Otatso Wetlands I am begging, down on my knees

Etienne had noticed the scent of Anselm's son's fading at his last visit. But now they were further stale. And he felt terrible that he would have to ask his friend such a thing, when clearly he was dealing with his own problems. Etienne promised himself if he lived through this. That he would help Anselm find his sons. Even if the mountain born didn't want or ask for it.

Etienne felt beraggled. His fur unkept and every which way but right. His golden eyes full of fear and sadness. But he would not let pride go before this important thing. Even if Anselm told him no. However, the man did not. Proving yet again to the sea born even if his affections were not returned. His heart had not be handed to the man in vain. For he was at his core a good man.

Etienne had to tamper down the wail that threatened to take him over. His voice beleaguered with the dismay he felt. The unshed tears tasting of salt on his tongue.

I do not know dem. Dey are a pack near dey coast. Pirates. Dey be not far from my ole 'ome. But dey be awful creatures. My leader has agreed to go. I will arrive a day before 'im and tell my family we are comin' 'opefully dey do not take me too. And I will 'elp dem escape. I 'ave 'ope dat you 'elp me find dem and cover our tracks. But no matter wut Anselm. You must promise me you save my family even if I must be left be'ind. I am no warrior. Not brave like all of you. But dey be my family and I love dem enuff to do wut i must if the occasion warrants it.