my lungs will fill and then deflate

Way ahead of you!  I stole your AW B)  Short post to wrap up.

He smiled softly at her words, heart warmed by them.  They meant far more than he had expected them to and sparked in him a fierce devotion, a bone-deep loyalty driven by instincts as much as friendship.  Was he so easy to win over?  Apparently.

"Thanks, Thistle," he said awkwardly, hoping his appreciation was known.  They walked together for a time longer, strengthening their friendship as they talked about nothing in particular.  And when they parted to return to their duties (or lack thereof,) Aesop returned to his den feeling quite content.