Wheeling Gull Isle they are for each other

She gave a brief nod at Aiolos as he spoke, then turned to Phox. His answer surprised her, somewhat; she had thought he would be tied to the island, waiting for Niamh. Perhaps he saw the writing on the wall. There was nothing for them here.

All right, Maegi said, taking in a deep, steadying exhale. So we will search, and if we do not find any of our family to stay with, then we will join you with Kukutux, she told Aiolos. Hopefully the woman would have them. His description was generous, but Maegi knew better than to get her hopes up.

Her eyes shifted downward, toward the pups. Now? she thought. No. . .not yet. As long as Phox remained with them, and did not turn away, she felt no urgency to tell him the truth.

Selfishness won the day. She wanted to keep them for herself—at least for a little while longer.

Well. . .I suppose there's no reason to wait around, she said, effectively concluding the meeting. Her head swiveled, taking in the island. Burning each sight and sound, smell and taste, into her memory. . .for who knew if they'd ever return again?

After a moment that felt like an eternity, she took one purposeful step toward the land bridge, and their future beyond.