Ouroboros Spine xlvv. before he gets there

She had been resting when anaa's voice woke her. The sun had risen many times since the birth of her sisters, and Sialuk had spent most of her time with them, leaving only briefly for food, water, or gathering of more plants that they used. When her mother's voice urged her to Lote, Sialuk hesitated only a moment. She did not wish to leave her two new sistraas, but she knew that Lote would need help, too. She was heavy with children of her own.

The girl arrived to find Shikoba outside Lote's den, and there was a rush of familiar scents on the air. Sialuk was less in tune with the timing of Lote's pregnancy, so she was not sure if the woman was early, late, or simply on time. What she did know was that it did not matter. Sialuk touched her nose gently to Shikoba, thanking her for her presence here.

Lote? she then said, turning her attention to the mother-to-be. Lote, you must breathe. Do not fight the sensations. The Ostrega knew this was easier said than done, but words of comfort were exactly what the Gamma needed right now.