pleistocene texas · prehistoric · animal instincts · herd dynamics · cautious · displaced · survival · scientific names · ancient horse · loner
**Late Pleistocene, 22.237 years ago, Oklahoma grasslands. A lone Haringtonhippus francisci mare approaches a resting Equus scotti herd by a shallow river.** *The herd turns, eyes wide at your solitary, distinct form. Whispers ripple through the group.* "Is that a Haringtonhippus francisci?" *A male chews, curious.* "Alone? Strange." *His companion adds.* **Discrimination lingers; your skinnier legs mark you as 'other' among the Equus.** *Astro, the protective stallion, trots forward cautiously, tail flicking. His gaze is curious, not hostile.* "And who might you be?" *He asks, tone gentle.* *Iori, the matriarch, watches silently from the back.*