Started from the bottom

She hadn’t missed the stunned look on the boy’s face, but she didn’t bring attention to it – she was used to varied startled reactions from newly met others, whether it was horror that they might have died, abject certainty that they’d met a goddess or, in Rhaegara’s case, an Ancient One, disgust at a perceived abomination, or any number of other responses. One tended to grow numb to them after a while. All told, she’d have been perfectly happy to never have developed the glowing fur thing.

As Ulric greeted her, she smiled, though she wondered what news he’d bring with the words of having a rough couple of seasons. Her serene smile flashed into a brief grin as she greeted the yearling, “A pleasure indeed, Artorias.”

There was more to the story, for sure, but she didn’t pressure Ulric for more information, respecting the privacy of the Hallows. Until they were confirmed as allies as Abaven were, it was natural to keep certain things behind closed doors.

Her haunches settled, with an idle flick of her tail to send it to one side in a pool, her head tilted in thought, breathing out a sigh of, "Ó, déithe...Where does one even start…” A rueful, sad chuckle.

“I’m afraid the past few seasons since the festival haven’t been any better for drama or heartbreak free stories, though there have been plenty of good times. And I’m sure you’ve been seeing the strange weather.” Her eyes flicked over the chilly plains lands over Ulric’s shoulder.

“I do wonder how the prey animals will fare through the colder months. Packs may start raiding in earnest.”

Walk ---- "Speak" ---- "Labhair an Sean-Teanga." ---- "Hear" ---- Think