Friend. It was true, Bane would stick the label to the densely built dark mare that she’d invited to return home with her. Friends. It was a strange concept to her, especially now. Especially after being on her own for so long. Bane is grateful that the Peak is still her home. After all this time, she’s able to return home. A home is a place filled with friends, with chosen family.

Bane’s greeting is unusually excited, ringing softly from her chest. “Bagheera!” The sun catches a glimmer in her soft, spring green eyes. “You weren’t too hard on her, I trust,” a smirk plays on her lips, something a little wild but by no means unfriendly. Bane’s ears flicker slightly with Oswin’s comment, I’m really hoping this one joins us. At least it was enough to untangle the knot of worry in her chest. The champagne mare looks briefly to her painted compatriot, and then back to Bagheera. “You and me both.” The words are directed at Oswin, though her gaze rested squarely on the scarred black mare.

Hollis. She looks scared, and Bane’s heart goes out to her. Hell, she sounded scared too. There’s a certain timidity to her… oh dear. As Oswin shifted, Bane can feel the eye for an eye raising in her own system too. With a pang she thinks of Roisin’s reaction to the old ways of doing things. They would strike a balance between making people pay, and doing things the right way.

Oswin spoke first, so Bane will hold her tongue for now. The pair exchanges a glance, considering for a moment how to answer that statement. Men. “The men that choose to live here are few in number, and they understand how we govern. Our three pillars of leadership are always women, and we make decisions by vote.” Bane’s words are soft, filling in the small gaps. “Above all, we work together to create a safe home for everyone who lives here.” And that was what mattered.

Anath x Thane