"Very well. I'll take them both," the school owner grumbled. "I've little choice now that she's given birth. But this does not change my stance, mind you. My school is neutral ground, for the sake of my students who come from noble houses on both sides. I'll not play favorites."
"Relax, my good man," the royalist leader said. "This is not a bribe. We simply found this poor animal in need, and this was the nearest place we could bring her where she would be well looked after."
Somewhat placated by this praise, the owner nodded. "She will, indeed. While the dam won't be good for riding for a couple months or so, the students will benefit from helping to care for her and her foal."
So, after a brief exchange of coins and a handshake, the royalists left. Anya felt a bit disappointed that her clear allies were gone, but the school owner seemed a decent sort. Quickly, she was handed over to some of the older students who led her to a prepared stall.
Once more, she was brushed down and fed, much to her delight. Even more, the students were quite taken with the little black colt, fussing over him and admiring him. Anya's heart swelled with motherly pride.
At last, mother and foal were left alone. Saying a brief prayer to her family's ancestors, she whickered, "Sassy? Are you there?"