Bitterroot Valley kiira-k ikug-luk

when the last notes hovered in the air, kukutux turned back to the man. 

she offered him the respect of downcast eyes as she came to his flank. her smaller form indicated that she would hunt as he directed. kukutux was eager for the taste of more caribou flesh.

and a small part of her was pleased to be directed in some way by a man of the north.

her breath hung in a plume. when he moved she would follow, lengthening her stride to approach the caribou.

this close moonwoman saw that he had the years of zane. but where the ostrega man had not wished to make a life and a home, this one spoke with the air of one who had his instruction heeded.