she slept with wolves without fear
She joins the meeting with all the rest, slipping in quietly behind the group of gathered horses. She had noticed the fire barrier of course - she’d have to be blind not to - and like the others, she wants answers.
And when she gets them she’s not impressed.
She doesn’t like the idea of her freedom being restricted - of having to swear an oath to be able to go wherever she likes. It’s restrictive and annoying … isolating, too. A far cry from the Beqanna she knows so well, and she has a feeling it could come back to bite them. With a system like this, their allies won’t be able to help them if they are ever in need.
But she steps forward to the say the words all the same.
Not though, because her loyalty particularly lies with the Valley. Her loyalty is to herself, and herself alone. And to the Queen Illuminate in a way, though that loyalty had of course been bought.
No, she steps forward to say the words because it lies in her best interest. Interesting things are happening in the Valley right now. It will pay to be here in the thick of things. And really, she bears the Valley no ill will, she simply wishes to observe (which is why the mark should still work for her).
She skirts the outside of the group, quietly approaching the dark, fire-wielding stallion. “I pledge myself to the Valley, to serve her as she serves me. May she rise above the rest and prosper.” Then she grits her teeth and closes her eyes, letting the fire-wielder do his work.
for the wolves knew a lion was among them