This is a strong, atmospheric introduction to Faye Hollidaye's Merely Mortal world.
It follows a four-year-old Vihar as he's forced out of the safety of the Mothers' Corner into the harsh Tebawa forest, where he must survive alone during a dangerous hunt. The story does an excellent job of immersing you in the Tebawa people's brutal customs and coming-of-age traditions without overwhelming the reader with exposition.
The writing is tight and evocative, capturing a child's isolation, fear, and quiet resilience in a way that feels raw and real. It provides meaningful backstory for one of the series' key characters and leaves you wanting more of the larger saga.
A solid, impactful short story—perfect as a teaser for the Merely Mortal books. Well worth the quick read.