Solace
Spring had finally arrived and with it Solace's third birthday. Her winter coat has already shed, leaving behind the sleek gold and cream pelt of a young, healthy mare in her prime. Hints of the girl still cling to some of Solace's mannerisms, but for the most part, she carries herself with a dignity which is beyond her years.
The daughter of Tangerine and Warrick stands among the gathered crowd, many of the horses around her she has met, but there are still unknown faces which she takes note to seek out soon. The perfumed spring air tousling the strands on her tri-colored mane, and with a sideways glance, her blue eyes search for her palomino twin. Amet begins to speak she returns her attention to Hyaline's leader, her pulse quickening. As he mentions Keeper, Solace looks to the other woman with an encouraging nod if their eyes should meet.
And secondly...
Despite the warmth of the spring sunshine, Solace's skin feels cool and a chill flutters through her chest as she anticipates her teacher's next statement. With a deep breath, she steadies herself, instinctually glancing at the cloudless sky, and into the invisible thermals. She knew her father should be in Tephra now, but when she felt uneasy she often found herself looking for his broad, dark wings in the sky. The golden King's voice brings her gaze back to earth, and she meets his kind eyes with her own.
... I name Solace the new Caretaker of Hyaline.
With a steady stride, she takes several steps forward - bringing herself to face Amet. Her mouth is dry, but the smile that softens her features is genuine. She focuses on the face of her trusted friend, and with a clear and steady voice Solace addresses him - and through him, them all.
"As Caretaker, I will serve Hyaline - the sanctuary you have created - and none other"
Her pale form then turns to stand alongside Amet so she can better see the faces which watch her with varied emotions. A voice rises from the crowd and her alabaster face turns to the buckskin stallion who had spoken. His words threaten to shake her, even though he intended the opposite effect, their sincerity re-affirm the seriousness of her new role.
"Corvus," the name is new to her, but the intensity of her gaze does not falter. "I will seek to be worthy of your service." She holds his hazel gaze a moment longer before looking out across the gathered horses. "I will seek to earn your trust in the years to come."
you are my sunshine
