Swiftcurrent Creek local natives

Although Fox didn't seem to have anything to say to that, Ferdie abruptly materialized, spouting words of wisdom. Although Bones found his spontaneous interruption off-putting at first, particularly because she was feeling so sensitive at the moment, she listened nonetheless. When he finished, she nodded, biting her lower lip. When her head grew still again, she then shook it to decline his offer to accompany her.

"I'm... I'm going to stay part of the creek. But I'm going to visit them as often as I can... maybe once a month?" It came out as a question, her eyes flicking to Fox as if to seek her blessing, though truthfully, she wasn't asking, she was telling. "I feel like that's a good... what's the word? Compromise?" Now she looked to Ferdie, hoping he would confirm her usage of the word.

"Thanks," she croaked after a pause, "for listening and talking to me about it. But I guess... I guess I am the only one who can help me come to terms with my decision. Nothing anyone else says will do any good. I have to make peace with my choice," the juvenile said, thinking out loud again. She felt lighter for having said the words and less like she might cry. In fact, she even smiled a little.