Initially, Serach wasn't sure if his commiserating was doing its intended job of cheering her up. But her ears perked up a bit, and her headed lifted so she wasn't looking directly at her paws anymore, and he decided that was a good enough sign as any to keep going. It was good practice too, he couldn't help but think as he finished, glancing over her shoulder to where the den was. How many times in his life would he have to reassure his new children that no matter how bleak things got, it was going to be okay in the end? Too many to think about right now, and so he looked back to her, pleased to see that her sad and grim facial expression had been replaced by a smile.

"You're doing great," he reassured her, his tail wagging slowly and his lips curling up into a smile of his own. "Once Aponi is able to leave the pups alone for a little bit longer, we'll start working on some larger prey, so don't worry about that. Anything you find is helpful and appreciated - no matter how small it might be. But don't forget to feed yourself too," he continued, ending on a light-hearted chuckle although he was entirely serious. It did them no good if their members did not sustain themselves as well, and he and Aponi were not so selfish as to horde their caches to themselves.

But she continued, and his smile dampened. He was already shaking his head before she finished, and was quick to correct her. "There's no need to apologize at all. We've all got history and experiences - some affect us more than others. We're family now, and I'm grateful you shared it with me, but you never have to apologize for wanting to share those experiences with us. As for getting kicked out, I wouldn't worry about that. All we ask for is honesty and loyalty, and I've no doubt you'll continue to deliver on both of those easily." And the truth was, with new puppies to watch for, they were not in a position to threaten to kick out anyone unless it was for committing a crime so bad it was treasonous.

Turning his head, he looked back towards where they had come before looking back at her. Gesturing with his head, he took a step in that direction. "I need to head back, though. You're welcome to join me, although you're free to do whatever you want too," he invited, the smile back on his face. He was happy to continue their conversation outside of the den, but he had been gone long enough on his walk and it was time to return to his fatherly duties.