So used to a hostile environment from childhood that much of my personality makes no sense in the absence of enemies.
But, to preen those feathers or to pluck them?
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Pluck them, turn them into an intimidating warrrior’s headdress and put it in a “break in case of emergency” glass case
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Pro-tip - preening the feathers of your defense mechanisms is easier after you pluck them. Preening them first is like trying to tailor a suit while wearing it.