[Fawn]

Originally Posted by Cas

"You do make a great maternal figure," Icestar complimented before the subject was changed. Daintybird in the nursery, safe, and able to visit the leader whenever she wanted. It seemed like the perfect solution to her. As the forest around them became more grayish and dim, Icestar's whiskers twitched in surprise at the compliment. It wasn't often she was praised for something other than her brute strength and demanding presence. It was...nice, she supposed. She let out a small chuff as a sort of 'thank-you', without actually having to accept the compliment. When she glanced at the smaller she-cat, there was the faintest glint of warmth in her orange eyes.

"Yes, this area won't be fully recovered for seasons to come," She nodded, turning her gaze forward once more. "But it is clearly healing well so far. Safe to traverse, at least." She paused to flick some debris off from a sprouting plant. "New growth carries such promise. Nothing is stronger than one who takes time to grow after a defeat." Her tone was level and meaningful, lost in thought. She didn't often let her guard down to this extent, nor did she often have casual conversations with others. It was a change. Perhaps a good one.

It was then that she heard those unmistakable clumsy paw-steps, and that noisy, slobbering mouth. A dog. She looked around frantically, but couldn't see it yet. "Stay close," she warned, taking a defensive position. There was no way Daintybird would--or could--fight a dog. "I'll protect you."

Psh, not only was it safe to traverse, but she could walk on it! Daintybird added a little extra oomph to her steps to keep the ground in its place. A smaller puddle caught her attention and she paused to gaze at them in it for a moment. "Mhmm, yes," she said idly, not listening too carefully anymore as she enjoyed her internal fantasy of ShadowClan watching them strolling together. Just think of it! Daintybird with the mighty Icestar, looking so perfect. She loved it.

Daintybird's unawareness could've been the death of her if not for Icestar actually hearing the danger nearby. "Why wouldn't I be staying close to you, dear?" she drawled smoothly, leaning in close only to find Icestar.. was posing. Oh, was there a clanmate nearby? Daintybird peered around as she struck her own pose--dramatically draping herself near Icestar--then heard the ruckus. Whoever was out there desperately needed to cut back on the frogs. ... It occurred to her after a small delay - and the thing coming closer - that it was no cat, and her hackles raised in alarm, a hiss escaping her. "THE BRUTE!" she snarled under her breath, the tremble in her meow a betrayal. "He would not dare attack! Classless!" Despite her whispered confidence, she was crouching lower as if hoping to sink into the grass.