Bearclaw Valley If I was born a blackthorn tree

He seemed to accept her apology. But she knew he would never accept her need to put his life above her own, and so it would always be something they didn't agree on. He would value her life more than his and she would do the opposite. Arielle settled down beside the bruin-jaw, careful not to touch his ribs, though she wished she could push her body against his. 

Aves changed the subject to the children they had kidnapped from rivenwood. Perhaps it was a testament to her dedication to the bear, but she had never stopped to consider what the children being here might mean for them. She understood her husband's worry, though. They were recovering from the raid and would be for some time; another attack right now might mean disaster for them. For some reason, possibly the bear speaking to her in some invisible way like it liked to do, she didn't anticipate any issues. Still, she wouldn't downplay his worry. I think that we left rivenwood in worse condition than we are, she pointed out. So if they do come to try and take back their children, I don't think it will be any time soon. In other words, they would be prepared. 

Merrick is committed to his plan for them. I don't think there is much we can do about it except try and turn them to our side. At least then they would hopefully fight on the side of the bear.