Moonstone Quarry The ground walked here is a wonder

sólhárr didn’t stop when she spoke, but his ears flicked toward the sound of her voice, the lift of her humor warm against the cold stone of the quarry.

he glanced back—
just once—
and the corner of his mouth curved in the shape of a smile that hadn’t been seen in some time.

i’ve done both, he murmured, voice like distant thunder. the hide tugged behind him as he came to a slow halt. he gave a low breath through his nose, nodding once—an unspoken yes.

the pain wasn’t worth pride.
not when kinusi offered.

he settled onto his haunches, shoulder exposed beneath the torn mat of bloodied fur, and tilted his head just enough to meet her gaze again.

make it quick, songbird, he said, amusement tugging at the edge of his tone. before the others start whispering i’ve gone soft.