Blackfeather Woods the ones that we love.

Parvati was growing stronger and more alert, and with this rise in spirits came a rise in concern on Maegi's part. She had got it within her head what she must do—but the woman getting stronger by the day didn't quite work to her advantage. She was barely repressing the rage and disgust she felt toward Parvati; upon seeing her watch Sobek flail helplessly, the hatred bloomed, a sharp, hot flame in her stomach.

And then she spotted Anansi, wandering far from his mother as well. Maegi took him by the scruff and padded close, placing him gingerly against his mother's milk-woman's belly before doing the same with Sobek.

You're not supposed to let them away from you like that, she said censoriously, casting a cruel stare upon Parvati. They need to keep warm. She gave Sakhmet a loving muzzle and pushed her nearer the woman before stepping back, one eye wandering to keep an eye on the babes while she retrieved the gift (ha) she had come to bring Parvati.

The leaf came unfolded as she set it down; upon it were five black poppy seeds, almost like tiny bugs in the dim light. Eat these, Maegi said quietly, though her tone invited no challenge. They'll help you relax, which will make the milk flow better.

It was a lie, of course, at least in part. But she needed Parvati drowsy, unable to impose whatever will she possessed on these Melonii.