Big Salmon Lake primum non nocere

He had been overjoyed when Aureli returned, yet kept the feeling wrapped neatly in his chest. Delos had made up his mind long before the offer had ever been made. Without hesitation he left his mothers side, following Aureli to the lake.

Bright, moonlit nights like this always had something that made Delos feel a bit less like a sickly child and more like his graceful mother. It was dark enough to hide flaws, yet bright enough to nearly make his white fur glow. He watched Aureli speak in relative silence, looking down at his reflection the moment after.

I want to learn from you, Aureli. He responded without hesitation, but, I'd like to ask something of you first. Can I do that?

Despite asking, he did not wait for a response before continuing. My mom. He paused, looking up at the healer. If she's travelling with us, and I'm your apprentice, I want you to um.. he frowned, sort of stay away.

Delos wasn't stupid. Between the talk in Verapaz, overheard conversations, and now when he saw her interacting with men during travel.. Delos had begun to feel a bit protective. She was his mother, it was his job. If Aureli was going to start hanging around them, no matter the reason, Delos wanted to set that single boundary down.