The ratty Amera spent her daylight hours tending to herself; grooming her wounds and trying to devoid herself of the mange that flourished on her body. The mats had been groomed through, finally making her appearance slightly larger, however, the bald patches of her body revealed the likeness of her.

However, when the sun had started to dip behind the horizon, she concluded it was time to face the brute that had demanded her appearance the night before, for her to show her face the next day. She had no idea what he had planned for her. Perhaps to finish her off, however, she had a feeling that would not be the case.

She hoped the little squirrel of a peace offering would make some sort of ease between them.

It was just a squirrel, though.

She pondered if he'd ever felt any remorse for his issue. His embarrassing out lash due to her not wanting to flee the safety of her abode. She had not seen him in years, and he had tried to lecture her. She did not want to be lectured by some shameless brute. She wanted a sense of apology for him. Not that it would make any kind of difference for now.

Had he expected those hours to have calmed her? If anything, her spite had worsened and she felt the need to sink her teeth into him. Not that her fangs would so much as pierce his skin. And she wouldn't dare cross that line to his borders.

She had arrived shortly after Bayne, her ears back against her skull, however, despite the show of aggression, for some reason, her tail was swaying in a way she could not control. Perhaps it was the familiarity of sneaking off, however, she was not happy otherwise.

"I brought a snack," the fae stated, her voice forced into a kinder tone, however, it was more than clear she had to make it. "Not that you'd need it," she grumbled as she dropped the carcass to the ground.

Amera furrowed her brows at the brute before pinning her east flat to her skull. He was ansty. He was nervous, and while she could see he was trying to come across as collected, she could also see that he was struggling.

That was embarrassing for him. She was embarrassed for him. It would not be physical nerves... she was minute compared to him, so it was simply emotional. There should be no other reason for him to be so nervy.

Emotions should not be of an issue here. She did not want to resurrect whatever friendship they'd had. She did not want to spend any time with him. However, she should be thankful that she was managing to stay calm.

She was a bit taken aback when he stated that she needed the food more than he did. "It is not your place to comment on that, Bayne," she growled, her upper lip slightly curled.

She was thin. She was awful to set eyes on, repulsive to most. She knew that much, as she had been told it since she was young. He didn't need to comment on what she was eating, or what she needed. That was not his place. She didn't look remotely the way she had as a youngling, but that was fine... if she got a break from her constant torture at the camp, she should flourish back into what she was years ago... though, that flourishing would take years in itself.

When he invited her to sit, she looked hesitant before nodding and lolling over to him with a soft sigh. "We may talk. At least until you have bored me," she murmured, her voice still poison laced.

She nodded to his words, seemingly remorseful, however, she was still curious as to what had caused him to lash out at her.

"Very well. Explain. Tell me what on earth made you attempt to hurt me like that."

That was how she saw it. He simply wanted to cause her distress. It had worked... but she was still ever so curious.

Bayne was able to detect Amera's discomfort in her physique as she plopped down opposite him. Her comments were venomous, and he understood her unwillingness to participate in this discourse. He could see why she was apprehensive of him, why she was reluctant to put her faith in him. He had profoundly wounded her and now had to face the repercussions of his actions.

He took an indefinite breath, striving to soothe his spirit. This was the moment he had been dreading, the time when he would have to face his own gloom. He knew his actions were unable to erase the damage he'd done, but he had to continue. "Amera, I want to begin by emphasizing that what I did was entirely unjustifiable," Bayne stated softly. "I roared at you in an episode of madness, and I deeply regret it---It was never my intent to inflict you sorrow, and I sincerely apologize."

He waited for a moment to let his comments seep in. He could see the mistrust in Amera's pupils, the lingering ambiguity. He was certain that his repentance would not be sufficient to gain her pardon. He needed to move beyond words. "I want you to comprehend that what transpired was a manifestation of my own disappointments and insecurities," Bayne included, his voice warming. "I felt deceived by your refusal to join me, to become a part of the clan we could've established. I felt like I had fallen short, and my frustration was directed at you."

Amera sat stoically for a short while, letting his thoughts and comments run through her own head. Though, the girl still couldn't understand his processes.

He had been so incredibly infuriated because he felt... belittled? Lied to? That he'd fallen short of rounding up her wills to leave with him? They had been young and naive, she understood that, however, she recalled the way her former friend had gone from brawling excitedly to hovering over her as if he wanted to harm her... it was terrifying.

He had wanted to harm her, because he had, easily. He had not followed at the moment to ensure she was safe and sound. He hit her and let her whine in pain, with no remorse.

"You should be remorseful," Mari huffed to him before lifting her jaw to look up at him. He was. She could see it on his face. However, she did not want to thank him for his remorse. He did not deserve thankfulness, but she could converse with him.

"But, Bayne, do know I do not wish to reconcile with you. I do not need to be around the likes of you. And, more than anything, I do not trust you," Amera told him, her voice softening as she talked to him more.

She couldn't help the niggling in her brain, a part of her worried that it was her fault what had happened. "But did I drive you to do it?" She didn't feel like she was talking to her friend. It was like talking to a blank canvas. There was nothing behind him, and she could only go off what she recalled.

Perhaps, if they continued to meet, they could become friends once again, but that was a far stretch. Once he'd gotten his peace of mind, he would not care to see her again. She was expecting that.

"I understand you apologise, I do. But I can trace all of..." she trailed off, glancing down at herself. "this, back to you," she murmured quietly to the brute.

Perhaps they'd get over this, and head back to their normal self. She wasn't too sure. She seemed relaxed, now, though.

Bayne sojourned impassive and determined as he listened to Amera's comments. He was able to comprehend her disdain, and her unwillingness to put her complete trust in him again. He had provoked her sorrow, and he knew that forgiveness would be difficult to come by. He had hoped that she was going to be inclined to reestablish their connection, but he was obligated to accept her decision.

"I understand, Amera," Bayne announced evenly. "I understand your emotions, and I respect your decision not to reconcile with me---It is your choice, and I don't intend to convince you otherwise." He preserved his composure, preventing him to exude any reaction that could be interpreted as frailty. He knew he had gravely impaired Amera, and he had to endure the consequences of what he did without requesting atonement.

"You did not drive me to do what I did," Bayne informed her, his tone frank. "I was led astray by my own wrath and disappointment---I committed an enormous blunder for which I bear full accountability." He saw Amera's at-ease state of mind as she glanced down.

"I am deeply sorry for the anguish and sorrow you have endured," Bayne responded, his tone laden with honest remorse. "I can only hope that you will find it in your heart to amend me over time---But I recognize that trust is complex, if not impractical, to rebuild." Bayne was hesitant for a time, mindfully choosing what to say. He wanted Amera to know that he had a resolve to alter, even if their routes diverged.

He encountered Amera's stare with unflinching eyes. "I understand that actions say louder than words, and I intend to demonstrate through my deeds that I am sincerely sorry for what I have done---I shall hold myself accountable whether you decide to be a part of my existence or not."

Bayne could feel the gravity in the atmosphere and the lingering pressure between them. He was aware that the discussion had reached its logical conclusion for the time becoming. He failed to have Amera forgive or believe him again. He was able to offer her time and space to recover.

Amera let her paws scratch at the ground, talons gently raking against the soft soil. Her chin hung low, and her lobes had now relaxed, lolling at the side of her head as she took in everything the brute was expelling to her. She should not be so upset about an incident that had happened so long ago, four decades back when she was just a youngling. She should have forgotten his face, his voice and his scent.

But, she had not.

She should not care anymore. She should allow reconciliation to occur, and relax in his presence. They should turn their separate ways, but the stillness in the air had told her to stay at his side, the wind blowing their fur in unison. For a split moment, the slowness of it all reminded her of her early days, when they would happily run and frolic amongst one another.

"I know you're sorry Bayne. I know you're deeply disgruntled by it, you have mentioned that thrice more than what is enough," the fae stated, her voice becoming more velvety, though it was clear she was struggling to push the words out. "But I still retain my acceptance of your apology. It does not mean a thing to me like this," she then added.

"You are also correct. Trust takes extended amounts of work. And if you truly want it from the likes of me, you will have to work till your end."

She moved to stretch ever so slightly, then stood up. "I can not decide why you are so keen to get along, dear Bayne, however, if you'd like to walk with me then you may. I'd like to get to know you."

She did not come here with the intent to allow his late apologies to rattle her, but she supposed he was insistent on his sorrows. Of the sadness, he'd caused her. However, she was intent on getting to know the brute. He was still around, still talking to her. He had not said his words and fled. So, she took it he would like to know her, too.

Bayne endured sat, his gaze anchored and his visage expressionless. He took in Amera's observations, realizing the importance of their weight and the significance of her measured acceptance. He saw that mere condolences would not be enough to gain her trust, so he accepted the obstacle she posed. "I appreciate your willingness to walk with me, Amera," Bayne declared, his voice monotone. "I know that trust must be earned, and I am eager to put in the effort---If you accept it, I am prepared to work on establishing a foundation of trust between us."

He kept his stance, without moving from his place, as he spoke. "As a beta, it is my responsibility to ensure the clan's well-being and harmony---This involves cultivating positive relationships among its members. While I recognize that our past is complex, I believe in the possibility of progress and understanding---While I recognize that our past is messy, I believe in the possibility of progress and understanding."

Bayne's eyes impulsively caused, an observation of something concealed under his stony demeanor. "I have my own difficulties---My role's duties can be taxing at times, so I seek comfort in connecting with individuals. It is not a statement of regret for my previous conduct, but rather an explanation of my current difficulties." His attention was riveted on Amera. "I have a partner in the clan, Galilahi---She has been a source of encouragement for me, but our partnership is not devoid its difficulties. I say this not to garner empathy, but to be open about the intricacies of my personal existence."

Despite his absence of evident emotion, Bayne's statements had a sincere tone. "I am passionate about self-reflection and growth, and if you choose to give me that chance, I will strive to be someone you can trust---But I also recognize that trust cannot be imposed or rushed. It is gained via persistent behavior and sincere intentions." He maintained Amera's gaze, with an inward acknowledgement of the route they'd chosen. "I will try my best to be accurate, courteous, and thoughtful. We may negotiate the complexity of our past together while establishing a new understanding."

Bayne remained sitting, his posture firm, anticipating Amera's reaction. His eagerness to engage in their possible connection and his resolve to improve were clear in his comments, even though his outward manner remained austere and unmoved .

Amera hummed gruffly, rising from her rump and slowly slumbered forwards as she listened to his voice. She let her mind run around his words, thinking of his contributions to their conversation. She disliked the idea of trusting him, even if the route was dubious and uncanny. She had not trusted anyone since him, and she had no intent to let that change simply for him.

She was envious. Very envious. She despised that she could not live through him. She could not be of a status so high, she could not have responsibilities so incredibly important that she could mingle with others around her. She couldn't do anything like that. "Our past is more than simply complex, Bayne. However, I do not need to reconsider. I have no need to stay so focused on our past as younglings. Why don't we just... speak. I would like to know you better."

She would dearly like to know him. Not at one that had once injured her so gravely, but as a new friend, a new being that she could trust to be around. She would not trust him, but she would trust not to be mulled by him. "So you are Beta. I would have thought you'd love such a role," she stated. So, he had not gotten that pack of his. How shameful.

She drew in a heavy breath, her ribs protruding briefly before humming in thought. "I suppose if you've got someone to help you through it then you have it just fine," she stated, offering a slight smile. "I didn't take it as empathy fishing, Bayne. I would like to know these aspects of your life," The fae stated solemnly ad her hind wobbled flimsily from side to side.

"However, I do not want to reconsile. I would like to forget. I am open to an acquaintanceship between you and me, but I do not want to reconcile," she repeated as she slumbered along, her shoulders aching from the movement.

"A new understanding, as you say... is something I would appreciate." Her bright expression soon drifted away again, her ears twitching slightly. "Now, you understand I am not a valuable acquaintance to have. I understand that you want to create ties and bonds with other packs, however, I am not the being you will gain anything from doing that with," the fae told him, her ears back against her skull.

Amera's graceful ascension piqued Bayne's attention to detail, as did her precise and vigilant movements. His intellect meticulously processed the complexities of her assertions as he intently absorbed the significance and connotations buried within her phrases. He respected her desires while being conscious of her reluctance to reconnect.

"I express my gratitude, Amera, for your readiness to engage in dialogue," Bayne stated, his voice preserving its usual deadpan tone. "I agree that focusing solely on what we've experienced as adolescents would yield little output---Instead, let us embark on an excursion through time, unearthing the facts that characterize our current selves.'' Bayne's steely irises betrayed his unwavering attention when she emphasized his role as Beta. "To take on the mantle of a Beta entails confronting its particular obstacles and responsibilities---While I entirely support and cherish this attitude, it is not without its difficulties. Dedication and the delicate expertise of balancing the clan's collective requirements with personal objectives are essential."

As he discussed the issue of his mate, a gleam of fatigue implemented over Bayne's face. "I am truly united as a mate with Galilahi. Although her constant encouragement is irreplaceable, the circumstances controlling our connection are very complicated. The problem at hand is not one of attachment or detachment from the position itself, but of the subtle intricacies that arise within the context of embarking on such a role."

Bayne, a picture of peace in order absorbed Amera's comments as they reverberated with a subtle balance of prudence and receptivity. "I understand your desire to put the past behind you and focus solely on the future. Your right to define the parameters of our interaction is unquestionable, and I admire your determination. An acquaintanceship founded on mutual respect and shared experiences has inherent value in and of itself."

As Amera proceeded to speak of herself, Bayne's attitude maintained unwavering and his face demonstrated no emotion. "I truly comprehend your point of view, Amera. Our aim is not to pursue personal benefits or leverage advantages. Genuine interactions, devoid of immediate value, have the capacity to materialize even in the absence of concrete consequences. Your candor is really appreciated, and I welcome this opportunity to further our mutual understanding."

"I readily recognize that you may perceive yourself as an insignificant acquaintance," Bayne stated, seated with incomparable composure. ''Nonetheless, I am certain that every encounter, regardless of apparent outcomes, is significant. We will traverse this newfound understanding together, respecting each other's limits and objectives." His comments gave a sense of profound acceptance and reasoning, his emotions shrouded behind a shell of the stoic reserve. Bayne's steadfast focus revealed his realization that their shared path would be marked by caution and methodical, measured movements. He awaited Amera's reaction with bated breath, knowing that their journey forward would be distinguished by great care and delicacy.