Bearclaw Valley and when we burst, start over, oh darling

briefly the redleaf regretted her reticence, for it elicited a soft apology from Mona. Indra delivered a half-smile meant to encourage; her coldness had not been directed to Mona. Mona, who had been a boon to their small family - as huntress, as babysitter, as companion and friend.

I will. Let me know when you want to go to the Creek.. and.. thanks. She tilted her head downwards and met Mona’s gentle nudge; a brief gesture of kinship that soon was eclipsed by their separate departures.