Moonspear [m] red cloud drifting

As soon as Sialuk came, Talisman threw her a grateful glance. He wanted to leave then, though her question arrested him. His lips parted, pale eyes darting over to Kusuma.

Yes, he wanted children. But in her fearful withdrawal, Kusuma was like a child herself. Talisman refused to take advantage of someone so utterly vulnerable.

I’ll be nearby, he said, bowing his head and scurrying somewhere where he could escape temptation.