<strong>Eshalu - confronting Kelcis</strong><br/><br/>Eshalu remained silent while Aeryn and Reliyian spoke. She never shifted her gaze from the great alpha's cold, reptilian gaze. Sitting there, each muscle reflexively taut, mentally going through motions she knew her muscle memory could reproduce fluidly in moments, Eshalu scrutinised her would-be host. Whether Kelcis saw them to be prey or simply intruders in violation of ancient and unspoken laws it was difficult to tell. Part of Eshalu had some sympathy for the sense of territorial transgression - she, too, would have been indignant if strange creatures has invaded the Pure Lands of her clan and would likely have reacted with swift and silent violence. But the wilds belonged to those who could seize and hold them. Kelcis had been vanquished and had fled with Lazerette, abandoning the young of its clan to their fate. That was enough to earn her enmity.<br/><br/>Aeryn was right, though. Violence at that very moment would solve little. When Reliyian had finished speaking, Eshalu began, "Cold One, the lives of your young mean little to you, but know that the lives of my companions mean very much to me. If the elders of your clan have questions, we will answer them if we are able. You have given us hospitality in your own way and we will not repay you with violence, unless you invite it. But wherever my companions go, I go - armed."<br/><br/>Eshalu sat unflinching, contemplating Kelcis. The odd thought was occurring to her that Kelcis's scale pattern was quite impressive and complemented the wood elven aesthetic of verdant and autumnal colours well. She decided that the Saurian alpha was a dubious host at best, but would make an infinitely better herb-satchel.