Abaddon’s tone regarding companions seemed to change, and Ashamin became instantly more sympathetic. It was easy for the Clovenheart to forget how lonely he’d been before Lochan had come into his life, and he knew he was particularly lucky to have Rakt as well. Many in Helovia were blessed with a companion’s company, to the point where Ashamin often assumed that those without were simply solitary folk. Abaddon, however, did not appear to be that sort of stallion. It was a pleasant surprise for such a strong and intimidating beast to be in touch enough with himself to admit he wished to travel with company.

In fact, Abaddon seemed to be very open. Ashamin had to admit he liked the freedom that the crowned stallion seemed to have with his words, for he did not seem hesitant to air either his admirations or disappointments. And it seemed, too, that they were many. Perhaps the Dragon’s Throat was not the great and strong land Einarr had made it seem like after all.

Ashamin wasn’t sure if he was more disappointed in the herd or the dark pegasus he had considered his mentor. For some reason though, he did not doubt that Abaddon spoke the truth. He saw little (if no) reason for this stallion to lie, and Ashamin suspected that the brute was perhaps more honest than his intimidating demeanor might suggest. It was strange to take a liking to one who so resisted that sort of relationship with the very lack of charm he exuded, but Ashamin found himself trusting and approving of the stallion. Perhaps it was because his two companions had seemed to relax, turning their attention instead to the patches of grass they could graze on.

Maybe the painted buck would have paused to further discuss the joy of companions, but Abaddon seemed quick to pick up on The Unbound, and Ashamin was pleased to see the eager look on the black stag’s face. At first he only nodded, as if sympathizing with the tethers of herd life. Ashamin had lived in a herd for some time, and did not regret doing so, but there was something about the freedom of the wilderness…

"If the idea strikes you, Abaddon, you should know that The Unbound welcome all who would value its tenets. If it is weakness that you fear, then you can be assured that many of our numbers practice and teach the art of defense. And as for the heat…" Ashamin smiled then, thinking of all the lands he called home, "as an outcast, you would be free to wander all of the wilds and make your home wherever suits you best." His long tail curled anxiously but his face kept the same, excited look upon it. Would Abaddon really leave the Dragon’s Throat for the life Ashamin offered?

""