Somehow, even in a moment like this when she was bristling and on edge, the first thing she thought about when Darin said the trees were alive were the red palms that grew outside Nailih's home. Nailih, who had first put the seed of doubt in her mind that her Sol was crooked and corrupt. What did those palms think of her deeds that night? Would they forgive her now, if she ever returned? What about the juniper bushes that secluded her while she killed Takhun? Ridahne visibly shivered, some of her ire melting away into a numb horror. Some, but not all. She'd always known plants and trees were alive, and like all elves, she was taught the importance of balance in nature, of the sanctity of life. But she'd never guessed they had thoughts of their own.

A man called out her name and Ridahne turned so sharply that the two fabric-bound strands of hair tipped with bone pendants whirled and slapped her face. She stared down Mr. Armin with her fiery golden eyes, though those two little embers cooled a little as she recognized him. A breath she didn't know she'd been holding slipped past her lips. Ridahne took another slow, deep breath and made an effort to compose herself a little. She was of the same mind as Darin, and just wanted to get out of here. Ridahne gave Mitaja a quick pet and a soft word of thanks before releasing her to trot back to the stables. "Quite peaceably," she said with a small nod, making a show of her empty hands. "We wish no harm and no trouble." 

They followed Mr. Armin, but Ridahne hung back slightly so she could have a few quiet words with Darin. "Remind me to thank them for that. I trust them far more than anyone else out there. It's not that I think anyone would want to do you harm, those are ordinary folk with ordinary cares. But individuals can be unpredictable, and that lot was frightened. Royalty--elected or otherwise--have reputations to uphold, and broad implications for each and every little action. Even if they wanted to harm you, I doubt they would, or they'd have a riot on their hands. The council is reasonably safe, I believe. But they may have their own motives for sweet words and kind deeds. Stay on your guard. What's more...I don't have the same senses about people that you do, but I've seen a thing or two and I've got a feeling that they already know who we are. They're a smart, well informed bunch and they were [I]very[/I] quick to find us just now. I'll bet my left hand they know, but are being polite, or secretive for their own reasons. Do with that information what you will," she advised.