[Phase 1] - The Start of a Journey

The day Anabel chose to travel with Efua and Daryll to an offshoot of Sagebrush to get accustomed to Loshenka first did not seem like an extraordinary event; it was even almost shockingly customary for the staff of Mirror Coast to visit rescues to present their support openly, hoping to draw eyes to the noble cause. This time, though, was different.

As the trio finally arrived after a tedious journey, Anabel was immediately smitten by the equines who called the estate their home. Despite the lack of a mane, the long tails and shiny coat gave the Loshenka an elegance that she had only seen in Akhal-Tekes. And as fate wanted, the woman quickly found herself leaning over one of the pasture fences, watching a young mare with an earthy coat. The horse was aware of the watcher, eagerly approaching the fence to gauge the situation to the best of her abilities.

“Come here, sweetie”, Anabel mumbled softly as she extended a hand. Her eyes lightened up as the equine approached, taking in her scent with deep breaths.

“You already made a friend?”

Anabel’s head whipped around, her brown curls flying in the motion. Behind her was Efua, hands on her hips and with a wide smile on her face. As a reply, she gave her sudden new companion a small nod before her thoughts wandered a bit.

“Why is a horse like her on a rescue ranch?”

Efua tilted her head to the side, making her way to the fence as well to take a closer look at the mare that was still eyeing the both of them.

“As far as I know she was a pretty promising show horse. Got into bad hands, the owner decided she was just stubborn and used a bit that was way too sharp for her - and most likely also did not fit. She was already here last month, the Sagebrush staff told me about her story.”

“So she was dumped here just because she can’t handle a bit?”

“Sounds like it. But she is also part of the makeover program. You take in a horse from the rescue ranch with the promise to give them a forever home where they can live in peace, no matter if their issues are resolved or not.”

Efua shot a little glance and saw how the cogs were rotating in Anabel’s head as she stared at the mare.

“Want to give it a try? I’ve seen your achievements with difficult horses - otherwise, we would not have picked you to join the staff. And since this is a medical issue, I’d be willing to lend you a hand as well”, she finally spoke after a few more moments of silence.

The mare with the bronze coat had stepped closer, enjoying the soft forehead rubs that Anabel was giving her; Anabel nodded slowly as a little smile crept back on her face.

“I can handle her. And with help, she will be better quickly.”

The other woman chuckled a little.

“She also needs a name.”

Anabel tilted her head, rubbing the mare between the eyes and taking in her subtle elegance. The mare was by now leaning against the wooden poles with closed eyes, obviously enjoying the affection she was getting. Despite being quiet, she immediately took a liking to Anabel. She had flinched a little when Anabel's hand had first slipped down a little but soon relaxed again as the scratches stayed on her upper head.

"Santa Lucia. I'm normally not a person to name horses after martyrs but... I think it fits her."

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The journey back to Mirror Coast Estates was a long one through serene hillsides and verdant meadows stretching along the road as far as the eye could see. And while the trip was strenuous, the mare stood calm and composed, as if aware of the situation that laid ahead.

Upon arrival, Lucia was greeted by a sight of unparalleled beauty - Mirror Coast’s modern facility stood amid blooming rose gardens and emerald pastures, horses and staff were actively working with each other in the outdoor arena and riding halls. And while Lucia was for now staying at the isolation stall, it was spacious with an atmosphere of comfort and care.