PERSEPHONE

Persephone walked her companion into the Forest until they reached one of the small clearings within its sheltered embrace. Although the air was still crisp, the chill from the wind was all but removed within the deep layers of trees. By the time they reached their destination, Evren seemed a little more comfortable at least.

Persephone accepted Evren’s commiserations with a grateful nod of her head. She was thankful that the conversation turned to Evren’s story then, although it came as a great surprise that the mare was so forthcoming immediately. It was certainly refreshing – Persephone appreciated straight-talking – but unexpected; usually it took much persuasion to get such intimate tales out of her conversation partners.

Regardless of how easily the information came, Persephone listened intently. Her dark-tipped ears pricked forward, and she watched as Evren recounted her tale. She spoke confidently at first, but as she continued emotion seemed to creep back into her expression.

Empathy flickered in Persephone’s chest.

The tale was a surprising one, and heat-wrenching too. Persephone’s heart went out to Evren, but particularly to that memory of her as a young mare, barely over the edge of maturity. She had grown up since then, and by the sounds of it in many ways that no young girl should have to grow up. The losses she spoke of were unimaginable. Persephone knew only some of that pain herself.

The mention of the child that survived, however, was perhaps the most surprising of all. If someone had described the situation to her from an outside perspective, Persephone might have been judgemental – she might have questioned how a mother could do such a thing, even in a moment of madness. When she heard the full story from Evren’s lips, however, judgement did not come into her mind. Her heart welled with concern.

“Don’t apologise,” Persephone replied without hesitation – those were the only words that came easily at that moment. “You can tell me anything.”

Persephone took a small step closer to the other mare. She almost wanted to reach out and touch her, but something stopped her. She lowered her head, seeking the other mare’s averted eyes.

“I can’t even begin to imagine what you’ve been going through… I’m so sorry, Evren. But you’re not an irresponsible mother – if you were, you wouldn’t be here, telling me this, so that you can get your son safe again.”

Persephone paused, watching for Evren’s reaction.

“If it’s too painful to go alone, I will go with you. Whatever you need, I’m here.”

Persephone spoke earnestly, yet as gently as she could. There was something about visitors turning up to her home in distress that sent her straight to a place of authority and strength. Where she could push her own thoughts away and focus on being a strong shoulder for others to lean on, she always would. If Persephone could help, she would.

all of your demons will wither away

mixed, bay varnish roan, 14.3hh