The dawn sunlight filtered through the ancient tree canopies, dyeing the Illusion Forest golden; the last day of the Autumn market had also arrived.
In the makeshift stone cave, Kaelen stirred slightly and woke up. He stretched, feeling the familiar warmth from the firm arm covering his waist. Sane was still soundly asleep, his regular breathing blowing onto his nape.
Kaelen gently rested his head on his mate's chest, quietly looking at the little mouse sleeping soundly in the crook of his neck. Ryder had ended the evolution process yesterday afternoon; however, for the boy to wake up might still need some more time.
"How is Brother Ryder, Papa?" Finnick spoke up from behind, his voice sleepy. The boy rubbed his eyes, the red plant still dangling on his shoulder. Chloe was sleeping soundly on it, her deep red tentacles drooping down like curtain strings.
"Much more stable." Kaelen nodded, rubbing his son's head: "But it still needs some more time before he can wake up."
