Shy Deer Steppes he runs, wishing he could fly

Indeed, the first wolf to heed her summons was not one that had been included—but one she was loath to see again. Maegi stood quietly, rooted in place, a silent fury coursing through her as the woman spoke. That voice. . .those eyes. . . She was about to answer coldly when her niece burst onto the scene, exuberant with affection.

Hela, she murmured, feeling somewhat weary with relief as she returned the girl's caresses. Once things had settled, she took a step forward, half-shielding the girl from Serem, to whom she now spoke. I'm here to take Hela home, Maegi replied, two-toned eyes fixed, steely, on her kidnapper's face. If she had harmed a single hair on the Fledgeling's head. . .

Another man appeared—a strange creature, with something (a plant?) on his head. She cast him a perplexed look before returning her gaze to Hela. Are you all right? she asked softly, half under her breath.