It occurred to Maslakhat that this sister, whom Ak Burun veritably called Shararat, was not a blood relative of the Akhal-Teke mare. If she had nearly mistook the mirthful Kore for her, then her bloodline was more than likely Arabian, as no self-respecting desert-dweller would confuse the two breeds. He quirked what should have been an eyebrow at this statement, interested by the the assertion that Ak Burun would name Shararat as her sister despite their difference in heritage. This could only imply closeness of another sort, and Maslakhat found himself wondering yet again what Shararat might say of Ak Burun in return. Perhaps there was a reason the girl had made herself scarce.

“Her name is not familiar, nor her description,” he affirmed, his mind wandering backward to the days of his dealings with the formidable Iftikhar and El Halin. With the death of the blind seer at Valve’s capable hooves long passed, they had surely departed these islands some time ago to return to their war-torn homeland.

His expression was far away, brought back only by Kore’s gracious offer of assistance. The golden bay stallion’s attention turned to the duo, his gaze flicking between the two mares. Kore had a good heart, to offer herself so readily to a mare she had only just met, and Maslakhat noted that this was something Ak Burun would undoubtedly take advantage of. If not now, then for another task later. He too was tempted by the possibilities the mare held with regard to his own plans, but he also knew he needed to tread carefully, lest he push or pull too hard.

“A generous offer,” he commented, nodding lightly to Kore to commend her kindness. “But yes, it’s getting rather late. And searching for a black mare in the night is a fool’s errand.”

Maslakhat paused, his eyes returning to Ak Burun. “Come morning, perhaps we can divide ourselves among the realms of Salem to cover more ground and reconvene here within a few days.” He searched Ak Burun’s face, curious to see if she might undermine him. “Unless Ak Burun would prefer to go alone.”


MASLAKHAT

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