THIRD PERSON
The night returns heavy and watchful.
Not silent this time.
Waiting.
Lyra feels it before she sees it.
A shift in the air. A pressure that settles low in her chest, tightening her breath just slightly. It is the same feeling from before, but stronger now. Closer.
She stands at the northern boundary again, her posture alert, her senses stretched wide.
Beside her, is already focused, his gaze fixed deep into the forest.
“It’s back,” Lyra says.
Kael nods once. “And it wants to be found this time.”
That alone is enough to change everything.
Before, the creature observed.
Now, it is inviting them.
Lyra’s lips curve slightly, but there is no humor in it. Only anticipation.
“Good,” she murmurs.
Kael exhales slowly. “Stay sharp. This isn’t a hunt anymore.”
“It never w
