go out to the places you will be from | any

[Kushiel]

Kushiel liked to think that he knew how to mind his own business. He liked to think it, but it wasn’t true. Yet, even if it wasn’t, apparently, his destiny to interrupt every diplomatic meeting the Chamber hosted, he would of had to interrupt this one.

Oh god, his mother was here.

She had, of course, threatened to show up, but he had hoped it was just that, threats. He should have known better. For the second time in living memory, Kushiel made his way towards the growing group with a sense of urgency. He needed to make sure things didn’t get out of hand. What if his mom told his chambermates stories about what he was like as a foal? What if his chambermates told his mom stories about what he was like as an adult?

Really, it was all too much to be born.

Logically, Kushiel knew none of them had gathered to talk about him. But, logic which concluded Kushiel wasn’t at the foreground of everyone’s thoughts just didn’t seem to compute particularly well. So, it was with a scowl that he stalked up to them. Still, it was probably in his best interest not to make too big a scene, or else they might actually start talking about him, or else make him return to the Valley with his mother.

Neither of those were desirable outcomes.

So while he was still scowling ferociously, he managed a little bit of grace when he pulled up beside them. Stiffly, he greeted them, sending a pointed warning look at Gallows.

“Mother, Everdeen, I see you found your way all right.” It rather sounded like he would have preferred they had gotten lost half way there. He had the grace not to say it, however, and that was all that really mattered.

Kushiel took a look around and sighed in relief when he noticed Gryffen was here as well. He would probably end up kidnapping sweet, little Everdeen. That would probably shatter their kingdoms’ fragile alliance, thus ensuring his mother didn’t have further opportunity to embarrass him. Kushiel grinned at the thought, knowing it was, most likely, just a happy fantasy. Gryffen usually behaved himself when it was for the good of the kingdom. Kushiel could probably learn a thing or two from him. At least they had dear Straia to keep the beasts in line. Of course, there were those who would be disconcerted to learn that the Raven Queen was their only buffer from mayhem. She had a reputation of her own.