Bearclaw Valley new beginnings

the day had long been coming, but even then in the hour it neared, Indra felt something akin to sorrow in her heart. she had loved Bearclaw; as much as her heart could love a place — but Bearclaw had not been a home to her in some time.

her children were growing, and with them, the walls of the stone faced valley seemed to lurch nearer. Lucas was not coming back; Xan had hardly cared at all he was gone (or if he cared, Indra certainly could not tell). now, all that remained of her home was its brokenness; Laurel’s incomplete happiness, Piper’s departure, Lucas’ sudden disappearance — it was all a sign they had stayed too long.

Stigmata’s growling words were heavy on her mind as she gathered by her family; a family which she would follow to the ends of the earth if Laurel so willed it. as Marten dashed off for his pet, Indra trailed behind calling for Merrick so that they could make their leave.