Oh. Oh my. Oh, bushels and beeswax. That was absolutely not what I was expecting, but so much better for it. This is beautiful, Ruth. I loved your addendum about the Cub, the Prince - and, perhaps, "just Edmund." It is clear that he is a mix of his parents, with Morgan's bluntness and Edmund's insight, and a strong sense of fairness from both.

And as for Jalur himself, that dear Tiger... you captured the potent mix of sadness and peace of death from old age. Having recently lost my grandfather (who was, at times, equal parts crotchety and sweet, much like a certain Guard), I can tell you it did my heart good to read this tender story. And I absolutely lost it when Jalur's tail waved again. Not everyone thinks to tell that part of the story, and it can be hard to remember. Thank you for reminding me.

~Syrena