Northstar Vale mi ritrovai

lucifer’s gaze lingered on her for a moment longer than necessary, reading between the lines of her words. easy, she said, but he had come to recognize the way even the strongest spoke when they were trying to convince themselves as much as others.  

still, he would not push. not yet.

as you say, matriarche, he replied smoothly, though there was a glint in his eye—something knowing, something unconvinced. but forgive me if i remain watchful. even queens deserve a moment of ease.

the shift in topic was noted, but he did not press. Instead, he lifted his head slightly, drawing in the air with quiet interest. far more scents, indeed, he murmured, thoughtful.

his voice did not betray concern, but there was a weight to it, a quiet readiness. his instincts stirred, that ever-present sense of wariness sharpening like a blade long kept in its sheath.  

well my intent with seeking your presence had been to seek an assignment to prove my worth in rank. but that can be delayed if necessary.

if you have noticed it for some time, he asked, casting her a sidelong glance, what does your intuition tell you, matriarche?