Utu-ja watched Daelin's face as he read the letter, first to himself and then aloud for Utu's ears.  It was as strange as he had feared.  He continued to listen to his superior's thoughts and the worry in his voice without speaking.  The confusion in his expression was growing stronger, slowly drifting toward an absurd kind of bemusement as he thought back on what he had heard, over and over again.  

Utu heard Daelin speak of respect for his work.  That respect was something that Utu had earned.  It had not been easy.  He was not inclined to throw it away for such a dubious offer.  The problem now was how to deal with the letter.  Daelin was nervous about it and clearly wanted it kept quiet for now.  They had a battle to fight.  Distractions kill.  As a hunter, Utu knew that better than some.  In fact, depending on what Daelin wanted done on this scouting job, he might be using that little fact to silence a few Foresworn bows before they got to sing a single note.

The incredulous confusion  of Utu's expression finally broke with the offer of Daelin's chewing herbs.  He took a pinch and chewed slowly, breathing the scent deep into his lungs and exhaling out his nostrils.  It was invigorating, though mild.  It was also relaxing.  He found hidden tightness flowing out of his muscles and his tail stopped twitching.  He took his time before swallowing.  With his mouth empty it was time to respond.

Utu let out a low chuckle, soft and cold.  "My first breath was Skyrim's air and Skyrim's dust.  I think my last should be the same."  The look in his eyes was clear.  His decision seemed made, though the offer was still lingering in the back of his mind.  "Thanks for reading it for me and for the herbs and advice."

That was all he said before crouching in the corner of the tent with a shake of his head and setting himself to checking his armor and bowstring.  There was no sign of problems.  He had taken good care of them.  His dagger could be a little sharper but the tip was fine.  Still, it was something to do.  He pulled a small piece of oiled leather out from under one of his bracers and began polishing the dagger's long blade.  If Daelin wanted to talk more that was fine but Utu knew that in the end it would be his actions that would decide whether he accepted the job or not.  Things can change after all and loose lips could kill too.

[@gcold]