The buckskin recaptures Rade's attention for a moment, abandoning his silence to speak words that provoke the palomino's curiosity. Like the youngest of the trio, he isn't quite certain what to make of this speech - why it matters to the ochre-and-white man what others think of the bachelors' morals, or lack thereof. The principles they stand for do not matter nearly as much as how they stand. Their solidarity is assumed by outsiders, who have not been blessed with the same insight that Rade has gained over his months of observation. It is this assumption alone that has kept the scattered state of their ranks a secret, and their swampy kingdom safe even as it molders into ruins.

Rade does not offer any response, however; even his expression remains impassive as Milo tacks an introduction onto the end of his speech like an afterthought. Instead his eyes are watching the pale boy, his ears listening to the brief exchange of pleasantries. He does not hasten to offer his own identity, however; names are inconsequential combinations of sound that divulge nothing about the individuals who carry them. In the Lagoon, a man is identified more by his rank, which reveals not only his place in the hierarchy of the bachelor herd, but also his purpose within it. Of course, there is a definitive line between those who simply have a purpose, and those who actively fulfill it. The pair before him could undoubtedly perform well in any of the three positions, but it was their actions that would inevitably define their role. They would either take the protection this place offered and give nothing in return, or help to breathe life back into the bachelor ranks.

“To live in the Lagoon, one only needs a purpose,” Rade responds to the adolescent colt, his expression more engaged, more animated than it had been moments before. “Those with considerable strength make the best soldiers, and those who demonstrate skill at stealth belong with the thieves. Or, if one proves to be proficient at both, he might become an associate.” The palomino pauses, giving Kendry time to digest the information he has offered. He does not ask the obvious question; if the boy is truly ready to join them, then he will declare himself.

stallion // mongrel // 15.1hh // 6 // palomino roan // reba
debonaire x neassa