The next morning, Lavayla woke to the familiar cool air of the cave.
She blinked away the last traces of sleep and instinctively looked toward the place where Mirek usually rested.
It was empty.
She sat up, stretched slightly, and walked outside.
The morning sun had only just begun to rise above the trees, bathing the surrounding forest in soft golden light. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and leaves.
Standing quietly near the cave entrance, Shalika turned when she noticed Lavayla.
"He told me he was going to the outer edges," she said.
Lavayla nodded.
She was not surprised.
Mirek had always been an early riser. Ever since they began living together, he had a habit of leaving before sunrise to hunt or patrol the surrounding area.
"Thanks," Lavayla replied before heading back inside.
Vai was still sleeping soundly on the bed, curled into the blanket with one tiny hand resting beside his face.
Lavayla smiled softly.
