What was not asked could not be answered, and Hadama was indeed distracted by his worry for his people and the sheer breadth of what Maea had asked. A great deal had happened in the years since they had last met on a moonlit night beside the water, more than he could recount in a simple sentence or ten unless it was narrowed down more.
And someday, if they were lucky, they would have the time to do just that.
But in the wake of Starfall today was not that day, and it was the immediate future to which Hadama looked as Maea kicked her feet above the water. He met her eyes, tired but steadfast; worried but calm as he listened.
"Mmh. A pair of willing hands is useful everywhere right now," he said slowly. "You would be welcome in Torchline, even if it is no longer your home." He paused, eyes closing as he remembered the catch in that plan. After a moment he opened them again, admitting wearily: "Though until we rebuild the skyport and docks, travel is... difficult. And lengthy if you cannot teleport." Or aquaport, in the case of the Mer. And with that reminder he drew in a slow, deep breath before exhaling, drawing himself up a little straighter.
"Thank you for your help, Maea. I must go now." He inclined his head in gratitude for her writing of his plea and willingness to deliver it, and for the conversation that had given him a chance to rest and recover a little. Waiting only long enough for her reply, he quickly dove beneath the murky waters and vanished back to his wounded home.
~Fin~
And someday, if they were lucky, they would have the time to do just that.
But in the wake of Starfall today was not that day, and it was the immediate future to which Hadama looked as Maea kicked her feet above the water. He met her eyes, tired but steadfast; worried but calm as he listened.
"Mmh. A pair of willing hands is useful everywhere right now," he said slowly. "You would be welcome in Torchline, even if it is no longer your home." He paused, eyes closing as he remembered the catch in that plan. After a moment he opened them again, admitting wearily: "Though until we rebuild the skyport and docks, travel is... difficult. And lengthy if you cannot teleport." Or aquaport, in the case of the Mer. And with that reminder he drew in a slow, deep breath before exhaling, drawing himself up a little straighter.
"Thank you for your help, Maea. I must go now." He inclined his head in gratitude for her writing of his plea and willingness to deliver it, and for the conversation that had given him a chance to rest and recover a little. Waiting only long enough for her reply, he quickly dove beneath the murky waters and vanished back to his wounded home.
~Fin~
