Kaya lifted the flute to her lips and blew gently.
Pheeew-wheee—!
A shrill, comical squeak spilled out, wobbling in the air like a drunken bird. The panda-tribesmen burst into laughter, some clutching their bellies, their shoulders shaking. Even Veer chuckled under his breath, the corners of his mouth twitching.
But Kaya didn't flinch. Her hands hovered above the holes, fingers trembling for a moment before she pressed them down with care. She closed her eyes, inhaled deeply, and lifted the flute back to her lips.
This time, when she blew, the sound shifted.
Hummm…phuuu… dooo~
The notes rose soft and warm, each one tumbling into the next as her fingers moved—blocking, unblocking, dancing in rhythm. The awkward squeak was gone, replaced by a low, flowing song, like a brook spilling over smooth stones.
The melody deepened.
Fwoooh…reeeh…looo…
