I can still sense something from her. I still know that on some level, she is uncomfortable with closeness, but perhaps it is different with me. I have always been one to be close to other physically. A warm body and kind gesture can go a long way, as I have learned through the silence with my now gone mother. Yet, I know to respect the space of those who need it. This bond that I feel lets me know so much, but there are no words to describe it.

My eyes flick back to the gators wallowing in the murky waters as she mentions their craftiness. I have not been around them enough to understand their ins and outs. I have heard that a distance Iromar ruler was devoured by one. I observe their large mouths and sharp teeth. Their body is covered with a scaly like substance, and I wondered if they were as hard to crack as crabs or perhaps were a bit softer. Yet I wonder if perhaps I was out of place in mentioning my strong need to protect her, to ensure her safety and to remain unharmed. I still understand it is a bit odd, but at the same time, I know it like I know my own scent. I can tell she was not completely pleased with what I said, and I do get a sense of mixed signals.

I always had an issue with covering up the truth and how I really feel, even if it will eventually get me into trouble.

Her verbals response cause my head to fall a bit as I brushed some grass with my black paw. She is...right, to some extent. We are neighbors. I do cover the east side of her territory, and unknown to her, I have even moved my personal den closer to the border of Iromar. It was an uncontrollable urge. I enjoyed my spot in the middle of the territory by the beach, but this was simply more important. Still though, there was a striking validity in her statement. I am not by her side, and my eyes are not always carefully watching any shadow that dare pass by her. This does weigh heavily on my heart each and every moment I am away from her. Perhaps it is improper to move to Iromar to watch over her so soon, and I am still bothered by the fact that I have this desire to protect someone so fully capable as her. She is not like the small, innocent Namira he watched bugs with as a pup. Aithne is creature of strength, in mind and body. I cannot help if a bit of my worry for the whole situation does momentarily cross my grey and black muzzle.

I lift my head again, my ears lifting to listen intently. It appears she does not worry much about the gators here, and that in itself does bring some relief to the me. It seems there are other things that are on her mind, and being a ruler seems to be one of them. I give a sideways grin in response.

"I think you would be good at it, even if you never imagined it so. I have been prepped for being a ruler since I was a pup, sometimes, never imagining it prior may be an easier way. My siblings always fight and bicker about who will take over after Father dies...it is really...disheartening and sad. I just want my family to be happy. What of you, do you have any siblings?" I ask, my head tilting a bit curiously. I have heard of siblings turning against one another when power comes into play. It is almost a basic urge of a wolf, and I must admit that I want to be wary and watchful over any potential relatives wishing to take Aithne's throne, and I am certain some of my siblings would act that way.