[The way that Rue's paws grip at Milo's terrifyingly elongated hands says it all.]

Milo.

[They look twisted in front of Rue, wrong in every way and meant to scare, but Milo has always ignored their own intimidating talons and the sharpness of their beak, so along with a few wet tears, Rue's feathery face just softens in relief.]

I'm trying! I truly am, b-b-but I fear I am not strong enough for this. I am not a fighter, I am no help to anyone here. I feel - [a shuddering tremble runs through them] - so weak.