Thankfully the jungle does not remain silent around her. The absence of her herdmates was oppressive, and she wished that she had been able to do more for them. Siobhan would never know if it was Bjorn's absence that had drove them away, or some other reason, but ultimately it didn't matter. If any of Bjorn's other mares had stayed behind, they had refused to show themselves.

Some, like Poka, did not surprise her. They had barely tolerated their stay here and it was not a shock that she had fled as soon as she was able. Others, like Nyiamara were more troubling. Siobhan had not considered the silver haired mare to be a good leader, but she had assumed that she had at least cared a little abou the land they had co-ruled and the herd they were tasked to protect. But she too, was gone. Lost to the winds with her young daughter.

Siobhan drew in a shaky breath, trying to center herself before her emotions won her over. She knew that she was likely too much in her head over this. Rulers changed all the time, and nothing was ever permanent. Her mother had taught her that much as a young filly. But she'd never endured anything like this herself, and she was finding it harder than usual to adjust.

A sound ahead catches her attention and she perks up, carefully wiping away as much of the unease from her face as possible. Respectfully the red mare inclines her head in greeting, suddenly unsure of how to properly greet Faolain. Did she want her subjects to bow? Add a title prefix? Sio clears her throat to mask her unease. "Queen Faolain."

If you were unsure, you might as well go for the highest title and work your way down. After all, Siobhan had once worn the mantle of Queen of the Ridge.

"I apologize for the delay in seeking you out, I.." she falters slightly, trying to find the right words. She didn't want to lay the blame for her anguish on the mare's shoulders, even if part of her still believed otherwise. Her family's future relied on this mare's kindness, and the red mare had long ago learned how to play the diplomat. Swallowing her pride and to some degree, the truth, she continues. "I was trying to find the right words to say. I hope you can forgive my tardiness."

A smile winds its way on Siobhan's lips and she resolves to simply let it all out. Truth be told, she is not entirely certain she is comfortable enough with this stranger to desire a simple conversation. She had initiated this meeting for a purpose and she might as well soldier on with it.

"I was actually hoping to speak to you regarding my little family." Her tone softens as she refers to the two bright fillies in her care. "I know you said that you would not force anyone out who wished to stay peaceably."

The words stick in her throat as she constructs them and she is forced to clear her throat once more. "I wish to officially take you up on that offer if it still stands. For myself and my daughters, as I think Ailill has already spoken to you."

Unguarded, her gaze bores into the other mare, searching for her response before it is even put into words.