Another breathy giggle, and a knowing look that she shares with Flai.

"Well, it's appropriate at least. And I suppose we should call you something."

"She doesn't have a name?"

"I don't think she remembers it."

nothing. was nothing. am nothing.

"Yes, you are. You're Haunt."

The girl looks up at him-

-and then Haunt smiles.

Flai smiles back, feeling her warmth and sending his own. 

"Haunt, Merrill. Merrill, Haunt."

Merrill smiles brightly over Wildling's shoulder. "It's so lovely to meet you, Haunt! Wherever have you come from?"

"I'll fill you in while Flai gets her settled. We're going to need supplies."

She directs a look at her son, raising an eyebrow.

"Are you sure it should be right away?"

worry?

"If only to make her safe, darling."

Flai soothes that worry as best he can. 

"Okay. I'll, uh, try and explain."

Wildling nods, smiling ruefully at Flai.

She then spirits Merrill away, already talking in her ear.

Flai leads Haunt into their small camp, gesturing for her to sit.

Haunt sits, the bond still buzzing a little with worry.

He sends assurance, comfort, and all the while keeps a hold of her hand. He shows her the ritual Wildling will use, taking her blood to explore Haunt's mind, piece together what she is, who she was.

but she wasn't anyone. she is Haunt now, because Flai said she was, because it fit on her shoulders like a warm coat.

"It will protect you, if the others come looking."

protection?

Flai sends through a memory, of his mother's fierce protectiveness for him. And how, because if what Haunt felt was true, that protection extended to her, who had a piece of herself waiting for him.

Haunt let out a shaky, soundless breath. 

to have him near, to have him see her, to be out and free and with him-

Together, he sends. Promise.