Qeya River teach

suliya stepped back from the carcass, breath fogging in the crisp air as she regarded veksar with a steady gaze. blood spattered her pale muzzle, staining the fine fur along her chest. there was a faint smile—subtle, but there.

you did well, she said simply, though there was genuine approval in her voice. you listened. good. you move strong. you will hunt again.

she tilted her head, eyes narrowing slightly as if measuring him. the wild, hungry thrill in his gaze had not gone unnoticed. she knew it well.

i will tell sun eater, she continued, her tone matter-of-fact. he will know you are strong hunter.

it was the closest thing to praise she would offer. her ears flicked, and she gave a brief nod toward the carcass. help me drag it back. we will skin it together.

the work was never finished—but he had proven himself today. that mattered.