Grouse Thicket Odysseus has arrived at Ithaca

Maia felt herself inflate giddily as Wraen talked up her skills as well, a few casual statements meaning the world to her.  It didn't matter how old she got or how accomplished - Wraen's praise would never be something taken for granted.

And just like that, they were in! Maia was growing to like Wildfire, if only because she was so much nicer than most others she'd run into.  Warmer.  She reminded her a little of Hyacinth, who had been the first she remembered to offer her kindness on her travels.  How was she doing back with Terance?

She did!  On our mom's side, right?  Probably.  Mom had been the only one to really talk about her family.  Dad never did, she recalled suddenly.