Moonsong Glacier To behold the junipers shagged with ice

Dutch was close to the lake, his gaze calculating upon the remnants of an old mudslide or flood. Branches had gathered together with mud, which was now frozen and covered in snow. It reminded him of the seal hunters' lodge, except there was no interior to this mess.

There was always someone to miss, wasn't there? He had Tulugak back, but Chakliux was still away. He waited eagerly for the song of the seal hunters' return, anticipating another visit. He wanted to hear tales of Tullik's mountain people, and more about where Marina came from as well. He wanted to hear the boys recount their journey, and to see the gleam of pride in Chakliux's berrybright eyes.

But perhaps they would visit him here. And if they did, how would he offer them the hospitality they'd given to him?

His head turned at the sound of Eira's approach. He shook such thoughts away to give the woman his full attention.

"Eira," he said in greeting.