Herbalists' Cache tide bound

She had heard the whispers. How could she not have heard, being the one who wove silently among the wolves of Saatsine? But how could she want to believe them? Was it not better to stay in that foolish innocence of hers, the idea that maybe something little had gone wrong and nothing would sprout from it?

Star Eater's words shattered that grip on the stupid, shallow optimism. Other Shore tried not to let it show, but still it came about more than she would have liked - eyes widening a little, a twitch here, a sharp breath too loud. 

A brush, a touch by Star Eater. She could not tell if it brought her any reassurance or warmth, but still she appreciated greatly. Though she could not see the inner workings of the woman's pain, she could, at the very least, feel the weight that she carried. A weight that had been growing in her for a time now, but only now had the gall to explode.

Star Eater spoke, her breath entertaining the furs on Other Shore's neck. Her voice became a little quiet now, but the heaviness stayed. Then a change, a determination that flooded the mother's being, as she turned to the children who were too young, far to young, to know the meaning of war. The children whom she would die for.

If Star Eater was willing to protect these innocent ones with everything she could, then Other Shore, too, found herself willing. 

I will stand with you, she responded, quiet but resolute. You can have my trust.