Mazarine and Valka have continued to exist in a disconnect, neither one understanding the motivations of the other, but neither willing to approach the other for clarification. Their thoughts turn separately, but similarities abound, and if one would only take a moment to break the ice, perhaps there could be something much better than this hazy space between them.
The bitter winds of late autumn in the Bay draw them together now. Mazarine, seeking the heat of her strange herd mates, and Valka, drawn by a sympathy Mazarine has yet to note. Valka leads a busy life. The small mare has made a name for herself on these islands, and not let her size of her sex stand in her way. Mazarine admires her for such, but such admiration has produced mixed feelings. Mazarine is and never has been anyone important. Valka lives her life on a whole different level, making Mazarine assume grabs at Valka's time in an effort to get to know her better would feel a waste of a busy lead's precious time.
"You are cold.", Valka says, surprising Mazarine by addressing her directly. Copper ears turn and dark eyes fall curiously on her lead. Words continue to flow from Valka's mouth, words of concern harbored for so long that Mazarine never knew she had. She is touched by the spare thoughts had just for her, but also taken aback. Misinterpretations darken their relationship and their views of each other. "Valka, I don't hate it here.", Mazarine admits.
As time wears on, the mare borne of mild climate and fair build adapts to the Bay. Last winter she entered into the harshest of Tinuvel winters with nothing but a sleek, desert coat to keep her warm. This year, the rich chestnut of her coat ripples in the passing gusts. It is nothing to Valka's insulating shag, and it is probably not enough, but one more turn of the seasons here and Mazarine may find herself fitting in quite well, physically at least. The jury is still out on other ways of fitting in. Maybe this coming conversation can shine a light on the darkness between these two mares.
"Do I have a choice?" The taller red mare responds, a bitter edge seeping into her voice. She was won in battle. Mazarine is not dumb to the ways of their culture. Valka owns her. She can run away, but consequences may follow. Mazarine has run once before and her feet had to carry her far to escape those consequences. She's not in a hurry to do that all over again. Though maybe Valka wouldn't pursue her now if she ran. Mazarine has proven nothing more than another mouth to feed, or another body to shelter. Despite Valka's efforts to win her, Mazarine has had little to offer. Is this where Valka tells Mazarine her burden outweighs the reward? Will Valka release her or drive her from the herd to lift the deadweight? Mazarine wouldn't blame her, but there's something in the thought of that that hurts.
Mazarine isn't keen on the feeling of being trapped, but neither is she keen on the feeling of being unwanted.