Deepwood Weald histriophoca

Okay.

It was not enough. He drew in a long breath to stave off hurt and anger and panic. He was thinking, miserably, that she could not stay. If he wasn't sure, then he could not allow her anywhere near the children. Even if he was very careful, even if he spent their whole childhood watching them like a hawk — he just couldn't take the chance.

But he loved her. He loved her just as much as he loved the idea of his future children. Moreso, perhaps. And he could not stomach the idea of chasing her away.

"Okay," he repeated, letting the breath out in an uncertain sigh. He offered her a wan smile. "I want you to come with me, the next time I visit Moonglow," he said to her. His gaze was no longer so intent, but he still searched her face for confirmation. "We will speak to Kukutux about this. She will share her wisdom with us. She has raised many children and grandchildren, and she will know what is best."

He did not know the purpose of this harvest — and he was afraid to ask — but he thought he could well enough guess. Sulukinak feared this Sedna. Kukutux would know how to ease these fears. Then, they would all be safe.

"Okay?" he asked, offering a tentative wag of his tail.