Hushed Willows A Silent Retreat

Kirain winced at the blunt truth in her companion’s words. If she had been eating properly, she wouldn’t be in this sorry state, unable to even stand without struggle. Shame washed over her, and she lowered her head, ears flattening against her crown. The stranger wasn’t cruel, merely honest and unexpectedly kind. And yet, his kindness only deepened her embarrassment. Who was she to refuse such generosity?

An ill omen, huh? Well... that won’t do, for either of us. Her voice was soft, almost tentative, as she forced a faint smile. Thank you. Truly.

Feeling small but determined, she willed herself to move closer to the raccoon’s remains. Each effort felt monumental, her frail frame trembling violently with every inch gained. Pain radiated through her body, sharp and unrelenting, her progress slow and laborious. By the time she finally reached the kill, her breaths were shallow and ragged, her chest heaving as though she’d run for miles.

A groan escaped her lips, tinged with both exhaustion and embarrassment. This is not how I expected today to go, she thought bitterly.

After a moment’s pause to steady herself, she leaned down, mirroring the stranger’s actions. She took a small, measured bite of the innards, a gesture of respect both for his offering and the life taken.