Ouroboros Spine ᐊ avvik

the scent came first— salt, iron, arrogance. then his shadow spilled across her work. she looked up, at last, eyes calm and cold as the water under ice.

the red one stood there like a storm convinced of its own beauty.  .

if you seek to be seen, she said, her tone quiet as frost breaking, you should go where the young girls weave their furs and whisper of hunters.

her claws pressed the hide, pulling the final seam into place. the fibers sang beneath her touch.

i am not impressed by brawn, ippiksaut went on, lifting her head, mismatched gaze cutting through him like wind through kelp. the sea has stronger shoulders. the ice carries heavier things.

she turned slightly, dismissive but not cruel, a queen at her hearth.

if you have come for trade, you will bring bride price gifts worthy of my hands. if you have come for boasting, speak to your reflection in the water. it will flatter you more.