08-22-2016, 10:28 PM
I was in the darkness; so the darkness I became.
The Valley wasn’t something she could accurately describe. It was a feeling, really; it was something deep within the marrow of ones bones, a certain aching of the heart. The landscape was dark, foreboding even; but it was special. It was special in a way that only dark things were; something to be appreciated, but never tamed. One could not take the graciousness of the Valley for granted, lest the Valley become a less amicable host. But, if one were to work for the goodness of the Valley, then the Valley would protect her own. She always took care of those who were loyal to her. But- she expected hard work and diligence in return. Topsail, for her own part, thought that was an easy enough exchange. Of course there were other kingdoms, but few had the dark grandeur of her own beloved Valley.
Topsail registered the shock and awe that crossed her doppelgangers face, but she gave it little thought. She was far too used to the brief discomfort that she no longer felt any level of self consciousness about it. Instead, she countered the other mares hesitation with a smile of her own, a smile that she also gave to the Amazonian who had joined them. She held no ill-will for the women of the Jungle, and could only hope they shared the same beliefs. But those matters were neither here nor there; Maus was the star of the proverbial show. The grulla spoke, a thick accent of unknown origins lacing her words. It was pleasing enough, albeit completely foreign to Topsail. She noticed the mares eyes linger on her; whether in doubt or curiosity, Topsail did not know. She could have known of course, but she usually refrained from reading minds unless it was absolutely necessary or she had some other, more nefarious plan in mind. “A pleasure, Maus.” she said, inclining her head in greeting.
There was no point in beating around the bush, so she stepped smoothly into her next words. She allowed her words to reach both mares; though she wasn’t overly concerned with good manners, it seemed incredibly rude to leave Lexa completely in the dark. “It goes without saying that I’m offering you a home. But beyond that, I’m offering you a place amongst the Valley ranks. A chance to push yourself harder than perhaps you’ve ever done. The rewards are great, should you work for them. You will find companionship, and hopefully friends. But remember; they Valley gives nothing freely; it all must be worked for. Truly though, what fun would it be to just have it all handed to you? I definitely prefer to prove my mettle, as it were.” she finished, her tone light but no less serious. Now all she could do was wait for Lexa’s spiel, and then finally, Maus’ ultimate decision.
Topsail
Queen of the Valley