Outside perspectives

Asla had been beside the entrance to her den next to a wide, low fire. Above this fire were long poles with strips of meat hanging down. The coals would dry the meat and the special wood would give the meat an interesting flavor as it was smoked. The young mother was doing everything that she could to prepare for her spring departure. The stores of food would carry them for some time. All five of them. Six, if Naiche was coming as well. She didn't know if the golden man even knew what he wanted, but he was welcome to join them on their journey if he wished.

Hearing the voice of her sister, Asla wiped her bloodied paws in the snow before curling around the side of the den. She moved towards her antlered kin, motioning with her head for Arc to go play. "Go play with Tira," she told her golden child before motioning Briar to follow her into the den. It was much warmer inside the den and Asla lay down before the fire, warming her chilled paws. There was another fur on the opposite side and Asla motioned for Briar to take it.

"You look like there's something on your mind." Asla's galactic gaze locked on her sister's face and she waited for Briar to speak.

"Aslatiel"