It was the sort of day that began like any other, with the sun’s golden-white rays cresting the edge of the earth and casting long shadows across the dunes. Valve stood silently in the shade of the sunrise and flicked her long, black tail, ever introspective.

As much as the recent lull in activity had been a reprieve for the dark mare, she was growing restless. Stasis was not her nature. She was the sort who accomplished whatever goals she set for herself, rooted out perceived injustices and made it known that she and those she deemed worthy of her protection were not to be trifled with. Perhaps her reputation proceeded her a little too much. Or it was simply time to set some new goals.

She trotted casually toward the oasis, seeking to quench her thirst while it was still reasonably cool. Summer proved to be a challenging time for any who weren’t experienced with the extreme temperatures of this climate, and even Valve had to be mindful.

“Evaline,” she said aloud, somewhat surprised to see the palomino mare standing in front of her. The last time she had seen Evaline was with parasitic children in tow, slowly sucking the life out of her as she attempted to recover from the abuse that lagoon stallion had inflicted upon her. Should have killed them both, Valve mused to herself, recalling the battle with Kasabian and Psychedelic that had resulted in Evaline’s return.

“You’re looking well,” she finished.

VALVE
slenderman x black heart machine