Falls

Inka

For a moment Inka's expression fell in disappointment, but this was quickly replaced by a merry laugh. "It's all right," she replied to the little mare, and regarded her with a smile, reflecting internally that already she liked this stranger. She had always felt somewhat reluctant to return to the common grounds after the horror she had witnessed here several years ago, as though she was afraid the experience would repeat itself. However, she already felt considerably more at ease in the presence of this friendly stranger.

"My name is Inka," she continued, lowering her head closer to the mare's level so that she would not feel as if she was being towered over. "I've just come down from the Peak and was hoping to get a drink. You're welcome to join me in finding the falls, if you want. I don't get out of the Peak much and it would be nice to chat to someone new for a change." Inka pricked her ears in anticipation of the mare's response, but all at once doubt bloomed in her gut. The memory of her daughter screaming at her flashed through her brain, and reminded Inka that her company was perhaps not as desirable as she thought it was.

Quickly she added, "Or not, it's okay. I can be on my way."