Rowena stands in idle contemplation. Vodnik would never have settled for a position as second, and this is what sets Osiris apart from Vodnik. It's times like these that remind Rowena that despite appearances, and all that he represents to her, Osiris is his own person. It's good for him. He might live a little longer. Sometimes your own survival rests in your ability to lay down your pride and do what needs to be done, and Rowena is grateful for Osiris in this moment.
The dark mare returns the grooming gesture. her lips work in even circles. Her breath, and the roughing of the hair, dries the sea water from his coat. Her mind wanders to the Ridge. How strange it would be to return to such a place. It's the one place that holds meaning for Rowena. It's home. It calls to her, but she hesitates to return. Returning would mean facing everything she's lost. Rowena's grooming pauses only once to speak. "There is a place I once knew well, a place that would suit us well in climate and terrain. It's not far, but would require another swim. I don't know who lives there now, but maybe they would welcome us. I can show you the way."
Through all of this one ear remains focused on her daughter. She hopes whoever lives there is worthy of such a prize. Elvira deserves the world. Should someone unsavory touch her daughter, Rowena will personally put his head on a stake.
