I Will Not Quit

Aresenn noted his daughter's slip on the treacherous terrain, a small huff escaping him - more out of concern than annoyance. He watched as she dusted herself off, her fiery pelt standing out against the stark cliffs. A wry smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth. "Always keep your eyes on the path, not just your destination," he advised in his gruff tone, though there was a trace of warmth beneath the stern words. The scorching sun overhead caused their russet coats to gleam as if set aflame, its heat seeping through to his muscular core. He stole a glance at the valleys below, the brittle trees seeming almost ghostly under the oppressive summer sun. The threat of a stray spark igniting a fiery inferno was never far from his thoughts, but it was measured against the draw of journey's end - the imposing peak with its tumbling cascade.

As they pushed forward, Aresenn's nose twitched, catching the faint scent of mountain goats in the vicinity. His eyes darted around, scanning for the location of the creatures. This was a good sign; there would be water nearby. And following the faint trails of the goats would lead them both to fresh grazing and away from any local predators on the prowl. He signaled Araxina with a flick of his tail, a silent command to follow him.

"Watch your step," he grumbled as they navigated through a narrow path litter with jagged rocks and precarious drops. His deep voice echoed across the silent expanse, mingling with the far-off sound of crashing water. "Keep low and even." But of course, he could give her all the instructions in the world … but little good it would do if she did not internalize them.

Aresenn's heart stuttered as Araxina skidded towards the edge of the cliff. His muscles coiled, ready to pounce and halt her dangerous slide. He released a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding when she finally came to a stop, just shy of the precipice. His eyes were smoldering. In his life, he had faced down countless trials and threats, but watching his daughter toe the line between the reckless abandon of youth and the bitter sting of reality was the most terrifying ordeal of them all.

He offered a paw to help her regain her footing but he remained silent for a few moments, fur bristling in irritation. “Yes it was.” He finally replied, his voice strained with suppressed worry. "You must learn control, Araxina," he stated, sternly. “You have so much natural talent- talent I wish I had when I was your age. But it’s only a matter of time before it lands you in real danger, if you’re not careful.” His eyes pierced hers, his warning evident. His words might have been sharp. But behind his fiery gaze and the growl in his voice, there was a deep well of concern, fear even. He hoped she saw it and understood its depth. This wasn't about dominance or obedience, it was about survival.

"Aresenn Praetor"