Please, make no mistake. Simply because I have listened as the Lagoon told myself and our General that they are attempting to change their message does not make them my friends. My loyalty is first and foremost always to the Peak and those of the Islands we should protect and stand for. I came from a very large and established family when I first joined the Peak, but even when my own blood did wrong I was the first there to call them out on their injustice and demand reparation. Nothing has changed. The bachelors of the Lagoon and every member on these islands, no matter how close they are to me personally, will see no favoritism on my behalf.

As for the mare currently held in the Lagoon, I have discussed plans with another mare who chooses to permanently reside in the Lagoon to make certain no harm befalls any horse living there. I have raised the issue of the Atlantis and Lagoon disputes with their General and was told that there are some in their ranks still adjusting to the new ways. They have assured me they will handle their business and I am giving them time to do so. They will have better success changing their men without the Peak mares telling them what to do. Please, do not think I am simply turning a blind eye and letting injustices pass.

The Lagoon will bring no harm to her and will return her freedom at the end of autumn, or earlier. As the bachelors are not my jurisdiction, the best I could insure was that she would have protection and would remain safe while in the Lagoon.

You bring up a very valuable point, and something I want to touch on. We are sacrificing our bodies and, at the extreme, our very lives for those of every other horse on these islands. I do not expect each and every one of you to want to rally to this cause. I understand there are some of you living here who simply wish to escape the dramatics of island politics. You, too, are welcome here. Only rise to this cause, only push yourself to hone your skills and travel the islands seeking out injustice, if you truly want to do so.

I cannot be everywhere at once. Bagheera, I am glad you were able to learn of the mare’s captivity in the Lagoon; I will need more of you traveling and keeping your ears open and talking with others so the Peak does not fall behind on current events.

Oswin

oswin
this is as brave as I know how to be.
I know it’s gonna hurt you, but please… be a little proud of me.