PERSEPHONE

It was not long before a second came to answer Creed’s call, and Persephone recognised the rhythm of her steps and the faint hint of her scent before Evren appeared beside her. As she pulled back from Creed, Persephone offered her a smile and a look that made her dark eyes glitter.

For now, however, it was Creed that required her attention, and Persephone returned her gaze to the dark mare, ears pricking attentively as she listened to her friend’s words. They made her gut twist a little, a strange conflicted feeling wrestling inside her belly: she was proud of Creed, like a daughter almost, but that did little to quell the sharp sadness that Persephone faced at having to say goodbye to one of her most constant companions.

But say goodbye she must. She was no jailer, she would not attempt to keep Creed here against her will – particularly when she seemed to have found a good home elsewhere, with a man who seemed to care for her, and she him.

Persephone was quiet a moment, her throat tight. Her dark eyes were sad, but she forced her lips into a soft curve of encouragement as she gave a small nod.

“You have my blessing, Creed. The Forest will miss you greatly – I will miss you greatly – but I am happy you have found a good home.”

She paused a minute then, quiet and contemplative. She glanced at Evren briefly, as if for reassurance, before summoning the strength to be positive.

“Besides, you’ve conquered your fear of swimming now, so you’ll come back to visit us, won’t you?”

all of your demons will wither away

mixed, bay varnish roan, 14.3hh