Ouroboros Spine lights

With Amalia's perpective fresh in his mind, Kigipigak returned from his excursion and went to check on the children. He would have typically brought a gift to them—a new toy, some food—but this time he was without, although both of his daughters appeared very excited merely in seeing him; his son was once again, lost in his watching of the trees outside of the ulaq. He greeted each of them and spent some time with whoever was interested, and then left them in the care of their mother.

It would be best to stay busy, he thought. As much sense as Amalia had spared him, Kigipigak remained reluctant to confront the issues in his marriage and chose instead to be of use, at least giving Asivaq some space, and allowing his hawk-eye guardianship of the children to wane, a little bit.

It was both fortunate and foreboding to Kigipigak when he was summoned on the wind; needing the distraction, he stowed any misgivings he held and went to intercept—Stratos? Hello.

The man was down the Spine, away from the sleeping places. The trees shook against a warm breeze as if to herald Kigipigak's arrival, calming as he drew closer to his brother-in-law. Their time spent together in the Sweep had afforded some familiarity. You called for me—what can I do for you?