“Wrong? Should the eagle or the wolf starve to death not to hurt the lamb? Should the lamb starve to death not to hurt the grass?” Protector asked, and Leran shook his head in reply.

“Son, as you know, I started as a simple wolf and went all the way to Awakening. I killed hundreds of animals, Abominations, humans, and even a few mad Rys. Do you think I ever regret it?

“The answer is no. If I didn’t hunt, my pack would starve. If I didn’t put down newborn Abominations, they would have destroyed the Trawn Woods. If I didn’t kill those Rys, they would have killed me and started a war against the other kings.

“The reason magical beasts experience remorse differently from humans is that we have no home, law, or protection aside from what we make. In the wilds, hesitation kills, Leran. If you think about it, human society is not that different.”

“What do you mean?” He asked.

“Do you remember when the undead attacked our house? Or when Meln ambushed you and your friends?” Protector asked, and Leran nodded. “Uncle Lith exterminated the undead, and Mister Vastor got rid of the bad people that wanted to hurt you, but that doesn’t make them bad men.”

“Once someone is bent on hurting you, there is no space for dialogue. You can only fight back or be their victim.”