= Mikael =
“Make sure the farmer’s request is handled properly, Lorne,” I said as we stepped out of the mill. “No delays.”
“Yes, Alpha,” he replied, already nodding as he mentally sorted through the tasks ahead.
The afternoon sun spilled over us the moment we crossed the threshold, warm and unrestrained, a sharp contrast to the dim grind of stone and grain inside. I paused without meaning to, my gaze lifting to the landscape stretching out before us.
The rice fields rolled endlessly across the valley, neat rows shimmering beneath the light, their green blades swaying gently as the wind passed through. For a few heartbeats, I simply stood there, taking it in, letting the calm settle into my bones.
Then a sound cut through the stillness.
A voice.
Soft, slightly raspy, unmistakable.
