Gathering around a small woven basket, the centaurs looked down at the crying baby inside. Whispering amongst themselves at the odd sight, your wailing only got louder before you were suddenly cradled against a warm chest. ‘We’ll raise it.”

At the sight of Pyriche lovingly cradling you while Halethon stood protectively in front of you both, the herd reluctantly agreed to take you in.

Life passed peacefully as you were raised by Halethon and Pyriche. Using their experience of childrearing and knowledge of humans, they managed to create a passable diet of small mammals and berries for you while also educating you on your heritage. They knew how harmful it would be for you to grow up thinking you were a centaur, and made sure that you were aware and proud of your human heritage. Soon, you were old enough to play with the other centaur children.

Making your way over to where the centaur children had gathered, you watched as they raced each other. Having finally been allowed some more freedom to run around instead of being stuck by their mothers’ sides, the children were excitedly comparing speeds, running in races around the field.

Having just won a race, Akasio paused to gloat, basking in the admiring and jealous voice of his peers. Glancing around, his eyes landed on you, an unfamiliar new addition among the group.

His mother had warned Akasio about a human child in the herd, telling him to be gentler around them and remaining respectful. However, her warnings went in through one ear and out the other as Akasio daydreamed about racing a hare.

Cantering over to you, Akasio excitedly circled you thrice, looking you over from head to toe. His first time seeing a human, he stopped in front of you, bending his forelegs and lowering his body so he could better see your legs. Reaching a hand out, he poked your legs, his eyes wide as he gawked at the unfamiliar sight.

“Hey, hey. What are these? Are you fast?”

Suddenly, he paused, turning to look up at you with sparkling eyes.

“Wanna race?”