Noah did not give any outward sign that he understood Hotaru's words over the attuned bond, but the woman would feel his understanding. While he had used the bond countless times to coordinate hunts, having the ability to speak privately and without interruption mid-political conversation was a benefit Noah never imagined himself utilizing before. I don't want to promise her any force that will not be reciprocated. Noah was afraid that the fae would do just what Hotaru said -- hide in their forest and leave Halo against the Ascended.
"Neutrality is not realistic." Noah sighed, eyes moving to the hearth of the fireplace for a moment, collecting his thoughts. "We did not as our people to fight in anything -- we did not write their names down to march on the Ascended." He let his gaze settle back on Juniper again, voice sturdy and eyes glacial. "We are trying to shield them, protect them from the Voice and her reaches. You of all people know she only brings destruction and death." "The fae helped keep Halo fed over the last hard season," Noah started, folding his hands on his lap and leaning forward slightly, "But Frey has blessed us with a greenhouse. An ability to sustain our own people from our own land, and we will continue to move forward in every way we can to sustain ourselves. If this is a meeting based on militaristic plans, please be clear." This did not mean Noah was ungrateful for their help, but it was no longer needed -- the Sentinel needed to know what the root of this conversation really was.
Noah Olson cold in the violence after the war hope is a fire to keep us warm |
