Moonspear Wind Blows Hard, but it doesn't matter

He used to the word “unfortunately,” though that wasn’t how Treepie felt after her long think on the mountaintop. She gave no indication of this, simply flicked her ears as Alaric told her he’d always been friends with her anaa. In fact, he used the words “just friends,” which was another pleasing bit of information she tucked into her proverbial back pocket.

Just because we’re not related by blood doesn’t mean we’re not, Pie said, nearly saying “family” before thinking to say instead, close.

She’d always viewed him as an uncle, though recent events had her wanting to push him—not away, just away from that specific role. Pie was a grown woman now and wanted Alaric to view her as one. She was pretty sure he already did, considering how easily he’d vetted her for leadership, but she had other reasons she diddn’t necessarily want him thinking of her as his niece these days.

You’re the only one who’s stayed, she pointed out quietly, aside from Tiki. I think you and her are the only ones left I really trust. Everyone else has gone away. She exhaled, then said a little shakily, You’re very important, Alaric. To me, I mean, but also just in general.