Ouroboros Spine There lies the heart of sunrise

He thought of all the ways Shikoba had influenced him as he grew. The ways her lessons played out for him even now, and for Ajei. How much was Shikoba and how much was Inutsuk? For a long time Mojag had thought himself wholly her's; but he could not see his reflection without also seeing the growing similarities between father and son. Perhaps that was why he focused so strongly upon any connection he held to their mother instead. Who was Inutsuk to him? Nobody, and nothing. Shikoba had become everything.

Ajei spoke of her experiences. Her kinaalda was something Mojag had not witnessed, if it even was something to be watched. He did not know the word, and felt a pang of regret for his absence from the life of his sister. But, he was home now—at least for a little while—and he aimed to make up for that.

I have not yet gone to Kukutux. I have no doubt she is aware of my visits, but... I have been busy, too. Perhaps I could go to her and ask if she holds anything of mother's to share with me. The chances were slim, though. The lessons for a boy came from their father, as the lessons for a girl came from their mother. Shikoba had given him so much in life—and now, long gone, what more could Mojag gain?

He was thinking in a transactional way, again. A bad habit.

Is there anything you might want as a gift—for you, or your man? For when you, ah, marry. The idea sprung to him suddenly and as he asked, and made the idea live through his voice, there was a hitch there. An awkwardness as Mojag swallowed his many thoughts and feelings to focus on Ajei alone.