Atheris was glad to hear that Breytast Vindar had been announced. Since his brother had refused to claim him as family - which, in truth, Atheris could understand - the only way he could win his own freedom was through fighting with the lion who had taken him captive....except it hadn't really gone THAT way, but Atheris felt stupid about the whole ordeal. He felt especially stupid that Ulrika had not said one word to him since his own arrival in the pride, and in truth he didn't know what he'd been thinking might happen.
He'd been so very foolish.
But things were different now. He was in love. He wanted to start a family, and he didn't want his cubs to be thralls. If this failed, he would beg Asper if he had to.
Approaching Taraxa's den, Atheris let out a bellowing roar before issuing the challenge.
"Reaver Taraxa, I challenge you for my freedom. I know you're no coward."
(11)
Taraxa was really not pleased by the fact that the thrall was challenging him. He'd never really been fond of Breytast Vindar, in truth. It was exciting to watch, but Taraxa was getting too old and testy to participate. Was this the only thrall he had? He couldn't remember. He couldn't even remember the name of the pissant.