Redtail Rise six weeks, five days

The woman appeared to brighten, or at least her posture shifted in a way that Reki read as affirmative when Augur was mentioned. She didn't speak back to him, though. He did not question why, and did not make any assumptions about it. Some people were quiet — he could be very quiet for long periods of time, too. Maybe this lady was like Augur, because he very rarely made any noise at all (words or otherwise!).

Before he could ask any questions, even before Reki could think of what to say at all, the woman was moving. She seemed to be. . . playing? Her antics were more puppy-like than adult, which made Reki smile, and he held in a laugh, even as he caught sight of the falling leaf. She caught it expertly and Reki's laughter became deeper, more pronounced.

He was in awe! She turned and he was drawn to following after her. There was no telling what she was up to, or why, or if he was truly welcome — but if she didn't want him there, she'd make that known too. Augur did that sometimes: brought the boy along, or carried him back to the rendezvous, or chased him off after playing. It wasn't frightening now, and almost expected.

The boy followed happily, but was ready to bolt if necessary.