Aponi's initial words are reassuring, as is the soft smile that briefly brightens her face, but then she goes on to admit what has been troubling her as of late. Evren's ears are pricked attentively, and though she is surprised that Aponi has opened up to her so quickly, she is touched that the mare has chosen to reveal this information to her. She nods with understanding, for she, too, misses Creed. Other than Persephone, the little black mare was the first true friend Evren made in the Forest, and has become something like a younger sister to her. Seeing her leave the Forest had been as painful as saying goodbye to any family member.

When Aponi has finished speaking, Evren's smile has brightened and her copper eyes softened with appreciation. "I agree completely," she says. "It has felt like Creed's left a hole in the Forest, hasn't she? I have been thinking it would be nice to fill that up." She tilts her head, briefly gazing across the sunlit meadow in thought. "Why don't we go on a walk, and you tell me about yourself: where you lived before the Forest, what brought you here, and all that. We can get to know each other." She flashes Aponi a bright smile again, swishing her white-streaked tail in anticipation of a little exercize. It will be nice to get her mind off her daughter's predicament.

She dips her head agreeably. "Lead the way."