Qeya River tight rope

she did not look back to see if he followed; his presence was a weight she did not need to confirm. they reached a shallow divot in the valley, where the earth dipped and gave way to a congregation of caribou.

the herd was clustered near the qeya river, their breaths fogging in the cold air. the cows moved slower, their bellies round with life, and suliya's pale eyes lingered on them briefly before she spoke, her tone low, unhurried.

the cows are pregnant, she stated simply, her gaze shifting to the male beside her. a glance, quick but piercing, before she turned her attention back to the herd. no further words were offered, letting the sight and her statement speak for themselves.