Hideaway Strath What if what you do to survive

Artok studied her as she looked at him. He could tell his words hadn't sat right, but she didn't seem upset, just a little disgruntled. Her next words drew him pause and he dipped his muzzle.

It is free to give, but what does it often cost you?

He had seen first hand how kindness could get you killed, or hurt or worse. Had seen how they had treated Miss. Scarlett in Duskfire, a she wolf who was kinder than anyone he had ever met in his life. They turned on her in a minute, because it was easy. Because they didn't like to face their own shortcomings when they looked at a wolf that was good and kind and sweet. They were ashamed, so they took it out on the one that gave their heart away freely.

He was kind, but only to those who deserved it. Like Miss. Scarlett, like Miss. Arlette, like Nala and Warchief Fury who had been kind to him.

I was going to fill the caches. I want to show my worth. Warchief Fury took a risk allowing me entry as old as I am. And I would repay that kindness ten fold.

Artok had always liked to hunt, even as a youngling. He had found solace in the trails he could follow, the ease with which his body responded, even ruined as it were. When he hunted, he could adapt and not be bothered. His scar was not an issue when he hunted.

He had even adapted his fighting style, but the simple fact was if utilized against him, the adaptation could also be his ruin. But he had determined the minute he enterered here. If Trouble came knocking. He'd throw the first punch figuratively speaking. With his death the others would get an advantage. It was why he had been the first at the borders to meet Tsunari.