Kildeer Rest lāredys ñuqigon

k’edghildza regarded the trembling shadow of a girl with quiet resolve, her posture unyielding as the venomous words struck her like brittle winter leaves against stone. for a moment, she remained still, letting the air thicken between them, her own thoughts spiraling but swiftly caged.

okay, she murmured, voice soft, almost lost to the crackle of frost at the den’s edge. stepping back, she moved deliberately, her willowy frame blocking the entrance, sealing it against the biting winds and stealing what little warmth the small space held.

the girl’s words did not surprise her; the fire in her eyes mirrored a grief and rage k’edghildza knew too well. folding her legs beneath her, the matriarch settled low, close to the cold earth, as if to ground both of them.

i won’t touch you, she added after a pause, her voice steady, low like the deep hum of distant thunder. but i must get you warm. her eyes, heavy with unspoken sorrow and resolve, lingered on the frail, shivering form.