For as long as Fendros and Calia discussed their souls and the afterlife, Ahnasha was silent, towards Calia at least. However, she recognized that Fendros was not being truthful. Both of their souls were bound to the Hunting Grounds, of that there was no question. Ahnasha knew she had no right to demand that Fendros tell anything to his parents, but in this case, she felt that lie would do more harm than good. Calia seemed unaware of what lycanthropy meant for Fendros’ soul, but that did not mean it would stay that way. There were scholars who researched lycans and published their findings, or even lycans themselves who spread information about their condition. The fact that lycans were bonded to Hircine was not unknown information, and she imagined that someone in the family would be motivated to research them after this. If not Calia, then perhaps Monderyn, or even his father. 

Fortunately, the enhanced senses of a lycan meant that Fendros’ ears could pick up even the faintest of whispers from Ahnasha beside him. Calia had not been blind for long enough for her hearing to measurably improve. “You know that’s not true. They will do their research, and they will eventually learn about your soul. You don’t want them to know you lied to them.” Ahnasha whispered, quietly enough for the sound to reach only Fendros in any meaningful way. 

As the conversation continued, Ahnasha became increasingly worried for Fendros. She felt that he was becoming afraid to stand up for himself and his convictions. Again, she knew his words were just lies to appease her, but she wondered if that would truly make him happy with this visit. She had told her share of lies to her parents, so she could not demand that he admit anything, but she had also not denounced Fendros right in front of him. She could not help but to be at least somewhat offended that he was not standing up for her or Rhazii. “Fendros…you are your own man. You are not a slave to anyone’s desires. Mine or hers. You need to be very sure this is what you want to say; this is what you want them to think. I can’t make you do anything, and if you have a plan, I’ll be patient. Just…really think about this.” 

When the conversation finally moved towards Ahnasha once more, she quickly tried to think of something to say, this time loudly enough for Calia to hear. “I will be entirely honest, I think you’re wrong about me. But, to really be able to say that, I think I just have to ask directly. What do you think about me?”

---
Meesei let out a long sigh. “Narsi is innocent in all of this, which is why I hope you do what is right for her. I would not expect you to see me again, unless necessary. I have a difficult time looking at you without feeling the regret of my failure to save Jerrick, but be aware that those watching you will be suspicious, due to your previous ties to Vile. I think that you have seen for yourself how despicable they are. No matter what Vile promises, he will not be merciful to the lycans he coerces into his service, especially you, who have betrayed his agents in the past. If Vile learns of you, he will no doubt seek to use your daughter against you. He will not live up to the promises he makes. If something happens and you do not believe you can keep Narsi safe, I will agree to bring her into a clan’s protection.”

Janius would not have to go far to find Lorag, as he was standing just across the street from the hovel. He saw Janius step outside, but he made a very obvious effort not to make eye contact with him. Lorag could sometimes be difficult to read, but in this case, he was obviously angry, and in deep thought. Internally, he was conflicted, and externally, that showed through frustration. Even as Janius stepped closer, he would not acknowledge him until spoken to directly.