They kept moving at the same steady pace. The ground stayed even, and when it changed, their bodies adjusted without thought. There was no need to stop or check their surroundings. Nothing felt urgent, and nothing felt uncertain.
Rhys noticed how normal everything felt. Not special, not dull—just real. His breathing stayed calm. His steps stayed steady. He wasn't trying to stay aware; awareness was simply there. The world felt reliable in a quiet way, like something that didn't need to prove itself.
Caria walked beside him, her attention relaxed but present. She scanned the area once, briefly, out of habit rather than concern, then let it go. Whatever training or instincts she had were still there, but they weren't in control. They waited in the background, ready if needed.
