In rote her mind reflects, waiting for Cen’s daughter to do as is custom; greet the cubs with words of wisdom and success from the mouth of Ghost Talker; to become a pillar for the young ones still learning this path.
There is none of it. Ravengirl lurches. At once, Iglux̂ is beside, lending weight where it is needed, steadying with a care that comes before thought.
“Fa’liya, you’ve done well,” she finds herself tender, speaking as she would to her own young daughter. There, the silver assumes a protective hunch, daring any other to question whether Fa’liya belongs.



