Cursed to Feel is not new to fatherhood, but it has been quite a long while since he's allowed himself to get close enough to anyone to find himself in that role once again. This time, however, he feels he's much more prepared - though he can't help the usual worries that come along with that.

Hence why he's decided to seek the blessing of one of the swamp's blessed ones.

He carries with him an offering. It isn't much, being as goods are hard to come by in Winter, but he tried to make sure the items he chose were the best. In a neat bundle wrapped in fragrant, dried, herbs, he carries several sprigs of bright red berries, a bundle of glossy, bright, feathers, and a lump of beeswax that's sure to help with even the worst dry nose or cracked hoof or horn due to the harsh weather.

He hopes it's enough...

The season's festivities were ending, and so Tidal Terror was heading back through the swamp. She had lingered some, in case of any last minute blessings. But now she wanted to return home, at least for a short time.

She knew she would need to keep trekking around the swamp through the season, to assist anyone out in the cold who was looking for her. She would handle the weather than they would, for the most part.

Such duties could be a little exhausting, but well worth it. And it made being home with her tribe and family that much more meaningful.

She came to a stop amidst her midday journey. That tug, again. Tidal Terror chuckled.

She had only gotten so far before she had to go off-course. Just as well.

The totoma pivoted and headed closer to the feeling guiding her hooves.

Eventually, she came upon an acha.

"Hail and well-met!" she called. "You've been looking for me, yes? You haven't been out too long in the cold, have you?"

The acha buck pauses at the bright greeting and turns and then blinks. The doe looks a bit.... Intimidating, actually, but Cursed to Feel knows looks can be deceiving and she certainly seems friendly enough.

Carefully, he sets his bundle down and then offers a smile. "Yes, I suppose so. Hello, " he says, and shakes himself of snow.

"Not too long, but long enough for this one who prefers the warmth of Summer sun!" Still though, he smiles, and then nods his head.

"I suppose you know why I'm here, then. I brought this for you -" he nudges it closer to her. "I only wish for my newest children to be healthy, and for the pregnancy not too hard on their mother. Especially as it's Winter!"

The totoma listened to the acha's words.

"A noble desire all around!" Tidal Terror agreed. "And I appreciate your gift. Keep in mind that there are other kin who are more in need than I during this time, and continue that charity! It will make the swamp a better place."

She always felt put-off by offerings, but this bundle would help others, and she could take the opportunity to impart the wisdom she did. Were there legendaries who demanded such reverence? They would need a stern talking-to.

Anyway.

"May your children be hardy enough to overcome the hardest winters," she intoned in her booming way.

Tidal Terror then added, "The rest will be up to you. Be there for your current mate. Keep her comfortable, warm, and safe. Winter will soon pass."

The acha buck smiles at her for the blessing, "Thank you very much - and I will! We have a rather cozy den already set up, actually, but your words bring me some much needed peace. I hope this season is good to you and yours, as well."

With that, he nods his head, and then quickly trots back to the warmth of said den, more than ready to leave the chill of winter behind him!