Ocean's Breath Plateau oil lamps

He was, and immediately! The scent of winter fire was one the panther had only good memories tied to. His mother and his sister had gone through it, of course, and there had been joy and anticipation in those times; the kind that faded until the womb quickened, and a pregnancy was confirmed. And then there was Auk, and a few others in-between. There were the breathe deep dances that his cousins participated in there in the land of long nights.

It was, to him, an aroma of safety and togetherness first, and of sexuality second. The fire burned low in his belly, but there was only warmth and not heat in his eyes as he greeted the twin flame of Chakliux's wives. Raiyuk got just a little more of his attention — the boy had grown again, surely! — and Matteo a fair share as well. His gaze was soon drawn, however, to the one called Marina.

There was something about her. He could see how Chakliux could have found himself enchanted by her, even though she was small and delicate.

"Your welcome humbles me," he said sincerely, his white teeth glimmering in a fleeting smile.

He sprawled near to Chakliux as he worked, working hard to keep his attention on the meal being prepared — and he was mostly successful.