Moonstone Quarry atugriaktuk k⋣

I had thought you, Ariadne, Kukutux said.

Me? Ariadne echoed dumbfoundly, feeling as if the rug had been swept from under her feet. I— She thought of Chakliux and his encouragement to think for herself and consider what she actually wanted. She did the same here, and tried to picture Rodyn in that light—

—but, unfortunately, all she could see was his crying face. She preferred her men to be traditionally masculine and strong-faced, especially in moments of great turmoil.

Why me? she asked, her voice quieting and her gaze falling to her mother's paw as she was thanked for the presents.