The crisp northern air bit gently at their cheeks as Lira, Serelyth, Renkai, and Thalanir stepped outside, snow crunching beneath their boots. The old man, chuckling with that familiar twinkle in his eye, called softly after them. "Wait, Lira! I have one more gift for you."
Curious, Lira turned back, and the old man gestured for her to follow him into a smaller building nearby. The warmth of the interior contrasted sharply with the icy air outside, and the soft smell of hay and pine greeted them. Inside, dozens of deer moved gracefully between pens, their breath forming tiny clouds in the cool room.
He guided Lira toward a quiet corner, where a few small fawns rested on straw, their large eyes blinking sleepily. Kneeling, he reached gently toward one. "Look here," he said, lifting the little creature into his arms. "This poor orphan needs a caretaker."
