Ouroboros Spine Sâppak

ajei walked back along the path just as kukutux was moving to answer the unexpected and pleasant call of kannoyak. "there is a salve of oak leaf at my ulaq. it is there for your wounds," moonmother murmured softly, touching the girl's shoulder.

an image of arrluk came to her mind, watchful over ajei as she returned, and kukutux smiled as she went on.

kannoyak looked well, tall as a young pine. traveling had been kind to him. and ariadne's eyes were kinder still, kukutux noticed with no small interest.

"kannoyak! it is good to see your face!" moonmother exclaimed, reaching for the man with an embrace. "your arrival is very well made. it seems many have returned to village moonglow this year." her green eyes shone warmly on ariadne for a moment before her attention returned to their guest.