Otter Creek iii Means to an end.

Kigipigak listened. The name was fitting, as the trees were dark and heavy with a ravenblack silence. He wondered if Stjornuati would enjoy hearing talk of this place—having taken an interest in his ravenhome upon the mountain.

My family have lived here for generations, the twisted woman explained. Her voice was heavy, too.
I'm Maegi. You are... ?

Kigipigak, he responded softly. He thought to add his usual introduction—proudly boast of his ties to Tartok and his mother—but saw little point in that. If this was the last survivor of a tribe then what good would telling her do? This woman was broken and withered, unlikely to continue her line with any man; what man would take her the way she was?

My home was in the north. I recently left to find my own way. He spoke beyond his prejudice.