we all survive in our own little ways

She could allow herself to think about topics that didn’t revolve around Archon, for her own sanity it was better if she had moments where she didn’t have to relive the memory again and again. The ground falling out from under his feet, the look in his eye as he slipped past the ridge and out of view. The images haunted her dreams relentlessly, another reason for her tired body.

Belle ‘hmm’d’ softly as he told her what she should have been doing, and she would have been amused were it not true. Her affection for her servants was looked down on by some, the fact disturbed the peace of the pack more than she liked. ”Indeed,” she offered with a forced grin to be polite. The Empress was usually much more charming, but she could only offer single word answers and keep it together.

”Well, don’t do that.” Belle told him, amusement finally tinging her tired voice. ”Your reward from Ashen certainly isn’t worth it.” She led the way as he took back hold of the pronghorn. Belle remained hyper-aware, but kept herself better composed.

-exit to new thread?