Mazikeen’s smile lingers, her eyes dancing with amusement, but she doesn’t press Bolder anymore on the subject of the nice nereids he’s met. She does not want to embarrass him and - some instinct tells her - she probably does not want to know any more than what she can guess.
If he ever brought home a nereid and asked if they could stay, she certainly would not be surprised.
So the focus shifts to Baltia and Mazikeen makes herself focus on appreciation for Bolder’s enthusiasm rather any guilt over her own shortcomings. It was okay - better, even - to rely on others and get their help than it was to isolate even with the intention of protecting her.
He would be fine, she told herself. He had survived Hyaline under the reign of herself and Gale and didn’t seem any worse for it - surely he could handle a little reconnaissance.
“Are you up for some swimming? I don’t know where exactly but I’ve heard their home is under the ocean somewhere off the southern coasts. If they don’t object to you exploring a little, it could be worth knowing the extent of our new neighbours and if they’re the peaceful sort.” Had they been responsible for the sinking of the south or had that just been a coincidence?
Her affection for Bolder - her nephew still, no matter what - causes worry to cloud her expression and she adds seriously. “Only if they don’t object though. A little bit of information isn't worth you getting hurt.”
@bolder