Oswin had always been the sort to get straight to the point. Dancing around and talking in riddles or filling in spaces with small-talk was something she dreaded. It took little time for Clarity to get to the point, to voice the concerns she’d spoken up about as the sisters raised their voices and claimed what positions they thought themselves worthy of. Oswin liked that. Her smile grew a touch less warm and polite and more familiar and relaxed. She opened her mouth, more than happy to answer the question, when another mare approached.

Oswin glanced at Anath and still found that small thread of awe that struck deep in her belly whenever she was in the mare’s presence. Thankfully she wasn’t a starry-eyed filly anymore, so she didn’t embarrass herself around the champagne mare, but it always took her a moment to mentally readjust to the reality that Anath stood here.

She couldn’t help but softly chuckle at Anath’s words. She, too, must be impressed with Clarity’s tenacity to stand and speak up and speak out. Good, this was what Oswin wanted. She wanted sister’s who discussed things. Who argued. Together, through their collaboration, they would find a way to create a strong Peak.

“I have been the Peak’s leader before.” Oswin admitted after they had welcomed the third conversationalist among them. Her eyes went to Clarity. “I served as a warrior when I first came to the peak, was eventually voted to General, and then a few years later my sisters chose me to be the Prime Minister.” Oswin thought about what she wanted to say next, but again, she wasn’t much one to keep her cards close to her chest. “I appreciate the concerns you voiced, Clarity. Even if they might ruffle some feathers,” a wry grin turned her lips, “That’s good. I like knowing everyone here is still thinking for themselves. That’s what I need if you’ll all agree to put me forward again as your leader. I need you to question everything. Me, even, should my decisions seem wrong to you.”

It didn’t entirely guarantee that Oswin would change her mind, but already Róisín had checked her way of thinking.

She had a feeling Clarity would speak of why she’d been so passionate and why it had been important for her to speak-up. Oswin was excited to hear what the young mare had to say. Any passion found in the Peak was something to be welcomed.

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.