Lunaris leaned close to Nova's ear, letting out a low growl.
"I know, I know," Nova whispered. "Not my brightest idea. But I've got a plan."
The raptor stepped closer, sniffing the air. Its reflection warped and split across the mirrored surfaces of the trees, creating the illusion of a dozen predators.
Nova picked up a shard of crystal and tossed it across the grove. It hit a tree with a sharp ping!. The sound scattering through the air. The raptor instantly turned, lunging toward the noise.
Nova grinned and took off in the opposite direction. He dashed between trees, the reflections confusing even him, but he kept moving. When he reached the edge of the grove, he stopped, turned, and whistled.
"Hey, lizard! Over here!"
The raptor's head snapped toward him, eyes narrowing. Nova smirked and pointed toward the pond behind him, the same shimmering red water he'd crossed earlier.
The creature lunged. Nova jumped backward into the water.
