A spiral note now

Though Bellamy worried, Fenix did not show any signs of blaming her, or seeming too concerned. The older femme frowned. “Needing help doesn’t have an age limit, Fenix.” The words were a gentle reminder. He stated he was worried for her and Bellamy’s ears fell. She shook her head, a soft sigh leaving her lips. “If checking up on an adult male is something I shouldn’t be worrying about, then you shouldn’t be worrying about me…” It wasn’t really fair, was it? Her green gaze flicked back to him.

“I’ve been healing. It’s… been an experience… one that I’m not sure I’m fully okay with yet. But…” She was learning to accept it. Growing closer to Acere. Watching her grandson blossom and bloom… she knew she should have sent word to Ethne that he was here… but… her ears perked up as Fenix said that he had taught one of her other grandchildren to swim. A small smile tugged at her features. “Troublemakers… I’m not surprised that at least one of them had tried making it into the pools. Thank you for helping him.” But… there was more to this visit than to just chat, wasn’t there? Bellamy stepped closer to Fenix, motioning with her muzzle for him to follow her.

A walk might do them both some good.

“Life is so hard for us to handle alone, you know. I’m learning to ask for help, how to take help, even when asking for help hurts.” Her ears fell once more. “Letting go can feel impossible… Even now, I’m not sure if I really can… even knowing there is no way I’ll see the Gavroche I once knew the same way. We’re still going to love our loved ones. Miss them. Mourn for them…” Bellamy looked over at him, her expression softening.

“Promise me that you won’t shoulder your burdens alone, Fenix. I’m old, but I’m not stupid. You’re struggling… I can see it clearly… I may no longer be the Leader of Ethne, but I still care for our members. You’re our family too.” The woman let out a small whine. “I can’t force you to stay, but please know there are those of us who care… who would still miss you. You are part of what built Ethne. Part of our family, blood or no blood.” Her gaze flicked to the ground.

“...If you need to step down for a while… I could speak to Hay. She would understand you know.”

"Speech," 'Thought.'