[Rue tips forward at that duck of Casey's head to press a few kisses into his feathers, their face nuzzling against his.]

Not weak. Just strong in other ways. The owlbear's frame can certainly take some attacks, but the pangolin's scales must be exceptionally good at defense. That's just a different kind of strong.

[Maybe not ferocious and fear-inspiring like an owlbear, but sometimes protection is just as important.]

Do our lessons interfere with your want to stay wild? We could put them on hold, if you'd like.