Redtail Rise the premature burial

Tulimaq's proximity, and the way they stood as a united authority, didn't escape Ashlar's notice either.

It set him in a strange space. Even if it had been in his nature to fight for her, he knew that he never would if it meant jeopardizing the legacy she'd built here. Tulimaq was huntmaster, warrior, and deserved the respect he had earned. Avicus was the same. They were a match from every objective, and as much as it pained him, Ashlar was genuinely glad he had joined them. As her friend, he could not be anything else.

Still, his eyes cut away, and as they did he felt the catch within his throat. It seemed he would always have reasons to doubt the things he'd finally thought certain.

There was no more need for him here. He turned silently to leave, disappearing without a word the way he'd come, but not before he noted with appreciation the way the newcomer dealt the request. He was quick and did not seem to enjoy it. Ashlar had some sympathy for that - maybe later they could talk. Right now he just wanted to be somewhere else.