Ravensblood Forest Will You Hold the Line?

permission to skip hiero they will both be departing here!

Once more the woman spoke with cryptic undertones, something she couldn't help but think was an attempt to tease their wicked ways. A smirk found its way to her maw as she spoke of rebuilding a family and shortly after an answer to her question. They might not "seek" war, but they will do what comes naturally. There was no doubt in Ira's mind that these were all faces to appease her, but what pack was not a family at the core? It seemed suspicious. 

Donovan offered the same answers, words to try and ease her, to compare themselves to her own life and past, but the wolf-dog was much more willing to let their aggressive tendencies slip. They sought "respect", though the word seemed to have a different definition for the Saints. Ira had a hunch here respect referred to submission. At the very least, turning down his offer left them on neutral grounds. There would be no declaration of war at their refusal unless that too was a lie.

The Count rolled her shoulders as she straightened once more, Very well. It sounds to me that our interests clash. In Kaistleoki we do not throw around our power, instead, it is used to teach others. Respect comes through action, it must be earned. One can not demand it from others. If that puts us on neutral ground then we shall accept that with our departure. After all, Kaistleoki wanted nothing to do with future drama. Even if they for some reason aligned with the Saints, it would bring the frustrations and anger of other packs such as Yuelong.

Farewell, Donovan of the Abbey. She'd offer a simple nod before turning towards the mountains. There was one last stop they must make before returning home. As Hieronymous followed, the Count would cast a final glance back to the two before turning her back for good.