Common

Beneath the pitch-dark midnight sky, the Bay mayor wandered alone, her hooves breaking the night's silence. The wind had subsided, and even the crickets were hushed. For as long as she could remember, the mare had walked this solitary path. Despite Raksha's love and efforts, an emptiness lingered within her, deepening with each island she visited. She had journeyed to the farthest corners of Tinuvel and trudged through the blistering sands of Salem, only to find that the ache in her heart had only intensified.

As she entered the commons, her nostrils flared, and her eyes widened. She understood the risks of cutting through this area, but it was the shortest route to the falls. Lightening her steps, her muscles rippled beneath her mahogany coat. Ears twitching nervously atop her head, she sensed the underlying danger in the air, and her stomach coiled tight. Shadows cloaked her as she edged along the clearing, staying close to the tree line.

The sound of sticks snapping under her hooves made her freeze, hoping the figure hidden in the darkness would overlook her and carry on. Anxiety prickled her skin, and her heart raced audibly in her chest. She bared her teeth in a silent warning, ready to defend herself against anyone foolish enough to invade her space.

Aware of the peril she embraced, she nonetheless felt a twinge of pity for any fool who would dare to claim her as their