Something changed in Sheauga's expression as Nate spoke, it was subtle at first the quiet lifting of her ears and the gradual stillness that settled over her. Even Nokomis seemed to sense the shift and the blue jay ceased her restless hopping and remained perched above them, dark eyes fixed upon the wolves below. Guides for the soul... she echoed.

Of all the paths Nate might have described, it was difficult not to find meaning in this one. Her gaze lifted toward Nokomis and the jay tilted her head in return. Sheauga had never believed every moment required interpretation. Sometimes a bird was merely a bird, a breeze merely a breeze, and a dream nothing more than the mind sorting through the troubles of waking life. But sometimes...

I think Nokomis may have chosen before I did, in response the jay gave a sharp call. Sheauga laughed beneath her breath before returning her attention to Nate, his willingness to speak so openly of differing spirits had not gone unnoticed. And she had wondered whether the beliefs she carried would be expected to bend beneath those already rooted here.

I would never expect your spirits to wear the same faces as mine, she mused gently. Perhaps they do, perhaps they do not. I have always thought it more important to listen before deciding we understand such things her gaze would soften.

Where I come from much can be learned from what exists around us, like dreams and animals — the seasons and the changes they bring...and our ancestors she would pause, searching for the right words. I do not claim to know everything the spirits intend, I think anyone who does is likely listening more to themselves than anything beyond them

she paused, gaze flickering back to her jay,

But I have always felt called to help others make sense of what they carry, her gaze returned to Nate. If Tsiskwa offers a place for that, then I believe I would be honored to walk among them, if I could