<blockquote><div><cite>Sillyness wrote:</cite>"Mmm, yes...this will do nicely" </div></blockquote><br/><br/>Lilium's decidedly cryptic statements weren't exactly the most soothing for Ureck as the gravity of his offer continued to dawn on him, yet the collie's ever-busy mind was able to wring some potential comfort out of the situation. Both the shifter and the kitsune had seemed rather taken aback by his words, surprised he had been willing to sacrifice himself to ensure the safety (at least from those in the group) of their unfortunate guest. If that was the case, perhaps it would be such a ridiculous idea that, even after releasing the lupine, Lilium would not pursue it. It was the best the dog could certainly hope for, yet with the kitsune's tongue against his chin and her vague words, he knew things could turn out much worse...<br/><br/><blockquote><div><cite>Akiada wrote:</cite>"Sir, I regret that I do not not know you name, but I thank you for you selfless offer! You have my eternal gratitude and I pray your companion accepts your offer before it is in vain. I do not have the luxury of time here."</div></blockquote><br/><br/>The dog jumped involuntarily as Rafe spoke, having thought the wolf out for the count by his lack of movement. Ureck's usual professional demeanor wanted to say something in reply, maybe something to rationalize his decision or even just say his name, yet realizing the delicateness of the situation the collie remained silent. Something about the wolf's situation, his imminent demise at the hand of, what Ureck assumed, was an accident, had resonated with Ureck enough to warrant such a drastic measure, yet now the collie could do little but split hairs. From Rafe's demeanor and situation, the dog had convinced himself that at least most of his words were genuine, perhaps not the coffers of riches that his family had, but he had been sold on his supposed magical prowess and loyalty to their cause. Although he could understand his companions' apprehensions, he had decided Rafe was worth the risk he had put himself in... he just hoped he could find that meal he had promised Lilium as well...<br/><br/>The relief Ureck felt upon watching the wolf rise out of the kitsune's stomach was obvious, if not a bit dampened by thoughts of his own situation. It was something he had rarely gotten to see, especially during his time with the Grangers, where anything that found its way into their stomachs were certainly not coming back out from their mouths. Thus, it was pleasing to see Rafe's safety finally ensured after what he had gone through, an innocent prey allowed to live another day. Nonetheless, Ureck couldn't help but admit to himself that, after seeing it both ways... it looked a lot better, for both predator and bystander, going down than coming up.<br/><br/>A shudder coursed through his frame when Rafe's badly digested body came into view. To him, it was an all-to-real representation of what happened to those a predator claimed, the pain and torment they would have to endure once they had been sealed behind jaws. Despite his shortage, Ureck felt his hand reach involuntarily for his last (and strongest) potion, yet once Lilium worked her magic and repaired the damage he had done, he felt his second wave of relief for the day. Despite all that had happened, Ureck couldn't help but feel just a little more respectful towards the kitsune. Although she clearly had the power to easily take a life, she had the ability to renew it as well.<br/><br/>Stepping up to Rafe, he kneeled down beside him and placed a hand on his back, leaning down to see his face. "I... I am sorry you had to meet our group in this light. Are you alright, sir? You went through a great deal just now..."