Otter Creek trickle down the spine

She gave him a smile, albeit a bit watery. She wasn't sure if she believed in reincarnation herself, but there was something of Miraak within the man. Maegi held his gaze for a moment, listening to him speak of the mountains, her expression fading. Her eyes flickered toward the forest, and then back to Mahler.

I think the woods will always call to me as well, she responded, shrugging. Whether that's a good thing or not. . .I don't know. But maybe we'll always return to where we belong.

And speaking of that— I should get back, Maegi said reluctantly, ears swiveling sideways in rueful apology. Thank you again, Mahler. Please pay us a visit on your way toward the herds. It would mean a lot. And likely sway her decision one way or the other. Perhaps she'd know what to do then.

With a dip of her head once he'd replied in turn, she turned to hobble away, padding along the banks of the creek on the road to home (—for now.)