Tormented Tarns oh, sinners, let's go down

Maegi was no tracker, but she could recognize a scent when she found it. She drew alongside Sakhmet and inhaled; the effect on her was instantaneous and jarring. Sobek. The three of them gathered around the place for a short while, heads lowered, and then she gave both of them a measured look.

He was here, she murmured, and we're not too far from home. Maybe he made it back. . .? It was foolish to hope, she knew. When had hope ever panned out for her? At the same time, children thrived on hope, and she was not about to dash their spirits even if something seemed less than likely. She would keep hope alive for as long as she possibly can. . .just for the sake of Sakhmet and Anansi.

She gazed at Sakhmet in particular. Do you think you could follow the scent? she asked, trying to keep as little pressure from her voice as possible. It was worth a try, right?

They made their way home, Maegi hoping against hope that they would find Sobek at the end of the trail.

edit 10/26: wrapping this and archiving since it's been a month since any reply!