Northstar Vale But try as I might,

“Good… uh, yes, that’s very good.” He paused, then added, “She’s beautiful and strong, though. Must be from her mother’s side.”

He nudged her muzzle playfully. Viskani had mentioned before that she didn’t mind compliments, and since they were alone, he felt free to offer them. Whether it was the right moment or not, he wasn’t sure.

Blissfully unaware.

Obliging her request, he lay beside her, silent as he regarded the two. Then, Viskani’s words echoed in his mind: You will find a wife. Maybe you’ll have children.

Could he pretend? Just for now, while all was quiet—except for the soft wails and cries that surrounded them.

He realized then: he wanted this for himself. For the first time, it felt possible. But he couldn’t say it—not now. This moment belonged to Viskani and Chandra.

So, he nestled closer, lowering his head to rest on the ground—a silent offer for her to lean on him if she needed. His nose mere inches from where the little one was nestled under her mother’s tail.

After a pause, he asked softly, “Do you have any hopes and dreams, Viskani?”