A hush has settled over the Bay. One might assume its the blanket of snow muffling the sounds of the world, but the herd must know, it's much more than that. Raised voices are no more. The palpable tension has lifted, and somehow the air is easier to breathe. Tomorrow will bring the dawning of a new era, one where Liland will rule without Zjeena by his side.
Zjeena heaves a sigh. The corners of her lips weigh heavy with a frown. She turns once more, throwing one last glance over her shoulder. This may be the last time she looks upon this meadow. There are so many memories here, with the other mares, and with her children. She sees Nattergal and Havelle, heads together under the fading light of late afternoon. This might be the last time she sees her twins.
The mare told her children they could come visit, but that they had to live here, with their father. That was probably a lie. It's unlikely Liland would let them venture towards Paradise. It was a part of the deal. Liland wouldn't allow them to leave with her. It will be good for them, to learn to live without her for a while, but it pains her to leave them trapped in the same cage that once held her. What would they have to do to gain their freedom?
Her heart fills with regret, and her eyes fill with tears. if she hadn't left Paradise, her children wouldn't be stuck on another island. Hind sight is always 20/20, but somehow, Zjeena wishes she had known what her decision to return to Liland would cost.
And this new foal, Liland demands they have together, Liland will rip that one from her side as well. If he loved her at all, he wouldn't be so cruel. He keeps saying he still loves her, but Zjeena can't believe it. There is no love for her in his heart, only a love for her breeding, and the offspring she might produce for him.
The disgraced queen takes a deep breath and tears her eyes away from the herd. She looks forward, into the wood. She can't linger here forever. It's time to make this journey. One foot in front of the other, her feet carry her numbly down a winding path towards the shore.