Qeya River teach

suliya snorted, shaking her head as she worked the knife of her teeth through thick sinew.

my father would have killed you, she said, voice light but truthful. he did not want me near the glacier. said men like you would make me soft.

her gaze flicked to him, cool eyes dancing with amusement.

but i am not my father. i am saatsine now. free to take to mate who i want.

there was a subtle weight behind her words—both defiance and pride. she had chosen this life. no man, not even sun eater, had forced it upon her.

besides, she teased, nudging him with her shoulder, you are not so dangerous. not yet.