Swiftcurrent Creek Light will blind us in time

The woman @Morwenna had drawn only the briefest flickers of Reverie's attention — but even these had been enough to make her memorable. Intending to visit only long enough for a few vital conversations, the dancer nonetheless found time in her wandering for a cursory search; if the woman proved difficult to find, she supposed they would have to speak another day. After.

But she hoped to catch a glimpse of her, if only to learn why Arric had looked on her with so much ire even as Akavir sat by her side. Was it jealousy heating her cheeks when she recalled that moment? She'd never commanded Akavir's respect so readily, his trust, even after earning his warmth through so much shared tragedy. Reverie had told herself long ago that she didn't want those things anymore — and she still didn't think she did. Not really. Not the way she once had.

It stung nonetheless.

Morwenna moved with a lightness in her step, her gaze sweeping across the forest floor as she gathered herbs, the scents of earth and greenery swirling around her. The winter months were approaching, and she was determined to stock up on the health salves her pack would need to endure the chill. As she worked, her keen eyes caught a glimpse of a familiar figure moving through the brush.

Morwenna stepped through the undergrowth with an effortless grace. The woman bore an air of elegance, and Morwenna couldn’t help but feel drawn to her. I believe your name is Reverie, she offered, her voice warm and inviting. Morwenna, she'd introduce back.

With a gentle smile, Morwenna turned to a small hovel beside them, rummaging through her makeshift den. She pulled out a leaf with a ground up concoction she's been working through. I’d like to offer you this as a welcome gift—a health salve I've crafted. It’s particularly beneficial for winter ailments. A little protection against the chill, if you will. She nudged the leaf towards Reverie, her eyes reflecting a genuine kindness, though kept her distance. It seems you've traveled a long way.

Morwenna paused, allowing Reverie a moment to take in the offering, her own curiosity piqued by the enigmatic presence of the woman who seemed to carry both grace and an undercurrent of strength.

Oh, she was pretty enough; silver-eyed and soft-spoken, her dark furs scented with the sweet tang of medicinal flowers and greens. Why should he trust you and not me? Reverie was troubled by the bitterness of her own thoughts, the bristling tenderness of every insecurity unearthed by her reunion with Akavir. Her jealousy smothered her to silence as Morwenna went on. She hated it. Why should the fickle affections of men haunt her every step?

Thank you. That's very kind of you, Reverie murmured finally, the clouds behind her eyes fading as she studied the leaf. A long way, yes - and longer to go. I'm afraid we can't stay long.

Her sunfire gaze lifted. We traveled here from Casco Bay. Have you heard of it?

Morwenna’s gaze softened as she watched Reverie, a flicker of recognition passing through her at the mention of Casco Bay. The beautiful wolf before her was every bit the picture of quiet strength, veiled by a grace that was as mesmerizing as it was gentle. In those golden eyes, there was something delicate yet fierce, something that sparked an unbidden warmth in Morwenna’s chest—a kindred understanding, perhaps, in the lives they led and the burdens they carried.

Casco Bay, she repeated, as if tasting the words. You mentioned it upon your arrival— that is all I know. Her voice was hushed, reverent, as if Casco Bay were a story from a distant world, both enchanting and unreachable.

Her own fire-bright gaze drifted thoughtfully over Reverie. Where abouts are you aiming to find yourself? a slight pause, her eyes lingering on the darker wolf's soft features, I'd like to listen as much as I can. Morwenna shifted, lowering herself onto her haunches, indicating her willingness to listen.

You mentioned your daughters— she let out a drawled breath, fearful almost— a spearhead of recognition as she knew the troublesome natures that children can pursue. She, herself, ventured too far to reach for the sun. Whilst you are a stranger to me, no mother deserves temperaments of grief. She glanced at the delicate leaf in Reverie’s grasp, a simple thing, yet one with the power to bring comfort, to ease a weary heart. You have my deepest sympathies.

It didn't surprise her to hear that Morwenna knew nothing of Casco Bay; the world was a big place, she'd learned, though it felt so small at times. Moonglow is my next destination, Reverie shared, and would say no more. It was best if only a few wolves knew her plans, her true purpose here.

Then the woman spoke of her daughters. Reverie tensed, immediately displeased to hear the words from a stranger's mouth — but softened in the next moment. Motherhood was a kinship of sorts, wasn't it? Only a mother knew what it truly was to give life; only a mother could understand that sacrifice.

My daughters are well cared for, She murmured, though her mouth twisted slightly with sorrow. And I hope to see them again soon. But thank you.

Her gaze dropped, finding the leaf again. I used to live here, Reverie's confession was soft. I haven't seen you in this valley before. She looked back up, eyes searching now. What brought you here?

Morwenna listened, her posture softening as Reverie spoke. She took in the younger woman’s words, her gaze calm yet attentive, reflecting a quiet respect for the stories Reverie shared—fragments of her journey, delicate as leaves caught in a breeze. Moonglow, a future destination. Daughters left behind, yet cherished. She could feel the weight of Reverie's sorrow, a note that resonated within her own spirit, worn and frayed from the trials of motherhood and loss.

She dipped her head slightly as Reverie glanced away, acknowledging the ache and the courage woven into her words. This valley was a place Reverie had known, then—a place that perhaps held both memories and ghosts. Morwenna understood that well, understood how a place could carry parts of one's soul, no matter how far life had swept them away. It must be special to return to it, after the time has passed.

When Reverie's gaze lifted again, seeking something in return, Morwenna met it with steady warmth, a flicker of understanding in her eyes. A hope for… something of a home, she answered gently, her voice low but unwavering. It wasn’t much, perhaps, but for Morwenna, it was honest, and in that moment, it was all she had to offer.

Did you find that here?