PERSEPHONE

Persephone shivered as the cool sea breeze brushed against her wet coat. Winter was just beginning to set in, and although she had made sure to steer clear of Tinuvel at this time of year she had underestimated how cold a long enough swim could make her even in more temperate climates.

But she was not to be discouraged.

There were still two islands she had yet to visit, and she intended to see them all and their inhabitants before she had passed her first year in charge of the Forest. Knowledge was power, and she intended to acquire as much of it as possible.

Steeling herself, she set off up the beach. Soon enough the ground became rocky underfoot and inclined; the air was thick with damp, and somewhat misty. Persephone traversed the unfamiliar territory carefully, ensuring her hooves were firmly placed before she put her weight upon them, taking her time as she ventured further into the territory.

Faintly, she could make out some trees up ahead, and then a pale figure that stood out against them. She let out a nicker to announce her arrival, not wanting anyone to think that she was trespassing or here to cause trouble. As she drew closer, however, she began to recognise the figure – a stallion, and one that she had met before.

“Dragomir?” she called out as she approached, her head tilted in curiosity.

all of your demons will wither away

mixed, bay varnish roan, 14.3hh