Armand Region.
Armand Estate – Courtyard.
"Yeehaaa!!! Buddy!! JUMP!!"
CUQUAWKED!!
Buddy launched into the air with a sudden powerful leap, then landed mid-dash, his massive talons skimming over the stone pavement as he tore through the wide courtyard beside the Pekko pen.
"Ehehehehe!! This is fun!!! More, Buddy! Faster!"
"CUQUAWK!!"
They circled the courtyard, Javier riding low in the saddle like a knight pretending to joust air, wind slapping his hair wildly.
From across the yard—
"Young master!! That's enough!"
Liana's voice rang out, firm but laced with her usual calm.
She placed a hand on her hip, narrowing her eyes.
"Come back and sit down properly. You'll get all dirty again.
Buddy slowed a little.
Javier and Buddy both turned their heads.
From the distance, they stared at Liana.
Still. Silent. Serious.
Javier leaned forward, cupping his hands beside Buddy's head and whispered something with a grin.
Buddy twitched.
