Moonsong Glacier And we won't let it in

She wanted to be close to the others- no longer separated from them by daring. The mountain had been too formidable for the forest-dweller, and while the breeze coming off the Glacier was cool, it didn't frighten her with the threat of a fall or a rockslide. She moved alongside him as he began to lead her toward the common place, glancing his way every now and again when he said something that caused her ears to prick. 

Eira. Her head lifted at the mention of working with pelts. She remembered Seal fondly, and how she had helped Simbelmyne learn how to improve her pelts. She thought of Kukutux, stretching out the skins with stones; it felt right to have someone here who could continue to teach her these skills. "I would like that- to learn how to make fine pelts and skins," She said, eager to learn the craft if Eira had knowledge to share. It would give the men reason to come to her as well- bringing their catches for her to handle. 

She gave him an eager nod when he mentioned hunting deer as well; to the art of learning medicines, she said nothing. She listened as he mentioned her packmates, made curious by those who did not speak, and intrigued by the one he mentioned with a touch of fondness in his voice. Of importance seemed to be one called Tulugak- a name rich in consonant sounds, belonging to one she perceived as a scout. 

A truth made itself known when he spoke of her search for a husband; and she realized then that she felt disappointed that he was so willing to spread the word. While he had mentioned before that he did not intend to take a wife, not until he had another to help with their family, she couldn't help but feel disappointed that he seemed disinclined to change his ways now that she had come to him. It made sense now that he had so readily accepted the offer to perform her First Rites; she felt something heavy grow in her throat, and she swallowed it down. 

It was her fault, for allowing her imagination to think he might be unusually fond of her. She had known men to be kind to her before completely overlooking her in preference for one of her sisters. She felt disappointed to remember what it felt like to have unrequited affection. 

She would have to temper her feelings; allow Dutch's scout to spread the word. It would be a waste of the Scout's time, anyway, if she sent them out to spread the word, only to deny any suitors who came for her because the one she truly wanted lived within her pack...One who did not want a wife. 

"I would appreciate this, too," She said. Perhaps a trip to see Kukutux would cheer her up. She could learn of what the bride price might be, if any came looking for her. 

"What other message?" She asked, unable to hide her curiosity.