PERSEPHONE

Although a smile flitted to Evren’s lips at Persephone’s arrival, the Forest queen sensed that tensions ran high and that her friend seemed quite unsettled. Concern flickered in her belly, but it was a question for Evren in private to find out the details of what had happened – for now, Persephone focused on Hannah and her children.

When Hannah spoke, her words tore at Persephone, the implication that Warsaw had raped her both disgusting and terrifying. She felt shame sting at her pride – how could she have let this happen to one of her herd. She clenched her jaw, her ears flicking backwards momentarily, as she gathered her emotions before speaking.

“I am so sorry, Hannah. You should never have had to go through this – we will have our revenge on Warsaw. You have my word.”

Warsaw had gone too far for the last time. This meant war.

Before she could learn anything else, however, as Indira arrived, rushing through the group to greet Evren. So much of Evren’s family had begun to gather in the Forest, it was strange but a pleasant arrangement nonetheless. She explained that Tarek was not here, but she made it clear that she would take Hannah to him.

Persephone forced a smile. The news had shaken her somewhat, but she maintained a brave face. There was nothing more to be gained from interrogating Hannah right now, when she had already been away from home for too long.

“I will let you have your reunion,” she said simply, standing back to let them pass.

Persephone hung back, waiting to see if Evren would go with them, or if she would stay and offer her any further information.

all of your demons will wither away

mixed, bay varnish roan, 14.3hh