Page 25 of Scarred

“In my family, twins are celebrated,” Amma said. “Usually, the two girls have the same powers. One is a magnifier.”

“I would love to meet more of your family,” Rown said. “If they are anything like you and Mia, I will like them.”

“If you find anyone, feed them like this and they will follow you anywhere.” Amma licked her fingers before going on, “And I mean anywhere.”

Suni coughed to cover up the groan that slipped from his lips. He wished they were alone so he could explore her words more. Would she be willing to follow him back to his village? Back to his house? Would she be open to being his mate?

He noticed she had finished her wrap and quickly rolled another. When he tried to hand it to her, she shook her head and patted her belly.

“I’m full. Thanks.”

He frowned. She hadn’t eaten nearly enough to be full. “Are you sure? There is no reason to limit what you eat. We have plenty.”

“I have a smaller stomach than you do. I’ve eaten all I can fit into it.”

He was doubtful, but his father had taught him to never call a female a liar. He quickly finished the wrap and started another for himself. Gar and Rowan were keeping up as young hunters who had worked all day should. Even the animals took another helping.

“What is that?” He frowned at the odd container Amma lifted to her lips.

“It’s a water bottle.”

“Water bottle?” He cocked his head to the side.

“Yes.” She handed it to him. “It keeps the water cold and filters out the junk. Well, I hope it filters all the stuff out here.”

He sniffed it before taking a sip. The water had an odd taste to him that he didn’t like. “This is unique.”

“You mean you don’t like it,” Amma said and laughed. “You can tell me without hurting my feelings.”

He unhooked his water skin and handed it to her. “Try this.”

She took it and sniffed it like he had. “It smells different.” She took a sip and nodded. “Now, that is some fresh water. Where did you get it?”

“Upstream.”

“Are you telling me that the water in that stream tastes this good without being filtered?” Amma shook her head. “If I had only known. Can you show me how to make one of your water skins?”

“I have an extra one at home,” Suni answered. “If it is not to your liking, I will make you a new one.”

“I’m good with a hand me down. What do you drink besides water?”

“I think you will like brikji. It is a sweet drink most of us have for midmeal. It gives a burst of energy while being refreshing.”

“I like a little pick-me-up in the morning. A nice cup of black coffee with toast. I already miss coffee.”

“I do not know what coffee is.” Suni frowned. “If you tell me, I can find it for you.”

“I doubt there’s coffee here but if I see anything like it, I will let you know.” Amma promised. “I should warn you; coffee is usually not sweet unless you dump a lot of sugar in it. If you drink brikji at midmeal, what do you drink to wake up in the morning?”

“A warrior should always wake up alert and ready to protect what he holds dear,” Rown blurted.

Suni nodded at the young male. “Exactly. Gar, what is another guiding principle of warriors?”

“A warrior’s weapon is their life and must be handled with respect.”

“Yes.” His smile widened. The two brothers were ready. They would make the village stronger both with their knowledge and strength.

“Were you guys doing some type of training?” Amma asked.

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