Sun Mote Copse You were the brightest shade of sun

If you were missing me, Nasamiituuq spoke sharply, more sharply than she ever had in her life, Why not find me? You know I am healer and midwife, Waawaashkeshi, as my grandmother was. But you did not. You went to a man. A stranger!

She took a step back, paws trembling so slightly as to be imperceptible to all but her. I want to be alone. The moongirl hesitated a moment, and in that moment her hurt flared to a fiery pulse in her throat, her chest, and she all but spat: Don't worry, I won't go looking for a man.

Nasamiituuq regretted the words the moment they were spoken, but she could not take them back. She turned and fled without another word, seeking the comfort of solitude.