Ailill’s clear eyes watched the retreating forms of Rowena and Macabre until even their steps were swallowed by the world around them. With each step they took he could feel his heart clench and stomach turn. All he desired was to follow them and prove to them his loyalty and desire for them. He was a breath away from giving up Paradise to walk with them as the young boy he once was. His mind clouded, thoughts lost to the shadows of his desires. Dracanaena pulled him out of his reflection and he turned to her once the others had left.

The question gave him pause. The truth was, he did not have much to offer. At least none that he could see. His home was empty, and he had lost the fight he had waged. But that would not stop him from trying. I would risk death for those around me. He answered first, voice grudging against her, angry she would question his dedication to risking anything less. If you wanted to stay, I would fight in your stead for you to do that. Golden head fell just so as he contemplated. He had given Shararat a purpose, a meaning, and something to do with her adventuring spirit. She flew to the winds and ran with them. Such a life was clearly not meant for the woman who stood before him. A heavy breath and he tried to choose his words carefully. There is power and position to have here. You are meant for more than to be someone else’s trinket. Here you can do what you desire. So long as it does not harm others who live here, I can stand beside it. This woman’s spirit was bright, and sharp. She would not have been the first mare who was a challenge to patience who came to the sands of Paradise. Even the Red Mare who had been so harsh, and the filly who had kicked him in the face, had their moments in his memory. His smile quirked, the playful nature trying desperately to fight through the mist that clung to his mind. Besides, you are clearly one who does not let a challenge go unanswered. Neither was he. I guess I can offer you a place in this game and in this risk. If you chose to accept it, keep it, and work for it.