11/4/2026, 12:18 AM
the calf startles at the sound of something striking the earth, withdrawing its muzzle from her fur with a little snort. fa’liya watches it retreat toward its mother before turning to regard the newcomer. she recognizes him readily enough, although the recognition brings with it a small, unpleasant tightening in her chest that has little to do with her usual afflictions.
she recognized him, however loosely; another of her father's children, born of his new wife. one whose womb had evidently been far kinder than her own. she studies him for a moment, taking in his easy posture and the careless vigor with which he has approached. she knows it is an ugly thing to begrudge a child his health, particularly one who has done nothing to deserve her resentment, and nevertheless the feeling persists.
her attention drifts toward the peculiar stone he has deposited in the grass. she tilts her head, curious despite herself.
she recognized him, however loosely; another of her father's children, born of his new wife. one whose womb had evidently been far kinder than her own. she studies him for a moment, taking in his easy posture and the careless vigor with which he has approached. she knows it is an ugly thing to begrudge a child his health, particularly one who has done nothing to deserve her resentment, and nevertheless the feeling persists.
hello, yanggadi,she offers, remembering her manners somewhat belatedly. her pale gaze returns to the calf, who has already forgotten its fright and resumed investigating the flowers.
because they know me,she answers after a moment.
i do not hunt them.the explanation seems rather obvious to her, though she supposes it might not be to someone who has never spent much time among the herd.
her attention drifts toward the peculiar stone he has deposited in the grass. she tilts her head, curious despite herself.
what is that?