Thorantilth hummed a moment to himself. [i]"Yes, the young ones always seemed to be surprised at how long a wound can bother them. It is often much worse later than it was when they received it. But, I am sure you know your son better than I. I will let you know when I have prepared the ink. Unless there are any delays, I should be able to have his marks completed just in time for our migration."[/i]

Once the three of them did take their leave, Zharan decided to bring up a point that had piqued his curiosity, almost as soon as they were out of the hut. [i]"You said you two still fight? I didn't expect you to keep to a warrior's life after you left, Kaleeth. You always seemed convinced that you would forever be horrible at it. Do you mean to tell me that the armor you showed in was not just for show?"[/i]

Kaleeth was briefly hesitant, if only to try and think about how to avoid revealing anything she would not want to reveal. But, she could not delay too long without it seeming unusual. [i]"Yes, I do still fight. Janius kept training me, and I kept getting better. I know I was never very good back when I was young, but...I guess I just eventually found the right motivation."[/i]

Zharan expression actually went as far as to show a smile, which was perhaps a first for Janius to witness from the man. It was more subtle on Zharan's face, but Janius could see something recognizable as pride for his daughter. [i]"Hmm, suppose I should have guessed it, with all that muscle you have on you now. You look to be in peak condition, really. I'm just glad all the effort I went through to train you didn't end up going to waste in the end."[/i]

[i]"So..."[/i] Zharan continued, his fleeting, heartfelt pride quickly giving way to a much harsher, more familiar attitude. [i]"Why in the void haven't you challenged that kuuda Deerz yet and broken his ugly snout? You're still a hunter, you still have that right."[/i]

[hr]

Despite all of the preparation Ahnasha had made, thinking of what she might say to Rhazii when he returned, she still took a short while to respond. There was little effort for her to hide her own regret. "I do not even remember the pain anymore, Rhazii. I have been hurt in so many ways, so many times, that it is just a vague blur to me. All that I am going to remember out of this is the fact that I [i]hurt[/i] you."

"I never want to hurt you, Rhazii." She added.