(This thread takes place in the WB challenge- before anyone else approaches Zoti, this is a private convo between him and Ulla.)

Paws were planted on the ground but Zoticus felt far from standing upright. His wounds were severe- blood draining from his body, and yet his eyes watched with a shame, a defeat, at the events unfolding before him. At how helpless he was to save his own family. His request was voiced out and it was Ulla who drew bear to him first (before Namath came to his side at the challenge.) A sharp exhale left him from the pain of his shoulder, but he found the energy to meet her gaze. {“Ulla…”} How much could he ask of her? They just settled an alliance- he couldn’t expect the world from her. But she had proven to be a strong asset. Came to rekindle the bonds between the prides… he had no reason to doubt her and if she could help him now, he’d gladly be indebted. {“I can’t do anything. Not as a rogue…”} A shameful statement, didn’t Circe and his old pride deserve better of him? His cubs? How dare he fail them?

Ulla was conscious of Zoticus's mind at this point. What about his mate and their allies and their family? The alliance was technically gone at this point, but Ulla still wanted to keep the former bluff king from enduring whatever torment the new vermin king would place upon him. At least, up until Zoticus can get back on his paws again and reclaim the bluffs. He could also be a strong asset to the hollow should he become a member - even if temporary. Then don't be she uttered her words in a savage whisper, eyes still lingering on the enemy. Be one of my lions, be my noble for now. It was the best she could offer him. If he wanted the position of heir, then he would have to speak to Nadia as well. Ulla didn't want to entangle herself with her own pride's politics than needed. @Zoticus

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His gaze would snap to Ulla as she spoke to him, her savage whisper hitting his ears and bringing forward a sense of… hope? His jaws splayed to say something- but silence found him for a moment as he looked to her. “Yes.” The word finally came from him with a stiff, painful nod from his frame. Being her Noble meant he had a rank- and having a rank meant he could possibly save his family. Save members. “Whatever you request, whatever you need, I will do. I am in debt to you for this.” He added, letting it be known he’d fully repay whatever wishes she had due to supporting him in such a time. For living up to the alliance they had- and not leaving him to the vultures when the time came to it."Speech"

Can you still fight? Ulla asked while attempting to roam her eyes over @Zoticus's body. He had some damage, but nothing a medic could fix. She herself was able to hold onto her life despite the pillages done to her body. If the former High Sovereign could take a risk and fight right now, then it would be all over soon. With so many of his allies here there would be less of a chance he'd lose. Ulla herself may even jump into the fray if she needed to. As she didn't have anything to lose herself. If you can't, I can let you walk to the hollows with me. She doubted Vermier would do anything with Circe and the others unless he wanted to incur more wrath.

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Could he still fight? The question swirled through his head and Zoticus was unsure. “I want to, but..” but he already felt near death. Three maim challenges and a pride challenge would do that to someone- and Zoticus had finally exhausted himself. “I'll come back. But please, the hollows…” A silent acceptance to her offer of help to get him to her pride lands. He was grateful for her, beyond so. Who knew Ulla would of been one of his best supports during this. Taking a few steps closer to her, he aimed to try and let her help him- knowing he would need it for this journey.

/ exit/"Speech"

ulla sees the lingering tiredness, the ache for rest, and the desire for peace, in this male. the loss of a pride is always hard, which she knows, and she sympathizes with the male because of it. at least, she's glad that zoticus doesn't have to fall victim to a usurpation. she wonders if the lions in the bluff will do that, like what the lagoon lion did to her. that will be an action ulla will gladly support. and then, perhaps, she can retain the alliance she has with the bluffs, but not through zoticus. alright. she turns, beckoning for zoticus to follow. come with me. and, wordlessly, they leave for the hollows. [exit]

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