Another Queen. Mariael was surprised, but pleasantly so. When her father had bequeathed the Bay to her some two years prior, she’d understood it was a new practice held on these islands. She’d heard rumors of a mare leading a territory on Luthien, but couldn’t remember the name now that she thought of it. There had been another mare leading The Inlet, of course, but Mariael was pleased that Jasiri had left Tinuvel and the island was in the control of two who belonged most faithfully to this island.
Still, because of Jasiri and the combative nature they’d held since their first meeting, Mariael was not inclined to let down her guard and act friendly with this mare, fellow queen or no. She enjoyed the idea of sharing the understandings of being a mare attempting to lead a territory in a place where stallions used to traditionally do so, but she wouldn’t sacrifice the safety of her family for such a bond. If Persephone was only here to size up her competition, Mariael would give her plenty to consider.
She nodded, inclining her head as she turned about so they could walk side by side. Mariael was careful to keep her gait with Persephone’s, offering a subtle physical check that she saw them on equal ground for the time being, neither better than the other. She looked at the mare, whose coat somewhat reminded her of Maziel, when Persephone spoke.
“I don’t mind,” Mariael said truthfully. “I was considering traveling to the islands come spring to see whose here, I haven’t left Tinuvel in quite some time and winter is impossible for travel.” She considered the mare’s statement and smiled, equally pleased. “It is,” Mariael’s head bobbed in a small nod, “I’ve nothing against stallions,” she said, “but when my father bequeathed the reign of The Bay onto me, I knew I was the right fit for such a thing.” Her gaze grew somewhat curious. “How long have you been Queen of the Forest, Persephone? If you don’t mind me asking, as I said, it’s been some time since I left Tinuvel.”
|
