[P] blackbird claw, raven wing

[Avdotya]

Solterra's sandstone fortress loomed heavy over the horizon, its hard edges distorted by Solis' searing midday heat. There was something off in the foul twist of her stomach when she saw it; true, Avdotya had never been an admirer of the regime (in spite of having made herself a part of it), but now she had a whole new reason to harbour foul feelings toward the Court of Sun itself. Maxence's presumed death was one that presented the mare with more difficulty than most. Unlike the many who had died before him, her memory of the man refused to leave her conscious mind. A small shred of him lingered there, and her inability to simply erase him led to a burning twinge of frustration. He was reckless, he acted out unprovoked and therefore risked the well-being of the nation itself... why, then, was his death so different? Avdotya chose not to dwell on her thoughts much longer. There were important matters that needed attending to, but even they warranted a sour taste on her tongue. The more she involved herself in Novus' political field, the more she yearned for her freedom; to be chained to responsibility and even accountability was no life for a Davke, regardless of the power that came with it. She was capable of her own clout in other ways, and that was what she sought deep down in her vicious heart. Her path had been set. Whether she was ready to set hoof down it quite yet would be determined sooner or later. Now, as she entered the palace's grand throne room, the viper bore down on Solterra's Emmissary. "I will not waste my time dancing around this subject," she stated bluntly, "the court demands a new sovereign... and here we are, the two sole choices." Her voice was low, naturally threatening, but it was deceiving. Avdotya wanted no part of the throne that called to her as Regent.  She paused, letting the hot air sit heavily between them as she drew closer. When she stopped within reach of Seraphina, her fiery eyes drank in the sight of the empty throne beside them. Temptation reached its wispy arms towards her, enticing her, calling her. It was there for her to take, but to claim it would be an insult to her family. "I will wear no crown upon my head." Avdotya finally said, looking the Emissary in her two-toned eyes. "It is yours to take if you so desire." The silvery mare was a capable leader, more capable than Maxence had been in her own opinion. Solterra's future rested in strong hands, should Seraphina accept her ascension. @Seraphina av kicked the elephant outta the room real fast hehehe image © aapex