Nyah and Vita Nova - the latter of the two reminds Freya of when she was younger, and she can't help but smile as she peers over the mare's shoulder at the sleeping filly nestled comfortably in the shade. She resists the temptation to get closer to the little filly, to reach out her nose and brush it against the baby-soft fur of her hindquarters. For so long, she had desired another child - but obviously that had never happened. And now, at the ripe age of fifteen, she was far too old for that. She knew even if her seasoned womb were to conceive another child, it would be risky. Perhaps too risky for her own comfort.
"No worries," she replies with a dismissive shake of her head, "I completely understand how it is - my children were both the same way the first time I brought them to the Crossing." By the warmth in her tone, the memories she is recalling are fond ones, kept close to her heart and treasured dearly.
When she hears mention of the Inlet, Freya takes a sharp breath, as if not believing the words that had just come from her new companion's mouth. She noticeably perks up, her ears swiveling forward and her eyes brightening up - at first glance, one might think she was years younger, as if this information has rejuvenated her. "Really? I used to live there," is her only explanation for the bizarre question, failing to mention it was many years ago that she had called Tinuvel her home. She wonders if the statement will inspire questions, and if she is even ready to answer them.
There is an anxious edge to her voice. It's subtle, as is the slight hitch in her breath as she stops speaking. She feels grateful to whatever divine force might have arranged this meeting. She knows she shouldn't look too far into it; doing that is only setting herself up for disappointment. She has learned, the past few years, to keep her expectations low. It's a technique that has come in handy.
"If you don't mind me asking," she continues, "was there anyone there when you left?" She does not allow herself to eagerly anticipate Vita Nova's answer, but there is a small flicker of hope that has sparked within her, nothing more than a subtle ember among the kindling of her heart.