Herbalists' Cache When the levee breaks

morwenna smiled, small and fleeting, but true. gratitude softened the edges of her exhaustion, the weight of her burdens easing just slightly in the warmth of his reassurance.
thank you, ridgeback, she murmured, her voice quiet but steady. she did not take his loyalty lightly, nor the risks he was willing to bear for her and the children. she knew how delicate the line he walked truly was, how easily sun eater’s temper could unravel it. but still, he stayed.
his touch at her chin drew her gaze upward, and she let out a breath that felt too much like relief. his words—about wolves wanting peace, about her children—settled something deep in her chest, something she hadn’t realized was clenched so tightly.
you have faith, she noted, almost wistfully, watching as he looked down at her wriggling pups. i want to believe in it, too.
but she would not be reckless with that belief.
her head dipped slightly, brushing against his shoulder in a silent acknowledgment. we will plan, she agreed, determination creeping into her tone. and we will make sure they are safe.

fade?