The valley floor spread before them, a mosaic of mossy stones, patches of forest, and small, glistening streams winding like silver threads. Sunlight pierced through gaps in the mountain peaks, illuminating occasional patches of bright green, while the shadows of cliffs loomed like silent guardians. Every sound—trickling water, rustling leaves, distant birds—felt amplified in the quiet stillness of the valley.
Lira's eyes swept over the terrain, searching for any sign of hidden activity. Her Spirit shard pulsed faintly in response to subtle elemental energy rippling through the rocks and soil. She crouched to the ground, letting her fingers hover just above moss and stone. Small vibrations ran along her palms, almost imperceptible, but they told a story: something—or someone—had moved through here recently.
