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Her relieved visage only strengthened the feeling Kaj had that he was doing the right thing. Though he didn't want the little one to imprint upon him as its father, for that was the real father's pleasure, he wanted nothing more than to be there and support the young maiden in her trials. Kaj was fully aware of the pains and labors of birth, especially as it had been pressed upon him since he was out of the womb himself that stallions were meant only for protection and procreation. He respected Parelia for going through it, and with such an open and gentle countenance to her name.

Her words were strained but sincere, and Kaj smiled lightly in response, leaning forward to accept her weakly proffered muzzle. His own pale maw touched hers gently, careful not to overstep his boundaries and simultaneously wondering where the father was. Should he be absent, as Ilios claimed he was, Kaj's anger would know no limits or boundaries. Especially if it was the same stag who had led to the conception of the quiet colt Kaj had taught to fly. Parelia was a sweet mare, and she served him and Kahlua faithfully and with no qualms or questions when the asked her to craft, sometimes on a moment's notice. Anyone who dared to harm her would find themselves subjected to his fury and vengeance.

"You're welcome," he assured softly, the protectiveness shining like beacons through his eyes, guiding her through the storm of her ordeal. It was worth the wait and the slight strain on his wings to see Areli turn her tiny head towards him as he spoke, his heart jolting far more than anything his magic could produce. It simply took his breath away. However, his sense of awe was disrupted by a rather fierce companion entering the fray. Instinct had his wings spreading, main feathers sharp like daggers as his teeth bared to chase the threat away from the new babe.

Only when Parelia called out a name did Kaj relax, though he held no remorse for his actions. Had it truly been a threat, it would have been extinguished. Kaj held foals in high regard, and he would not let one- especially one of his flock- be harmed beneath his reign. Soon after a stallion crashed through the brush, eyeing Kaj with the same wariness that the king returned. Parelia once again spared the brute, and Kaj let his wings slowly drop and collect back at his sides to allow Ciceron the ability to see his daughter freely. He had to have joined recently, and beneath either Kahlua's or one of the council's approval, as Kaj did not recognize him. It seemed he did not recognize Kaj either, and the desire to put him in his place and show proper respect was quelled and calmed by the fact that Ciceron did not know who he was or why he was near his newly born daughter.

Standing gracefully, he offered Ciceron a short smile. "You have a beautiful daughter." Turning he ducked his head back to Parelia's level, concern taking up his features. "Would you like me to fetch some Angelica? We have plenty in the garden, it should help with the effects," he offered softly. It was also a reason to leave and give the new family some privacy, and Kaj hoped she would pick up on that and show him her decision accordingly.