atsak's mind worked tirelessly.

peltwork soothed her thoughts, streamlined them. nantahala had gone to moontide, and while the duck had not sent her granddaughter to do this, encouraged all the same it had been.

nantahala's presence upon the plateau would remind chakliux of the obligation which kukutux had placed at his hearth.

for akmaaksi too she had spoken, and now as the sweet-soft voice of nasamiituuq called, a smile crossed alabastrine features.

her granddaughter might well choose to resettle in moonglow with the seal hunter boy, kukutux mused, already deciding that it would be done. or perhaps she was destined to claim land as had her mother and her mother's sisters.

nasamiituuq was the only one remaining. salaksartok had gone off, and ipiktok meant to pursue a man's vision. 

and now the duck's consideration drifted toward the man who had given such skilled hunting wisdom. "it is good to see your face," she greeted. "come and sit with me." now why had she come, the green eyes asked in knowing.