Moonspear dew on the grass

The children roused her long before dawn, and Sialuk lay sleepy-eyed on the large doe skin as they fed. The older two were resting soundly against the warmth of Elentari and Argent, and Sialuk smiled wearily in their direction. When the younger ones had finally settled with full bellies, the starwoman kissed both Argent and Elentari good morning, then shuffled her way to the mouth of the den. She had still not properly mourned her sister, though it would not be long now. Only a little while longer until she felt comfortable bringing her nephews back to Moontide.

The sight of Seal's face was a welcome, delightful surprise. The young girl was intelligent and curious, two qualities Sialuk had not overlooked. The Ostrega gave her a warm smile, then turned her snout to the sky to greet the day before returning her attention to Meerkat's daughter.

You have come to soothe the ancestors, yes? Come with me, to the creek first. And the village head began to make her way toward her morning drink.