Bramblepoint circinus

child, there is no reason to be afraid. qiao scolded in the earthy tones of a crone-mother, setting the rest of her herbs to the side. 

she passed an olive eye over him discretely. he was well kept, his sides just round enough to signify he was consistently fed. his absence would be noted by such involved caretakers. yet, still..

the overworld was always hungry for more tophet-blood. 

resting on her haunch in a disarming motion, qiao looked to the skies above and then back to the huddled child. your parents must be worried sick for you. would you like me to walk you home in the morning?