Common

It has been days since the strange wins had oppressively press down on the cove. The aftermath had left broken limbs, swollen creek beds, and the cove herd spread across Tinuvel. It took some time to gather the herd back together. The queen had never experienced the oppressive heat and the cove before, she worried deep down that it would become a normal occurrence. And if this were the case, it would take preparation on her part to ensure that her family would be safe. She had finally found Killian, he had found refuge deep within a mountain cave. And Thalia had made her way home with the story of the wolves playing on her lips.

Daciana had seen the wolves many times before, but their hunger had drove them down from the mountain peaks and closer to where her family lived. Now she was ever more diligent in keeping the wolves driven out of her lands.

For a few days, she had kept a careful watch, made sure that everyone stayed together. But with the threat gone for now, she figured it was time to venture to the crossing. This is her first time leaving the island in many months, there has been so much to take care of since Solomon‘s passing. But the duties of queen stretch far beyond just border patrols, and watching over the herd. She knew that if the Cove were to continue to grow, they needed to add to their numbers.

Despite Killian’s whining about wanting to go to the crossing, Daciana chose Thalia to accompany her.

─── ･ *.☽ .* ･ ───


Together, they stepped from the ocean surf onto the sandy shore. Their feathered hooves left distinct impressions in the hardened sand as they walked in unison. This was Thalia’s first time off Tinuvel, and her wide, crystal-blue eyes took in the unfamiliar landscape with rapt attention. Her mouth dropped open as she absorbed the world stretching before her. Daciana slowed only momentarily, gently nudging her daughter with her whiskered lips before confidently focusing on a pair standing further down the beach. Thalia’s long legs quickly caught up, a giddy smile gracing her lips.

These were the lessons of a princess. Excitement sparked in Thalia’s crystal-blue eyes as they approached the young duo. Daciana cleared her throat, and they both came to a halt. Her seeing eye first landed on the pale, sour-faced girl with a dark mane, whose coat carried the lingering scent of Luthien’s forest. Then, her attention shifted to the young stallion, whose remarks sparked a low chuckle within her. Fondly, she recalled Solomon and his playful teasing.

“If that is the case, then I would finally fit in,” she joked, settling near the pair. She flicked her tail lazily across her spotted hindquarters, turning her head towards her daughter, inviting her forward. “I am Daciana, Queen of the Cove,” she paused as Thalia piped up. “And I am Thalia,” she announced, suddenly feeling shy.