Wapun Meadow you spin [m]e round

he had hoped she was still there upon return, and here she was -- the quail cracked and all meat stripped of its thin bones. soon as he cast her the second quail, she dragged it out of his reach and left him to eat at his own pace.

parsing meat tenderly from gristle, iliksis ate lightly. he glanced up at her as she inquired of his uncle's appearance. setting aside the quail politely, iliksis' somber gaze slightly lit up. "he looks just like me, but much taller, with orange eyes. i was hoping he was well, but just about gave up before you came along."  he allowed a slight sliver of hope to briefly cross his features, as if to accentuate the story.

he could tell he was losing her again; and this time it was maddening, given she was in season. she had mentioned a sister - iliksis was loathe to try his luck lest she was nearby.. so instead, he remained charmed and polite, hoping she might fall for his masquerade -- all the while, not knowing she too tried to manipulate him.