Sleeping Dragon Stormcloud

She was struggling with her own emotion; while she preferred logic when making decisions, she just as often acted on gut instinct. It was too late that she realized she never should have begun the conversation with the captive to begin with. Even if the silent guard was unable to speak, it would reveal too much ignorance of Drageda's culture— and if she were to climb her way to the Commander's side, she could not show weakness.

The captive's returned greeting was loud in the cavern, but the silence that followed was even heavier. Magpie could only look upon him, intelligent eyes intent upon the poor soul— though the rest of her expression was stoic, unreadable. It pained her, but after a moment the woman realized there was nothing to do or say here; she peeled her lips back to reveal pearly teeth in disgust, the action genuine, but though it would likely be taken as directed toward the captive, it was truly an internal disgust with herself.

She exited the cavern with purpose, nodding once to the guard as she passed, and sauntered away with feigned confidence.

What am I doing here?