In the corner of his eye, he seen Ezekiel shift after assuring him he was not in trouble. Steady knew Ezekiel was a friend, but he also knew spars could get out of hand. Whatever had happened here, whatever had made Niita freak was, by her own admission, not the other male's fault. Steady accepted that. 

While he admired her stubbornness and dedication to not let another be punished for her reaction, Steady wasn't sure about how he felt about her literally stepping before him. She was submissive, yes, but she was still in his way, blocking him. She exposed her neck, silently accepting whatever punishment he seemed fit to give her. He lowered his closed muzzle to her neck, his breath shifting her fur there. But, he did not move to grab her. I admire your will to protect those who do not deserve a punishment, he said, his voice low, calm. And while you're always free to say whatever you want, you should not physically place yourself before me if I have deemed them fit to be punished. He retreated a few steps, and was ready to leave the two to their own devices, but he waited to see if either had anything else to say, especially since Niita didn't seem shy about voicing her opinion.