Bitterroot Valley room to make a big mistake

sega’s eyes drifted from the skull back to her, studying the lift of her chin, the heat still in her breath. she had come back stronger— he saw it immediately.

hn. this one go to feast, he said, touching the antler with care. good decoration for pack hunt. before next moon. for your return.

that last part sat warm between them.

then, quieter, with a softness he rarely let slip,

how home?

his gaze searched hers, looking for whatever story she carried back.

when she told him of the wolf she’d brought, he straightened slightly, curiosity and respect flickering through his gold eyes.

you bring kin, he echoed. someone of your father’s blood.

a firm nod followed; trust given simply because it came from her.

she stay, sega said. great sky welcome her.