Tithe

Tithe regarded Sleekwing with a friendly shine in his eyes. At his approach, the iron clad wolf’s tail wagged once. The dip of Sleekwing’s head took Tithe by surprise. He nodded his head in acceptance of the respect, but in turn bowed his deeper to the elder who stood before him. The old warrior long ago had gained his respect and continued to hold it even now. The younger knight was picking through his mind, trying to piece together his words carefully to the wise man before him. The years and wealth of knowledge Sleekwing had at his disposal, much like Pan, was not something to be snubbed or ignored. It was something to be treasured.

It is not necessarily what you can help me with… Tithe began, settling himself into his accustomed pose, laying down but still upright, attentive and alert to who he was speaking to. You have been loyal to Spirane since I have known you, stayed solid throughout time. You were head warrior when I first came and asked again to remain. I will not ask you to serve a task, only for your help in insuring those who follow in your pawsteps are equally ready for the challenge. He lowered his head in due respect to the warrior. If you so accept. Iron eyes studied Sleekwing. He did not know if putting such things to words would have been insulting. From what he had gathered about the other male, he did not believe he was grasping at nothing.

His talk of business fairly concluded, Tithe eyed Sleekwing surreptitiously. Strange things had happened to him since coming to this land. Things he had not the opportunity to talk to anyone with knowledge about. He could have asked Pan, if it had not been for the fact he was the father of his predicament. Niviaq would have also been a respected elder he could have turned to, save she had the same bloodline complications as Pan did. A feeling of foolishness began to sweep over Tithe. It took much of the training of his youth to keep his expression calm, professional, and dignified. He inhaled a deep breath, carefully exhaling it passed his teeth. His facial expressions as guarded as they had ever been, impassive and blank as he could muster. Tithe lifted his head proudly, as though what he was about to ask was critical.

I also wanted to ask you about the concept of… ‘Imprinting’...

Indeed. Tithe needed to talk about girls.