Desirea had been browsing the softer grasses further inland from the beach when she heard Szeth's call. For a moment a chill of nervousness went through her, and she wondered if finally something bad had come to wipe away her incredible string of good luck. But there had been no fear or urgency in his voice, and she banished the thought of anything bad from her mind.
The little roan mare found him close by, but he was not alone. A very small mare with beautiful markings stood near him, a mare she'd never seen before. Her ears pricked immediately with interest, and her eyes widened a little. Ah! Was this her first herd-mate? She certainly hoped so. She loved Szeth dearly, but it could be a little lonely at the edge of the world without any other companions.
Desirea came up alongside Szeth, touching him gently with her muzzle -- but her attention was clearly directed to the unknown mare.
"Hello," Desirea piped happily, her excitement and curiosity plain on her face. "I'm Desirea, it's a pleasure to meet you." She stopped there, feeling uncertain. Was she supposed to ask whether this mare would be staying? Would it be rude? Desirea glanced back at Szeth, looking for clues, before returning her gaze to the fallabella mare.
