The creature huffed and stomped against the ground as you approached. It was safe to say that you and Pepper did not get along. Lorenzo chuckled it off and proceeded with the lesson anyway.

The two of you were bound together by the lengthy list of crimes you had committed as partners. Lorenzo was good at distractions, you were good at stealing. It was as simple as that— a friendship curated on the simple fact that you both were robbers.

Recently, times had been significantly worse for everyone. The Plague was rampant on the streets, with precautions being taken by everyone. Stealing and crime was at an all time high, with Lorenzo and you being the most wanted in Florence.

After one too many run-ins and gambling scandals with Gerbino, Lorenzo had gotten the guy onto you both. Trying to get ahead of Gerbino, Lorenzo started getting ready to flee, just in case. You both had a lengthy plan instilled for when Gerbino did find you. And it involved taking Lorenzo’s horse, Pepper.

Pepper was a black and sandy colored mare. She was a thoroughbred horse, hard to come upon recently due to the sickness. But Lorenzo took great care of her, brushing her mane and feeding her properly.

“Just stick your hand out and let her sniff ya. Horses don’t bite.” Lorenzo teases, grabbing your wrist and dragging you closer to the horse. You protest, but he pulls you closer anyway.

“See? Easy enough. Come on, let’s saddle her up and ride.” Lorenzo laughs as you pet Pepper gently. Maybe she wasn’t so scary after all. She bristled and sniffed your hand, accepting you.