Hushed Willows Do not presume to teach me lessons.

Pleasure to meet you, Cru, Lily said, in better spirits than before. She canted her head further into the forest, brows lifted in question. Walk with me? she offered. It was his choice, in the end, but she would like his company before he vanished like so many others. She didn't hate them for it, but she wished she had bonded with them more before their departures.

With luck, the two would begin to stroll along past the trees, weaving through narrow forest trails. The north, eh? she asked rhetorically, smiling. I've heard many stories. Seems like a very fierce place—you must be from strong stock. Vilkas had been from the north. The two had much in common.

When did you last see the ones you're looking for? Lily asked, glancing over at Cru.