Bearclaw Valley And now there'll be no time to play

Indra redeemed herself a little by following despite the fact that she knew what was to come. There was silence as they climbed out of the rift. It wasn't until they had started to make their way to the altar that the girl spoke. She wanted to know if Arielle had sacrificed. Yes, she answered. I have sacrificed safety and comfort, and I have known pain. But it has all been worth it. The bear always has a reason for what it demands. Her hardest sacrifice yet had been to watch her mate suffer while he healed from his injuries. 

The smell of decay was even stronger now; it beckoned them closer. 

The altar was a peaceful place; she had spent many quiet hours here. Today, the sight was lovely. The coyote was a heap of fur and bones; maggots wriggled under the fur and flies buzzed around their heads. The rabbit was in similar shape. Every part of the decaying process was important. The three bloody pawprints painted the stone around the decomposing creatures. Arielle grinned and took in the sight for a few moments. 

Then she turned to Indra. Where would you prefer to be wounded? she asked. She would give her a choice in that.