‘You’ll see another kind of magic. With the life you’ve got ahead, with Wendah and your brother, and with whatever it is you decide to do with yourself. Things will be better without magic, believe me.’
‘They won’t be better without you.’
‘Thanks, Kutch. I’m so glad I’ve known you.’
The boy flew into his arms and hugged him tight. ‘Don’t go,’ he pleaded, tears rolling.
‘I have to go. You know that.’ Caldason gently moved him back, hands on his shoulders. ‘You’ve been the best friend and companion a man could have. Now get on with your life.’
Kutch looked as though he was going to speak. Instead he simply stared, then turned away. He took three steps, looked back and said, ‘I’ll never forget you.’ He ran to the gangplank and down onto the harbour.
When they started to move off shortly after, he was still standing on the quay. He shouted something, but they couldn’t hear what it was.
The Diamond Isle was soon swallowed by mist.
Together, Reeth and Serrah set off into a new world.