blood in the water

Caedes listened to Aresenn's words with a morose respect, his gaze narrowing slightly as he considered his companion's advice. He may have been reluctant to admit it, but he knew the insight could prove invaluable in navigating treacherous terrain like that of the fjord.

As Aresenn moved closer, Caedes met his gaze with steely intensity, his expression giving away none of the uncertainty that churned within him. He was a warrior, accustomed to facing challenges head-on, and he would not falter now. "Balance and control," Caedes repeated, his voice low – measured as he mulled over Aresenn’s words. "I can do that." With a nod he turned his attention back to the rugged landscape, the exact footing he’d lost balance on, his mind already racing with strategies to remedy his problem.

But a thought entered his obsidian skull. "Tell me," Caedes began, his voice steady as he turned to his companion. "What was the greatest challenge you've faced in terrain like this?" Asking for Aresenn's insight provided an opportunity for Caedes to glean valuable knowledge, something he was not opposed to. How could he be opposed to betterment?