Between a rock and a hard place

He could see that his words had some effect on Iskra. Far from wanting to wreck Dragon’s relationship, he wanted to know this woman knew who she was choosing to spend her life with. And it was clear she didn’t.

However, his mind turned from the matter as Iskra offered her own tale; a warning, and he nodded, ears perking as his features turned serious. He took in the tale with that same intense expression, nodding from time to time as he listened.

“Thank you, Miss Aeris. I will certainly keep that in mind.”

He straightened, head cocking as she went on about her deal. She was resourceful, and clearly intelligent enough to take care of herself. Favors were indeed useful. Something Dragon hadn’t seemed to learn. The fact that he’d been foolish enough to allow a threat to tour his lands stood as enough reason alone to consider him an unfit leader. Or the two he’d shown around were excellent actors. Probably a mixture of both.

“I do know something about herbs. My grandmother was a healer, the best on this continent in her time. My mate is also a healer, and two of my cousins, as well. If you ever meet a Nomad, though, you’re in some of the best paws for learning what to look for. They have colored scars on their brow to signal their status as master healers.” He grinned easily at her, wariness once again gone. His gut said she had no threat to bring him, and she had been highly helpful.

“Were there any particular herbs your Abraxas fellow was particularly interested in? Any particular functions?”