He’s admittedly a little excited.
As young as he is, he hasn’t yet had the opportunity to test himself in battle. And while he’s inexperienced, he’s certainly eager. He knows his father had fought for the Chamber, had taken part in the Gates raid and had taken on and defeated many opponents. If only his father were here to mentor him. But he is not. The only way he will learn is through experience.
So when he had heard had heard of the arranged mocks between the Chamber and the Valley, he had risen to the occasion eagerly.
He knows very little about his opponent - other that the mare’s name is Hestia, and that she is not a soldier. So at least she too, must be inexperienced.
And, now that he’s here, his excitement is beginning to grow. He’s never had anything to do with battling in her entire life - he hasn’t even been trained (who would train him? his mother?! hah!). The closest he’s ever come are little spats in the field. And those don’t count.
But this, this is a real battle. Albeit a battle between two horses that don’t know much about battling.
He watches the black mare from across their little patch of packed earth, sizing her up. Hestia is clearly older than him, and taller than him as well. She will have the size and weight advantage ... but that’s it. They are otherwise on an even playing field.
He gives the mare a curt nod, then tries to gather his thoughts for a moment in order to decide on an attack. Then, he moves.
He breaks into a trot, then speeds up into a canter, charging the black mare down. His hooves hit the hard packed earth of the mocking grounds, accelerating him faster and faster. As he runs, he aims his left shoulder for Hestia’s left one. He knows that if he hits, it’s going to hurt both him and his opponent, but hopefully with his lower center of gravity, he will be the one left standing. And if he does manage to knock the mare over, it could be the deciding blow of the battle. Of course, Hestia could dodge him, but perhaps the mare’s inexperience will slow her reaction time.
After he’s attempted his attack, he continues past the mare to his own right, wheeling away as fast as he can. Quickly, he plants his feet and pivots, kicking out behind him towards the mare’s left side. There isn’t a lot of power in the kick considering his speed, but even a less powerful kick in the right spot will sting. Hopefully he will get the ribs - bruised ribs are not fun to battle with.
The moment his hooves hit the ground again he dashes away, trying his best to keep out of the mare’s reach. Hopefully he can get away unscathed.
ZAYN
I'm an ugly mess