"This is fun and all, but we are out in the open," Farin sighed, looking around. "I saw a cavern on my way here. We can wait out the morning there and travel by night time."
"You sure it's safe?" Yara asked, shifting the bundle of eggs carefully against her chest.
"It's tucked away. No scent trails, no light at the mouth, and no signs of scouts. I checked." Farin glanced at Val. "You need shelter, now."
Val didn't argue. His skin was flushed, glowing faintly beneath the fabric. Every movement looked heavier than the last.
"Then lead the way," Sky said, helping Val up.
*****
The cave opened like a waiting mouth carved into the mountainside—dark, damp, and breathing cold into their skin. Moss clung to the walls like secrets. Somewhere in the stone belly of this place, a pool glistened with soft light. It was quiet.
Sky's boots crunched on the gravel as he helped Val stumble inside.
"You alright?" Sky asked, half-carrying him now.