The smell hit Enya before she opened her eyes.
Rich. Layered. Warm in a way that made her stomach clench with immediate, desperate hunger.
Her eyes snapped open.
She was still inside the cocoon - or what was left of it. The wooden shell had loosened completely now, the vines limp and disconnected, barely holding their shape. Gaps had formed everywhere, letting in dim afternoon light and the scent of food.
Enya pushed against the nearest section.
It fell away easily, crumbling like dried leaves.
She sat up, blinked a few times, squinting at the light, and looked around.
The temporary house was quiet. Warm. The rain outside had softened to a gentle patter against the roof.
Raizen was close to her, but he stood still, didn't say anything.
And at the table, a ceramic dish sat steaming.
Enya's stomach growled so loudly it echoed.
Then she sniffed. Her nose twitched.
"…What's that smell?"
Her voice was hoarse from sleep. Raizen cleared his throat, trying to sound casual.
