The air in the Grove was cool and fragrant as Lira stepped onto the familiar path leading to the portal mirror. The sun had begun its slow descent, casting long shadows across the mossy ground. Serelyth fluttered lightly beside her, wings brushing the leaves, their faint heat mingling with the evening air. Thalanir and Renkai stayed behind, tending to the newly planted fire trees and insectivorous blooms, their hands busy but their hearts quietly wishing the girls safe travels. Fluffy scampered at Lira's feet, fur bristling and tail high, as if sensing the subtle change in the air—the anticipation of leaving the Grove, even temporarily.
Lira knelt and stroked Fluffy gently. "We'll be back soon, little one. Keep the Grove safe for us."
