Hushed Willows No I never really panicked

ariel still mostly keeps to the company of his wives, but he does busy himself with going out to gather supplies - herbs olive asks for, trinkets to decorate their den (he recalls with some mourning how desolate queenie's had been), snacks, and so forth. there's new blood all over elysium he can smell, despite the warming weather. it makes him quietly happy to see how well things have gone, how lily's and seabreeze's and olive's efforts have all paid off. it lessens the hurt of his own failings to be able to be here and contribute in his own small ways.

it allows him to feel more open to socializing like he used to, as well -- so when he spots the boy he feels comfortable slipping closer, watching the bend of his back with a knowing sort of empathy. not that he can intuit the particularities of this boy's gloom, but it is a place he himself has been many a time, and he can recognize himself in that particular sullen slink. 

"hey," ariel calls out softly, approaching, "need help finding something?"