Havelle made it to Paradise after delivering her brother to the Lagoon, so Zjeena is up to date on news concerning the twins. She was grateful for a visit with her daughter, but she has mixed feelings about Nattergal being in the Lagoon. If it's what makes him happy and what Havelle feels is best, then it must be the right move. Because of her recent chat with Havelle and the nature of today's business, Zjeena made no plans to linger in the Bay to meet Havelle again, nor to visit Sabela's grave. Zjeena knew this day would be difficult for her. She just wasn't sure how difficult.
The tide of emotions that rise inside her are entirely unanticipated. Zjeena didn't expect to enjoy this encounter but neither did she expect to feel this way. The weight of Liland upon her back weighs upon her like all the decisions he made at her expense. Each thrust hammers at what fragile resolve remains. Zjeena was always such a strong mare, but nothing is forever. Everything can be broken, through sheer force or wear of age. Every proud lift of her head when Zjeena wanted to crumble, and every gulp of swallowed tears brought her closer to this destruction, and this is the act that finally breaks her.
When Liland slides off her back, Zjeena stands numb and still upon the beach. A cold autumn breeze sweeps across the sand, lifting strands of dampened mane from distant and soulless eyes. Liland does the deed so casually, and takes his leave, with no concern for the mare or her feelings. From some strange vantage point Zjeena sees herself shrinking into oblivion. Smaller and smaller she feels until her existence is nothing but whisper on the wind, or a grain of sand lost on this beach. Liland turns to leave, forgetting she ever was. She is the beetle crushed beneath his hooves, or the bitter root he doesn't care to eat. She is worthless. She is dirty. She had been used up and thrown away.
On shaky legs, Zjeena turns and falls into the sea. She paddles through the tears of every mare who's ever been bred against her will. She tastes their salt upon her tongue and chokes upon their turbulence.