Ankyra Sound holy water

Chacal’s lighthearted grievance made Meerkat smile effortlessly for the first time today. She immediately thought of Towhee, who had conveyed the very same sentiment during Meerkat’s visit to Mereo. The Tanzanite also expressed a preference for girls, which made sense, particularly in their decidedly matriarchal pack.

My mom told me that two is the sweet spot for her, Meerkat shared, although she also said that raising an only child—me—was by far the easiest.

The leader pressed her and Meerkat gave it some serious thought, even though it made her ache a little. Despite all the blessings and reassurances, would she get any of her wishes? She realized then that she was desperately afraid she would lose the chance, not just because of ill opinions or possible lack of resources. So many other things could go wrong.

Njord could disappear again.

The intrusive thought cleaved into her like a knife to the chest. She let out a ragged breath, face momentarily crumpling. Meerkat quickly schooled it and regulated her breathing, though she wondered if Chacal had caught the brief glimpse into the Laramite’s deepest fear revealed.

I wouldn’t mind more daughters, she said a little more faintly than intended.