Cedar Sweep [m] suqłiuġun

The first place he would go was northward, to where their forest met with that of the Copse. Njord had been a father before, Kigipigak knew that, and he had been many places and seen many things. Maybe he would know what to do? Meerkat also, although Kigipigak did not know her much at all; as a mother twice over (or more? He could not remember) she would have knowledge for them.

Kigipigak did not get so far.

He left the den and began to run, but it was at least a day of travel to cross to their borders, and already he doubted the boy had that long. He had been running for less than an hour when he was made to stop and listen—Asivaq's mournful message was clear.

He's gone.

Selfishly Kigipigak was glad he was not there to witness it. Had she taken matters in to her own power? Had the boy given up on his own? Was it the Tartok part of him or the Nuiruk which could not sustain? Again, he thought, At least it is over with; at least the others lived. And what if she had let this happen on purpose? This was a shock even for Kigipigak—but a valid concern, too.

Such were his feelings muddled with thoughts and emotions; a cacophony which buzzed like wasps and nested in his chest, while he made his way slowly back to Asivaq.

When he arrived again at the ulaq he stands outside and cannot even look to see inside, he will not do it.