Herbalists' Cache hoof trundle

the word stirred something sour within her chest.
master.
her eyes, sharp and pale as the morning frost, lifted from the caribou hide she groomed between her teeth. it was a fine piece, gifted from sun eater’s latest hunt. its fur was thick and warm, and she had been working to rid it of blood and loose strands, smoothing it into something worthy of their den.
but now her attention snapped to the girl. a captive. but not to her.
star eater, she corrected, firm but not cruel. her voice was steady, as though there was no room for debate. you will call me by my name.
her gaze softened, just a touch. she did not see the girl as lesser. she did not believe in such things. not in the way sun eater did. not in the way others might.
i need nothing, she added, returning to her work with a gentle flick of her tail. but you may sit. if you wish.
she hoped the girl would stay. she would be safer that way.

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