Carlisle almost wasn't expecting a reply, but he feels hope break through his utter despondence the moment he does, an emotion so strong and so sudden that he cannot help how it bleeds back into the Mote. Even so far away, Glacius continues to be a beacon for him in the most despairing of times. He can feel that concern, though, doubled by his own; it only furthers his worry and his building shame.

The western isle, he responds, sounding defeated even in his own head. A... lot happened, actually.