PERSEPHONE

Something flickered within Persephone as she met Evren’s gaze, for a moment that seemed to stretch on longer than was natural. Then Evren came closer and laid her head against Persephone’s back. The weight of it was strangely comforting, and the warmth of Evren’s breath against her skin was so quietly intimate it took her voice for a minute.

When she pulled away, Persephone felt almost empty, just for a second.

There was much to distract her mind with, however, as Evren began to reveal the details of what had happened on the trip to Tinuvel. Persephone sighed, her expression glum. It was as much as she had feared.

“Evren, I –” she began, but before she could continue a loud call interrupted them.

Persephone’s ears pricked up, and she lifted her head as she peered in the direction of the shore through the trees. She recognised the voice – Shamwari – and it seemed clear who he was here for. Her dark eyes drifted back to Evren, giving her a look which she hoped imparted support.

“It looks like someone else wants to discuss things with you,” she said, giving a gesture with her nose in the direction of the sound. “I will catch up with you later. Be careful, Evren – we need our allies at times like these. Good luck.”

Persephone offered the best smile she could muster in an attempt to impart confidence. Then she turned to leave, melting back into the shadows of the trees.

all of your demons will wither away

mixed, bay varnish roan, 14.3hh