Morning mist clung stubbornly to the trees as the group made their way deeper into the forest. The canopy overhead filtered sunlight into dappled gold, and the air was thick with the earthy scent of moss and dew.
"Three days," Leonel said, scanning the map. "Three behemoths. I still think this is insane."
"Correction," Beau chimed in, walking backwards with his usual swagger. "It's not insane. It's profitable."
Auron yawned from behind him, his pace leisurely as ever. "Profitable for you maybe. The rest of us just want the beach."
"Exactly," Aerin said brightly. "I already bought new swimwear!"
That earned a synchronized groan from the boys.
Elenea giggled. "You're supposed to earn the trip before planning your outfit."
Aerin grinned, unbothered. "Manifestation."
Zann rolled his eyes. "Manifest less and walk faster. We've got a ridge to cross before sundown."
Beau patted him on the back. "Don't be such a dad, Zann."
"Keep talking and I'll manifest a punch to your face."
