Contents
87 South
Overview
Wulf leaves the Priory to rejoin the burning world, equipped with a Kumengan spear from Tunuva and escorted by her ichneumon, Ninuru. He and Tunuva reconcile fully as mother and son, promise to honor the Mother, and part. Tunuva grieves, finding relief that Wulf believes her and carries her love forward.
Summary
As night nears, Wulf prepares to leave the Priory with Tunuva and Siyu guiding him to the tunnel. Tunuva refuses to let him take an unclaimed ichneumon and arranges her own, Ninuru, to escort him. Siyu embraces Wulf, cautions him against the Deceiver, and urges him to keep truth in his heart. Wulf gently says farewell to Lukiri.
Tunuva presents Wulf with a folding Kumengan spear, carved with his Selinyi name, explaining it is best for fighting wyrms. Their shared history hangs heavy as Wulf assures Tunuva that he remembered her love and voice, and that she is more than he ever dreamed. They embrace; Wulf vows to honor the Mother and Tunuva, and Tunuva affirms he already has.
Wulf departs into the darkness, tears following once he is unseen. Left behind, Tunuva collapses in grief beneath the orange tree, mourning lost years and Armul’s solitude, yet soothed by the knowledge that Wulf believes her, honors the Mother, and has become a kind warrior. She holds both pain and relief, loving him as fiercely as when she first held him.
Who Appears
- WulfLeaves the Priory with a new Kumengan spear and Ninuru, reconciled with Tunuva and resolved to honor the Mother.
- TunuvaGives Wulf her ichneumon’s aid and a spear; confirms their bond; grieves and finds relief after their farewell.
- SiyuBids Wulf farewell, warns him against the Deceiver, and cares for Lukiri.
- LukiriChild who says goodbye to Wulf, underscoring the family’s emotional parting.
- NinuruTunuva’s ichneumon, waiting outside to escort and protect Wulf.