Golden Glade Sparks

Actually, no worries, I've been sick as hell the past few days (still am). I literally just said last night that if you didn't get a reply in today we'd go on with the next round: you made PERFECT timing! :D

All three of the strangers bent under his gaze, and the feeling of pride that overcame Alder was breathtaking. Some days, he wasn't quite sure that he'd ever get used to the fact he was a ruler. His stiffness relaxed, and though he was not shy in showing his place, he didn't require further action on their parts - they were all respectful of his family and the borders, and this was perhaps the true deciding factor on if he drove them away or allowed them passage. 

It wasn't long before Freya joined them - silently, the white woman made it clear who she literally stood beside. A charming grin split his marred face at this entire situation, and he nudged Freya in appreciation before again addressing the newcomers. Eden was clearly the leading factor here - and the hormones leaking from her raised questions in his mind. For now, he gave her the opportunity to explain, say something - but he'd already made up his mind to let them stay, really. His words were curious, but in no way mean, or suggesting this upset him.

                                    "You're pregnant, right?"

He wouldn't force anybody into anything, even if it would benefit the pack - he wanted everyone here to be happy, welcome, and free to forge their own paths. His one good eye settling warmly on the male, he made it clear this next part was mainly for him - but applied to everyone. 

                                                                      "There are healers in training here, not to mention a plethora of other skills. I expect you to find what you're good at and work towards that, teach others - nobody is useless." 

Finally, his attention fell on the meekest of the three, the sister called Alyssum - her behavior concerned him. Had she been wronged, or was she just a naturally skittish woman? At her, his heart truly softened - while Alder had always loved power, had always been dominant, he hated to see fear from those he didn't wish to instill it in. Chuffing softly to her and smiling, he went on in an even softer tone than before.

                                                                                                          "You need not fear me - any of you. As long as you follow Royal Fire Court rules, there is no reason anyone here would hurt you or your family."