The grasslands spread wide, sea-wind threading faint salt through the air. E’armos is still a ways away. Alexis has finished talking to Ca’armine and walks ahead of the wagon next to Gustav, hat brim angled against the sun. His whip hangs coiled at his side. A copper coin rolls steadily over his knuckles, an old rhythm as familiar as walking. The red jasper pendant shifts at his chest, hidden more than shown.

While looking straight ahead, he speaks—voice carrying just enough.
“Way up north, before the troll attack, you told us about Sally. How she only knew ‘go’ and ‘come.’ You said you’d train her to see more. Roads, rivers, maybe even her own trail back.”

The coin moves finger to finger, smooth and sure.
“I’ve been asking for updates as we’ve gone, and it’s that time again, friend.”

A sidelong glance at Gustav, a hint of dry amusement in his eyes.
“How’s her training coming?”