Qeya River down by the walls of wapping

unknown to kivaluk, within a few days time this would all be in vain. but for now, it gives him something to focus on aside from his brother's continued isolation and stone cold reception. and kivaluk throws himself into it. he throws himself into training just as he throws himself, now, into patrolling. he is focused: on marking, on deciphering scents, on letting his gaze scan the no-man's land between natigvik and the neutral territories that touch it.

so focused that he does not immediately notice amalia.

when he does, he gives a start; heart pounding in his chest.

amalia, he breathes her name on a shaking exhale. you scared me. a bubbling laugh leaves his lips.