Hushed Willows A Silent Retreat

His manipulation won out; his false altruism seeded. Though it was true that his folk were generous to outsiders, it was not out of kindness that these things were done but out of necessity. These small acts were meant as lures — a small taste of glory to reel in the rudderless, the faithless, the despondent. Bodies for the cause. Prospective loyalists for his court.

For every being could become a conduit for the Rhythm, and the foundation of every connection was built stronger through beneficence rather than force.

Wake tried not to watch or otherwise interfere as the girl strained to partake in what was freely given. He continued to wash his paws with casual focus, keeping an ear angled towards her in case she spoke.