Protect, embrace, engulf

The Morningstar stepped back, releasing Seiko with a respectful nod, his cyan eyes glimmering with warmth and admiration. "You've got quite the spirit," he said, his tone sincere. "Not many hold their focus the entire way through a spar without letting anger and frustration get the best of them. You fought well." He gave a small, almost teasing grin. "And I'll admit, that strength of yours makes pinning you down feel like trying to hold a river in place."

As Seiko introduced themselves, Oath inclined his head in a polite gesture. He'd met one other Tojo-Kai wolf before this one, and each one seemed to naturally draw respect out of him. "I am Oath Morningstar, of Judila," he replied, his name rolling almost melodically off his tongue. "Not a pack, but a family. Tojo-Kai, huh? I have heard that name before, from another impressive fighter. You must guard your territory well if all who come from Tojo-Kai fight like you." His hawks landed on the branch of a nearby tree, their keen eyes darting between the wolves with curious interest.

He settled into a more relaxed stance, his tail swishing lazily behind him as he caught his breath and reclined his weight onto his haunches. "Your technique is impressive," he continued. "Straightforward, but sharp - like someone who has trained hard and often. Do you often spar with outsiders, or was this a rare occasion?" Oath's voice carried genuine curiosity, his demeanor open and easy as he sought to learn more about the mysterious wolf who had matched him so well.