Ocean's Breath Plateau ⩸ ukigiyummiktuk ⩸

She’d done what she could since returning to Moontide. She offered comfort, support, and limited words—nothing felt right in light of the situation the found themselves in.

Samani was no more—her name would never be spoken again. They were to guide the island-woman from their mortal plane to her place among the dancing lights.

She processed. She grieved—for a sister and niece who were taken too soon. For the time she’d spent away; opportunities she’d denied herself because of her absence.

When it was time to begin the death songs, Ariadne sought the wise words that @Sialuk had shared with her. She took a shuddering breath as Kukutux began to paint her face with blood, summoning the strength to keep her tears at bay. Much like her anaa the first time she sang these songs, the girl was unsure.

She watched her mother’s lips, head bobbing as she practiced in silence, and prepared herself to speak the words she learned.

it is time to leave
it is time to leave this place of sorrow
it is time to lift from flesh and walk to home
do not be afraid
our voices walk with you, beloved spirit