calling

racharra remains firm, nodding to eset's explanation. part of every empire is expansion, of course the palace is neccessary. 

but how ugly, dreadful these walls were now that they trap eset here.

briefly her head turns, only to be returned back to the hebsut as their dark paws join as one. the comfort from it was little — racharra knew it is fleeting but can't help but linger on the sight. the thin veneer of stoicism melts, softening her until she is not nebet but just the lake cub. 
the strength to meet eset's eyes had gone a long time ago, but briefly it returns to her as the woman utters a phrase.
i love you too. she pauses. ..but please don't leave.