The path back to Ravaya's outskirts was quiet—eerily so. The sky above was fading into violet dusk, casting long shadows across the dark ridges of cooled volcanic stone. A breeze whispered between the sharp rocks, carrying with it the subtle scent of burning embers and something else.
Something… feral.
Kalista tightened her cloak. "Are you sure we need these supplies tonight?"
Darenn glanced at her, a pack already slung over one shoulder. "They're not just any supplies. There are old Ravayan crystals and salves my Summoner could use. Things that can help stabilize Familiar energy after Metanoia."
She huffed. "Fine, but I'm filing an official complaint if we get eaten."
He chuckled. "To who? The volcano gods?"
"I'll improvise."
They continued along a jagged ridge where the rocks glowed faintly from trapped geothermal heat beneath the surface. Just ahead, Ravaya's outer storehouse stood nestled between two basalt cliffs. Most Familiars only used it in emergencies.
