Lion Head Mesa charcoal

tamar caught her breath when she realized what he had asked.

the innocence of it surprised her. she had expected at any moment that the mazoi might ask —

her lashes fluttered.

"yes. of course."

stepping forward, she began to rake her teeth through his pelt, seeking the itch. when sakai had confirmed its location, tamar settled into her scratching. in time she pulled her muzzle away and added her paws.

"i did not see forests until i came here." she pressed her weight into his spine for a moment. "the desert where i was born is sand for as far as you can see. there are very few trees. and you must travel days to find meat or water."

tamar paused. "my people are not easily found."