Ouroboros Spine the fall of the house of usher

Taken aback was an understatement. Ashlar hadn't really expected to be met with this much animosity, especially when he came with nothing but a greeting! His stomach clenched anxiously but he swallowed in the face of their stares.

She says you have my brother here. Ashlar began, focusing most of his imploring attention on Kukutux. Avicus had said that she was in charge. Or, at least, a 'she'. We don't mean you any harm, we just came to take him home. I'm sorry if.... if we're intruding. His tail tucked a bit more with that, in an earnest desperation to show his good faith.

Then he fell silent, waiting for a reply before he continued. He didn't see why they wouldn't just let him leave if he wanted to, but just in case, he was willing to do pretty much whatever it took short of violence. Ashlar had little pride to protect.