Ahmaht listened to Zel's story quietly. It sure did explain his solemn attitude. He reached over, setting his hand on the man's shoulder. He didn't know what to say to break the silence. His shoulder movement must have roused Larea though. His arm quickly moved back up to prevent her from falling off, but she started squirming around like a worm and eventually dropped off his shoulder, desperately trying to back away from the three.<br/><br/>The foreigner took a few tentative steps forward with a quizzical look on his face. He knelt in front of Larea who was fervently scooting backwards. "Larea, it's just us. Your friends," he said calmly. He briefly thought about grabbing her, but decided against it. It would only make matters worse. He glanced back at Zel and Sigrun, wondering if they'd do anything.<br/><br/>"Do not be afraid,<span style="font-style: italic">meryt</span>," he called out gently to the girl. "We will not hurt you."