That day on the Steppe, Faelene had been burned into Phaedra's mind. Her scent, her deep watchful gaze, her muscular curves and gothic colouring. Had things happened differently that afternoon, Phae might have an entirely different view of the mare - she was powerful, and not un-attractive, not to a mare like Phae, anyways. She was sort-of drawn in by Faelene's rogue masculine appeal; her strength and resolve. Or would have been, had things gone down a different path for their trio. Phae and Tolio had more than patched up their differences, and had come together stronger than ever, emotionally and physically....but how would this meeting go?

Phae was a spy after all, in her forest, so it was not surprising that she was able to move more silently than most. She had picked up Faelene's scent and had instantly recognized it. Narrowing her eyes she had begun to pursue the mare immediately. What is she doing here? Phae wondered. She was sure that the mare knew that the Woods were the unofficial home of the Grey, and from having attended the meeting between the Grey and the Basin earlier this season, she knew Phaedra was a part of it. So why are you here Phae again thought. As she moved through the trees, the sooty mare mentally called to Stella, her companion; Stay close. Stella, for once, did not trill in reply, seemingly to understand the implications of her bonded's demands by the mental images she was picking up from her mind.

As Phae walked, tawny wings tucked neatly to her sides, she was surprised to find that she wasn't angry; at least not yet. Her heart and mind were still too blissfully warm from her night with Tolio. It was as if being together, in that way, had satisfied every longing, doused every flame of anguish and anger, and made her feel whole. She couldn't wait to go to him again - to tell him of the life stirring inside her belly. Did she have the glow of pregnancy, that other mares were said to have? Was her mane more lush? Did her eyes hold more sparkle? She wasn't certain - she was a naturally glowy creature to begin with, but she certainly felt different. As she neared Faelene's vicinity, she held onto the memories of Tolio, so that she would better hold onto her tongue with Faelene. "Lost or Lonely?" Phae quipped, uttering the first words that Faelene had ever spoken to her. Her words were level and without emotion. She would remain diplomatic in the forest of The Grey, as she had with Leander the day he paid them a visit. Is that why she is here? She wondered vaguely, finally pulling herself into the dark mare's view.