After flying for two whole days—brief rests here and there aside—they finally landed near a tree. Veer leaned heavily against it, hopping slightly, each movement careful. Kaya could see the strain etched into his features. Anyone would be exhausted after such a journey. Two days of near-continuous travel, carrying weight and battling fatigue—she understood all too well.
Kaya's eyes drifted to the nearby river. She walked over, brushing aside leaves and letting the cool water lap over her hands. She cupped the water and splashed it onto her face, the cold sending a sharp, refreshing shock through her skin. As droplets slid down her cheeks, she looked around.
This place was different. They hadn't sought refuge in a nearby tribe—naturally, none would welcome outsiders like them. Here, at least, they were alone. The river sparkled, clear and inviting, revealing tiny fish darting among smooth pebbles beneath the surface.
