Emberwood beyond the veil

The Amazonian Queen responded with gentle grace, as was usual, and this bolstered the Huntress. Not because she did not expect there was disappointment there, oh no. She knew it was probable still that she had failed rather completely. But the queen's even dealing with her despite this was an example, a reminder that she would take her consequences as a Warrior and proud sister, for she deserved what she would be dealt. She admired Quetzalcoatl's reserve greatly, for the huntress knew herself to be harsher, less able to contain the emotions that swirled within.

As when Quetzalcoatl asked about her fellow guardmates; she was unable to hold the surprise that spang up, though she bit her tongue a moment. Finally, evenly, she reported. "My queen, they were meant to have returned to you, to give you news of your son's presence and soundness here. The Prince did not desire to go with us and we thought it best to inform you rather than have you wait for word." She dipped her head, but a knot of worry existed within. What had happened to delay them? And if they had not gotten word, why had the Queen come?

Manauia would not profess to be close to many wolves, but the thought of something happening to her guardsmates was rather displeasing. They were her closest bonded sisters, friends true and the family she had chosen. Though she pulled against them at times (especially Amoxtli, their young commander), she hoped they were simply held back and not seriously waylaid. Perhaps the Queen had simply left before they were able to return.