Persephone

The silence was maddening, and the break afforded me by the appearance of the ivory mare was a welcome necessity for the sake of my sanity. She was lovely, with a coat that was the lightest golden hue I had ever seen and a mane as black as night; brilliant, curious turquoise shone from eyes set in dark stripes along her head. She was adorned with flowers, and I found myself enthralled. Of course, I hadn't the slightest clue that she was equally enamored with my not-so-subtle, periodic glowing; but if it were mutual curiosity that drew her to me and me to her, then who was I to complain?

Still, despite the friendly nature of her greeting, nerves frothed beneath the surface, reservation no doubt shimmering in my eyes. As desperate as I was for companionship, there was little that could convince my flighty nature to calm; the mare roused my ever-present flight response, and I could not help but shift uneasily, wringing my tail. Without really considering it, I lowered my head slightly, peering up to meet the buckskin's eyes submissively. Everything in my body language offered the question of whether or not I would be accepted.

"Hello," I answered uncertainly, my gentle voice wavering ever-so-slightly. "My name is Cora." It was habit by now to offer my alias rather than my true name; I could no longer remember any who knew the truth of my calling. Nonetheless, Cora was as much my name as Persephone, and it was easier, almost, to hide behind the façade I had built for myself. I paused, unsure, for none of the rest of the mare's greeting made any sense to me. A caretaker? The Hidden Falls? I had yet to venture beyond these shallow waters, save for the occasional meal; I certainly had not found names to associate with any of the surrounding areas.

Did I ask? Was her introduction supposed to mean something? Would I look ridiculous for needing clarification? Wasn't it better to simply remain quiet? Surely I could be no more inadequate if I were to be silent than if I were to ask a stupid question. Instead, I said only, "It is very nice to meet you, Agnodice." Yes, that was proper, wasn't it? At least, it was back home. Maybe I wouldn't need to say more. Maybe she would drive the conversation and I could simply follow along.

"Speech."

@Agnodice

lost in hell, my dear. It's not so dreadful here