It doesn’t shock her that her kingdom flocks to the appearance of a magician. Ana doesn’t announce herself as such, but the way the land reacts implies some otherness to the iron lady. And her kingdom, if nothing else, was in tune with the land they called home. But of course, it wasn’t really if nothing else because the horses that called this place home were so much more. They were dedicated and loyal and served the Chamber with their whole hearts. She could ask for nothing more. And when they come, though she is not surprised, she is pleased.
Even Warship, ever so late to the party, had finally decided to grace his home with his presence once more. He had a hell of a lot of explaining to do, but for the moment, she is content to let them all talk and banter. It’s clear he knows Ana in a way the rest of them do not, from generations past in which none of them had lived.
Ana swears to serve the Chamber, and Straia can’t help but grin slightly. Not because of the capable hands comment (though she’s glad the magician holds no qualms with her rule, because despite the ravens, Straia stands no chance against a magical mutiny). But because with a magician, they didn’t need the Falls. They didn’t need to worry as much about what the Deserts might choose to do. They had Ana in their court, and assuming the Valley remained vaguely loyal and useful, they had Eight as well. Straia was still trying to track down Lu’s mother, just to see if she couldn’t ensure another magician in their court. Though Lu’s mother was not well known for sticking around much.
The Chamber was growing in leaps and bounds, and they were strong. So, so strong. Now all they needed was the right opportunity. She was patient. She did not plan to create the opportunity (though she would push pieces as needed, certainly). Rather, she simply planned to take the opportunity when it came. As she did with her throne. As she’s done all her life to get her to where she is. More importantly, to get the Chamber to where it is. They have slumbered far too long. Beqanna has forgotten to fear them.
“It’s good to have you home. I imagine there will be much you can do to help us.” Straia wanted to pick her brain, to see what ideas Ana might have, what useful stories she might be able to tell. She wanted to use Ana as an advisor, at least of sorts. She didn’t hand out titles likely, but she didn’t think Ana sought a title. Just to serve the Chamber. But of course, now is not the time for plotting and planning. Now is simply a time for Ana to meet the kingdom, to settle in. They’d have to catch up later.
straia
the raven queen of the chamber