Chapter 88
The aftermath of the festival seemed to pass Euphoria by without a ripple. She fell back into her usual rhythm—napping with the cubs, exploring the surrounding woods with Hayes, and scouting for new ingredients.
Nearly three weeks slipped away before Yu came to visit, bringing a basket of fresh fruit and easy conversation. As he prepared to leave, Euphoria decided it was time to be direct.
"Yu, thank you for everything you've done for us," she said. "But Hayes and I have decided to move on in a few days."
Yu's face paled. "Leave? But where would you go?"
"We're going to travel deeper into the forest," she explained. "Maybe we'll find a way out on our own."
Yu's brow furrowed with genuine anxiety. "It's too dangerous. You're safe here. Please, stay—I promise I'll keep searching for an exit for you." When she didn't answer immediately, he pressed further. "Think of the cubs. They're so small; the predators and toxins out there would be a constant threat."
