death of a childhood / open, intro

[RHINESTONE.]

LEADER ❝ RHINE ❞ PALMCLAN

Rhinestone probably could've done without the impending headbutt that struck antler against leg, but he was glad that Quasar seemed to accept the affection, albeit slightly. Rhine sat back on his haunches, lifting up his other forelimb to wrap around Quasar, giving the other a bit of a hug despite the faint throb in his leg. At least the canine hadn't been going so fast that it would hurt for some time. After listening to what the little one had to say, the rusty red feline spoke in a reassuring tone, a smile on his muzzle, "I'm sorry... I can't imagine how much it hurt that you couldn't do anything. But I'm sure that your parents, wherever they are, are proud of you. They're probably so glad that you're still safe and that your brother is safe as well." He then added on, his chin briefly resting atop Quasar's head as he continued, "And I'm sure that you can protect Tree. You might not have been able to help your parents, but this will only motivate you more to make sure that the rest of your family is safe. I mean, I lost my parents, but now I'm more determined than ever to make sure everyone else around me is safe. Like my brother, Toadwhisker." He gestured a paw back towards Toad, before flicking an ear.

Lifting his head off of Quasar's for the sake of the child's comfort, Rhine said with a firm nod, "I'm entirely convinced that you're going to keep that promise. I can see it in your eyes... you're a good friend, and nobody else is gonna get hurt on your watch." Of course, Rhinestonestar now had no intention of letting Quasar, get hurt, either. Maybe he was just soft hearted, but the tom immediately knew that Quasar needed friends, and a family that could support him. With this in mind, Rhine's gaze drifted over the boardwalk for a moment before he spoke, "If you'd like... I'm going to speak to the leader of this place. I intend on making a deal with him, so that the boardwalk becomes a part of my group. If he agrees, then you and your brother are more than welcome to join us. Not only will it be an opportunity for you to make new friends and form new bonds, but we'll make sure to keep you both safe. I can promise you that." He then offered Quasar the softest of smiles, hoping the pup would understand how serious he was.

NEVER OPENED MYSELF THIS WAY
LIFE IS OURS, WE LIVE IT OUR WAY

— Reggan