The Tiger Within 258 Conflict Within

She couldn't be formkng feelings for them. This little family would always matter but when had it got to the point she didn't want to leave. Comfortable and safe… it almost made her think it was possible. Just go back inside and pretend this charade wasn't necessary. Yes she wanted to go home, back to her people but she didn't want to lose this warm sense of belonging. There was less pressure here, and she didn't have to go home to a emptiness and remember what she had lost. Then again it was all a show. He didn't know her, not in truth and nor did that precious child. No.

It was best to focus on her future, and unfortunately there was no place for a family in it.

Kan had said the banished clan was coming back. She couldn't help but frett. Without Verone could Talis hold his own if they returned?

'With Daxin and the other elders at his back, she had no doubt he would be fine. However, would they back him? How was he doing as a leader?' she wondered realizing she had no idea. His mind worked so similarly to her own that he should be fine. Should being the key word.

Kyera took the first leap up the trunk before she realized what she was doing and pulled her focus back. This jumping ladder was not something to try if she wasn't paying attention. Having injured both her ribs and shoulder several times in the last few months she had no intention of tempting fate.

She got part way up before Mally landed right in front of her, blocking the way up. "Turn around and March back down this tree, Princess." Mally ordered to Kyera's complete shock. There was a fierceness in her eyes that prevented any true disagreement.

"Why?" Kyera asked a bit hesitantly. Something made her uneasy.

"You need to start getting ready. There is a a certain Maiden expected to escourt a certain Princess to a ball tonight and I have a job to do." Mally replied sharply. Kuera raised an eyebrow obviously curious. "I have to make the Forest Princess reveal herself." she explained and Kyera went to retort but something about her expression said there was no room for argument.

"Fine." Kyera turned and bounced down the tree carefully. She landed on all fours with a grace she didn't necessarily feel. Mally pranced down behind her and lead back toward the Winter Rain palace.

"That's what I thought." Mally replied her voice filled with self righteousness. Kyera could only sigh and follow her down the path.

"By the way, nice scarf." Mally complimented her sincerely but Kyera was lost for a moment, at least till she looked down and saw the child's gift still wrapped around her neck.

Kyera sighed, that sadness in her heart blossoming to a dull ache of pain. As they neared the palace walk, both women transformed and the shadows clothed them both.

"Your dress was dropped off yesterday. I think it will fit, if not I can do quick adjustments of course. Your hair needs tending and overall you need a bath." Mally began rattling off a slew of things that needed to be done. With that the preparations began and the time for thought was at a end.