» Together

WAKER

You are, again, surrounded by giants. Dragon Man stands to your one side, and he bumps you with his shoulder—which feels like it is leagues above your withers, but you understand his intention. On your other side, Night Sky hovers. You still don't quite understand what you did to deserve such care, but it's touching. The affection shows in your eyes as you glance at them.

But then, the matron offers you what you so desperately need: rest. You breathe a sigh of relief, and reach out to touch your nose to Dragon Man's chest, a silent thanks before stepping off to get some space. In the corner of your eye, you notice the colt you've picked up go stand in the shallows, but if he wants to sleep or not is none of your concern. You pick a spot in the sun-baked sand, figuring the setting sun will not overheat you, and fold your aching limbs. Despite the presence of all manners of creatures, you feel strangely safe, and sleep embraces you quickly.

You're woken from the depths of your deep, healing sleep by a soft touch on your chest. Blinking, you raise your head from its nest of sand to see a colorful, small feline pawing your chest. Once it sees you're awake, it meows and scuttles off to its next target.

It takes you a moment longer to convince your body to stand up. The sun has set while you slept, but the stars offer plenty of light—enough of it that you, to your surprise, notice that Kisamoa is among those gathered. What is he doing here?

"It is not only the lands themselves and the creatures inhabiting them who have lost hope," the matron begins, and you switch your attention back to her, as she describes the plight of the Rift's plant life. You frown a little as you listen. Most of the vegetation mentioned is unknown to you. You cast about, looking for Night Sky, but before you're able to ask her for insight most others are leaving. The colt from before takes off towards the Portal, followed by Kisamoa and another child; Kiada and her gray company, and a black mare you do not know, go for the Tidepools.

"I suppose it is Solanis for us, then," you comment, and start heading towards the place where you first found Kisamoa.