go out to the places you will be from | any

[Gallows]

Officially I'm in the diplomatic caste. Unofficially, I don't give a fuck. I chose something so no one would harass me, but I don't have the slightest intention of rising anywhere that my wings aren't taking me. Still, it does give me an excellent excuse to scout other territories and kingdoms under the guise of diplomacy. Diplomacy. I snort. Not much useful there, except delaying the inevitable. I haven't quite decided where I am going to use my behind the scenes pass yet when I catch stray thoughts as Everdeen waltzes her way towards the Chamber. I sigh. Might as well make a team effort. After all, let's face it, at the moment the Chamber is the stronger land and it wouldn't do to start a war over someone's delectable ass. Sweet, sweet Everdeen. Don't you know this place is filled with wolves and ravens and all manner of other detestable thing? Perhaps it would be best if you put out your claws so they know you are a threat. I know you have them, I've seen your mind. I follow at a distance, lazily making circles in the sky until she crosses over the borderland into the beating heart of the Chamber. Really, how do they stand it here? The Valley has the good sense to hold still. I land less than gracefully some distance away and then canter to catch up. My pace is slower and so Everdeen has company before I can reach her. I trot over casually, my hawk's wings tucked against my side. Oh, this one's mind. He is wicked, isn't he? You hardly need to be a mind reader to know his intent. It is written over every sinew and muscle in his body. Gryffen, dear, I don't care what you do with your herd of darlings, but you aren't doing anything to a Valley member. After all, Everdeen here has chosen the better of the two lands and it would be so inconsiderate to make her regret that decision. Nevermind that my son is here. Even he knows better than to argue that the Chamber is better with me. "Don't you think you have enough broken toys in your playpen, Gryffen? Do me a personal favor and leave this one for the Valley." I grin, showing my teeth. Oh yes, I know all about your girls. I settle near enough to Everdeen that she knows she has my back up, but not so close as to make it obvious. I'll let her lead this little jaunt. After all, I'm a fan of seeing where this conversation is going to go. Within parameters, of course. "Gallows. And that is Everdeen." G A L L O W S We must all hang together or, assuredly, we shall all hang separately.