my lungs will fill and then deflate

Over the years, Aesop had learned to cut his stride so that now he did so effortlessly and, indeed, without thought. He often found himself peerless in size, all the more because he did not think himself a warrior.

Aesop listened to her attentively, humming his interest when appropriate. The information would prove useful, no doubt, as it was always good to know the history of wherever one had pledged his allegiance to. He tried to make sympathetic noises regarding her children, as the insecurity must be killing her, but he had never been good at offering comfort like this.

"Long story, then, huh?" He asked this kindly, as he truly was interested in her story. "I haven't really met your family, I guess. Ain't seen Ragnar or Gunnar, but I'm sure they're just as kind as you." Aesop let them walk in silence for a moment, then spoke up again. "So there are other packs in the area? Any nearby that are of any importance? Allies, enemies, the like."