Whitefish River such fleeting beauty

Her daughter joined them, apparently having followed her on her trip from the den. Malila was curious, she knew, and she never really scolded her for venturing out as long as she remained close and didn't leave the borders. Speedy was glad she had such a need to know the world around her. 

She couldn't exactly tell if they already knew each other—Malila was friendly and affection by nature and seemed to want to help others as much as the healer did. A future healer in the making most likely, which warmed Speedy's heart. 

She watched the two girls fret over the wilted plant and realized what the problem was when Shiloh spoke again. She brushed her chin over the child's head to comfort her. I'm sorry, sweetie, she said gently. That's what happens to all flowers eventually, the healer explained. More will grow in the spring, she promised. But these still have a job to do. Wilted didn't mean they weren't useful anymore. We can hang them to dry and use them to help someone. Maybe that would lift the girls' spirits.