Yara slipped into the den once she was granted permission, carefully stepping over the board at the entrance as Ignita had warned. Her eyes immediately fell on the small, wriggling bundles at Ignita's side, their tiny noses twitching in curiosity. A soft smile touched Yara's lips, but she quickly refocused her attention on her mistress.
"Of course, Consort Ignita," Yara replied, her voice respectful and warm. She could sense the undercurrent of impatience within Ignita's tone but knew better than to address it directly. Instead, she gently set the food and water down within easy reach of the new mother, her movements slow and precise.
"I thought you might need a little extra comfort too, so I bought some fresh grasses. They should help get the den cozy for you and the little ones," she added, placing the bundle of soft grasses near Ignita's bedding.
Yara then stepped back, giving Ignita space but staying close enough to assist with anything else that might be needed. "I'm here if you require anything. If there's anything on your mind, or something you'd like me to do, just say the word."
She paused, her yellow eyes noticing the way Ignita cradled one of the pups closer to herself. "They are beautiful, if I may say so. They will grow up strong just like their mother."
Yara knew her place, but she also knew the value of being attentive and useful. Ignita's approval was vital if she were going to be granted full membership into Armada. She was determined to earn that approval through her actions, no matter the underlying tensions there may be between them.
