The boys crowded into the main room of the tree house. Peter stood around the fire he had managed to start and control with magic.
Once they all settled down, Rufio called for silence.
"Now, I'm sure you have all noticed that the Island is in worse health that it was when you were originally brought here." Peter began. "I have never had this happen before, so I can't say when things will improve."
The boys remained silent.
"Some of you have been here longer than others, but I will make the offer to you all the same. I will not ask any of you to remain on an island awaiting sickness or death." He paused. "I will allow you to return to your Realms, no catch, no deals."
"Does this mean Neverland is going to die?" One of the younger ones asked.
"We aren't sure yet." Rufio answered. "But we would never ask you to stay if it means that you might die."
A few of the boys looked scared while a few others seem sad.
"Sleep on the decision," Peter suggested. "Come tomorrow, the shadow can take you back to your parents."
The boys all disbanded, heading to their bunks and tucking in for the night.
Peter left the treehouse, followed by Rufio and Felix. "Are the two of you thinking of leaving?"
Rufio scoffed. "I've been here so long, Peter. I'm not even sure if my parents are even alive."
Felix shook his head. "I wanted to be here then, that doesn't change just because the deer are gone and the trees are dead."
Peter nodded.
"How do we know that the fairies aren't just telling you a bunch of things just to get you to quit taking kids?" Felix asked.
"What, you think they're killing the island?" Rufio asked him.
"No. I think they're taking a chance. It's not secret that they fairies hate what Peter's been doing."
Peter thought for a moment. "Doesn't matter. If it is the 'balance' like they're trying to say, maybe it will get better once we take the boys back."
"And if they're wrong?"
Peter shrugged, "Both of you should get some sleep. I might need your help before too long." He wandered off into the trees.