come the beginning >> o, AE visitors

[RHINESTONE.]

LEADER ❝ RHINE ❞ PALMCLAN

The undeniable grateful lilt of Bai Shi's words was easy to see and understand, at least from Rhine's perspective. It was clear that Alithís Evgenis had been suffering because of the bandits, and Bai had suffered even more personally because of them. Needless to say, Rhinestone felt very little hesitation in offering his clan's help, even if there was certain risks associated with it. They would cross those bridges when they got to them, after all. For now, the tom just intended to keep his promises. He dipped his head to Bai Shi, his voice a half mumble and half purr as he answered, "Of course... Palmclan does not make a habit of leaving our allies when they're in need. I will make sure we have our eyes and ears open for when your patrol arrives." He truly doubted that they'd even be able to miss a messenger from Alithís, considering the wide variety of strange creatures that lived there. Palmclan had certainly become more diverse over time, but those that lived within Alithís Evgenis were so totally foreign to the large clan's usual expectations.

Rhine had been about to turn and depart, figuring he would need to make plans for when the bandit raid happened, but he was stopped by Foamkit growing closer. Pausing, the leader let out a soft oof as Foamkit's paws locked around his leg, despite the fact the kit didn't have much force to him. Blinking in surprise at the boy's words, Rhineestone was once again reminded of the fact that he was essentially Foamkit's father, and the other needed him. His ears then briefly flattened, sympathy in his pale blue gaze as he leaned down to press his nose atop Foam's head. His voice was a mere murmur as he reassured, smile light and loving, "Don't worry, Foamkit. I'm not going to end up hurt, okay? I'm a big strong warrior, and Palmclan has plenty of other big strong warriors, too. You're not going to lose another dad. We're just making sure that other kids in Alithís Evgenis don't end up losing their dads because of the bandits, you know?" He doubted Foam would be glad at the prospect either way, but the child was far from heartless. Surely he would be able to see that Alithís needed the help, even if he knew it in only the basest possible way.

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

— Reggan