Redtail Rise and i hate the way the townspeople gather outside

he does not speak.

my ma not. . .hh'shpeakh, she explains to the pale man, and then opens her mouth, exposing her stunted, scarred tongue for them both to see. her eyes are unusually soft upon the newcomer. you fighh'.

she squares herself, pressing against the earth. fighh' me.

it's not an invitation, but a command. she readies herself for the blows this great young man might inflict upon her.

but if she is to be Wealda. . .