Oswin nodded, watching the young mare make her hasty exit. If the Lagoon Boss’s daughter brought up their visit to her father, Oswin hoped he wouldn’t take offense to what she’d requested of Jaws. The more in the Lagoon she knew were looking out for the horses who didn’t wish to live among the mud flats of the bachelor borders, the better. If Rade’s own daughter was dedicated firmly to his cause, Oswin could breathe a bit easier.

She looked after the empty place where the dark mare had been and then beyond it, as far as she’d been able to see her before the trees and shadows once again swallowed her up.

Oswin reflected on the changes the islands had undergone in her absence and smiled, sighing as she shook her head and turned herself to eastward. There was still plenty of time left in the day and while she’d reflect more on this curious meeting later, for now, Oswin knew the work never rested. There was still plenty of time to swim to another island, walk about and keep an eye and ear out for any trouble.

She took one last look toward the south, where Jaws had gone to undoubtedly return to her father in the Lagoon. She would have made a great Peak sister, if not for her closeness to her sire. Oswin wondered if, when the inevitable day came that he was no more, she would want to stay in the only place she’d known him… or if she might look for a new home.

Perhaps their friendship could grow beyond this one small meeting.

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.