Thrust into the lime light

All of the Hallows fighters had been impressive, and Ike kind of felt like she would never be like the older wolves who participated in the tournament. She was too ungraceful to even think of moving like some of the wolves she had seen. Ezra seemed a lot like her though, never really considering himself just as capable as his opponent. Artorias had fought valiantly as well, but she thought of him like Kuroki, naturally talented and far surpassing her skill level.

Her bravery was rewarded in the form of his attention. Ike looked up at him with big bashful dual toned eyes, but he wasn’t looking down at her despite her age she was very nearly eye level. He was just barely bigger than her growing brothers. He was just as friendly as she thought he would be too, he gave her a wide grin as she stumbled over her words. He didn’t give her the sense of him laughing at her, it felt more encouraging than anything.

Her innocent features brightened and she grinned back even through her stuttered speech. ”You’re welcome!” She told him sweetly. ”You just… I don’t know. You didn’t look like you expected to win. I wanted you to know I admired your victory.” She tried to keep her own manners at the forefront of her mind as she bowed her head slightly and tried to keep all of her long legs and bg paws tucked safely beneath her.

”I’m sorry, I shouldn’t keep you.” She spoke again and backed away, giving him one last glance when she lifted her head. Ike paused there, smiling up at the valiant warrior. The princess gave him a warm and genuine grin before she turned heel and raced back towards the white trees.

-exit unless stopped-

"Kiyohime Shuriken Ōritsu Abraxas"