Wheeling Gull Isle eastbound & down

Currituck was a traveler, and Tahani would have to come to accept that, in time. but now wasn't that time. her heart ached as she prepared to see her daughter off once more, and she knew she would fret over the girl each and every minute she was gone. the northern woman's face was drawn as she joined the group gathered on the beach, though she forced a smile.

if you find Takiyok--or any of the others--please tell them that I'm here, she said softly to Tatik, blinking down at her. she took the brown girl in her embrace, trying to keep the tears at bay. i love you. be careful. i'll see you soon.

helplessly, she tried to find the eyes of those who would remain behind, feeling as if she were trapped. she was a stranger in a strange land, and she was acutely aware of that fact, even as she became more used to the island.