As they moved deeper into the clearing, a sudden ripple passed through the air. The water in the streams began to swirl unnaturally, forming twisting shapes. From it, figures emerged—water spirits, translucent and fluid, their eyes gleaming with curiosity and caution.
Puddle darted forward, glowing brighter. "Friends not hurt! Friends explore!"
The spirits paused, their movements echoing Puddle's arcs of light. A soft, melodic sound filled the clearing, harmonizing with the hum of the earlier guardians. It was a greeting, or perhaps a test—a recognition of their presence.
Aria took careful steps forward, sketching symbols in the air to mimic the spiraling patterns of the water spirits. "They're… communicating through motion and magic, just like the others. If we respond correctly, we might gain safe passage—or at least a truce."
