Blackfeather Woods no one but you

Cicero's mismatched eyes snapped into focus on Akela as he spoke. Perhaps because no one else had ever recognised his love for Damien in such a way, perhaps because Cicero was not sure that it was coincidence or intent, or perhaps because Cicero was angry that Akela would try to appeal to his emotions rather than use valid, objective arguments.

"A thing is not always what we want or think it to be. Akela wrongly assumes that Cicero thinks things are what the masses make it, too. Damien does. Akela can push him to the ground every day and Damien will not find respect, for he is waiting for different actions than Akela thinks. But no worries," Cicero said with a playful twinkle in his eyes, "Cicero will not cry for Damien getting his ass wooped a hundred times." He decided to disregard what Akela had said about his own respect. It irked Cicero that he would make assumptions that Cicero did not respect him. Their first meeting should have been testament enough of that. He made no mention of it, however, for it was not important. Actions would prove, if ever necessary, his loyalty and respect more than words ever could. Cicero offered a teasing smile as he said, complementing his previous words: "Or for to see him rising to Beta."