The streets of Varros shimmered under twin suns, one gold, one pale blue. Heat waves rippled through the air, bending the light like it was alive. The deeper Team Zero went into the bazaar's underlevels, the quieter it became. The riot of color and noise faded into muted tones and whispers.
Lucian led the way, his steps steady, eyes locked on the small holographic projection hovering over his wristband. Kaelis—now in his smaller form—was perched comfortably on his shoulder, wings tucked in, tail flicking in irritation.
[We're close,] Kaelis muttered, voice low and coarse through their link. [The signature's faint, but it's here.]
Lucian's jaw flexed. "You're sure this time?"
Kaelis glared at him with glowing amber eyes. [You think I enjoy flying through a swamp of aliens and engine fumes just for fun? It's here, brat.]
