The morning sun filtered through the forest canopy, scattering golden trails of light along the winding path.
Leaves rustled softly overhead as the trio resumed their journey.
Lina walked on the right side of the path, her Varidian Hare hopping beside her, ears twitching with every step.
Kai strode on the left, hands in his pockets, while Vex sat perched on his head—grumbling lowly, throwing occasional jealous glances at the little creature in Elina's arms.
The small Wyrm—Nox—was cradled carefully by Elina as she walked in the middle, humming a soft tune.
Her cheeks puffed every time Nox wriggled or blinked up at her.
She hugged it closer, giggling quietly.
Lina stretched her arms behind her head, letting out a relaxed yawn.
"Man… this is nice," she said. "Too peaceful. I could get used to mornings like this."
Kai didn't respond.
He didn't need to.
Because a second later—
Kreee!
A sharp screech echoed through the forest.
Elina stopped dead in her tracks.
