Swiftcurrent Creek Now how can he smile

The suspicion and caution with which she regarded him solidified the answer in Hirundo’s mind. He had heard of some vedunya who kept their work secret, especially to men, though others shared their knowledge equally. His mother had been the latter, but she had also told him that some things were not meant to be known or understood by men. Especially if it might reach the ears of non-believers.

No reason, Hirundo said quickly. Forget I asked. He would keep the river-witch’s secrets, lest she put some sort of hex on him. He turned away, pretending to be very interested in sniffing a rock.

Are there others here? he asked instead. The river-witch’s scent was unmistakable, but there were other markers he noticed (now that he was paying attention). Yet they seemed weaker, fading. He could not help but wonder.