death of a childhood / open, intro

LEADER ❝ RHINE ❞ PALMCLAN

When Quasar had mentioned a brother, Rhine had naturally assumed that it wouldn't be long until the other arrived. After all, it was natural for brothers to stick together – although that was a bit of a touchy statement for him, considering Toadwhisker's prior actions. However, Rhinestone hadn't been expecting said brother to arrive with quite so much hostility. Of course, it made sense on some level, considering Tree hadn't been around to see the full exchange that had happened, but the leader still found himself reeling back in surprise. The snarl that left the child caused Rhine's ears to pin back against his skull, fear and a bit of annoyance in his gaze despite the fact he wasn't truly afraid of Tree. The other was still just a pup for now, after all. Taking a breath to calm himself, Rhinestone took a step back, explaining as he lowered himself, "Hello there, other little one. You must be the brother he was talking about... I wasn't hurting him. Neither was Toadwhisker. We were just talking with him, I promise." The leader was unsure of whether or not Tree would believe him, but at least they had Quasar himself to vouch for them.

NEVER OPENED MYSELF THIS WAY
LIFE IS OURS, WE LIVE IT OUR WAY

— Reggan