Moonspear quaking forest

It’s okay, mo chride, Meerkat assured, wishing she could reach out and nuzzle her daughter but resisting the temptation, I understand. It must’ve been quite a whirlwind of a visit!

For a short while, they walked in comfortable, companionable silence. Meerkat continued pushing westward, the two of them navigating the last of the rocky terrain before they found a grassy little oasis walled off by the mountains. On its far side, there was a glimpse of sparkling water. Once they ventured closer, they would be able to look up to their right and see it tumbling down the mountainside below Alpine Lake.

But it was what lay off to the left that interested Meerkat. She looked that way, then her bourbon eyes found Seal’s face as Meerkat signaled a quick break. Her daughter took advantage by regaling her with her visions for her future. Despite the lingering scratchiness in her chest, it warmed as Seal spoke of her calling, inspired by Sialuk.

I think I know what you mean, she said fondly, and I think that’s a wonderful calling. Oh, I’d hug you but I shouldn’t. When we next see your da, I’ll have him give it to you for me, then when I’m feeling better, I’ll give you the real thing.

She could hardly wait to show Seal what was around the bend, though Meerkat didn’t want to rob the young girl of her spotlight. If there was anything more she wanted to say to her mother on the subject, Meerkat was all ears.