A noise of appreciation escapes her as her deft fingers pluck the leather from Aino's outstretched hand, hair piled high in efficient, practiced motions and then tied up with the gifted thong. "Thank you," she says simply, faint smile fading to give her full attention to the woman as her business and life unravel like a spool of thread beneath her singular question. The expression slowly thaws into a contemplative frown as she continues on, and even when it's clear Aino has finished she continues in her silence, thinking hard. It's not that she didn't know the efforts that went into such menial but important work; Hotaru wasn't born into royalty for all she'd achieved it. Her own beginnings had been humble at best. It does remind her of how she has become slightly out-of-touch however, and she is more frustrated with herself than anything.
As a ruler, she'd made a point to uplift everyone in her kingdom. To know them intimately, to help all who sought her out find their true purposes in life. It's a drive that has not died in her in the time she has been without a crown. Knowing Aino has lost family only cements her decision. "Is it what you must do to help your family, or is it something you genuinely enjoy?" The sharp clarity in her eyes as they cut sideways towards the woman request sincerity in their intense, unblinking stare. Cogs turning behind beautiful pale eyes.
As a ruler, she'd made a point to uplift everyone in her kingdom. To know them intimately, to help all who sought her out find their true purposes in life. It's a drive that has not died in her in the time she has been without a crown. Knowing Aino has lost family only cements her decision. "Is it what you must do to help your family, or is it something you genuinely enjoy?" The sharp clarity in her eyes as they cut sideways towards the woman request sincerity in their intense, unblinking stare. Cogs turning behind beautiful pale eyes.
