Mauja hadn’t turned to look at her but she smiled softly at his greeting, the expression softening her own voice when she responded. “Hello Mauja.” If anything, her voice was softer because he hadn’t turned - she wondered briefly if it was because he did not wish to look at her. Perhaps holding an impromptu post-meeting meeting wasn’t a good idea… but he had not told her off so she stayed where she was. The conversation turned from pleasantries and greetings when Tembovu showed, when he answered her doubts with certainty - which she greatly appreciated. It was almost revolting to recognize that she needed his approval in these moments. She was excited by the chance but she needed to make sure it wasn’t some rash decision.

Of course, Alysanne doubted that her name would be the first to Tembovu’s lips without any prior thought. Not unless they were getting in an argument.

Her ornate halter twinkled lightly as she moved her head, turning so she could speak easily to their King while keeping her body angled to welcome Mauja into their conversation as well - should he find the lake view less interesting.

Tembovu’s explanation was very far from what she had expected. Well, she wasn’t exactly sure what she expected. Surely it wouldn’t have been a stream of compliments and, really, what it came down to made sense. Alysanne’s green eyes widened in surprised as he explained the very personal intricacies that had complicated his time as King, and it was refreshing to know that her distrust of him made sense. Polyamory was something Alysanne felt rather familiar with, even if it was for a short period of time, but at least everyone in her situation had known beforehand.

Thankfully, Alysanne didn’t have much time to psychoanalyze her own love life because she was still listening intently to what was being shared with her.

“Oh.” For a moment, Alysanne didn’t even know what to say. She actually almost laughed if it wasn’t for the fact that Tembovu had hurt Elsa and that was very far away from being funny. But she had to admit, the fact that their lack of intimacy or even friendship factored into his decision was worth a bit of a chuckle. Just not right now. “You’re right Tembovu, I most certainly wouldn’t let you fall into that habit with me.” Her tone was serious, not even a quirk of a smile in the corner of her mouth. Laughing this matter off would diminish how much she appreciated the fact that he had shared that information with her - with them if Mauja had not already known.  “Thank you... for your honesty.” It was very, very hard not to lecture him. The timing and the evident guilt in his averted gaze stilled her words.

She had things to tell him now too - secrets that had been none of his business before but which would need to be shared at some point. If they were honest with each other about everything that they needed to be - perhaps this partnership could work.

For now, though, her attention watched the two stallions and she waited to see if Mauja had some input.