Ankyra Sound hold our skin over the light to hold the heat

Noctaryn caught the brief glance toward her belly, the gentle swell of it more pronounced now. She was with child, much like Viskani—though he wasn’t sure how far along she was. There had been mention of it being soon, but how soon?

And she was alone.

How unfortunate. His thoughts drifted to Viskani—she had a family, a pack to support her. This young female had no such comfort; at least, he could detect no lingering scents of others on her. It was a cruel thing, to bear such a burden without a village. Would Viskani allow another into the Vale, especially one carrying life within her? More mouths to feed meant greater strain, and Noctaryn had no knowledge of the pack’s resources or whether they could sustain more than they already had.

“I am… sorry you are alone,” he said at last, his voice soft. “I’m Noctaryn—if you want, or need, company, I’d be happy to stay for a while. I’m a stranger, of course, but I know what it is to be alone. I wouldn’t wish that on you.”

He dipped his head slightly, a small, reassuring smile forming as his silver eyes met hers again.