Politics were tiring, Mirage knew. Always she had been a colourful speaker, though usually her words had been used for her own amusements than something so deep and meaningful to her as the future of herself, and those who had managed to creep closer and closer to her heart. The Qian meant more to her than anything, what they stood for, what they protected, was something she held so dear, it still surprised her just how much she managed to care. After living so selfishly for so long, caring only about her own health and that of her family's, she never knew she was capable of caring for others.

That race could ever possibly be an issue in impeding love did not even cross the mare's mind. Though she had spent majority of her life around only equines, she had found evil within them just as much as within other species. That creatures could exist even outside the 'standard' pegasus, unicorn or equine, like her beloved mate, Vikram, shocked and surprised her, but still did nothing to change her acceptance of them. Sentient intelligence could be found within the cranium of any beast, this little mare had learned, thinking idly of her friendship with Merakerr, and the great many dragons, companions and greater beasts alike, she had come across. What one wore on the outside shed little as to what was going on within the brilliant potential of a mind.

"Of course." Her chiselled visage dipped in acknowledgement of his words, her expression softening as small stresses leaked away. Her own kin were under the same rule; many had joined with the understanding that they would be protecting others from harm, not seeking out a war. Not all would fight in the invasion, but Mirage understood this, and accepted them still. Though they needed to fight in order to make their next steps, Mirage had promised to protect her kin, not throw them into the flames of war. It was a conflicting story, one that she had spent so many restless nights and days chewing over, but the mare was set on her task now, and would accept help where it was offered gladly.

"I am most grateful to have your support." Gently she moved to extend her muzzle to him, a gesture of friendship and alliance. "Listen for a dragon's call." She said with a shadowy little smirk tilting her lips, before blowing a puff of air out near his muzzle and slowly backing away. "Until then, Leader of the Foothills," Mirage nodded her cranium to him deeply, before gathering herself up on her haunches and turning away. During her elegant, dance-like step, the cloak of illusionary magic shimmered over her. At the same instant Akaith took to the skies and scooped the air up with her leathery wings, and south they travelled, to the Deep Forest where many more discussions had to be had.