Ouroboros Spine ᐊ ukkuq

when rodyn’s voice broke the stillness, she lifted her head. the warmth in his words — shy, earnest, without the clumsy reach of flattery— touched something old and tender beneath her ribs. a small smile rose to her mouth, unforced, soft as the first thaw.

you bear it with grace, she said gently, her mismatched eyes lingering on his. grief chooses the strong, rodyn ardeth. it does not settle in the hearts that cannot hold it.

she pressed her paw against the hide, smoothing an edge before continuing.

you walk forward. you feed others. you leave light in the places you pass. the smile deepened, quiet as it was. the world is not so generous with such men.

she let her gaze drift to the lake, watching the reflection of pale sky ripple.

as for me, she murmured, i do what the moon asks. i tend, i mend, i listen. it is not noble. only necessary.

then her eyes returned to him, brighter now— something warm blooming there she did not try to hide.

but if my hands have eased your burden even a breath, she said, voice softer still, then i am glad.

a pause, filled only by wind and water.

you are… good company, ippiksaut added, almost shy in her own way. rare company.