Theia returned as Dmitri was carefully branding the palomino with his family's crest. To make sure the mare didn't jerk or flinch during the branding, Dmitri had cast a soothing charm on her. The palomino stayed calm, unbothered by the branding. Theia, however, was furious.
"What are you doing?" she demanded.
"I've decided this mare shall join my family's herd," Dmitri replied. He gave the mare a carrot as a reward for behaving so well. She ate it daintily. "I have already named her Aurora. She will be a fine broodmare for my family."
"But-" Theia started.
"I was hoping you could bring her to my family," Dmitri interrupted. Theia's eyes widened. "Horse Witches can make Witch's Ponies travel even faster than a normal witch can. I do not want Aurora on the road long. Also, I want an expert to keep her healthy." Dmitri smiled at Theia. "I will send a letter with you, explaining things to my family. In exchange for your help, you would be allowed to keep her foal."
Theia immediately perked up.
"Really?"
"Yes."
"Then...of course! I will gladly bring Aurora to her new home!" Theia said happily. "I will begin gathering things for the journey."
The next morning, Dmitri saw Theia and Aurora off, making sure to hand over the letter to his family. Aurora and the Arabian, whom Theia had dubbed Ladybird, seemed sad to part ways. But thanks to their active charms, they behaved themselves. Ladybird and Aurora whinnied at each other one last time.
Once Theia and Aurora were gone, Dmitri saddled Ladybird. She was still early enough along to be ridden, and the mare seemed to have some excess energy to work off.