-Adria-
If Leliana is capable of seeing through to the deepest parts of those around her, then her words must come from a place already explored. Adria was willing, incredibly willing to pledge her (not Eva, not her unborn) services to Tephra because she felt it was expected, but doubt had lingered in the corners of her mind over such a thing. She doesn’t make herself out to be a fighter, yet power lies within her grasp. Her Queen must be aware, when she stares with molten curiosity back into the open face of her subject, that not one but two Nereids residing offshore could be vital.
Still, Adria fears that same power being used against her will. Leliana… she is a mare capable of doing that.
The seahorse’s exhale is soft yet noticeable. What the Tephran ruler asks is something much more agreeable and therefore, easier to morally uphold. After all, Adria herself is an innate believer in the good of all Beqanna, and the fact that the Plague is cured despite the Dark God’s will is all the more proof of such a notion.
A velvet smile replaces the tension, softening her already sweet nature and between them, the surrounding area seems brighter and more lovely for it. Cautiously, Adria blinks and assess her new Queen with an open mind and an appreciative heart. Where once she saw something to be feared (she’s not stupid, though; Leliana is fearsome) now she sees an alluring strength. A source of infallible light that will draw others to this place.
She feels warmed. Wholesome.
Until there’s mention of Castile. “A paltry offer, lady - but I would extend the same protection to you and all of Tephra. I would be quite, what’s the word? Capable if the need arose.” She tongues, switching to common language for the necessity of choosing a correct term. A genuine smile flashes brightly across her face; a dash of lightning like a storm over the sea: lovely, deadly. “Like you, though, I would prefer to understand what it is I protect. You mention Isobell, sister of one called Castile.”
Her head shifts imperceptibly, causing the undulating waves of her mane to shiver in response. “Isobell must be Ischia’s last protector but her brother… I know the name to be associated with Loess. The reason for concern escapes me.”
Her last home had been Hyaline. A good home, an earnest place to settle and grow, but not one that ever did much after her dual leaders moved further East to Silver Cove. It shames her to openly admit that her knowledge of Kingdom relations is weak, however if there was ever a time for changing that it would be now. With Leliana’s guidance and help Adria is determined, driven to be an integral part of something larger than herself and that had begun the moment her Queen gave verbal support. “Please explain.” She requests, feeling much more at ease having put her first task behind them.
Oh my love, don't forsake me; Take what the water gave me
@[leliana] well okay, you got an unexpected novel