Swiftcurrent Creek when the moon sang,

morwenna’s ears flicked, and for the first time in what felt like forever, she let out a soft laugh. her head tilted toward gjalla, a flicker of light returning to her eyes. i feel young again, she admitted, her voice carrying a strange mixture of wonder and apprehension. like i’ve been given a fresh start. a chance to live... not just survive.

she looked down at the caribou pelt draped over her shoulders, her paw brushing its edge almost reverently. it’s not just him, you know, she said after a moment, her tone quieter now. it’s the way they live, the way they move with the herds, free of borders and rules. it’s... untamed. and i want to be untamed again.

the pause that followed was thick with something unspoken, a hesitation wrapped in hope. when her gaze returned to gjalla, it held a rare vulnerability, a quiet plea.

would you come with me? she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. to live amongst the herds? to be truly, utterly free?