maw walker

The raven from his father, and Erik wasn't going to duck the call. It doesn't mean he's happy about it, but he knows better than to complain. Dutybound, Erik shifts back north. His mother had gone off, and well... what other choice does he have? Mind busy, heart adrift. The long hike north is chilly, offering some reprieve for his tumultuous mind. At least he's got something else to focus on.

Shouldering his heavy pack, laden with things dragged north for the family-- things only the bamboo could provide, he traipses across the border. Erik offers a shout, but doesn't wait before entering. He'd been asked to be here, they knew he was coming. The boy moves to the space his father uses to greet guests, finally dropping the heavy bundle to catch his breath. Ragged breaths, coppery taste of blood, hacking cough-- yup, Erik is home.

"Speech"