Back then.. he had lived a free life.
Contrary to the teachings of his elders and the doctrines laid out by his parents... the younger Sandsablaze allowed not only his mane and tail to grow long, but the hair about his feet was also cultivated into long shimmering waves that caught and reflected the sunlight and sent ripples of light across the underside of his belly that was otherwise untouched by the sun. Though he had lacked the little golden trinkets that (or so he thought) made his flashy smile flash all the brighter, he had enough confidence for two young stallions.
Knowing what he did now, he supposed he would have heeded their words and made himself less of a target.. but back then.. well.... he DID have a few fond memories to convince himself that he hadn't been all that wrong...Releasing a long yawn, the young brightly colored palomino stallion shook out his long mane to reactivate his brain and bring himself across this last bit of desert. According to his father there should be an oasis ahead, but given Sandi's predilection to stop listening the moment his father opened his mouth, he honestly wasn't one hundred percent certain that he was even heading in the right direction. Old Sandfire wasn't (by a long shot) something pretty to look at, and with
his penchant for drawling on and on about proper behavior and life quests... it really shouldn't be all that big of a surprise.
In retrospect, he could admit that failing to listen to directions was a bit like cutting off his nose to spite his face.
Nonetheless, when a distance green shimmer DID resolve itself into the promised oasis, Sandsablaze released a triumphant whinny and raced headlong the rest of the way, heedless for any other individuals.. and completely oblivious to any that would actually try
sleeping!
