As I moved to embrace her, soft words reach my ears, words that I’d heard so often from my own father. A parent would never be disappointed in a child that they loved with no bounds; it was the signature of the truest form of love in the world. Some part of me, deep down, wondered if I would ever know such love. If I would ever have the chance to be a mother; or really if I even wanted that. As I withdrew from her, I mentally shook the thoughts from my mind. It wasn’t a matter to worry over at the moment. Right now was important to the relationship between Natu and I, building a trust that I hoped would only grow over time. For some time it had bothered me. His entire presence within Spirane had been discrete from the start, and though it was a painful recollection for Natu, I was glad to know the truth of it.

As I spoke of my brother, it seemed to ease the tension in the air. I was sure that the move to a lighter topic was appreciated on both counts. But her note about princess’s coming to Spirane to learn from me called forth a raucous laugh, and I shook my head at the quiet compliment she had paid me. “Maybe, someday.” I mused. There was a lot I had already proved to Moladion’s population to show that I was worthy of the kingdom I held. I glanced up at the rock that had become my throne, thinking about all I had done to gain it. Truly there was so much more to do to prove that I was worthy of keeping my home. I would fight to the bitter end for the mountain and her people, but sharp tooth and claw were far from the only things a Queen required to keep her kingdom. I had to make Spirane stand out, show those who sought a home why the mountains were a place they could find haven and heaven.

I looked back to Natu, sighing softly. “Thank you for sharing your secrets with me, Natu. I think we can make each other stronger, you and I.” A small grin crept onto my features once more, and I nodded gently before taking a step back and then leaping gracefully up onto the flat of the rock once more. I circled once and then laid down, paws creeping over the front of the rock and deep mahogany eyes gazing down at she who would soon prove herself to be Spirane’s Spider.