No family. No home.

Sympathy schooled Oswin’s expression, her heart lamenting for all her new sister had lost to find herself here. They were but strangers, but if anyone understood the importance of family and of home, it would be Oswin. To completely lose such a thing, never able to reach for it again in a time of need, was a thought she’d never wanted to consider.

“Of course you can stay.” No hesitation. Oswin’s voice was firm, sure to make certain the new Peak sister understood she had a place here. Anyone without a home could find shelter here whether they intended to remain here permanently or temporarily. Her white ears – lined a soft brown-pink – flicked to listen to the heavily accented voice.

She was more than happy to welcome Božena before her addition to what she would bring to the Vulcans, but when she offered to fight Oswin’s blue eyes grew bright. Knowingly, Klara glanced at her mother and then smiled kindly at Božena. Klara was fascinated by the differences of the mare and wanted so badly to ask her about the place she’d come from, for Klara had only ever known the islands, but this moment was about business and so the floor was her mother’s.

“The Peak graciously accepts your offer.” Oswin said, smile broad over her pink lips. “We have trouble stirring around us from those that’d hurt for the sake of bringing pain and a warrior of your strength is exactly what we need.” And she almost laughed, thinking of the next time Cullen tried anything with the Peak, he might come face to face with Božena.

“I’ve just recently become Prime Minister,” she explained, deciding it was best if she got formalities out of the way first. “I aim to change the way the Peak operates.” A pause, she knew she’d need to further explain her vision. “The islands can now have mares leading territories, but I recognize this doesn’t eliminate the fact that anyone can be oppressed… mare or stallion. I want to make sure the islands know the Peak is a place to turn if they need help. I want to be there for those who need it.” She watched Božena and though they’d just met and she didn’t intimately know her, she felt a good judge of character from her and knew this wouldn’t sour Božena’s decision to be a warrior for the Peak.

“Will you stand with me for such a cause?” Oswin asked, her eyes bright. “Will you help me protect those who need it?”

oswin
this is as brave as I know how to be.
I know it’s gonna hurt you, but please… be a little proud of me.