to no surprise Shakuntala was found in the horse stables, mucking out one of the stalls as per the duties of another trainee. She had agreed to take on their chores in exchange for a few loaves of bread and cheese. Unfortunately for them, the horse lover would've taken on what they had to do even if there wasn't an incentive, so the food was kind of like a bonus to the copper-skinned girl. Since looking after the horses was a messy job, she stowed the bread and cheese away in her quarters for enjoyment later. She just hoped her roommates wouldn't get to them first.

Wiping the back of her hand across her brow, Shakuntala propped herself up on the shavings fork and let out a sigh. It was unbearably hot and the stables were absolutely sweltering. Being cramped up in there wasn't the best option then, but the girl couldn't think of any else better place to be. Enjoying the company of the animals she adored so was better than being among people. At least, to her, sweating like a sinner in church was a small sacrifice to pay if she could remain with them.

Still... Shakuntala thought to herself with a wistful sigh as she returned to her work, her lips thinning to a thin line on her taut features. I'm just alienating myself, just like how I used to with mum... I-I... I can't just hope to make friends closing myself off like this all of the time...

Nilah44