The moment they stepped out into the clearing, the babies gasped in unison. A tall waterfall spilled down over smooth gray stone, its mist shimmering in the sunlight and making tiny rainbows float across the air. The ground nearby was soft with meadow grass, dotted with wildflowers that swayed gently in the breeze. Cool, flat rocks surrounded the pool at the base, perfect for little feet to climb and sit on.
Alina's own eyes lit up at the sight, but before she could admire for long, Dante's cold voice carried over the sound of rushing water.
"We will first go through elements training," he said, his crimson gaze sweeping over the children like a commander reviewing soldiers. "After that, you will have freedom to play around here. Then we will move on to another spot."
The babies, who had just been lively with excitement, quieted quickly at his tone. Some shuffled nervously, others perked up with anticipation.
