Lone Star Mountain today, you were far away

The wild animal took notice and backed away.

“That’s right…” Seal affirmed. Her posture slackened and she slumped against the sequoia’s bole once again. “You’d be best scairt of the wolves down there… they’re a strong sort. I owe a debt tae them,” she began to ramble as if the creature could understand.

“They took me in… even when I stole their food.” Her lipline began to warp. “I didnae deserve such kindness.” Was it kindness? Seal was still skeptical, the image of Chaudry’s severe face burned into her mind.

“An’ that’s not all of it,” she continued. “They dinnae ken I ran from the lowlands… from the Copse, the moon villages, the seal hunters… my family doesnae ken where I am.” One paw wiped away a crocodile tear from her right eye. Seal didn’t know what she was trying to achieve by running away with her guilt. She felt as if she didn’t know anything at all.