We sped past a small stream at full speed, and I couldn't help but burst into laughter when the water splashed all around us.
I couldn't recall the last time I felt so open and free, enjoying the little things I often overlooked. Minutes turned into hours, and exhaustion began to settle into our bones. I noticed that Gea was tired, and we began to slow down. The trees were no longer rushing past us in blurs of color and scent. Now, I had time to appreciate each tree, the pattern of its leaves, and the rich bark that protected it.
'It's time to go back,' Gea smiled, picking up the pace as we headed back to the village.
'What?’ I asked, my voice cracking as the pain began to grow. 'Go back? Why?’
'Don't you feel it too?' Gea hissed. I focused and could discern what Gea wanted to tell me.
