Well, he seemed to understand.

Being compared to an antelope was odd, as Aiesha did not know what they were like, except they were delicious. She did not want to be delicious; she wanted to be dangerous, and powerful, and strong enough that she could go wherever she wanted without being afraid; but that would come with training and time.

I suppose it is fear, yes, she thinks aloud.

It is an exercise Khusobek has me doing as a warm-up before spars. It is quite a workout for me, but he says it will get easier the more I do it. I don't really believe him, she smirks and lets out a little laugh, but he is my Jodai, so... I must trust him. And he was her mentor, her protector.

As she glanced around the training area, wondering if Khusobek was there somewhere monitoring—she caught his eye, which was a focused frown—Ah! I think I've been speaking too long. Quickly, do you have any advice? Before he comes.

Hmm. Nakhtmin pondered. Often, bulls do not lose duels to weakness of body, but weakness of mind! Doubt breeds hesitation, and in comes panic! They flee, before their strength is spent! He had defeated many larger oryx for the sheer savagery of his charge, and caused their hearts to fail them! Lions, too, would reconsider their prey when it did not fear them and would not run.

To Khusobek's grim face, Nakhtmin turned his head and grinned, continuing to speak to Aiesha, The body follows the mind, this is true of wolves as well! You do not believe it will grow easier, so it cannot! To become a warlord, you must believe in yourself, Nebet, not your Jodai.

Yes. He believed this was very good advice. I am Nakhtmin the Mighty because I have made myself so! You must decide what you wish to make yourself.