Wheeling Gull Isle he worries: did he hear a goodbye? or even a hello?

At least there was the pack far away. At least Hua had that. Otherwise, the woman's story rang so true in Maegi's mind, she could not help but avert her eyes, blink away the tears that pricked at the corners. She took in Aiolos's information, some of it she knew, some not.

At his quip, she lifted her gaze to him once more and smiled. You're doing fine, she assured him. But I understand.

She shifted slightly, easing the stress her belly put on her lower spine. I grew up wanting to lead. I yearned for it. But when leadership was finally handed to me, I was incapable of keeping my pack together. A sigh, and a shrug of her fine-boned shoulders. You just never know.

Thank you, Maegi added. For trusting me with all of this. I will help more when they're grown.

Just a few—okay, more than that—moons to go. . .