He had stopped in the snow, hands jammed deep in the pockets of his coat. He was surprised when Zurna spoke again, although he carefully made an effort not to show it. Why was she saying they should both head back? Can it be that she is forgiving me? he dared himself to hope for a moment, before arguing himself back down. No, of course not. She just doesn't want me to get lost out here - she's a good person. Not like me, he thought bitterly, following her at a distance. He kept his head down, staring at the snow beneath his feet. He had gathered up the remaining bundles, holding them carefully, even in his current blur of emotions.
He stopped as they reached the outskirts of the camp, not daring to follow her into the tent. A lump rose into his throat as he considered his options, torn between following her and making a break for it. I'm such a coward. Losing the battle, he ducked inside the livestock tent, placing his bundles on a mat at the entrance before rushing to Equi's side.
He sank down into the hay next to the gentle creature, who turned to nuzzle at Kaven's side as he leant into the pony's flank. "Oh, Equi, my friend... what have I done?" He moaned, face screwed up against the emotions. "I have made such a huge mistake... I only wanted to help, but how could I do such a thing to her?" he spoke bitterly, deeply angry at himself. "Now I have destroyed this friendship, and hurt a heart that was so good." A tear ran down his cheek and he brushed it away impatiently, feeling like a coward. "It is ruined, Equi. Everything is ruined," he choked out.
