Redtail Rise the coliseum

Pride was something Ashlar could do, if he asked her to take pride in something that she was making. Strength might even be a possibility. But no fear... that would be a stretch for the boy.

Ashlar flinched at the warning in the other man's voice, almost imperceptibly, and took a small step away. His ears shifted uncertainly, but otherwise, he paid careful attention to what Avicus was saying. Despite her struggle, it was easy enough for him to understand, minus perhaps an extraneous word here and there.

She wanted more recruits, but she wanted them strong. She wanted them like this other man. Ashlar nodded, though internally he withered a bit at the thought. They would fill the pack with warriors and, yet again, Ashlar would be alone.

But Avicus was a warrior. He was being unfair again. Trying to bolster himself, he nodded a second time, this time with a bit more vigor. I've f....found some. I can do that.

And then maybe, when her fight was done, they could find more like him. He loved the friendships he had, but he missed a friend to sing with, or one to speak with about things like fears and troubles. It got lonely after a while, singing alone.