Swiftcurrent Creek At the ballet

The man left; Cygnet watched with tired, hawkish eyes, nostrils flaring lightly as she watched him go. Throughout his departing speech she had remained silent, ears turned back and expression lightly bewildered, betrayed. 

She didn’t consider how deadly she could have been, if only she’d been full grown. She didn’t consider the fact that such actions could potentially have repercussions that would strip her of the few comforts she had; she had no idea what was truly at stake. 

She snorted lightly in agreement with Arlette, and winced appropriately afterwards. Her ribs would dog her for some time. 

Arlette’s question earned her a glistening gaze. She did not deign to smile- she wouldn’t have known how to do so in a friendly way- but she chuffed softly, and nodded. 

Arlette was the closest thing to a family she’d ever known.