Redtail Rise morendo

Ashlar wilted before her anger and withdrew. He did know that. He wished he were not so aware, at all times, of this. He had thought she understood.

If they're like me.... it wouldn't... they couldn't. He once again couldn't look at her. He kept his eyes down and his voice small, but he knew this was beyond him anyway. Chacal had been very clear - they belonged to the cliffs.

We don't need more me. It was a truth. It was why she had chosen others. Chacal had sought him in spite of this and shown him a new experience, made it clear that what she wanted was something he could give. He did not know if he would revoke it, even seeing the outcome. But Avicus' rejection here hurt more than any so far.