Ravensblood Forest If you're ever gonna find a silver lining

Every part of Shigetoshi hates what has transpired, but it is out of “cause-and-effect”. If Cedar Pike did not focus on their diplomatic prowess in return for sacrificing their own people, perhaps they would not be where they are now. Alas, the piebald steward is determined to fling blame anywhere but themselves. For he knows they, too, are in the wrong somewhere. It is just hard to admit such a thing in his core.

“We will be careful,” he murmurs, partly to himself. He rotates his paws until he is gripping at the grass below them. Around him, he hears the haunting caws of the ravens. “This time, we have a choice in the matter, Saoirse-sama.” His blue eyes flicker to her, although they keep from meeting her gaze directly. Nonetheless, it is something he wishes to make certain she knows. They will not join another kingdom, should they not feel it works for them. Time may not be on their side, but Shigetoshi is fine to use what they have to ensure such safety.