Mother had lurked, in silence, watching without speaking. She hadn't wanted to interrupt, or interfere, for fear of ruining Catalyst's focus.

Her attempt had been a valiant one, and Mother offered soft apology and praise once it was over and done with. Was there the faintest, mildest hint of reproach at the failure..? So slight-! No; Catalyst had tried her best, and the fish-beast would have been a fine sibling.

I failed.

"But you tried, and it's so clear that your love for me is strong. Thank you. Next time, maybe..."

When I am healed, should we chase her?

"Only if the opportunity allows. That will be a large creature, a strong one. A little food with our gift, left behind, perhaps... and not force, that will not work with that one. I am sure it would make a fine sibling... but don't lose yourself in the effort."

There was a trickle of warm reassurance, and a sort of distant notice taken at the second wound inflicted on Catalyst's forelimb. "Have them seen to," Mother urged, and then her presence receded once again.