Deathbelle had to take a deep breath before this unfolded. She knew that Pestilence wanted to go out into the world, she knew that she needed to go out into the world. Ashen was too small to properly bring her to greatness, she needed to take the whole of Boreas before she found her true potential. That fact was what helped Deathbelle get through her conflicting emotions. She wasn’t ready to let them go, but they were ready to fly. She had to help them the best that she could.

With much effort Deathbelle was able to get her paws on a primate for her daughter. Much like her father had in Obi as a companion she could see the monkey being for Pesto. It would help look out for her and be there when she herself could not. The monkey lingered in the trees above the Empress as she lifted her head and asked Pestilence to come to her.

Since becoming a yearling it seemed there was so much more open to her in the world. Pestilence was free of her grounding, and although she had not officially departed Ashen yet she spent a lot of her time outside its borders and in the battlefield training. It felt incredibly good to be out of pup-hood, to no longer be watched or worried for. Pestilence was - as far as she was concerned - practically an adult now, and the knowledge of that thrilled her.

When her mother called Pestilence hesitated, wondering if it could be that Toxicity tattled about the maim Pesto inflicted upon her. Or perhaps a discussion of her plans to leave to Fireside. Regardless, it would be irresponsible to choose not to answer her Empress' call.

As she approached Pestilence dipped her head in greeting. "Yes, mother?" She asked softly, her voice hesitant.

Saying goodbye to Pestilence would be one of the most difficult points of parenthood, but she knew her babies had to grow up.l. They were no longer the sweet little beans at her side, but strong, well raised adults. She had to let go and she had to let them take on the world as they saw fit. Deathbelle hid her uncertainty behind a smile as her daughter was quick to approach.

She seemed hesitant however, but Belle wouldn’t pry on her reasonings. Their last meeting had been tense, but Deathbelle had faith in her daughter. She didn’t have any idea of the tussle between her two children or the huge divide that had formed between them. ”Hello, my dear.” Thankfully the girl had been somewhat close when called. ”I know our time together is limited, and I want to see you off right. I have a gift for you.” She gestured lightly towards the primate that would soon be Pesto’s companion. A support when her mother could not be there.