Bitterroot Valley uuman ∾

she had hoped the name would bring softness to sialuk. but it did not. between the flakes of snow she put her shoulder against that of her raindrop. "it has two meanings. it says that you will be anaa." this was determined, even if the man had not been chosen.

"it says you are a strong woman of the snow." kukutux had never conceived of sialuk marrying a man who was not from the north. she did not see how a hunter of this place would be worthy for the ulloriaq.

she paused. "when you say 'a man who will fight,' do you mean a man who will compete against other hunters for the right to marry you? or a man who will fight to give you the life that is deserved?"