Silverlight Terrace [M] Left and Leaving

She knew well the usefulness of birds. It was Sixsix who had led her to many meals after the strange storm. It was Sixsix who had brought to her the small bones which told her things she needed to know. It was Sixsix who watched over her when the large cat prowled the land between her own village and that of anaa's. Her bond with Sixsix was a sacred one, and it went far beyond fondness and usefulness.

Ittuk asked directly then, no longer speaking of birds.

Unnerved by the wolf who stared, the black bird took off from her shoulder, ripping away with him any easy distraction. Whether or not the bird spirit-talker knew this was unknown to her.

You are a hunter who has known many summers, too. Sialuk smiled, a glimmer in her eye. I seek the comfort of men and women.