Wheeling Gull Isle We must be swift as the coursing river

would you like to come see the ocean? — huojin’s hackles lifted, his snout twisting into an attempted snarl. the thought of returning to the ocean, specifically with this stranger filled him with an uncomfortable mixture of rage and fear that he could yet put into words.

instead of speaking, he turned away from minori and began walking back up toward his hidden perch. leave, huojin said, no more. she was going to take him to the ocean and do the same cruel thing ruó had done.