Maeko interrupted them. She and her group bowed low, and then she said, "And what about us, Jorick-ue? Do we need to accompany you to the United States or should we return home?"

Jorick gave something close to a sigh. "The Heart is no longer an issue. I see no reason for Malick or his underlings to hunt you."

"Thank you, Jorick-ue. In that case, with your permission, we will return home." She straightened and met Etsuko's gaze. "Though perhaps Etsuko-san would like to ...