The Sunspire weather-beaten in a losing battle

Kallik listened intently to his cousin's answer, taking in the words and letting them paint pictures in his mind. Surprisingly, he found it easy to imagine such a life with Merrit; he could see them exploring and meeting new wolves, possibly some that would want to join them as they searched for something that could be theirs. But as surely as he could see this possible future, he could also see how it could all go wrong. He could lose his cousin and be all alone, left to deal with yet another loss. The thought made him want to build up more walls—protect himself, tell Merrit they should find somewhere to settle and not take a chance on something that could be as painful as it could be rewarding. But he was starting to recognize that need to conceal himself from others was weak, and he didn't want to be weak anymore; he wanted to be strong, he wanted to find a new home with Merrit. 

Okay, he said after a long, thoughtful silence. I like the idea of a place that is ours, he continued. Do you really think we can find others to join us? he asked, curious to know what his cousin was thinking.