The divine domain stretched quietly again, winds drifting lazily between the floating islands. With Jake's scythe no longer growling at the shadows, peace returned—at least, for a time.
That fragile peace went on for four hours like a slow breath.
Alex napped underneath a mushroom the size of a wagon, and Nibbles sat atop him like a squirrel emperor in silent contemplation.
Clara had dozed off against Raven's chest. Siris absentmindedly twirled her cryo-dagger near Raven's ear—close enough to make a lesser man flinch.
He didn't.
Selena sipped her sweet tea with elegance, occasionally offering Raven sips, while Arietta balanced upside down above them like a casual sky ornament, glaring whenever Clara stretched too close.
The calm was just beginning to feel dangerous when a sudden flicker of white caught their attention.
Rufus.
