Ocean's Breath Plateau walrus fat

It hurt to be absolved in this way, by this man. But he spoke words that had been in the panther's heart already. He had known that Simbelmyne and the other children were safe. Chakliux would take care of them. He'd had to believe that.

The moment was too weighty. Dutch swallowed down many things before he felt light enough to look up into berrybright eyes once more.

"You are wise," he replied, reluctant to agree that there would be lasting effects of this ordeal, but knowing his pride was not worth voicing any disagreement on the matter. This truth was safe between them.

He was safe.

"But, now I am home," he said, his voice warm. Tired, but full of love. "There is the whole of winter to heal in. And, come springtime, I will be ready to chase more little seal hunters around the lodges." He was not sure if Simbelmyne would ever let him touch her again, but he could at least be sure that Chakliux would not fail to procreate. This was a comfort to him.

And, this time, he would be here. Their families would not part again.