Moonspear by night was a pale green

The pause allowed Sialuk time to study him further. She noted the way his fur clung to his body, and the way he held himself like many men did. He was still young, perhaps born in the same year as herself. She wondered if those her own age would always feel young, or if that would fade with time. Neither anaa nor Towhee appeared old to her, still giving life to children and quick on their feet. And although Njord was older, having recently acquired the title of "elder" among the ranks of Moonspear, he too was no decrepit old man. Perhaps age was simply a number to track the seasons passing and nothing more.

The village did not hurt for numbers, but they were not as full as they once had been. Its people came and went, always busying themselves with matters both at home and afar. Sialuk thought fondly of Glaukos, wondering if the impending thought of a child might have scared him away. She had not asked, only sent him along with well wishes and a mission so he might feel useful in his journey. That one always yearned for purpose, and it was an easy thing to grant.

Fennec, Penn, and Killdeer had all slipped away, though Sialuk had not asked them about their plans either. She held no ill will toward them, and she knew that if they ever returned, she would welcome them with open arms. So adding another to their numbers would do no harm, and Slaney seemed an affable fellow.

Sialuk laughed at his second question and gesture.

Â, she said. Tell me of the skills you can bring to our village, and I will find a place for you.