Back in the cave.
Alex's eyes fluttered open, a hopeful smile on his face. His exhausted purple eyes shimmered with light, hope rekindled.
Beside him, Selene stirred in her sleeping bag. Her eyes blinked open, and a soft, genuine smile spread across her lips as she turned to him.
From the corner, Hati rose, ears perking at the sound of rustling cloth.
The trio looked at each other, no words spoken, just smiles blooming like the morning sun.
They had drawn blood. The impossible was no longer unreachable.
Alex stood, clutching his emerald spear.
Selene brushed her hair back and nodded firmly.
Hati barked, his eyes gleaming.
The three gathered at the centre of the cave.
Purple light shimmered around them—
Pop!
They vanished.
Behind the mountain
A soft pop echoed against the glacial walls.
Thalgar's blue eyes snapped open.
In the howling wind, two massive white membranous wings erupted from his shoulders, slicing the air like blades.
With a thunderous growl, he rose
