As Samo stepped back; Nate let his gaze affix to Elk Charm. But the corner of his eye caught, still, the demurity of the gesture. And the sharp break of attention.

A friend.

He knew better than to assume. But Elk Charm mentioned the changing fire, and Nate — wondered, all the same. At the thousand unsaid things which seemed to steer every blink, glance, and stare.

Chakliux told him she had wanted to marry. Nate had thought, privately, that it was best not to encourage her where he was concerned. And said, plainly, that he hoped she would have freedom to make her own choices.

So it didn't matter, these unsaid things. Not theirs. Not his. He swallowed. And through it all, kept his smile.

If you like. Meat will keep longer, that way. Probably for the best, if hunting stays this scarce. I — saw the Southerly one change. Hoped the Northern spirit hadn't been so proactive. But when had what he hoped for every panned out?

Camp! Yes. Yes. He looked out over the darkened sea, briefly, then gestured with a turn of his head toward the treeline. Not exactly a village, but it's out of the wind, at least. C'mon, let's get the two of you settled. Maybe you can tell me how you met along the way. It didn't matter, but he wanted to know.