Moonsong Glacier kasuutiruk ‡

arcturus did more than warn her in a man's way back from the boundary she had crossed; he questioned directly the sensation that had lain unaddressed in her heart. for a long moment her gaze was barren, shocked; 

did you not wish for this?

and then, a woman gathering a thick covering around her head, the duck's expression became clouded, intangible. she turned it away from the stone-brother, stung by his knowledge of what she had not meant to show. chastisement in the edge of his throat. happiness was not definable for kukutux. she was pleased to be an industrious and fruitful wife.

an intelligent woman knew not to chase the colors in a summer rain.

"yes. she has given me all these things. i am bound to her for the rest of my seasons now." straightening like a pale willow, voice remaining soft, thoughtful. "i will not seek you out again, arcturus. i will not be a reminder of moonspear." 

if he did not move to obstruct her way, the duck would move down the slope into the weald beyond, shoulders held proudly until she had left the sight of his eyes.