Lion Head Mesa And scratch the slate

It seemed. . .contrived, but she didn't question further. And at the continuation of their conversation, she nodded, following Sayf out of the shallows upon dry land, and then back into her shadowed quarters.

Are you happy? Maegi asked, but her voice was soft, reticent. It bounced upon the walls of the jagged-rock mesa, and she winced slightly, hoping others did not hear.

She did not want to bring trouble to this young man.

She drew closer, shoulders hunched. Are you. . .free? she whispered, even more silent.