Broken Antler Fen Chartreuse

She was reassured, both from the touch and the re-emergence of plants. Spring had sprung—or, well, it was getting there, anyway. But the question was tougher, and the ease faded. . .gradually, but still faded. Her face scrunched up, muzzle wrinkling in deep, seemingly painful thought.

I don't knowww, Lilitu replied, drawing out that final word to an agonizing length. It's like—there's only so much singing to the trolls I can do before it all sounds the same, y'know? I miss Arielle. I miss Hotaru and the other kids in the valley.

She leaned up against the rock, pressing her cheek against the cool stone. Her eyes closed for a moment, and then one opened, peering curiously at Wraen. What do you do when you get bored? she asked. She bet Wraen never got bored. She and Maia had all the stories. Lilitu barely had any—wait—

D'you wanna hear about our mountain trip? Lilitu inquired, yellow gaze widening to its normal, ebullient glow.