The inner workings of Valve’s mind were indeed a mystery to everyone except her. The black mare truly did operate without doubt—specifically, self-doubt. Why should she hesitate when her own thoughts, impressions and actions were one of the few aspects of her life that she could entirely control? Stoic as the Akhal-Teke appeared, she did indeed have emotions just like anyone else, she was just better at keeping them within the confines of her mind. She felt bad for Evaline even though she didn’t show it, and she couldn’t imagine being in the same situation as her either. Based on the way she lived her life, she didn’t think it was possible. If a stallion dared try and cover her against her will, he most certainly would be struck down and the child destroyed.

Valve watched as Evaline slowly moved from the center of the pool to the edge, closer to her side, this time refusing assistance.

“Yes,” she responded. “The day we can do no more is the day when we fall to the earth and cannot rise again.”

She eyed Evaline. “Sometimes when that day comes is your choice—and sometimes it is not. I would always prefer to choose.”

Returning her gaze to the filly and colt nearby, Valve watched them frolic and considered her own mortality. She had never been a mother, but her brother Zenith had sired plenty of children—and his children had children of their own. Valve’s family line would continue whether or not she decided she needed to procreate. Truth be told, she had never met a stallion that was worthy of the title of father of her child. Perhaps that too was why Black Heart Machine only ever had eyes for Slenderman.

VALVE
slenderman x black heart machine