Common

The remorse he feels at removing her choice in accompanying him to his home is tremendous. Kindness has not proven to open any doors for him upon these islands and so he has regressed to the ways of the king he serves. He remembers briefly the terse words Velahrn had assaulted him with ceaselessly and the rejection of his attempt at friendship. Dill is bone weary of waging war against the aspects of unfair treatment within the Badlands - Why should be continue to bother when Rafe is obviously set within his ways? A toss of his head causes his heavy mane to whip against his neck and his dark eyes refocus on the brighter bay mare before him.

Her questioning of his actions is enough to make his cheeks color with embarrassment, though thankfully the darkness of his pelt is enough to hide the change. "It was just my way of showing the others that someone is willing to fight for you if needed." His words are murmured in his deep baritone and the sincerity behind them rings true. As he has now laid claim to the girl, he will assume the responsibilities that prove consequence.

Her introduction causes a mildly shocked stillness within the brute. Rougaru, she says? he ponders silently. He has heard this name among the whispers of unrest throughout the common grounds from equines that do not reside within Salem. He gathers himself, words chosen with care, not wishing to give reason for the wolf to turn its eyes upon the Badlands - though if such times came, Dill would protect the land that supports him and those residing within to the highest extent if necessary.

He returns her smile with a friendly one of his own. For only the third time in his year upon the islands he has met someone not instantly driven to distaste by his presence and he is appreciative. "I have not met your mother - but if you need to inquire after her, I am happy to assist." Why not help the girl find her mother - it is important to enjoy family while they still live.

Her next question elicits a rather mercurial glance from the stallion as he attempts to decide how to answer such a question. The Badlands is ominous enough in name and the vast expanses of emptiness within do not do much to change that feeling. His smile dampens some, but the boy gives a simple nod. "It holds a stark beauty in its own way. It is a desert, yet it possesses a lovely oasis and many a spattering of exquisite Joshua trees. We even have a beach and a portion of the ocean all our own. It is, however, rather humid in the summer." He says the last part sheepishly, for he knows that he underestimates the smothering heat. "If you would be willing to go with me, I would love to have your company." He hopes that, perhaps, she will not be too disappointed at the aspect of a life with him.