Lost Creek Hollow Promising (Joining Thread)

It was seeming more and more likely to him that it was true she had been on her own. Though his features relaxed as she spoke, the perception he gleaned in her uncertainty lingered. Yet in spite of whatever social awkwardness could have been perceived to be there, she did hold steadfast to the confidence in her tone. That he could tolerate, because he hoped for an honest and earnest reply. And truthfully that was what he received. An indifferent snort left him as her words dropped off, and he looked her over with mild appraisal. She spoke of being a fighter, but in her ragged state he imagined she had avoided that very thing. Her appearance alone boasted of long travel, a clear attribution to the story she had so willingly gave up.

"It would seem you have a lot to learn, as all of us must earn our keep," he began loosely. Even he had to search for the words to say — Mordecai was not naturally a leading sort, at least not by his consideration. "But any pack can make use of those who are capable of defending. It is a good quality to have, more so if you are willing to own up to it when the need arises." He paused, reminded briefly of the original seed that had been planted in him to stay for a spell within the Wilds. If not for a chance meeting with Jinx in the forests of the wilderness in the west, he supposed he would not have come to the conclusion he was considering.

"Spar with me." It was a simple instruction, though he was careful to present it as an offer. A test, if nothing else. If she were capable as a fighter, he supposed even in her trodden state she was more than able to prove it. With a wave of his tail that he would mean no harm by it, Mordecai waited to see what she would do. If she would consent to it at all; perhaps her travel-worn state was more than just an outward appearance.