Northstar Vale If I didn't know any better I'd say this was a long time coming

she lingers beside and behind barracuda, like a pale, sun-drained shadow. here she is starkly out of her comfort zone, and she responds by sliding into herself, submission draped over her always, the sharpness of her gaze faded and drawn. 

when the threat makes itself know (for the strangers must be that, seeing from the reaction they elicit) her gaze snaps back suddenly and sharply, hard against the softness of her as she crouches low beside barracuda, stance entirely submissive but still, waiting, as she waits for events to unfurl and clashing words to find their mark. she knows how to slip away unseen, how not to fight, and this is her intent if things come to a head.