It was true that these mountains had eyes. Some keen and murderous, some soft and warm, but eyes nonetheless that always watched, and never missed a thing. So it was no surprise that another happened upon them, slinking from the cavernous valley like a hunting wildcat. Only, the pink fae that emerged from the shadows was much more than a predator. She arrived with purpose, making a dramatic entrance at the perfect time.

Descending from on high, the Queen of the North.

Silver eyes glanced over her lithe form quickly, and the star girl gave a slight dip of her head as a sign of respect, before her gaze returned to the stallion. The corporal meant no disrespect in her lack of a sweeping bow towards the Lady. She simply did not want to let her composure crumble or avert her eyes from the newcomer. She was sure Hotaru would understand, and if not, she would be sure to grovel and apologize should her lacking be taken as disregard. It was an honor to stand next to the monarch at the entryway to their home, protecting what lay behind them. The queen was like a blade draped in silk, grace and beauty shrouding the dangerous thief and obscuring what she really was - a wolf in sheep's clothing. But she was certainly a woman the star girl wanted to stand beside instead of against, and a fitting queen for the unicorns of the north. As Hotaru settled upon the interception and stood beside her, seeming to support her efforts as corporal, Ki's heart fluttered with pride, burned with validation.

He dipped his crowned dome for her, sharing with her the same respect he showed Hotaru. But the blue remained unwavering, eyes still cold, not returning the gesture. The golden stag had been nothing but snide, and his change in affect in the presence of royalty would not replace his past commentary. "I do not worry," she began, coolly dismissing him, "I protect. Here in the north, we find sanctuary in the ice and cold, a place where few can survive. But we adapted, we are unrelenting, we are exposed to harshness and bitterness and remain unaffected."

She tipped her head, ear flicking as she heard Alice growl as she bristled near Hotaru's hocks. A subtle smile tugged the corner of her lips. Despite her diplomatic front, she was a warrior at heart, and the mere thought that she stood beside one of the most powerful mares across this sweeping land was invigorating. Deep within she was a snarling hound, bound by the chains of her masters, eager to spring into action should Hotaru give the order. But despite the endorphins and adrenaline that flickered through her, the excitement making her heart rate increase ever so slightly, she retained her composure. Besides, it appeared as though the golden buck was not a foe nor a threat. She considered his announcement of intent, and figured she would not need to act as a warrior, so she retained her diplomatic demeanor. "Of the many choices you have had, be it the heat of the Throat, the lushness of the Falls, or the mystique of the Edge, it is remarkable the frozen north has piqued your interest." Her knowledge of the other lands was quaint. She had only accumulated details from those she had met in the Threshold. Her love for the Aurora Basin was unrivaled, though she had no doubt that the terrain and climate left much to be desired for many. "But that doesn't mean the Aurora Basin has any less to offer. Lady Hotaru has the final say, though if your interest is genuine, I am sure you will happily find your place among our ranks. Many who join us here chose a vocation, a way to pay back the sanctuary you will receive here. Is there something you can offer us, should you chose to reside within our valley?"

Talk
OOC// @Hotaru @Kalona ~
Sorry for the wait!