Barrow Fields pavva mauragak

She did not understand. Kigipigak was frowning and didn't realize it. His voice was hard and cold, almost the same as Tulimaq's, as he stated lowly: It does not matter who I would choose. If he calls for reinforcement I have no choice but to go with him. It is the way of Tartok.

This was the true fear of Kigipigak.

I only hope he does not make the call. Perhaps he is gone already from this place, with the herd so thinned and the hunting poor. His hunters may still be scattered.

But it would not be that way forever.

Kigipigak could not shake the tension that came upon him when thinking of this other man. The lack of choice in the matter was a great burden now that he was aligned so strongly with Moonglow, and Kigipigak did not know what to do about it, except worry.

If he should find a worthy issumatar then... there was nothing Kigipigak could do but wait, then heed the call when it came.