Blackfeather Woods helplessly hoping her harlequin hovers nearby

Almost as soon as she caught sight of the ruddy pelt, she heard Reed's voice, smug as ever. Maegi had once despised that tone; now, she couldn't be happier to hear it. She let out a snort and hobbled her way toward the woman, unable to keep a smile from her face. Her shoulders rose and fell in a casual shrug, brows high.

It is, but not how you think, she responded cryptically, then burst into a bemused laugh. What are you doing here? I mean, obviously I'm really happy to see you. . .but is everything okay. . .on the island?

She dragged out the last part of her query, almost afraid to hear the answer. But it was an essential part of the story; Reed just wouldn't come traipsing to Blackfeather Woods on a whim. Perhaps this was a temporary stay, a stop on the journey, but even so. . . The shadowy forest wasn't exactly a tourist trap.